Best artists paintbrushes according to redditors
We found 386 Reddit comments discussing the best artists paintbrushes. We ranked the 166 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
We found 386 Reddit comments discussing the best artists paintbrushes. We ranked the 166 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
Based on the width of the '' '' '' spilled '' '' '' coffee, and the way it stays on nearly perfectly parallel tracks throughout the shape of the
'' '' '' stain '' '' ''
The fact that we have a deeper hue on the part of the '' '' '' stain '' '' '' near the pot, and a corresponding wide splotch, indicates the pressure on the beginning of a brush stroke. and then a lighter tail that breaks of into two parallel strokes, indicating OP quickly flicked up with the intention of making a steamy effect.
Based on the look of the mark I'd guess a flat or angular flat
In fact I would guess that you've been rough with your brushes. When you dry off a flat to aggressively you bend the bristles and sometimes a 'V' shape gets stuck in the brushes dry state. Which I'm guessing is what the brush you used to do this with looks like.
Here's a link to some new brushes, the one you used is clearly in need of replacement
and here's a guide on how to look after your brushes better
I'm gonna give this bullshit attempt at a post a 1/10 for effort. You'll have a more realistic fake stain if you blotch coffee with a paper towel and run the end between your finger tips to squeeze out actual liquid drops. The naturalization of your faked stain was the goal. You went over the top in your artistic efforts. Better luck next time though.
Your OP was so good that I thought I'd help link these:
$70.50 total plus tax.
Feeling lazy? Here's an entire set for $70.83.
Obviously I don't vouch for any of this stuff and you can get cheap things but... yeah. Thanks OP. Now I want to paint.
First off WELCOME TO THE TIME/MONEY BLACKHOLE !!
As a fellow Tau player I just have to correct something, they arent robots. Theres little fish face alien fuckers in those suits.
Yes they are fantastically awesome !
If you hit your local shop on weekends you will very likely find people who will be incredibly nice to you and will be very happy to help you learn to paint. This is usually a great bunch of fanboys and we love talking to newbies :) My son will talk for hours on how awesome orks are and his buddie will tell me how amazing Chaos is. I play Tau, Space Marines, Eldar & Necrons. oh i'm 47 so the habit will last your lifetime.
As for what equipment, I suggest an exacto knife for removing tiny bits of plastic. A task light with a magnifying glass is awesome. A good set of brushes & an Army painter kit. Links are below. Paint scheme... dude they are all awesome. What do YOU want ? Dont go crazy at first. start simple, 3 colors and basic bases. As you get better you can add details. Please post photos of your progress and never be afraid to ask questions
For the greater good !
Light - https://www.amazon.com/Spectrum-Daylight-Magnifier-3-Diopter-VS01222B/dp/B00DJG9DFA/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1493865330&sr=8-2&keywords=task+light+magnifier
Paint - https://www.amazon.com/Army-Painter-Warpaints-Mega-Paint/dp/B01MTXRUUT/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1493865371&sr=8-1&keywords=army+painter+set
Brushes - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M7UFLP5/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
It’s called a waterbrush pen. It looks like OP used one from this set: Pentel Arts Aquash Water Brush Assorted Tips, Pack of 3
Edit: typo.
Pretty good. There are a few things for you to consider though.
The paint set is likely a bit overkill. I'd pick paints based on what faction you're most interested in from the set. For example, I'd grab a black and white for sure, then whatever color you'd like the armor to be and a few metallics. You can get a lot done with just those and then expand your paint library from there. If you order that set you will end up buying a lot of paint you will never use.
You likely don't need all those brushes. You'll be better off getting one or two high quality brushes and a bunch of mediocre ones. Most people swear by Winsor Newton series 7 brushes for mini painting. I'd also pick up a cheap brush for dry brushing, I suggest cheap here because drybrushing tends to destroy brushes fairly quickly and you don't need a great quality brush for the process.
I'm not sure what's in the tool kit set but make sure you get some plastic glue for more permanent and seamless melds.
Edit: I just realized I linked a size #0 brush. Get a size #1. #0 is just too damn small.
Assuming your microns are the fine liner type and not the brush pens, you should get on the brush pen train!
This one is really nice and popular.
This one is nice too and would be more like what you're used to with the microns, but with a softer tip so you can vary the line weight easily.
I could be wrong, but i'm pretty sure both of these are waterproof. Playing with water soluble ink and a water brush is a lot of fun too and doesn't require much to try out. Something like this (but try to find just one for cheap.. you don't need a bunch) plus random non-waterproof pens you probably have around the house and you're good to go.
This is a water color pen brush.
Example on Amazon
Couldnt resist the sns sale on this pair for about $130. and i knew id be blacking out that boost before i bought. (sorry dont see it available any longer, but its on goat and stockx for 120-160ish depending on size.) i wanted to try the full angelus method since heskicks said it lasted on youtube, and it took me 3 days on and off this weekend.
full photo album progress here with comparison pix in different steps of the method and against "OEM" black adidas boost https://imgur.com/a/5RE2d
STEPS
Day 1 – deglaze and dye. Deglazed before dinner, painted dye layer 1, wait 10 mins then dye layer 2. Let dry overnight.
Day 2 – Dye reducer. Feelgoodkicks on youtube said this was important to eliminate cracking and that purpleish sharpie-like tint, so I tried it. Make sure to very lightly roll a Q-tip over your dye work, otherwise else you can completely remove all your work. Later that day I painted with the flat black paint. Waited 10 mins then did a 2nd layer.
Day 3 – Acrylic Paint. Wait 10 mins and do a 2nd layer. Still looked too glossy to me, so I masked the upper and sprayed with krylon later that day. And a 2nd layer a few mins after as the instructions state to get my finished product. Also added alternate laces and gunmetal grey aglets. Didnt end up using the mink oil since Im worried the boost will gloss up, but I still might try some later.
OVERALL TIPS
With any painting, take your time and do LIGHT layers to prevent chipping/cracking as much as possible.
I didnt mask the upper when painting since i went slowly, but paint brushes are actually easier to use very close to the primeknit than the sharpies were. I normally painted that upper edge first, then used a larger brush to paint the main part of the boost.
