How to paint miniatures

So, you want to paint miniatures? Awesome! It's a super fun hobby. You get to take these tiny, unpainted figures and turn them into something amazing with colors and details. It takes some practice, but it's totally worth it. This guide will show you how to get started, step by step!

Why Paint Miniatures? What's the Big Deal?

Why are people so into painting these little guys? Here's the deal:

• Make it Your Own: You get to choose the colors and details. It's your artistic vision!
• Level Up Your Game: If you play tabletop games, painted miniatures make the game way cooler. It just feels better.
• Chill Out and Focus: Painting can be really relaxing. It's a great way to unwind after a long day.
• Feel the Win: Finishing a miniature feels great. You made something awesome!
• Join the Club: The miniature painting community is awesome. Everyone is friendly and helpful. You can learn a lot!

What You Need to Get Started

You don't need a ton of stuff to begin. But, having the right tools makes a big difference. Here's what you'll need:

The Miniatures Themselves

Duh! You gotta have something to paint. They come in plastic, resin, and metal. Plastic is usually cheapest and easiest for beginners. Resin has more detail, but it's more delicate. Metal is tough, but can be tricky to work with.

Paints

Acrylic paints are the way to go. They dry fast and are easy to use. Grab some basic colors:

• Red, blue, yellow (the main ones!)
• Green, orange, purple (mixing those is fun)
• Black, white, gray, brown (for shading and stuff)

Some popular paint brands:

• Citadel (Games Workshop): Lots of colors, made for miniatures.
• Vallejo: Tons of colors and high-quality.
• Army Painter: Good quality, not too expensive.

Brushes

Good brushes are key. Get a few different sizes:

• Tiny Brush (Size 0 or 1): For eyes and tiny details.
• Medium Brush (Size 2 or 3): For most of the painting.
• Big Brush (Size 4 or 5): For washes and drybrushing (we'll get to that!).

Synthetic brushes are fine for starters. Just clean them after each use!

Primer

Primer is like a base coat for your paint. It helps the paint stick and makes the colors pop. Spray primer is easiest. Black, white, or gray are good choices. Black primer makes shadows look deeper. White primer makes colors brighter.

Palette

A palette is where you mix your paints. A wet palette is great. It keeps your paints from drying out. It's just a sponge with wet parchment paper on top. You can also use a plate or tile.

Water Pot

Just a cup of water to clean your brushes. Change the water often!

Hobby Knife

This is for cleaning up the miniature before painting. Be careful! Always cut away from yourself.

Glue

You'll need super glue or plastic glue to put the miniature together. Use the right glue for the material!

Extras (Nice to Have)

• Magnifying Lamp: Helps you see the tiny details.
• Painting Handle: Makes it easier to hold the miniature.
• Airbrush: For smooth base coats (takes practice).

Getting Your Miniatures Ready to Paint

Don't skip this step! It makes a huge difference.

1. Put it Together: Glue the miniature together.
2. Clean it Up: Use the hobby knife to remove any lines or bumps.
3. Wash it: Wash the miniature with soapy water to get rid of any oils.
4. Prime it: Spray or brush on a thin, even coat of primer.

Basic Painting Skills

Okay, let's get painting! Here are some basic skills:

Base Coating

This is your first layer of paint. Use a medium brush and apply a thin, even coat. Don't use too much paint! Let it dry completely before the next coat.

Layering

This is how you add highlights. Use lighter shades of your base color. Paint the raised areas. Blend the colors together so it looks smooth.

Washing

This adds shadows. Apply a thin wash of a dark color. It will flow into the cracks and make the details pop. Don't use too much!

Drybrushing

This highlights textures. Dip a dry brush in a tiny amount of paint. Wipe off most of it. Lightly brush the raised areas. Great for fur or cloth.

Highlighting

This is for the sharpest highlights. Use a tiny brush and a light color. Paint thin lines on the edges and corners.

Next Level Painting

Ready for more? These skills take practice, but they're worth it!

Blending

Making colors flow smoothly together. It's tricky, but looks awesome.

Non-Metallic Metal (NMM)

Making metal look real without using metallic paints. Hard, but cool!

True Metallic Metal (TMM)

Using metallic paints to make metal look shiny.

Object Source Lighting (OSL)

Making it look like light is coming from a specific spot on the miniature. Adds a cool effect.

Weathering

Making the miniature look old and beat-up. Adds realism.

Tips for Success

Here are some quick tips to help you paint like a pro:

• Thin Your Paints: This is super important.
• Use a Wet Palette: Keep those paints from drying out!
• Practice: The more you paint, the better you'll get.
• Study Light: Learn how light and shadow work.
• Take Breaks: Don't burn yourself out.
• Ask for Help: The community is here for you!
• Have Fun! It's just a hobby. Enjoy it!

Taking Care of Your Stuff

Keep your tools in good shape, and they'll last longer.

• Clean Your Brushes: Every time you use them!
• Store Your Paints: Keep them cool and dry.
• Replace Brushes: When they get worn out.

More Info

The internet is your friend! Check out these resources:

• Online Forums: Talk to other painters.
• YouTube: Watch tutorials and reviews.
• Websites and Blogs: Read articles and get inspired.

Go Paint Something!

Miniature painting is awesome. It lets you be creative, have fun, and connect with other people. So, grab your supplies and get started! Don't be afraid to mess up. Everyone does. The key is to practice and have fun. How to paint miniatures is a fun journey!