Contrast paints are used to simplify the process of miniature painting by combining the functions of base paints and shade paints into a single step.
Understanding Traditional Miniature Painting vs. Contrast Paints
Traditionally, miniature painting involves multiple stages:
- Priming: Preparing the model surface.
- Base Coating: Applying a solid color to the miniature.
- Shading: Adding depth and detail using washes or shade paints, which darken recessed areas.
Contrast paints streamline this process.
How Contrast Paints Work
Contrast paints are designed to:
- Base Coat: Apply a main color to the miniature, just like traditional base paints.
- Shade: Simultaneously flow into crevices and recesses to create shading and highlighting, similar to a wash or shade paint.
Here is a breakdown of how they differ from traditional methods:
| Feature | Traditional Method | Contrast Paints |
|---|---|---|
| Base Coating | Separate base paint application | Achieved in one application |
| Shading | Separate shade paint application | Integrated into a single step |
| Number of steps | Multiple steps | Single step |
Steps to Using Contrast Paints
Here's a brief guide on how to use contrast paints:
- Prime the Miniature: This is crucial for any paint job, ensuring proper paint adhesion.
- Apply Contrast Paint: Apply the contrast paint directly over the primed surface. The paint will naturally settle into crevices, darkening those areas, and leaving the raised surfaces lighter.
- Optional Layering: For more intense colors or to correct mistakes, you can apply additional layers of contrast paint.
- Highlighting (Optional): If you desire more pronounced highlights, you can use traditional layering or drybrushing techniques.
Benefits of Using Contrast Paints
- Speed: They significantly reduce painting time.
- Ease of Use: Easier to apply compared to the multiple layering techniques in traditional painting.
- Good Results: Produces impressive results with relatively little effort.
- Beginner Friendly: Ideal for those new to miniature painting.
Contrast paints provide a simpler, faster way to achieve a shaded look on miniatures by combining the application of base and shade colors into one step. They effectively make miniature painting more accessible to both beginners and experienced painters.