Krylon spray was a must. Album has a comparison photo with just angelus finish and its super glossy compared to the krylon finish. Using krylon finish alone, however, the paint rubbed off the boost whenever i touched it. so gotta do both
PREVIOUS POST (sharpie method)
https://www.reddit.com/r/Sneakers/comments/7thl9p/iniki_boost_blackout_oil_based_sharpie_matte/
Since the previous sharpie method rubbed off a bit on my fingers, I retouched with the anglus acrylic finish and then krylon again to get it more matte. Seemed to do the job.
I think for the sharpie method id have to add deglazer and angelus finish. so a total of 4 purchases would be good (deglazer, sharpie, angelus acrylic finish, krylon matte finish)
PRODUCT LINKS
Angelus Leather Preparer & Deglazer 4 Oz - $6.60
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EU322DQ
Angelus Brand Leather Dye W/applicator - 3 Oz ''Jet Black'' - $6.75
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B016QV7XIS
Angelus Acrylic 4 Ounce Paint (Flat Black) - $8.49
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MPXF6XG
Angelus Brand Acrylic Leather Paint Matte Finisher No. 620 - 4oz - $7.59
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B5W4LX4
Krylon Matte Finish - $3.47
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005ENZ8CS
Heartybay Nylon Paint Brush Set - $5.98
https://www.amazon.com/Heartybay-10Pieces-Round-Pointed-Nylon/dp/B00V4EG6D6
> When moving a unit along their movement value'd distance, do you usually measure out the lead model, move it, and then move each other model in the unit in approximately the same (but not measured) distance to maintain coherency, or do you measure out each individual model in a unit to ensure not a single one possibly goes further than its value? Or is this something agreed upon by the players pre-match?
> If each model is measured, I could see some units (ie, conscript squads) being extremely time-consuming or difficult to deal with depending on terrain and model count.
Officially, each model. However almost everyone I've ever played with does it the "time saving way" when dealing with large groups of models. This usually isn't a problem when you are clearly moving them less than max movement range. This is especially the case with horde units that have greater than 10 models to a unit. 20x Poxwalkers for instance. Once you get used to playing, it isn't too time consuming for a single 5 model Marine squad.
> On the second question, is there a generally agreed upon "kit" or set of paint brushes to get before starting to paint models? In addition to the First Strike box I got last night, I also got the small Painting Essentials box which includes a brush (along with cutter, glue, and some small pots), but wasn't sure what other brushes I might need/want before starting to paint.
The "goto" kit for brushes tends to be a Winsor and Newton Series 7 Round Size #2 and #0. Keep them clean with Master's Brush soap and they'll last you a long time. You can find them on Amazon. At $10-$15 a brush they aren't cheap when starting out. And that's arguably more then you need for a first model. You can get by with a cheap bag of small "gold taklon" brushes from walmart or similar at first.
Here's something I wrote recently on brushes for someone else looking for some nicer brushes....
https://www.reddit.com/r/deathguard40k/comments/8ac9ui/what_warhammer_brushes_should_i_get_what_vallejo/
As for Army Painter brushes specifically. It's what I started with before moving to Kolinsky Hair brushes. Still use a number of their small dry brushes for small detail dry brushing. If you are set on Army Painter... The Wargamer series, specifically the Regiment, Character, and Detail brushes are pretty solid. As well as the Wargamer Small Drybrush. Certainly better than Walmart synthetics. Have held up well cleaning with Masters Brush Soap linked below. They just have never had the same type of fine tip you get on a Kolinsky. The super small Army Painter brushes aren't really worth it though in the long run.
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I have a large collection of brushes with my better half. Bought her a large collection from different brands from around the world so she could try different styles to find the perfect brush for her.
Essentially, you'll want a Natural Kolinsky fiber brush in round shape for miniature base coating, shading, layering, edging and detail work. They will last you quite a while if you take care of them. Most people find they can do everything with a #2 and #0. A workhorse and a detail brush. Good natural Kolinsky hair helps thinned paint flow properly out of the brush, and holds an excellent point. There are a number of options to get a good Kolinsky brush:
As for brands, you have options:
Then you'll want to keep it all clean with "The Masters" Brush Soap and Conditioner. Cleaning regularly will make a big difference brush life. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009RRT9Y/ ... Keeping brushes freshly rinsed in a basin can help prevent the bad buildup of dried paint to begin with. This kind of thing... https://www.amazon.com/Loew-Cornell-Brush-Tub-II/dp/B0019IKYU8/ or really any sturdy cup you have around that won't tip over easily.
NOTE - You'll want to use cheaper brushes for Drybrushing, it can just murder brushes. Either walmart/craft store brushes you can toss, or just cheaper quality brushes made for it, like Army Painter or Citadels drybrush lines.
As for paint... I use Army Painter and Citadel. Citadel primarily for anything warhammer to get color matches. Army painter for some washes, and anything else I paint (boardgame and DnD minis). Rither now I are only using Vallejo for Airbrush paints and a few premium metallics.
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There's a great guide that got me and my other half started over on the /r/minipainting subreddit. https://www.reddit.com/r/minipainting/comments/50hd3a/rminipainting_buying_guide_hd_remastered/
I use watercolour paintbrushes with a water tank — you can see an example of them here And a tiny Aquarelle box with eight colours that I use for on the move art
Thank you!
Looks like this. It's a brush with a tube of water for a handle.
Try ink wash, it’s similar to watercolor in the sense you have to build your darks. I find it easier to work with. A water brush might be helpful if you aren’t too into an ink wash.
Brushes: Water Coloring Brush Pens, Ohuhu Set of 6 Aqua Painting Brushes for Water Soluble Colored Pencils, Water Color Water-Base Markers, Powdered Pigment Watercolor Paints for Christmas Gifts https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LZ8NUHW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_g.H2DbYMXJE84
I use them for water color but I know a lot of artists that use these for ink washes. You fill the handle with water and go from there.
Hope this helps.
Edit: spacing.
