28mm Miniature Painting

Learn the ins and outs of 28mm miniature painting with our comprehensive guide. From preparing and priming miniatures to layering and dry brushing techniques, we cover everything you need to know to create stunning and detailed miniatures. Perfect for tabletop gamers and collectors alike.

What is 28mm Miniature Painting?

28mm miniature painting is a popular hobby among tabletop gamers and miniature collectors. These miniatures, which are typically made of metal or plastic, are used in a variety of tabletop games such as Warhammer 40,000, Age of Sigmar, and Dungeons & Dragons.

Scottish Pikemen 28mm miniatures based with banners. Wide shot of several units.

Prepping the Figures

One of the first steps in painting 28mm miniatures is preparing the miniature for painting. This typically involves cleaning the miniature of any mould release agents or other contaminants. Next, the miniature will need to be assembled, if it is not already assembled. This can be a delicate process, as the miniature will need to be properly aligned and glued together without breaking any parts.

Priming

Once the miniature is assembled and cleaned, it is ready to be primed. Priming serves two purposes: it provides a surface for paint to adhere to, and it helps to create a consistent base color. Many miniature painters use a spray primer, as it is quick and easy to apply. However, some miniature painters prefer to use a brush-on primer, as it allows for more control over the primer’s application.

Painting 28mm Miniatures

After priming, the miniature is ready to be painted. There are many different techniques and styles of miniature painting, but one of the most popular is called “layering.” This technique involves applying multiple thin layers of paint to the miniature, building up the colours and details gradually.

Another popular technique is called “dry brushing,” which is used to add highlights and details to the miniature. This technique involves loading a dry brush with paint and then lightly dragging it across the miniature’s surface, leaving only a small amount of paint behind.

Single base with 12 figures - duchy of Athens commission.

Types of Paint for 28mm Miniatures

When it comes to paint, miniature painters have many options to choose from. Acrylic paints are popular due to their quick drying time and the fact that they can be easily thinned with water. Oil paints, on the other hand, take longer to dry but are known for their rich, smooth finish.

Varnishing and Finishing Touches

Finally, once the miniature has been painted, it can be sealed to protect the paint. This can be done with a clear varnish or a matte sealant.

At this point, you can also add finishing touches, like detail to the bases, and shield transfers or banners for a more authentic look to your figures.

Floden Scottish Pike Block with banners and weathered shield transfers.

Overall, 28mm miniature painting is a fun and rewarding hobby that allows you to create unique and detailed miniatures. With a little patience and practice, anyone can learn how to paint 28mm miniatures.

If you want high-quality results, but don’t have the time or skill needed to paint the figures yourself, hiring a commission painter is a great idea. Get in touch today if you’d like a quote.

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