40k Paints: How to Choose Your First Colours
Warhammer paints come in types that each do a different job on a model. Learn the job first, then pick colours for your army.
Miniature Hobby Notes — Painting guides for Warhammer 40,000
The Five Paint Types and What Each One Does
Most 40K painters use a mix of these types. Each one has a different consistency and job, so buying by type is more useful than buying by colour name alone.
| Paint type | Main job | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Base paint | Covers the model with a solid, even colour | Main armour colour and large areas |
| Layer paint | Lightens a base colour in thin coats | Highlights and edges on a base |
| Contrast paint | Adds shading and colour depth in one coat | Quick shading on a finished base colour |
| Dry paint | Dry-brushed over raised details to pick them out | Edges, texture, and worn details |
| Air paint | Sprayed through an airbrush for smooth, even coverage | Large areas and smooth blends |
Pot sizes and product formats change by range. Confirm current sizes on the official product page before buying.
Official Colour Ranges and Example Names
Warhammer Colour on the official Warhammer site groups paints into ranges and shows colour schemes. Use it to match a colour scheme to a faction, then pick the paint type that fits each step.
Example Contrast Paint Names
- Nighthaunt Gloom
- Hexwraith Flame
- Doomfire Magenta
- Celestium Blue
- Kroxigor Scales
*Note: Colour names and ranges change with releases. Confirm names and availability on the official Warhammer site before buying.
A Starter Colour List for Most 40K Armies
A small set covers most first models. Start with these roles, then add colours as your army grows.
Dark base colour
For undercoat shadows and details
Light base colour
For highlights and bright trim
Metallic base colour
For weapons, trim, and armour
Mid-tone base colour
For the main armour colour
One layer colour
To lighten the mid-tone
One contrast paint
For quick shading on the main colour
One dry paint
For edges and worn details
Check Price, Stock, and Format Before You Buy
Prices and stock vary by retailer and change often. Compare the official Warhammer store with your local hobby shop before you order. Check the paint type on the product page, because the same colour name can appear in more than one format.
Using Air Paint With an Airbrush
Air paints are sprayed through an airbrush, so they usually need thinning before use. Check the product page for its own guidance, and use the airbrush guide below to plan your setup before you spray.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a base paint and a layer paint?
A base paint covers the model with a solid colour. A layer paint is thinner and lighter, used to build highlights on top of a base.
Do I need contrast paints to paint 40K models?
No. Contrast paints speed up shading. A base, a layer, and a dry paint can cover a first army without them.
Are Citadel paints the only option for Warhammer models?
No. Other acrylic ranges are also used for miniatures. Compare each range by paint type, not only by colour name.
Which paints should a beginner buy first?
Start with a dark base, a light base, a metallic, a mid-tone, a layer, a contrast paint, and a dry paint. Add colours when a specific army needs them.
Does an airbrush replace brush painting?
No. An airbrush covers large areas quickly. Brushes are still used for details, edges, and small touches.
Start With One Set
Pick a starter set that covers the paint types above, then build your army one colour at a time.