I use these and they're really good so far;
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B010QLOJ3G/ref=pe_3187911_185740111_TE_item
Of course! All those canvases usually say they are “primed” which means gessoed HOWEVERRRRR once you do it yourself you’re gonna be like “what are they even talking about this canvas isn’t prepped at all” lmao. I was shook in college when I learned all this stuff. A good one is Liquitex gesso. You can honestly just buy the gallon of it if you end up liking it. It’ll last foreverrrrr
Gesso: Liquitex Professional White Gesso Surface Prep Medium, 32-oz (5332) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000KNPLXI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_6OUBCbYGG08ZG
Brushes: Value-Pack 10-Pc Foam Paint Brush Set - Wood Handles by Industrial Tools https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003UHJDAS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_WPUBCb9GYJ791
Sand paper: Sanding Sponge,Coarse/Medium/Fine/Superfine 4 Different Specifications Sanding Blocks Assortment,Washable and Reusable. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0752VGHG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_rQUBCbQ2295YF
And then eventualllllllyyyyy, way off in the future:
Stanley Hand Tools 20-600 Clamping Miter Box & Saw https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0791J472B/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_uUUBCbAX7GEM0
Stanley TR45K Light Duty Staple Gun Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000NIFL80/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_xVUBCb1HTF3N9
Art Alternatives Canvas Pliers 8in https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004MASEW0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_9XUBCbJF0J5ZC
Nasco 1100424 Fine Arts Unprimed Cotton Canvas Roll, 6 yds x 62" https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EJSJKFK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_hZUBCb3PN5W7Y
Also, occasionally I like to go to a thrift store, find a wacky printed dress or dress shirt, and stretch that over a wood frame. For that, or if you paint on wood, you can use clear gesso (my personal favvyyyyy as I almost always paint on wood and looooove wood grain to be incorporated into my paintings...or on canvas stretched over wooden boards)
My wife bought me these for Christmas, and they've been great.
You can make a custom personal logo stamp online for about 25 bucks at places like rubberstamp.com
[Ammonium chloride on Amazon for about 8 bucks a pound] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004V9UQ14/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_qyDrzbESC0FD1), and the hardest thing to find were the markers
Montana acrylic empty marker 0.7mm extra fine for 6 bucks
X-Passion 3 piece water brush set for 8 bucks
You could make simple, elegant designs with the brushes and markers that look so much smoother than a traditional woodburner and much faster too. I have a few keepsake boxes I'm going to put outlined brushstrokes of animals and an ornamental design around the edge, stain it and seal it. Perhaps add some gold metallic accents if it's not too much. It could be finished in a few hours and look like it took days.
So what are you planning on painting? Are we talking entire models, or just detail work, or doing mini painting like /r/minipainting?
Reason I ask is that kinda gives reason as to what to buy.
I do a lot of hand painting as do a great deal of warhammer models, for these you need a decent set of kolinksy sable brushes but they're not cheap. I have brushes from the Army Painter, from Windsor Newton, from Citadel all of which aren't cheap. I have a decent set of synthetic brushes for doing lesser critical work but generally stick to sable for detail work. In honesty it's very rare to use a 00/000/0000 brush, the reason is they hold such little paint the paint can dry on them really quickly. You can paint the same detail with a 1 or a 0 as a 0000 if you're careful.
I'd suggest to work out exactly what you're after first, if it's to do entire models then check out videos from the likes of Owen at Quickkits as he brushes all his models.
If I were starting out fresh and wanted a good set of brushes off the bat I'd honestly buy this set by Army Painter. Yes it's not cheap, but it's got decent detail brushes, standard size and large area brushes. It's also got a nice set of coarse drybrushes.
Something else to consider is brush care, afterall you spend a fortune on brushes and then they split etc, it's a really sad day when one of my WN brushes splits.
A few tips from me, never fully load a brush, never fill it to the metal ferrule with paint, in honesty half full is too much imo. Always thin your paint. Routinely rinse your brush and have two pots to rinse. First water pot for a propper rinse, then a second pot to rinse finally. Dry by wiping along a paper towel. At the end of a painting session, take your brushes to the sink and rinse under warm water and use a brush cleaner/preserver like Masters. You don't want paint to dry within the bristles or the ferrule as this will make the brush split, so always keep them wet, don't let paint dry in your brush. Always store horizontally with the plastic bristle protector on, never leave a brush bristle down in a water pot ever. But be prepared that even a really well maintained brush, used a decent amount will die after six-eight months or so.
Jason Mark Essential kit: $16.99
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00D12KGVW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Brush Set- $5.89
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00V4EG6D6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Angelus Paint: $8.49
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HQ53QA8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Disclaimer: In this video I'm lubing a linear switch but if you're lubing a tactile switch, you might want to skip lubing the legs of the stem and the leaf bumps, because this decreases the tactility of the switch.
This video shows what I do when I lubricate keyboard switches with grease and a paintbrush. This video can even help someone who doesn't know anything about lubing keyboard switches and just wants to see what it involves and how they could get started.
​
I will go slowly in the video, trying to be sure you can see what I'm doing.
​
My choices of where to apply lube are based on experience and on the results of an experiment I did and documented here:
https://imgur.com/gallery/hijSYcp
​
I wanted to show 2 different ways to open the switch, using a special opener tool or using regular tweezers. Both methods work fine.
​
The grease I typically use for this method is Tribosys 3204, which you can purchase from keyboard vendors such as switchmod.net, novelkeys.xyz, 1upkeyboards.com, etc. Other greases I like to use are Krytox 205g0 and Christo Lube MCG 129.
​
Tools:
Painbrush: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00V4EG6D6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
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Tweezers: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FZPFQHM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
​
4 Prong Pick-Up Tool: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000RB3KZ4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
​
Switch Opener tool: https://kiiboss.studio/products/kiiopener_mx.html
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In case you are opening Halo switches or BOX switches: https://kiiboss.studio/products/kiiopener_kailh.html
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Acrylic switch holder / modding station: https://item.taobao.com/item.htm?id=525320012520
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Or https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Keyboard-Axis-Board-for-Machanical-Keyboard-Black-Axis-Blue-Brown-Red-Gray-Green-White-Axis-Acrylic/32802439596.html?spm=a2g0s.9042311.0.0.37e34c4dgCIZli
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A 3d printed option: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3294929
This is a fairly affordable set that will help you get started.
Also, get brush cleaner to extend the life of your brushes.
When you get some natural bristle brushes that you want to keep clean this helps keep them in good shape.
Remember to dunk your brushes in water every few minutes, while you're painting, to keep paint from drying on the bristles. Also, don't store them standing up. Store them laying down so that water and paint don't work into the ferrule.
This Army Painter starter set is your best bet. It has Black, White, 3 primary colors, green, a flesh tone, a good brown, steel metallic(you can add colors to it of you want the metal to look a different color), and Strong tone wash(actually my favorite wash, period). Even comes with an okay detail brush.
