How to Paint Warhammer Figures: 13 Steps
Painting your Warhammer figures can be an incredibly rewarding hobby, breathing new life into your miniature army and making your tabletop experience even more immersive. However, it can also feel a bit overwhelming for newcomers who are unsure of where to begin. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you get started on painting your Warhammer figures:
1.Gather your supplies: You will need a selection of paint brushes in different sizes, acrylic paints suitable for miniatures, a primer, a clean water pot for brush cleaning, a palette for mixing paint, and some paper towels or cloth.
2.Prepare your workspace: Make sure to work in a well-lit area with good ventilation, and protect your table surface with newspaper or plastic sheets to avoid damage from paint spills.
3.Assemble the figure: Assemble the miniature according to the instructions provided with the model kit. You may want to consider using a hobby knife or file to remove any mold lines or rough edges before assembly.
4.Prime your figure: Apply a thin layer of primer (white or black) evenly across the surface of the model. This will help the paint adhere properly to the plastic or resin material and make colors more vibrant on the finished piece.
5.Choose a base color: Start with a base layer of color for the figure’s main areas – such as armor, skin, or clothing. Select an appropriate shade from your acrylic paints.
6.Apply the base color: Using a medium-sized brush, apply thin, even layers of your chosen base color over the primed surface. It’s better to apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat as this allows for better paint control and coverage.
7.Apply shading: Once your base color is dry, use a dark wash or shades specifically designed for miniatures (like Warhammer’s ‘Nuln Oil’) to create depth and shadow to the details of your figure.
8.Dry brushing: After your wash has dried, use a technique called dry brushing to highlight raised areas and bring out details. Apply a lighter shade of your base color to a brush, remove most of it on a paper towel or cloth, then lightly catch the raised details with your brush.
9.Finish the base: To give your Warhammer figure a completed and polished look, paint the figure’s base with a suitable color (such as earthy brown or green) and consider adding static grass or other basing materials to create texture.
10.Add smaller details: Use a fine-tipped brush to paint intricate details such as eyes, buckles, or insignia. Take your time and be patient – this is where practice and experience truly shine.
11.Create battle damage: To add some realism or tell a story with your figure, use a small brush or sponge to apply scratches, chipped paint, or even bloodstains to appropriate areas on your miniature.
12.Seal the paint job: Once you are satisfied with the final result, protect your work by applying a coat of matte varnish. This will help preserve the paint from chipping or peeling due to handling during gameplay.
13.Display and enjoy: Once completed, proudly display and show off your newly painted Warhammer figure within your collection. Your hard work and dedication will make your tabletop battles feel more immersive and engaging!
By following these 13 steps, you will be well on your way to mastering the art of painting Warhammer figures. Always remember that practice makes perfect – with time and perseverance, you will grow more confident in achieving truly stunning results!