Warhammer 40K Miniature Painting FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions - Warhammer 40K Miniature Painting
Getting Started
Q: What basic supplies do I need to start painting Warhammer 40K miniatures?
A: You'll need primer (black, white, or grey), acrylic paints, brushes (detail, base, and wash brushes), palette, water containers, and a cutting mat. Start with a basic paint set from Citadel, Vallejo, or Army Painter.
Q: Do I need to prime my miniatures before painting?
A: Yes, priming is essential. It helps paint adhere properly and provides a consistent base color. Use thin, even coats and let dry completely before painting.
Painting Techniques
Q: What's the difference between base coating, washing, and highlighting?
A: Base coating applies the main color, washing adds depth with thinned paint in recesses, and highlighting brightens raised areas. This three-step process creates realistic depth and dimension.
Q: How do I thin my paints properly?
A: Add small amounts of water or medium until paint flows smoothly off the brush without being watery. Aim for a milk-like consistency. Multiple thin coats look better than one thick coat.
Q: What's dry brushing and when should I use it?
A: Dry brushing uses minimal paint on a brush to highlight raised surfaces. Remove most paint on paper towel, then lightly brush over textured areas. Great for metal, stone, and weathering effects.
Color Schemes & Chapters
Q: How do I choose colors for my Space Marine chapter?
A: Research official chapter color schemes or create your own. Consider contrast between armor, details, and weapons. Popular schemes include Ultramarines (blue), Blood Angels (red), and Imperial Fists (yellow).
Q: What's the best way to paint yellow armor?
A: Start with white or light grey primer, use thin coats of yellow, and build up gradually. Averland Sunset base with Yriel Yellow layer works well. Yellow is challenging - patience is key.
Advanced Techniques
Q: How do I create realistic battle damage and weathering?
A: Use sponge stippling with dark colors for chipped paint, dry brush silver on edges for metal wear, and apply washes in recesses for grime. Start subtle and build up gradually.
Q: What's edge highlighting and how do I do it cleanly?
A: Edge highlighting uses a lighter color along raised edges. Use a fine brush, steady hand, and thin paint. Practice on spare models first. Consider using the side of the brush for smoother lines.
Tools & Maintenance
Q: How do I keep my brushes in good condition?
A: Clean immediately after use, never let paint dry in bristles, use brush soap regularly, and store with tips protected. Good brushes are an investment - take care of them.
Q: What's the best lighting for painting miniatures?
A: Use bright, white LED lights from multiple angles to reduce shadows. A desk lamp with adjustable positioning works well. Good lighting prevents eye strain and improves color accuracy.
Troubleshooting
Q: My paint keeps clogging up - what am I doing wrong?
A: Paint may be too thick, brush too dry, or paint drying too fast. Thin paints properly, keep brush moist, and work in thin layers. Use a wet palette to keep paints workable longer.
Q: How do I fix mistakes without starting over?
A: Let paint dry completely, then paint over with base color and redo the area. For small mistakes, use a damp brush to remove wet paint immediately. Practice makes perfect!
Happy painting, and may the Emperor protect your miniatures!