If you want purple and orange. You can pick up any brand you want and it'll work just fine with these paints. Citadel is usually the easiest to find if you have gaming shop nearby. Or if you have a hobby lobby, they sell Vallejo model paints. They're good. Other brands that come to mind. Reaper, P3, Secret Weapon, and Scale 75. All good.
So all you'd need to get is a primer of your choice. And a decent brush, here's a decent brush set. And probably want to get a good matte varnish. Most people recommend Testors dull coat. But if you want brush on. Vallejo matte varnish is a good alternative. All in all you could easily be under $50.
Miniac's video on how to take care of your brushes
Using a sponge like that, or a sponge brush like this, is basically the same as wiping on poly. The difference between 'regular' polyurethane and wipe-on polyurethane is that the wipe-on stuff is diluted thinner, so that it flows better. You still end up using a sponge brush or rag or something like that to apply the wipe-on, it's just a bit thinner than the regular stuff. You can also make your own wipe-on poly out of the regular stuff by thinning it some with mineral spirits/white spirit/paint thinner (whatever it's called where you are).
Wipe-on poly mostly just makes for thinner coats, which means it takes more coats to get to the same thickness, but it flows better to create a smoother surface when you apply it.
Use acrylic paint and make sure you thin it, adding regular water will work. This is probably the most important step in producing a decent looking paint job.
Better painters than I say shoot for the consistency of milk, I usually don't go that thin, but close. You might have to do a few more coats to get proper paint coverage with thinned paint, but the figure will come out looking much better and smoother than painting straight out of the bottle.
Learn to dry-brush and apply washes. These are two of the easiest painting techniques to learn and apply, and they can take a custom paint job to another level.
Here's an old comment of mine That goes into more detail about dry-brushing a applying washes.
If you need brushes I'll recommend this set. I used them for 90% of all my customs and I'm a big fan. I've also bought a few of these sets cause they're dirt cheap and use some of them for dry-brushing and applying washes. Since dry-brushing kinda tears up brushes you don't want to use a nicer brush.
/r/minipainting has a lot of great tutorials on their sidebar. I pretty much learned everything I know from watching minifigure painting tutorials on Youtube, so maybe check some of them out. I started painting/customizing with Warhammer 40k and D&D minis and most of the techniques apply to action figures.
As JSK said Figurerealm is great, I used that a lot when I first started customizing, and it's great for looking at other people's customs to get inspiration.
I can't really think of anything else, but just ask if you have any more questions.
I get a ton of mileage out of a set of Virtuoso brushes I bought on
eBayAmazon (sorry, brainfart) for like no money. There's an assortment of flats, round, and liner brushes that are great for detail - some are size 2 or 3, large enough for coverage, some are 1, 0, 00, perfect for precision work. I've been using them for about 3 years now and they're just starting to need replacement. Pretty good for what I think cost $15 to start with.Edit: found the link, they're $20 now, but still worth it in my opinion
Thank you. I will say that it definitely helps to practice a lot and have good materials. Learning how to highlight a face is a must and there are a ton of videos and tutorials about that. I recommend a good set of brushes (about 2-3 different sizes), I use thePsycho by Army painter and I have used it for the last 2 years for those fine details. I am also beginning to use a wet palette which helps create layers, I usually do about 3-4 different shades. Finally, using a set of magnifying lenses helps a lot. I can give more details, but those are the biggest tips I can give.
Staedtler watercolor brush marker for the green color - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077125LSV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_6FvQBb5CK3G7N
Pentel Waterbrush - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AX31TZO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_HHvQBbGG92C3B
I used the staedtler brush marker to color on a block. I then used the water brush to pick-up the green color and paint on the paper. That's for the watercolor items. Let me know what other materials you're interested in if I missed something you needed. The leaves, days and hydrate stuff are stamps and I used the staedtler brush marker to color on the stamp for the green items. Not sure if I have links for those, but I could find some if needed.
I love painting the hero forge minis; sounds like you did yours in the new high detail plastic.
I've done a few of those recently and once you get them primed, it's not much different than painting die cast minis.
watercolors LINK
we starting to use it in art schools and continue to use them in art academy. they really are good. no need to dig deeper in more expensive, pro watercolors.
fancy watercolors (i personally love them, but really, basically fo fun, mixed media) LINK
watercolor pad LINK
that's my choice. would highly recommend this producer, really great absorption, thick paper, different formats available. anyway, it's really good.
brushes is really very personal choice, depends on technic and such. I like this one LINK great for miniature work. You can look for some squirrel hair brushes in local store orLINK , they are good for starters and for wet painting.
EDIT. fanart sample where all those stuff used at once :P
Give me a minute, I can link you to a comment I found explaining it in depth
EDIT: I'm just gonna paste it here. For reference, I,believe priming is coating it in a thin layer of paint to act as a base. Use black primer for darker results and white for lighter. Credit to u/pyrese
I love painting the hero forge minis; sounds like you did yours in the new high detail plastic.
I've done a few of those recently and once you get them primed, it's not much different than painting die cast minis.
Paint: 12 piece - $8.96
Brushes:12 piece - $7.99
Knifes: 5 piece - $6.74
[Canvas:(12) 8x10 - $11.99] (https://www.amazon.com/CANVAS-PANELS-12-PACK-Painting/dp/B01FCHZOII/ref=sr_1_4?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1503068681&sr=1-4&keywords=canvas)
Paint Thinner: 34 oz. - $13.69
Total: $49.37
All of this should last you a while. You can share with your spouse too. Maybe get two sets of brushes though. You can do it. I never have painted anything in my life because I was scared how I'd waste my time on how it would turn out. You just have to do it! Loved every painting I have done. You will never like everything detail about you art (happy little accidents) but you will be happy with the overall outcome. Plus it is so relaxing!
I actually just started getting into miniature painting a few weeks ago, and went the same route as you to start out with. I have very shaky hands, and I wasn't sure if I would even be able to do it so I went cheap at first. I picked up this brush set from Amazon. Then I bought some primer from Walmart, and bought the Army Painter Zombicide paint set since I have the game and figured even if I messed them up, I cold just slap some blood on those parts and they would looks ok (which was the case for a few).
I think the Wargame one would be a good starter set as well.
The primer I picked up is cheap and works great, but it takes a while to dry. Since I started, I picked up a couple of cans of Army Painter primer and that dries in a few minutes. If you don't mind waiting a day, then just use the cheap stuff. There may be other cheap ones that dry faster, but I can't speak to those.
