Why does the choice of paints for miniatures matter?

Painting miniatures (28–32 mm, 75 mm and larger) requires paints with fine pigment and good consistency control. Ordinary poster paints or cheap "hobby" acrylics can obscure details, leave streaks, and crack after drying. Good acrylic paints for miniatures have the right density, are easy to dilute, and provide a repeatable effect.

• Fine pigment – better coverage without "graininess".
• Dilution control – paint does not clump and does not run into unwanted areas.
• Adhesion – adheres well to primed surfaces.
• Consistent finish – predictable matte/satin/metallic finish for every color.

The best choice: acrylic paints for miniature painting

The most popular and easiest to use are acrylics for miniatures. They dry quickly, do not require solvents, and allow for layering: base → shadows → highlights. This is the standard in model making and wargaming.

If you search for terms like “paints for miniatures”, “what paints for miniatures”, “miniature painting paints”, you will most often come across acrylic systems from brands dedicated to miniatures.

The most popular brands of paints for miniatures – comparison

Citadel Colour – a convenient system for gamers and beginners

Citadel is one of the most recognizable brands in the hobby. Its strength lies in a simple division: Base, Layer, Shade (washes), Dry (drybrush), and effect paints. It's a good choice if you want to quickly achieve a solid tabletop effect.

• Pros: excellent washes, many tutorials, good coverage.
• Cons: pots dry out faster; usually higher price.

Vallejo (Model Color / Game Color) – precision and control

Vallejo is valued by many experienced painters for its dropper bottles, stable quality, and easy mixing. The Model Color series are often more matte and "realistic," while Game Color tends to be more saturated, which suits fantasy and sci-fi settings.

• Pros: great for layers and blending, convenient dispensing, wide palette.
• Cons: require learning how to dilute; less "hand-holding."

The Army Painter – good sets and fast army painting

Army Painter is popular among players who paint many models. The brand offers starter sets and lines for quick painting, such as Speedpaint paints.

• Pros: cost-effective sets, quick effects on armies, wide availability.
• Cons: some colors may require thorough mixing and shaking.

AK Interactive – realism, ultra-matte, and excellent effect products

AK Interactive originates from model making and is strong in realistic paints, washes, filters, and weathering. If you paint grimdark, historical themes, or enjoy "weathering" models, this is a very good direction.

• Pros: realistic colors, powerful products for weathering and effects.
• Cons: palette may be less "fantasy" than competitors.

Scale75 – paints for the ambitious (great for NMM and display painting)

Scale75 is known for its very matte finish and paints that excel at layering and techniques such as NMM (Non-Metallic Metal). They can be more challenging for beginners but offer immense control.

• Pros: brilliant for highlights and competition painting, super matte.
• Cons: require patience and thin layers.

What not to use for painting miniatures?

If you care about sharp details and durability, avoid paints not intended for miniatures:

• poster paints – thick pigment, poor durability;
• cheap artistic acrylics – can be chalky or too "pasty";
• enamels and oils (for starters) – require solvents and experience.

This doesn't mean artists never use them – but as a first set for learning, acrylics dedicated to miniatures will definitely work better.

One brand or a mix? The best approach

Many hobbyists mix brands because each has its strengths. A popular "golden set" looks like this:

• bases and layers: Vallejo (control and convenience),
• shades: washes (Shades) or equivalents,
• effects and weathering: AK Interactive,
• competition highlights and NMM: Scale75.

Most importantly: choose paints according to your painting style, not the logo on the bottle.

What paints for miniatures to start with? A simple set that works

If you're just starting, don't buy 50 colors at once. It's better to build a small, sensible set and learn dilution and layering. Here's a practical list:

• 10–15 basic colors (acrylics for miniatures),
• black and white (mixing and highlights),
• metallics: silver and gold,
• 1–2 washes: dark (e.g., brown/black) and optionally sepia,
• optional: "skin tone" paint + one cool and one warm shade for shadows.

This set will allow you to paint most fantasy/sci-fi miniatures without frustration and without spending a fortune.

FAQ: most common questions about paints for miniatures

Do miniature paints need to be diluted?

Yes. In 90% of cases, you paint in thin layers. Diluted paint doesn't obscure details and looks smoother.

Are pots or dropper bottles better?

Dropper bottles make dispensing and mixing easier. Pots can be convenient for brush loading but dry out more often. Storage and work hygiene are most important.

Are "contrast / speedpaint" paints for beginners?

They can be great for quick effects, but they have a learning curve. It's best to treat them as tools for specific applications: skin, fabrics, organic textures, quick armies.

Summary: what paints are best for painting miniatures?

The best paints for miniature painting are acrylics dedicated to miniatures. They provide appropriate pigment, control, consistency, and durability. For starters, choose a simple set from a reputable brand, and then gradually expand your palette and mix lines as you discover your preferences.

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