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Daily Tips and Tricks for Painting Miniatures - Day 7: Tips for using washes and inks in your painting

Daily Tips and Tricks for Painting Miniatures - Day 7: Tips for using washes and inks in your painting

Posted by Allen on 14th Mar 2023

Day 7: Tips for using washes and inks in your painting

Washes and inks are an essential tool in miniature painting. They help add depth, shading, and definition to your miniatures by emphasizing the shadows and crevices. In this article, we'll discuss some tips and tricks for using washes and inks in your painting to achieve stunning and impressive results.


1.Thin Your Washes and Inks: Washes and inks are highly pigmented, and applying them directly to your miniature can result in an overly intense application. Thin your washes and inks with water or a medium to achieve a more subtle and nuanced application.


2.Use the Right Brush: A good quality brush with a fine tip is essential for applying washes and inks. You'll want to use a brush that's dedicated to washes and inks, as they can be challenging to clean and can stain the bristles.


3.Apply the Wash or Ink in Layers: Applying washes and inks in multiple layers can help achieve a more natural and gradual shading effect. Apply a thin layer, allow it to dry, and repeat until you achieve the desired depth and shading.


4.Use the Right Color: Choosing the right color for your wash or ink can make a significant difference in the final result. Dark colors such as black, brown, or gray work well for shading and defining, while lighter colors such as white or yellow can be used to highlight and add brightness.

5.Use a Matte Varnish: Once your wash or ink has dried, apply a matte varnish to protect your miniature and give it a more finished look. A matte varnish will also help tone down any overly shiny or reflective areas.


6.Experiment with Different Techniques: There are many different techniques for using washes and inks in miniature painting, from applying them before or after dry brushing to using them as a glaze or tint. Experiment with different techniques to find the one that works best for you and your painting style.


In conclusion, using washes and inks in your miniature painting can add depth, shading, and definition to your miniatures. To use washes and inks effectively, thin them, use the right brush, apply them in layers, choose the right color, use a matte varnish, and experiment with different techniques. Remember, using washes and inks is a skill that takes practice, so keep experimenting and trying new techniques to achieve stunning and impressive results in your miniature painting.