Vallejo has a really nice starter paint set, 16 colors for $40 US. They're bigger bottles than most (17ml) and in dropper bottles, too. Something like that will be much cheaper to start with than buying Citadel paints individually, and is still a better deal than the Citadel starter set.
Citadel brushes and tools are also mostly overpriced. This brush set costs about as much as one GW brush, and clippers/glue/knife/mold line scraper can all be had for a fraction of the Citadel price too.
Brushes
basic paint set
I really like this writeup as a jumping point for learning how to lube. There's also lots of helpful info in the comments, or you could just ask questions there. If you're looking for a specific video guide I'd recommend Krelbit's; IIRC he uses 3204 in it but the process is the same.
As for brushes, I like this pack from amazon. There's one in there that's the exact size of an MX bottom housing slider rail which is nice, but it also includes a bunch of smaller ones. Brush size is a preference thing so it's best to test a bunch IMO.
Speaking of testing, experimentation is SUPER important with lubing. Everyone has different preferences so it's good to try different amounts of lube on a few switches to see what it feels like. I'd recommend at least intentionally overlubing one switch to see what it feels like, then trying different combinations of lubing certain spots and not lubing others. e.g. I prefer to only lube my stems.
edit: Here's one specifically using 205g0: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5y5KoRFWXe8
I hate to sound like a Amazon Ad but iI got it on Amazon
I use the Amazon choice pack of ten miniature brushes, cost me £12, I found the games workshop brushes didn't hold their tip as well I liked and I gave these brushes a punt and I love them. Had them for over a year now and are in a much better state than my GW ones, get some Masters Brush Cleaner as well and all your brushes will stay in good shape.
Here's the link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B01N9GOFSM?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title
He is using all of the GW brand brushes, avaliable on their online store and at your LGS.
I use: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01F2I29LM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Highly recommend, the "kolinsky" keyword is important. It is a natural hair from a weasel, rather than a synthetic filament. Don't use natural hair brushes with metalics though, the metal chips scratch the hair so it won't stay as pristine as long.
Cheers!
Are these the ones?
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B0013E68TY/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1493918875&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=winsor+and+newton+series+7&dpPl=1&dpID=116o9zoU7YL&ref=plSrch
Always thought they would be more expensive.
Daniel Smith Essentials set $23 , Arches Hot Press Watercolor Pad $11, Pentel Waterbruahes 3 pack - $13 , and a bottle of [India Ink $3] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001E6CUPC/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1478233526&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX280_SY350_QL65&keywords=india+ink&dpPl=1&dpID=51a6zmSbLPL&ref=plSrch). If I had a little extra, I'd spring for the da Vinci round 6 sable travel brush - favorite all around brush for smaller paintings :)
What about you? What would you have purchased? Or are you looking to buy?
Sorry, I'm not familiar with Army Painter brushes. All I know are the numbered sizes. I would assume that Army Painter would have appropriately sized brushes, though. Maybe someone else here can comment on that.
This is what I bought. They're probably not the greatest, but they've done well, so far.
Best of luck, and I hope to see some more work from you. :-)
Arteza Classic Watercolor Paint, Set of 36 Vibrant Color Cakes, Includes 1 Water Brush Pen (Set of 2 Items) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078X275FV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Tt4EAbQZ92Y65
Watercolors so I can try some new art styles (:
Do yourself a favor and use these brushes instead of Citadel ones:
https://www.amazon.com/Winsor-Newton-Kolinsky-Sable-Watercolor/dp/B002518D1K
https://www.amazon.com/Winsor-Newton-Kolinsky-Miniature-Watercolor/dp/B000OL5L7C
Expensive yes, but you will notice an enormous improvement in your ability to cover fine detail versus the Citadel brushes.
Get the 40% or more off coupon code at Michaels, you can use your phone. See if you can get 40% off all, instead of just one item. Otherwise bring a friend and use it on the expensive items.
Depending on sales you can probably get everything for 50$. You might be able to get under 40$ but it'll be damn hard. The drawing pencils and kneaded erasers are cheapest at an art store where they will be sold loose for a few dollars, however with Christmas coming up also keep an eye out for sketching sets as they will use a like 5.99$ one to get all the art students back in stores and tempt them with other things
I got these for Christmas about two years back and they're just starting to wear out. Ultimately you get what you pay for but with synthetic sables you don't get much more than this.
https://www.amazon.com/Miniature-Brushes-Detailing-Painting-Watercolor/dp/B01M7UFLP5/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?keywords=miniature+painting+brushes&qid=1564507214&s=gateway&sr=8-2-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExS1BLUURHNlgzWEFSJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMzA4OTAyMTZBM0haMDRXNjE0UCZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwODA4NzcwMUVJQVBSMDBWUlRJMyZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=
My wife got me [these] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M7UFLP5/ref=sspa_dk_detail_7?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B01M7UFLP5&pd_rd_wg=Hqg12&pd_rd_r=GMZA1YXY0ZPFRENFSJW4&pd_rd_w=dYSlN) for my birthday and I really like them. But I also use other brushes I've picked up, just general craft painting ones.
Edit: craft painting ones for painting larger areas and models.
For example, this box set contains almost all the colors you will ever need (other than specific ones). https://www.amazon.com/Miniature-Painting-Bonus-Wargamer-Regiment/dp/B01MTXRUUT/ref=sr_1_4?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1524496671&sr=1-4&keywords=army+painter
Obvious colors for these models - army green for the green armor, necrotic flesh for highlighting the armor, skeleton bone probably for the pants (may need to add a little brown depending on the color you like), and one of the flesh tones for the skin. They primarily used the dark tone (black) wash on the basically the entire model, I think we could do better. Recommend, flesh wash for skin, dark tone for weapon and armor crevices, and soft tone (brown) for the paints. Khaki pants and black detailing is just too much contrast for my taste.
Side note, Army painter's paint brushes are decent but there are other options. I recommend the Virtuoso paint brush set, that will give you every kind of brush you would need. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M3PSN8T/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I am by no means a tiny figure painting expert, but I primed mine and then used thinned acrylics in layers (not quite drybrushing, but not far from it either).
This brush is a godsend for pilots: https://www.amazon.com/Army-Painter-BR7014-Wargamer-Brush/dp/B009CBC0PQ/ref=sr_1_1?srs=7513501011&ie=UTF8&qid=1479924643&sr=8-1&keywords=brush
And after you finish putting on paint, use an ink wash (i used Citadel Nuln Oil) to bring out extra texture/detail!
