The Ultimate Citadel to Vallejo Paint Conversion Guide
Whether you're switching paint brands or looking for alternatives to your favorite Citadel colors, this comprehensive conversion chart will help you find the perfect Vallejo Model Color equivalents for your Warhammer miniatures.
Why Convert Between Paint Brands?
- Cost savings: Vallejo paints often offer better value per ml
- Availability: Vallejo has wider distribution in some regions
- Consistency: Vallejo dropper bottles prevent paint from drying out
- Color matching: Perfect for touch-ups when you can't find specific Citadel colors
Base Colors Conversion Chart
| Citadel Color | Vallejo Model Color Equivalent | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Abaddon Black | 70.950 Black | Perfect match |
| Corax White | 70.951 White | Slightly warmer tone |
| Mephiston Red | 70.926 Red | Very close match |
| Caledor Sky | 70.930 Dark Blue | Excellent substitute |
| Castellan Green | 70.968 Flat Green | Nearly identical |
| Averland Sunset | 70.858 Ice Yellow | Mix with 70.953 Flat Yellow for closer match |
| Rhinox Hide | 70.940 Saddle Brown | Perfect for leather and wood |
| Leadbelcher | 70.863 Gunmetal Grey | Ideal metallic base |
Layer Paint Conversions
| Citadel Layer | Vallejo Equivalent | Application Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Evil Sunz Scarlet | 70.909 Vermillion | Great for Space Marine red |
| Lothern Blue | 70.925 Intense Blue | Perfect for Ultramarines |
| Waaagh! Flesh | 70.968 Flat Green + 70.940 Saddle Brown (2:1) | Mix for Ork skin tone |
| Ushabti Bone | 70.918 Ivory | Excellent for bone and parchment |
| Eshin Grey | 70.995 German Grey | Perfect neutral grey |
Metallic Paint Conversions
| Citadel Metallic | Vallejo Metal Color | Finish Quality |
|---|---|---|
| Leadbelcher | 77.701 Aluminium | Smooth, realistic metal |
| Retributor Armour | 77.725 Gold | Rich, warm gold tone |
| Runefang Steel | 77.717 White Metal | Bright silver highlight |
| Balthasar Gold | 77.724 Brass | Darker, aged gold look |
Wash Alternatives
While Citadel's washes are excellent, here are some Vallejo alternatives:
- Agrax Earthshade: Mix 70.940 Saddle Brown with Vallejo Glaze Medium (3:1)
- Nuln Oil: 70.950 Black + Glaze Medium (2:1)
- Seraphim Sepia: 70.929 Light Brown + Glaze Medium (3:1)
Pro Tips for Paint Conversion
- Test first: Always test conversions on spare models or hidden areas
- Thin your paints: Vallejo paints may need different thinning ratios than Citadel
- Color temperature: Some Vallejo colors run slightly warmer or cooler - adjust with small amounts of complementary colors
- Batch painting: When switching brands mid-project, finish one color completely before switching
Where to Buy Vallejo Paints
Looking for these Vallejo alternatives? Victory Forge stocks a wide selection of Vallejo Model Colors, Metal Colors, and accessories. Check out our paint collection for the best prices on quality miniature paints.
Need Help with Color Matching?
Can't find the exact conversion you need? Contact our painting experts at Victory Forge - we're here to help you achieve the perfect color scheme for your army!
Happy painting, and may your brushes stay sharp!
- The Victory Forge Team
