Primer is the first coat on any miniature. It gives your paint something to grip, evens out the surface and makes colours look cleaner. Get this step right and everything after it is easier.
Why Prime?
- Paint sticks to primer far better than to bare plastic, resin or metal.
- It shows up mould lines and gaps you missed while building.
- The primer colour sets the tone for the paints that go over it.
Spray, Brush On or Airbrush?
| Method | Good for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Spray can | Fast, even coverage on whole units | Needs dry, mild weather and a well ventilated space |
| Brush on primer | Single models, painting indoors, touching up | Apply thin coats so detail isn’t lost |
| Airbrush | Smooth, controlled coats and zenithal priming | Needs an airbrush and compressor |
Which Colour Should I Use?
- Black: forgiving, as any gaps look like shadow. Good for dark armies, metals and grim, gritty schemes.
- White: makes bright colours like yellow, red and light blue much easier. Best choice under Contrast or Speedpaint style paints.
- Grey: a middle ground that works for almost anything.
- Coloured primer: match it to your army’s main colour and the basecoat is almost done for you.
- Zenithal: prime black, then spray white or light grey from above. This maps out natural light and shadow before you start painting.
How to Spray Prime
- Pick a dry day that isn’t too cold or humid. Damp or cold air is the main cause of rough, grainy primer.
- Shake the can well, for at least a minute.
- Hold the can about 20 to 30cm from the models.
- Use short bursts, sweeping past the model rather than aiming straight at it.
- Turn the models and spray from several angles. Two light coats are better than one heavy one.
- Leave everything to dry fully before painting.
Common Problems and Fixes
| Problem | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Rough, grainy or fuzzy finish | Spraying from too far away, or in damp or cold weather | Spray closer, in better conditions. Badly affected models can be stripped and primed again. |
| Detail looks soft or clogged | Too much primer in one go | Use lighter coats. Strip the model if detail is badly hidden. |
| Bare patches in recesses | Spraying from only one direction | Turn the model and spray from more angles, or touch up with brush on primer. |
| Paint rubs off easily later | Primer skipped or applied over grease | Wash models in warm soapy water before priming and let them dry. |
Need to start again on a model? Our guide to removing old paint shows you how.