To be honest good brushes are kinda expensive. This brand and range is referred to quite often by people who have been painting a while and as someone who owns one, you get what you pay for. While you can find cheaper brushes, they'll fall apart, lose their point, and by the time you've replaced them a couple of times you've actually spent more money.
Oh goodness, if you like ink you muuuust try Inktense blocks!! There is a 24 set with WHITE! I know it's not "traditional" to have white, but I love em! They go on dry, then add the water OR you can premix with water and use the ink that way. Once it is wet and has dried. You can go over it again with out worry the under layer will smear!! (Long as all the dry portions were wet at some point and dried.) IT IS AWESOME!
The company Derwent also has a set of Inktense pencils that work the same way, and keep your hands somewhat cleaner.
Also you can set Inktense on fabric, so designing on shirts, quilts and what have you is just eaaasy! There are a LOT of ways to use these! Printmaking, watercolors, stamping, inking, washes!~ Add to gesso or Mod Podge for a colored glaze! Lots of things really... It can cater to the professionals, amateurs and beginners!
There is also a set of water pens that you may be interested in, with trying these. I have always used brushes though, with water.. Or I wet the brush, and just dab it on the lil block its self. Or chip off a lil piece of color and add water to it on a little pallet. (Piece of plastic lol.)
Question: Can the name be computerized, long as it is drawn? Aka mouse/tablet?
https://www.amazon.com/MEEDEN-Professional-Sable-Detail-Paint/dp/B01JYVI9RQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_14?crid=1QBYEIQELDU7R&keywords=kolinsky+sable+brushes&qid=1550882304&s=gateway&sprefix=sable+bru&sr=8-14
And a tub of master's brush soap.
Thank you :) This
Thank you!
I've used the The Army Painter inks, I've got a kit on amazon
I made everything using those inks, washes and a regular miniature brush from this regular set
I've focused on having areas of high contrast to make the mini more interesting
​
I borrowed my Aunt's airbrush just to test it so I tried in the Bat, but since it's a cheap airbrush and sometimes it clogs I've only used to give a base coat of dark red, then I went back to the basic brush
​
Im glad you liked, it makes me happy :D
I currently use kuretake watercolors with these brush pens and I think they’re pretty solid. It’s not a huge investment and I think they’re a good starter pack for casual water colorists.
I highly also recommend clipping your pages and having maybe a hair dryer handy so your pages don’t warp from getting too wet.
Oh sorry for not being clear. I meant the brushes you linked to in your post. These guys: brushes
That's alright! She used a brush pen with watercolor.
Something like this:
https://www.amazon.com/Xpassion-3-Piece-Water-Brush-White/dp/B01DA0DPOE/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1538513100&sr=8-5&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=watercolor+brush+pen&dpPl=1&dpID=41Vk2zIvzxL&ref=plSrch
She mixed the ink herself, basically just watercolor not heavily watered.
Hope that helps!
Pentel Arts Aquash Water Brush Assorted Tips, Pack of 3
You could put just plain water, diluted watercolor paint, ink etc.. in them.
Edit: just noticed /u/Blanchetastic posted a similar item, hers cost less though.
I have [these,] (https://www.amazon.com/Xpassion-3-Piece-Water-Brush-White/dp/B01DA0DPOE/ref=sr_1_7?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1496752220&sr=1-7&keywords=watercolor+brush+pen) but I haven't used them yet.
For sure, you could get a 00 or 0000 sable brush. I use Winsor and Newton which is about $13 instead of $20 and frankly much better quality than the basic GW brushes, but really any small brush will do. Sable is a great material for model painting, but really you could get something cheaper if you aren't picky. Just go to your local art store and find a small watercolor brush.
I use a brush called "The Psycho"
https://www.amazon.com/Army-Painter-Wargamer-Brush-Psycho/dp/B009CBC0PQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1491323909&sr=8-1&keywords=army+painter+psycho
I know it's probably more difficult to just hand-paint all of the small details, but I enjoy the precision practice, and whenever I paint it's with friends so I don't mind when it takes a while to get something done. I feel more accomplished getting it done by hand and exercising patience in the process.
I also use a slightly larger brush called "Insane Detail" for things that are small but would be too tedious with "The Psycho"
https://www.amazon.com/Army-Painter-Wargamer-Brush-Insane/dp/B0027SAYW2/ref=pd_sim_21_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0027SAYW2&pd_rd_r=1AE9WPGVCPTFD2D47MBC&pd_rd_w=f6p0n&pd_rd_wg=V83HV&psc=1&refRID=1AE9WPGVCPTFD2D47MBC
Like this
Pentel Arts Aquash Water Brush Assorted Tips, Pack of 3 (FRHBFMBP3) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AX31TZO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_rQ6ODb5XA48JZ
Here is a basic sumi starter kit with the ink stone and block.
https://www.amazon.com/Teagas-Chinese-Calligraphy-Writing-Painting/dp/B00S0K5YMG/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=sumi&qid=1572882469&sr=8-3
Premade sumi ink
https://www.amazon.com/Hmayart-Japanese-Calligraphy-Traditional-Painting/dp/B07JYJ6C1W/ref=mp_s_a_1_15?keywords=sumi&qid=1572882533&sr=8-15
Watercolor brush pens
https://www.amazon.com/Coloring-Ohuhu-Painting-Water-Base-Watercolor/dp/B01LZ8NUHW/ref=mp_s_a_1_6?keywords=watercolor+brush+pens&qid=1572882779&sprefix=watercolor+brush&sr=8-6
Here's a big fat messy shopping list I made for someone a while ago. You might find it useful too.
http://www.amazon.com/Quickshade-Ink-Warpaints-Army-Painter/dp/B00HC8D80W
Amazon.com: Quickshade Ink Set Warpaints Army Painter
http://www.amazon.com/Pacer-Technology-Zap-Zap-Adhesives/dp/B00SXJJ2QI
Amazon.com: Pacer Technology (Zap) Pacer Technology (Zap) Zap-A-Gap Adhesives, 1 oz
http://www.amazon.com/General-Pencil-Company-Masters-Preserver/dp/B0009RRT9Y
Amazon.com : General Pencil Company The Masters Brush Cleaner & Preserver 2.5 0z. : Brush Soap
http://www.amazon.com/Army-Painter-Wargame-Starter-Paint/dp/B01BJ55UDQ
Buy Army Painter Wargame Starter Paint Set - PLUS Promo Undead figure
http://www.amazon.com/280715-American-Accents-Primer-12-Ounce/dp/B00KZ6LLZW?
