Bare bones is an airbrush and compressor and some paints. On your compressor you will want to have a moisture trap and regulator and auto shut off. I was on the Badger website last week and they have an nice ThayerChandler compressor on sale for 150.00 comes with everything. My favorite place to order from is BearAir because they have such awesome customer service. They have the intruder compressor for $179 also comes with the moisture trap and regulator. I use a Vega 1000 for nails and a Vega 2000 for airbrush tanning, I love them both. I recommend that you get an airbrush that can be fit with a 3mm needle, that way you wont have a major problem with paint clogging your tip. These are just some products that I know and like, you know personal opinion, there are many others to choose from. Do you think you might start airbrush tanning in the future? We make a lot of money from airbrush tanning and the lotion that is used to prolong that tan at our salon. If I can help you out just let me know. Good luck and happy airbrushing.