Screenprint Ink, Airbrushes, and Integrated Weight Pockets for Neoprene Tail

[Seatan]

I noted that Hannah Fraser uses screenprinting ink on her tails and Iona suggests it also. Question: Can you water down those (so I've been told) thick paints enough to airbrush, or do you really need to hand paint the scales? I want to get a good, smooth fade happening on each scale, which would be easiest with an airbrush; however, I have never used screenprinting paint/ink for anything before and am not sure how it acts. I plan on painting three dimensional looking scales and scattering a few sequins and beads amongst them.

Also, has anybody ever created integrated weight pockets in their tail? Perhaps the bean bag type diving weights sewn inside fabric hip fins? I know in neoprene I will need some weight to sink--I swear I float like crazy. Forget ever drowning in an ocean--I'd bob all day with nothing but my bare butt.

[NerineArcticMermaid]

I just wear my mermaid weighted belt. But I could see the due pouch ... but I would put them in something else for sure so the lead isn't anywhere near skin.

[AniaR]

The paint is pretty thick and in my experience it really does work better if you screen print it. Even painting by hand can make it too thick on the fabric. I took a class on screen printing it wasa lot of fun but a lot of room for error. I think bonnie has a system like that for weights in her tail