Buy Rust Oleum 280715 American Accents Ultra Cover 2X Spray Paint, White Primer, 12-Ounce
http://www.amazon.com/TEKTON-6655-Needle-File-10-Piece/dp/B000NPUKYS?
TEKTON 6655 Needle File Set, 10-Piece
http://www.amazon.com/Xacto-X3311-Precision-Knife-Blades/dp/B0000DD1N4?
Buy Xacto X3311 N0. 1 Precision Knife With 5 No. 11 Blades
http://www.amazon.com/Most-Wanted-Wargamer-Set/dp/B007H4YR8S
Amazon.com: 1 X Most Wanted Wargamer Brush Set
http://www.amazon.com/Xuron-170-II-Micro-Shear-Flush-Cutter/dp/B000IBSFAI
Xuron 170-II Micro-Shear Flush Cutter: Wire Cutters
http://www.amazon.com/Milliput-Standard-2-Part-Hardening-Yellow/dp/B011BO9R5W
Amazon.com: 2 X Milliput Standard 2-Part Self Hardening Putty, Yellow/Grey
Edit: Of, and I used this guide for making my Thinner. http://www.reapermini.com/Thecraft/15 But I'm going to experiment more, because this is not perfect.
So... There are only two of these left, partially because I already shared it to our local group.
Set of 8 sables slashed down to $30. I ordered a set myself and they are very nice. Not like Winsor Newton Series 7 nice, but very nice.
Best Professional Siberian Kolinsky Sable Detail Paint Brush, Value Set of 10, High Quality Miniature Brushes Will Keep a Fine Point and Spring, For Watercolor, Oil, Acrylic, Nail Art & Models https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01F2I29LM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_Ea3yybABVZ4E0
Miniatures Paint Brush Set of 3 Miniature Paint Brushes - Insane Detail, Regiment and Small Drybrush - Quality Detail Brush Set Handmade in Europe - Wargamer Most Wanted Brush Set by The Army Painter
I’m new as well but I’ve done lots (maybe too much) research. What is your budget? From what I understand Windsor & Newton Cotman paints are a good student/hobby grade paint. They sell them in nifty little 12 pan kits that pretty much provide all the colors you need to make good mixes.
Here is a travel set for about $13:
Winsor & Newton Cotman Water Colour Sketchers Pocket Box https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00004THXI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_qq8Tzb8SY82G3
If you are willing to spend a little more on paint for artist grade I hear excellent things about these: St Petersburg White Nights Watercolour : NEW 12 Pan Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006FHNE3C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Gt8TzbT5PD01H
I’ve seen these really cool portable brushes: High-end art travel painting brush Synthetic Sable Round Hair Short Handle Brush for Acrylic Oil and watercolor painting 3Pcs https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M3VMDED/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_5r8TzbVV97JR3
Or you can use a water brush: Pentel Arts Aquash Water Brush Assorted Tips, Pack of 3 (FRHBFMBP3) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AX31TZO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Os8TzbN7TW9AQ
As for Paper, I really want one of these myself: Moleskine Watercolor Album Sketchbook - 5"x8" (Spanish Edition) https://www.amazon.com/dp/8883705629/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_vz8TzbWWMHY1M
I hope this helps! :)
I'll save you $10 immediately: A cork, and bluetac. Now you don't need to spend 9.45 on a painting handle. You also probably don't need to be starting with wet palette. A 8 colour ink set is also probably overkill, stick to black and brown and be done with it.
And I suggest swapping your brush set to this: https://www.amazon.com/MyArtscape-Detail-Paint-Brush-Set/dp/B010QLOJ3G
4 rounds, 4 liners, 2 flats.
All the God-tier painters in my local scene swear by these brushes for being the best price to quality ratios
https://www.amazon.com/eBoot-Brushes-Miniature-Painting-Paintings/dp/B01N9GOFSM/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=eboot+brushes&qid=1554834985&s=home-garden&sr=1-2-catcorr
Sponge brushes possibly?
http://www.amazon.com/Value-Pack-10-Pc-Foam-Paint-Brush/dp/B003UHJDAS/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1425194682&sr=8-3&keywords=sponge+brush
Great work especially for a first time job, what kind of ink did you use. you did a great job detailing this, you used a gold gundam marker right. You can use a q-tip and some isapropal alcohol to clean up the few smudges on it. Then again it adds to the weathering look as if it was discolored in re entry. This makes me want to try weathering on one of my Barbatos kits. The Barbatos has quickly become my favorite Mobile suit so have at least one each of the kits except for the high res. Then again the HGIBO has become my favorite line so I have at least one of each kit with the exception of color variants as I do not see the point.
Is this a 1/144 right?
He could use a little dusting thought, then again I should not be talking as I rarely dust stuff myself.
As for painting supplies, you can pick up set at Walmart for around 5-10 bucks. however you do want to get at least testors brand enamel paints. they are good paints that are reasonably priced for plastic model paints and very good.
You can get a testors hand paint set for around $10-15 bucks at Walmart that also comes with a single paint brush and a small bottle of brush cleaner. However, its not the best brush for detail work on gunpla as its meant more for car models. So you would still want to pick up a small pack of brushes from arts and crafts or party section. You do not need super expensive brushes to do good work. the most i have ever spent on a brush was about 8 bucks for this one: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B009CBC0PQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 This brush's tip is the size of a ruler mark so it is great for lining a 1/144 scale kit.
I sincerely want to thank you for such a thorough reply! I would like to address some of your points so perhaps you can expand on them a little deeper when you have the time.
>You seem to have thinned your paints, so that's half the battle won right there. They look like they could be thinned a little bit more though, and perhaps load your brushes a little bit less.
>
I did thin the paints with small amounts of water as that seems to be the golden rule from having lurked on this sub for a few days before starting my painting, the difficulty I had this area was not really knowing how much/little to thin them and what the consistency was supposed to look like(admittedly I did not watch any youtube videos on the subject as I didnt even think about it).
>The most glaring issue I see is a lack of colour depth. Your shadows aren't particularly prominent or seem absent in some areas and there seems to be a complete lack of any highlights.
