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pl enSpace Marines are some of the most iconic characters in the Warhammer 40,000 universe. Painting these miniatures can be a fantastic hobby for both beginners and advanced enthusiasts. In this guide, you'll learn how to prepare the model, choose the right paints, and achieve the best results on the battlefield.
Before starting to paint your Space Marine miniature, it's crucial to prepare the model properly. This process is essential for ensuring that the paint adheres well to the surface, retains its properties, and that the details of the miniature remain sharp. Proper preparation also affects the durability of the paint job, which is especially important if the model will be frequently used in games. Meticulous preparation can make each subsequent layer of paint look better and last longer, making the entire process more satisfying. It involves several key steps, such as degreasing, removing mold lines, assembling, and preparing the surface for priming.
Most Space Marine models are made of plastic, which can be covered with a layer of oil from the casting process. To ensure that the paint adheres well to the surface, you need to thoroughly degrease the model. The easiest way is to soak the miniature in warm water with a bit of soap or dishwashing liquid. Then gently clean the model with a soft brush, such as an old toothbrush, to remove any dirt and grease. This step is especially important because even a small amount of grease can prevent the paint from adhering properly, leading to peeling or streaking. Remember to rinse the model thoroughly in clean water after this process and let it dry completely on a paper towel.
Every plastic model, including Space Marine miniatures, has mold lines that form during the casting process. To ensure a clean look, it's important to remove these mold lines, as they will be visible after painting and can spoil the final appearance. For this task, hobby knives or files are best. Carefully remove the mold lines by running the knife at a slight angle along the line. Avoid applying too much pressure to prevent damage to delicate details like armor ornaments or small accessories. If you have a modeling file, smooth the areas where the mold lines were removed to create a perfectly smooth surface. This step prevents issues during painting, such as unwanted bumps or uneven surfaces that could ruin the model's final appearance.
Space Marine models often consist of several separate parts, such as the torso, arms, helmet, and jump pack. Before starting to paint, you need to carefully assemble these parts. Use a plastic glue designed for models, which slightly dissolves the surface, ensuring a strong bond between the parts. Apply small amounts of glue to the joints to avoid excess, which could spill out and leave unsightly marks. During assembly, make sure all parts fit well together to avoid visible gaps. If any small gaps remain after assembly, they can be filled with modeling putty and smoothed before painting. Remember to test-fit the pieces (dry fitting) to ensure everything fits perfectly before applying glue.
It's worth considering painting the Space Marine model before fully assembling it, especially if some parts, like the inner sides of arms or details under the jump pack, are hard to reach with a brush after the model is assembled. A common technique is "sub-assemblies," where you paint individual parts separately and then assemble them. For example, you can paint the torso, arms with weapons, and the backpack separately, then glue all the pieces together after painting. This way, you can reach hard-to-access areas more easily and achieve a better final result. While this technique may require a bit more time, it allows for more detailed painting and avoids frustration due to hard-to-reach spots.
Before applying primer, make sure the entire surface of the model is dry and free of dust. Gently run your finger over the model to check for any remaining dust or tiny plastic particles. If you used putty to fill gaps, ensure the surface is smooth and free of any uneven spots. At this stage, you can also mount the model on a holder (e.g., a piece of cork or a special painting handle), which makes it easier to rotate the model during painting and helps avoid touching the model with your fingers, which could introduce contaminants again.
Applying primer is a key step in preparing the model for painting. Primer creates a slightly rough surface, allowing paints to adhere better and preserving the details of the model. Priming is essential for achieving a durable and even paint finish, as it prevents chipping and ensures better paint adhesion. The choice of primer color also influences the appearance of the base colors:
It's also important to choose the right product for priming, as some are better suited for specific tasks:
You can apply primer with a brush, spray, or airbrush, depending on the available tools and preferences. Remember to apply a thin, even layer to avoid covering up small details on the model. It's best to apply primer in a well-ventilated space or outdoors if you're using primers with a strong smell to avoid inhaling fumes. After applying the primer, ensure it is completely dry before moving on to base coating so the paints can adhere properly and look their best.
Preparing the Space Marine model may seem time-consuming, but it is crucial for achieving the best painting results. A well-degreased, assembled, and properly prepared model allows for better results in subsequent stages like base coating, shading, and highlighting. Attention to detail at this stage will make the finished model look clean and professional, and you will be able to enjoy a beautifully crafted Space Marine warrior that will be a highlight of your army.