How to Paint Miniatures with Citadel Paints – A Beginner’s Guide

Painting miniatures is one of the most rewarding parts of the hobby for Warhammer players and collectors. Citadel paints, designed by Games Workshop, are the industry standard for bringing your models to life with vibrant colors, smooth finishes, and detailed shading. Whether you’re painting your first Space Marine or putting the final touches on an army, this guide will help you get started with Citadel paints and techniques.

Why Choose Citadel Paints?

Citadel paints are specifically formulated for painting miniatures. They offer a massive color range, reliable consistency, and are designed to make each stage of painting — from basecoats to final highlights — easier and more professional looking. The range is also divided into paint types (Base, Shade, Layer, Contrast, Dry, Technical, etc.), making it easy for beginners to know exactly what to use at each stage.

The Basics: What You Need to Get Started

Before you dive into painting, make sure you have the following:

• Citadel Paints: Start with a few Base, Shade, and Layer paints.
• Citadel Brushes: A starter brush set (Base, Layer, and Detail) is perfect for beginners.
• Water Pot and Palette: For thinning and mixing paints.
• Miniatures: Primed and ready to go.
• Painting Handle (optional but helpful): To securely hold your model while painting.
• Paper Towels: For wiping and drying brushes.

Step-by-Step: How to Paint with Citadel Paints

1. Prime Your Miniature

Priming is essential. It gives the paint something to stick to and ensures even coverage. Citadel offers spray primers like Chaos Black, Corax White, and Wraithbone depending on your preferred starting tone.

2. Basecoat

Use a Base paint to lay down the solid foundation colors of your miniature. Base paints are thicker and designed to provide strong coverage. Thin your paint slightly with water so it flows smoothly but still covers the surface nicely.

Tip: Two thin coats are always better than one thick coat!

3. Shade

Apply a Shade (sometimes called a wash) like Nuln Oil or Agrax Earthshade to bring out the details by flowing into the recesses of the model. This step instantly adds depth and realism.

Use a large brush to cover the whole model or a smaller one for targeted shading.

4. Layer

Once the shade has dried, it’s time to build up the color with Layer paints. Layer paints are thinner and meant for more precise application over raised areas. This brings vibrancy back after shading and defines the look of your model.

You can layer in stages, starting with a mid-tone and then adding lighter highlights.

5. Highlights and Finishing Touches

Highlight raised edges and key details with lighter shades or drybrushing techniques. Dry paints like Necron Compound are perfect for this. A gentle drybrush across textured areas like armor or fur can make your models pop.

Finally, consider adding extra details like glowing eyes, battle damage, or blood effects using Technical paints for a dramatic finish.

Tips for Success

• Thin your paints: A little water goes a long way toward smoother coats and better control.
• Be patient: Let each layer fully dry before moving on.
• Use the right brush: Large brushes for large areas, fine detail brushes for small features.
• Practice makes perfect: Your first models might not be perfect—and that’s okay! Every miniature you paint improves your skill.

Explore the Citadel Paint Range

Citadel offers different types of paints for every painting style:

• Base Paints: For strong foundational colors.
• Layer Paints: For building highlights and tones.
• Shade Paints: For adding depth and realism.
• Contrast Paints: For faster painting with one coat.
• Technical Paints: For special effects like rust, blood, or glowing energy.
• Dry Paints: For drybrushing textures easily.

By mixing and matching these types, you can create professional-looking miniatures that look fantastic on the tabletop.

Ready to Start Painting?

At PHgames.co.za, we stock a wide range of Citadel paints, brushes, and accessories to help you unleash your creativity. Whether you’re painting your first model or expanding your army, we’re here to support your hobby every step of the way.

Grab your brushes, open those paint pots, and let your imagination lead the way — your masterpiece awaits!