Warhammer isn't just about playing – painting and modeling are just as important. Every miniature comes as grey plastic parts that you assemble and paint yourself. For some, it's just a way to get an army ready for the table; for others, it's a joy in itself, hiding endless possibilities.

That’s exactly my case. I often enjoy painting miniatures more than playing. And I believe I’m not the only one who loves perfecting a figure and then showing it off on a shelf.

Getting started is easy – all you need are basic paints, a brush, and a bit of patience. Gradually, you’ll learn techniques like basecoating (applying base colors), drybrushing (quickly highlighting details with a dry brush), or washing (shading with thinned paints). Modern products, such as Citadel Contrast paints, allow even a complete beginner to achieve great results.

Painting also has a competitive side. The most famous event is Golden Demon, a prestigious showcase of the best painters from around the world. Besides that, there are smaller local contests and online challenges where you can show off your creations, get inspired by others, and watch your skills improve over time.

Thanks to painting, every army gets a unique look – you can follow official schemes or invent your own colors and heraldry. It’s the creative part of the Warhammer hobby that teaches you patience, improves your fine motor skills, and brings pride in what you can create with your own hands.

Current Trends in Miniature Painting

Miniature painting has moved forward a lot in recent years, and today you don't have to rely solely on classic acrylic paints and brushes. Manufacturers are coming up with new systems that make painting easier, faster, and open doors to experimentation.

There is a huge boom in so-called Contrast paints from Citadel, or alternatives from other brands like Quick Gen from AK Interactive and Speedpaint from Army Painter. These paints combine base, shade, and highlight, so even a complete beginner can quickly achieve a decent result. Speed Paints from Army Painter also allow for further layering.

Alongside these, there are Playmarkers and acrylic markers, which allow you to easily color larger areas or quickly finish details. For players who want their army on the table as fast as possible, these are ideal helpers.

Airbrushing is also becoming increasingly popular. It is mainly used for base layers, color transitions, and large models like monsters or tanks. The advantage is speed and the ability to achieve smooth effects that would take hours with a brush.

Modern hobbying offers various paths – from the classic brush approach through speed-painting with contrast paints and markers, to professional airbrush effects. The trend is clear: you have the choice to decide whether you want to build a playable army quickly or dive into details and create a small work of art.

Besides painting the figures themselves, basing plays a huge role. A simple coat of black is no longer enough – today, various texture pastes, grass, stones, or snow effects are often used so the base matches the environment where the army is supposed to fight. A well-done base can literally bring a miniature to life and place it into a story.

Dioramas go even further, creating small scenes where figures, terrain, and story connect into one whole. Dioramas are often used in competitions where it's not just about the quality of the paint job, but also about the atmosphere and originality of the entire scene. For many painters, this is the pinnacle of the hobby – the chance to create your own piece of a "living" world that tells a story at first glance.

During the existence of the imago blog, we have prepared several articles on how to start painting:

Miniature Painting for Beginners: First Steps

An ultra-short guide on how to start painting miniatures without stress or unnecessary alchemy. I explain the basic equipment (brush, primer, paints), key techniques (basecoat, wash, drybrush, details), tips on tools (wet palette, handle), bases, and varnish – and I’ve included links to specific items here at imago. Open the article, pick a few paints, and let's go – your first finished unit is closer than you think!

Miniature Painting for Beginners: Tips and Tricks from Experts

This article is the perfect start for anyone who is a complete novice at painting miniatures. Our guides Lukáš and Nikola will simply yet thoroughly explain the basic techniques – from model preparation (washing, priming), through layering (base, layer), effective shading using wash/shade, and quick results with Contrast and Speedpaint, to the final application of protective varnish. Thanks to the clear explanation and professional tips, you will learn the basics without unnecessary complications.

How to Start Painting Miniatures: Part 1 – What to Get at the Beginning?

This series is the perfect guide for anyone who wants to outsmart the grey of their miniatures and start painting like a pro – or at least feel like one.

• In the first part, you'll learn what to get at the start – from a paint set to a brush, primer, and varnish.
• The second part is for those preparing for larger projects (yes, even a whole army), and it says – invest in sprays, a large paint palette, and proper tools.
• In the third part, you'll dive into types of paints: Base, Layer, Shade, Wash, Contrast, and you'll understand how and when to use them.
• And in the fourth part, you'll finally take action – step by step, we'll paint the first miniature together.

AK Interactive Playmarkers: Painting Without Delay

This article quickly introduces you to a completely new way of painting miniatures — using AK Interactive Playmarkers with a brush tip. They are super simple, comfortable to hold, and allow for quick coloring of larger areas and details without complex preparation. If you want results fast and without compromise, Playmarkers are a great choice — and the article explains why.

AK Interactive Quick Gen: Starter Set Review

A new player in the field of contrast paints is here! Quick Gen promises easy application, rich pigments, and fast results – ideal for slap-chop and quick basecoating. In the article, you'll find a test of the entire set (8 paints + medium + brush), examples on miniatures, and tips on how to thin, layer, and make the most of the paints.

author Karel Krajča