Miniature painting is the hobby of painting small figures, models, or even scenery pieces by hand. It overlaps into areas such as tabletop and fantasy games.
What is Miniature Painting?
Painting miniatures involves the painting of small figures and models. These objects are often made out of plastic, resin, or sometimes metal.
Whilst some people paint these miniatures for use in table top games, others focus on collectables or model scenes. The level of detail in the painting can be as simple or as detailed as you wish.
What Do People Paint?
Hobbyists often paint the following items:
- Fantasy figures
- Sci-fi soldiers
- Dungeons & Dragons characters
- Warhammer models
- Board game miniatures
- Model animals
- Historical figures
- Vehicles and tanks
- Terrain and scenery
- Diorama pieces
Beginners can start off with a single figure or piece, before moving onto a larger set or scene.
Is Miniature Painting Good for Beginners?
Yes, if they like small, detailed work. Newbies can start off with painting a single model, before progressing onto more complex scenes.
You can start with simple details to learn detailed brushstrokes and see if you like the process, before progressing onto more in depth work and complex projects. Miniature painting may not be for everyone, as painting detailed can be fiddly and requires patience. Start off small to see if you enjoy it first, before progressing onto more challenging set ups.
What Do You Need to Start Miniature Painting?
You only need a few basic supplies to get started:
- A miniature or model
- Primer
- Acrylic miniature paints
- A few small brushes
- Water pot
- Palette
- Paper towel
- Good lighting
As you become more experienced, you may need other items such as:
- Magnifying lamp
- Painting handle
- Washes or shade paints
- Varnish
- A small storage box for paints and brushes
You do not need a lot of fancy equipment to get started; see if you enjoy painting miniatures first before you invest in lots of supplies.
How Much Space Does Miniature Painting Need?
It doesn’t need too much space, especially for a beginner who is only painting a single model. It can be done at a desk, kitchen table, or other hobby corner; any surface where you are prepared to use paint (although a protective mat or tray may be a good idea).
If you are not creating large scenes or collections, the supplies do not take up very much space and can be stored in a small box. Your finished models can be stored as you wish, on display or in a box. However, if you later become a keen miniature painter, you may need more space as your collection grows!
Is Miniature Painting Expensive?
Whilst a small set up can be quite reasonable in price, be aware that this hobby can become very expensive as you progress. Whilst basic supplies such as paint are often cheaper, the models themselves can be quite an investment if you buy large pieces or sets.
This is why its important to test the waters first with one small model to see if you actually enjoy the process, rather than invest in more complex set ups, only to find that you cannot bear small, detailed painting!
Who Might Enjoy Miniature Painting?
Miniature painting may be good for people who like:
- Detailed crafts
- Fantasy, sci-fi, or gaming
- Collecting
- Small creative projects
- Colour and character design
It may not suit people who:
- Hate fiddly work
- Dislike tiny details
- Get frustrated with slow progress
- Don’t have a space to paint
Is Miniature Painting the Same as Model Making?
Not exactly. Whilst miniature painting often involves decorating small, already assembled figures, model making involves other processes, such as sanding and gluing parts. However, there is some overlap, as models are often painted once they are assembled.
As miniatures often come already assembled and may be small, they are easier for beginners to tackle.
Is Miniature Painting Just for Gamers?
No. Many people paint miniatures for display, scenery, or collection purposes. They can be animals or other decorative figures, rather than video game characters or table top games.
Final Thoughts
Miniature painting is a good hobby to consider if you enjoy detailed work that gives you a sense of accomplishment at the end. Start small and simple if you are a beginner, rather than trying to complete complex designs or elaborate scenes straight away.