Getting Started with Warhammer - A Guide for Beginners

12 Nov

Picking your first models

There’s a lot of choice and that can be overwhelming. Typically we would recommend picking up one of the AoS or 40k starter sets - you can grab one that comes with the tools and paints you need to get started or if you’d rather pick out your own paint colours you could go for one of the larger starter sets with more models - Think about whether you’re planning to just paint or game too.

What you’ll need to start

Your models
Cutters
Mould line remover
Glue
Primer
Paints
Paint brushes
Palette
Water pot

Cutting and cleaning

When cutting your model off the sprue try to get as close to the model as you can by using the flat side of the cutters. Then, using a mould line remover scrape towards you at a 45 degree angle (like peeling a potato) to clean the model of any remaining bits from cutting or mould lines from the moulding process.

Glueing and dry fitting

Before glueing always check to see how the parts fit together first. When you’re happy, use a small amount of glue and gently but firmly press the pieces together. If you use too much glue it can get in places you don’t want it to and melt the model. Some brands of glue have a brush, which is a bit easier to control.

Priming

Arguably one of the most important steps for painting - priming your models so that your paint sticks and doesn’t chip off. Put the can in warm water for a few minutes and then give it a good shake for 2 minutes. When it comes to spraying aim for multiple thinner coats rather than one thick coat (15-20 minutes apart) and try to hold the can 30cm away from the model. Remember, always keep the can moving and never spray in one spot!

Palette types

You’ll need somewhere to put your paint. You can use either a dry or wet palette - it’s really down to what you prefer. Dry palettes have less of a learning curve but you’ll use more paint. Wet palettes keep your paints fresh but there’s a bit of experimenting you have to do to get it right! You can either buy a wet palette or DIY one yourself.

Painting

Always aim for multiple thin coats and use water to dilute your paint. It’s not a good idea to take paint straight from the pot! Also, you can always go back to your palette so don’t put too much paint on at once. It’s also best to keep the paint away from the metal bit of your paint brush (ferrule).

Looking after your tools

We recommend cleaning your brushes after every use. You can use just water but brush soap is our preference. Once washed, store them sideways or suspended upside so paint water doesn’t get into the brush.