Printed your first game miniature or fantasy character model?
Awesome! Now it’s time to bring it to life with paint, color, and detail.
Whether you’ve printed with resin or FDM, this guide will teach you how to prep, paint, and finish your figurines like a pro — even if you’ve never held a brush before.
🧼 Step 1: Post-Processing the Print
Before painting, your model needs cleaning and smoothing.
For Resin Prints:
- Rinse with isopropyl alcohol (IPA)
- Cure with UV light (sunlight or UV box)
- Remove supports carefully using flush cutters
For FDM Prints:
- Sand with fine-grit sandpaper (400–800 grit)
- Use a heat gun or filler primer for smoother finish
- Remove visible layer lines if needed
🧵 Step 2: Assemble (if in Parts)
- Use super glue or epoxy to attach limbs, weapons, or bases
- Fill gaps with modeling putty (e.g., Vallejo Plastic Putty)
- Let it dry completely before priming
🖌️ Step 3: Priming the Miniature
Priming helps paint stick better and shows details clearly.
- Use spray primers in gray, white, or black
- Hold 6–8 inches away from the model
- Spray in short bursts to avoid clogging details
🎯 Tip: Use white primer for bright colors, black for darker schemes
🎨 Step 4: Painting Your Figurine
Here’s how to paint in layers:
| Layer | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Base Coat | Block in main colors |
| Wash | Add shadows and depth |
| Highlight | Lighten raised areas |
| Detailing | Eyes, weapons, symbols |
| Sealing | Matte or gloss spray to protect |
🖌️ Use acrylic paints from brands like Vallejo, Army Painter, or Citadel
🖍️ Thin your paints slightly with water for smoother application
🔍 Use fine detail brushes (size 0, 00, 1)
🌈 Optional: Dry Brushing & Weathering
Want advanced effects?
- Dry brushing: Load brush with very little paint, gently stroke raised areas for texture
- Weathering: Use black/brown washes, sponges, or pigment powders to add dirt, rust, or age
🛠️ Tools You’ll Need
| Tool/Material | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Hobby knife | Cleaning flash/supports |
| Fine sandpaper | Smoothing surfaces |
| Acrylic paints | Main coloring |
| Super glue | Assembly |
| Primer spray | Undercoat |
| Clear coat | Final sealing |
🧰 Trinity Layers Starter Paint Kits (Coming Soon): Brushes + paints + primer in one box
📷 Tip: Showcase Your Minis Online
Take clear photos using:
- Neutral background
- Soft white lighting
- Macro lens or portrait mode
Post on:
- Reddit (/r/minipainting)
- Instagram #3dminipaint
- Etsy or TrinityLayers Store if selling
💬 Trinity Layers Add-On Services
We offer:
- Miniature painting (hand-painted on request)
- Print & paint bundles for gifts or gamers
- Custom color schemes for characters
🎮 Perfect for DnD players, collectors, or miniature enthusiasts.