Member-only story

Painting Rocky Bases: A Comprehensive Guide to Creating Realistic Stone Surfaces for Miniatures

Richard Simmons

·19.2k Followers· Follow

Published in Painting Rocky Bases (Basic Bases 1)

5 min read

177 View Claps

22 Respond

Save

Listen

Rocky bases are a ubiquitous part of miniature wargaming and tabletop role-playing games. They provide a visually interesting and immersive setting for your armies, and can help to bring your models to life. However, painting rocky bases can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about painting rocky bases, from choosing the right materials to applying the finishing touches.

Materials You Will Need

* Miniatures with rocky bases * Base paint (dark gray or brown) * Layer paints (light gray, tan, brown, black) * Drybrush paints (white, light gray) * Washes (brown, black) * Glaze medium * Brushes (various sizes) * Palette * Water cup * Paper towels

Painting Rocky Bases (Basic Bases Book 1)

by Max Dubois

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1541 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	15 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prime the Base

The first step is to prime the base of your miniature. This will help the paint to adhere better and will provide a uniform surface to work on. Use a spray-on primer or apply a thin coat of black or gray paint with a brush.

2. Base Coat the Base

Once the primer has dried, apply a base coat of dark gray or brown paint to the base. This will be the foundation for the rest of the paint job.

3. Drybrush the Base

To create the illusion of texture and depth, drybrush the base with a lighter shade of gray or tan paint. Use a stiff brush and lightly dab the paint onto the raised areas of the base.

4. Wash the Base

To add depth and contrast, apply a wash of brown or black paint to the base. Use a soft brush and apply the wash evenly over the surface of the base. Allow the wash to dry completely.

5. Layer the Base

To further define the texture of the base, apply a layer of light gray or tan paint to the raised areas. Use a small brush and apply the paint in thin, even coats.

6. Highlight the Base

To create the illusion of sunlight hitting the base, apply a highlight of white or light gray paint to the highest points of the base. Use a very fine brush and apply the paint in thin, precise strokes.

7. Glaze the Base

To add a touch of realism, apply a glaze of brown or black paint to the base. Use a soft brush and apply the glaze evenly over the surface of the base. Allow the glaze to dry completely.

8. Finish the Base

To finish the base, apply a thin coat of matte varnish. This will protect the paint job and give the base a more realistic finish.

Tips and Tricks
* Use a variety of brush sizes to create different textures and effects. * Don't be afraid to experiment with different colors and washes. * If you make a mistake, don't worry! Simply let the paint dry and then touch it up with the correct color. * Practice makes perfect! The more you paint rocky bases, the better you will become at it.

Example Base Designs

Here are a few example base designs that you can try:

* Cracked Earth Base: To create a cracked earth base, apply a thick layer of brown paint to the base and then use a sharp knife or sculpting tool to create cracks in the paint. * Rocky Outcrop Base: To create a rocky outcrop base, apply a layer of gray paint to the base and then drybrush the raised areas with a lighter shade of gray. Use a small brush to paint in details such as cracks and fissures. * Lava Base: To create a lava base, apply a layer of red or orange paint to the base and then drybrush the raised areas with a lighter shade of red or orange. Use a small brush to paint in details such as bubbles and flames.

Painting rocky bases is a fun and rewarding way to add realism and depth to your miniatures. With a little practice, you can master the techniques outlined in this guide and create stunning rocky bases that will make your models look their best.

Painting Rocky Bases (Basic Bases Book 1)

by Max Dubois

4.3 out of 5