writes:This tutorial explains, step by step, how I painted Eve, one of Hasslefree Miniatures Adventurer range sculpted by Kev White.
Before starting to paint any mini, I like to decide roughly what colours I am going to use, as it can give me a general idea of what the finished item is going to look like - also, it helps to make sure the colours work well together and don't clash.
Preparation is the Key
Eve is a one-piece miniature, so no assembly was required.
Using a craft knife and a small needle file, I removed any flash or mould lines that I could see (thankfully, very few).
Next, I glued the mini to the base. I decided to use some rather nice Urban War resin bases I've had lying around for a while.
With the cleaning up done and the glue dry, it was time for the ever-so-important black undercoat. The main advantage I find in using a black undercoat is that you don't need to "black line" the mini (separating areas with a dark line), not to mention the fact it suits my darker painting style more.
Method to My Madness
Before I get onto the actual "how to" of the painting, you may want to review what I've written previously about my preferred method of painting. Throughout the painting of this mini I use the layering technique, and most layers are made up of 3-4 coats to give good coverage.
I use paints from various manufacturers, and a lot of it is down to personal preference. On this mini, I used paints from Games Workshop (GW) and Vallejo - Game Colour (VGC) and Model Colour (VMC).
The Eve-il Eye
I always start with the main focal point of a mini: the face (assuming it has one!). This is one of the main areas that draw the eye of the viewer and can make all the difference to a mini.
First off, the Eyes. Most people tend to use white for the eyes, but I find it too harsh a colour and it can make the mini look like it's staring. I prefer to use an off-white or bone colour.
- Eyes Step 1
- Paint the eyes (GW) Bleached Bone, absolute neatness isn't required here as it can be tidied up in step 3.
- Eyes Step 2
- I paint a thin line of (GW) Chaos Black down the centre of the eye. I find this better than an actual dot for the pupil, as it stops them looking cross-eyed.
- Eyes Step 3
- Tidy up the edges of the eye using some (GW) Dark Flesh.