>
This was exactly what I was thinking when I was painting them and this stems from looking at the box art and thinking "wow these figures really "pop" the colors are not at all what I would expect a command team to have" and while I was painting I kept telling myself they needed to be brighter. As for shadows and highlights, I did apply nuln oil shader but I watered it down so much that it doesnt even look like its been applied. I was concerened it would make the minis too dark(i.e. the Domaru's shotgun). As for the highlights, One of the biggest issues/concepts I am having trouble wrapping my head around is the highlighting. I have watched a few videos of the procedure itself but I am having trouble mixing paint to brighten it up for highlights and then where the highlights should be applied.
> Your neatness and thoroughness are pretty good. Could use a little work but fine for a beginner.
>
Thanks! I was actually working with a set of brushes that were recommended to me that ended up being sub par in my opinion and lacked the very small brushes that were needed to get some of the very fine details. I have started to educate myself on quality brushes and the sizing numbers on what they mean.
As for the color "blocks" that had not occurred to me so thank you for pointing that out, I will definitely keep that in mind for when I start working on the next group of my army. I am not quite sure how to get those subdued shades that are present on the box art but more practice will definitely help. Thank you again for your reply!
I bought a set of 10 Kolinsky Sable brushes off of Amazon, which came with sizes from 5/0 to 8. I've done all of my painting so far with just the 1 & 2 and haven't even touched the others yet. The points have held well, no hooking and only the occasional stray hair.
​
As someone else with shaky hands, I find proper bracing of my hands helps a lot (as does my gut). Elbows in, forearms braced on my sides/ribs. Left hand holds model holder, right hand first three fingers (thumb, index, middle) hold the brush, the other two touch my left hand to help steady my hands relative to one another.
Here is a set that looks decent enough
The numbers denote the size of the bristles, larger numbers equal larger bristles
I recommend 1 and 0 because at that size you can load a decent amount of paint on the brush and still have good control.
If you are Canadian, a UK company called "The Society for All Artists (UK)" is selling a few W&N Series 7 Kolinskies on Amazon.ca for even less right now. I actually was looking at both sites earlier today and bought a size 1 and size 0 from amazon.
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B000OL5L7C/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B0013E68T4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
The size 0 is from the miniature line, the size 1 is from the normal watercolor line. $11.50 and $17.09 respectively. With free shipping and exchange rate factored in, this was a better deal.
I am clueless with cutters, drills, sculpting-- I can make a snake out of green stuff. But for brushes and paints-- aha! I have your back.
Can you order from Amazon? These aren't CHEAP, quite, but they are really really great and can do just about anything! Link: http://amzn.com/B007H4YR8S
Also, these aren't nearly as good as Vallejo or Reaper paints, but they are far more affordable and if you use a wet pallete you can dab them with water for the perfect texture. Also, they mix very well (this is just one of the sets, you can compare others of this or Apple Barrel brands)
http://amzn.com/B00ATJSDHE
oh i didnt realize how fast gesso dries.
I do want to do the whole thing (with oils) i just didn't realize how expensive these four brushes were. I can't find a fan brush under 10 dollars! where is a good place to find them online. I'm trying to get everything (2 sets of the brushes, the paints, spirits, etc) for 60-90 dollars if possible.
this one keeps popping up in my searches and is super tempting but its nylon :(
Not sketching necessarily but for Christmas I got an [aquapen] (https://www.amazon.com/Pentel-Aquash-Water-Assorted-FRHBFMBP3/dp/B00AX31TZO) and a [teeny tiny watercolor pad] (https://www.amazon.com/Prima-Marketing-Watercolor-Paper-Pad/dp/B014LUMBHO/ref=sr_1_3?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1483925911&sr=1-3&keywords=watercolor+paper). I carry both in a little pouch with my teeny [tiny watercolor set] (https://www.amazon.com/Prima-Marketing-Watercolor-Confections-Decadent/dp/B0197F6XX6/ref=sr_1_1?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1483925960&sr=1-1&keywords=decadent+pies+watercolor)... If I'm sitting and having coffee with someone for an extended period (like just a Sunday morning hang) I pull out the pouch. All I need is a napkin (i.e. no cup, no brush) and it's really unobtrusive. It keeps me from looking at my phone while I talk to people and relaxes me (and sometimes other people as well.)
Black paper is gonna be a disappointment, just paint the background black, trust me.
As for beginners sets, is Michaels art store a thing in the UK? They have great beginning sets and always have coupons.
Someone gifted me this set and I liked it a lot. I bought acrylic paints from the seller company and have had no complaints. I'm still kind of a novice myself, but there's my two cents.
Just picked this one up and is easily my new favorite :http://www.amazon.com/Army-Painter-BR7014-Wargamer-Brush/dp/B009CBC0PQ/ref=pd_sim_21_1?ie=UTF8&dpID=31FVNPsPVVL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=01J1J8QXPE6VK2FXDEBP
otherwise I use this:
http://www.amazon.com/Army-Painter-Wargamer-Insane-Detail/dp/B0027SAYW2/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1465105608&sr=1-1&keywords=wargamer+insane+detail
I feel you on that, they don’t hold a lot of ink if they’re your primary tool. I believe the kuretake 40 and 50 hold a bit more, but I also used these to decent effects, because you can load them with ink and water to get various tones, I just bought bottles of various colors to get good colors.
Testors Matte spray, I assume? You said I should do matte followed by gloss, but I read that I should do gloss (for durability) followed by matte (for non-shiny appearance). Which is best?
I may have to go with Vallejo paints if I can find them, as they're frequently recommended and come in droppers (which I think will be less fuss).
I read that cheap brushes will be more frustrating than they are worth, and since my free time is scarce, I planned on using nicer brushes. What would you recommend for a cheap brush set that's not a pain in the ass? Something like [this on Amazon, $15] (https://www.amazon.com/Detail-Paint-Brush-Set-Watercolor/dp/B010QLOJ3G)?
[saved you $35](1 X Most Wanted Wargamer Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007H4YR8S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_lgM3xb7D09CW1).
I first bought this set when i started
Gives you a ton of brushes and you dont have to worry about what happens to them. You will mess them up and learn why. I also think having some cheap sythetics like the ones michaels sells (if in us) is helpful. Synthetic sucks because it doesnt hold much paint but that doesnt mean they cant serve a purpose because they have more spring usually and dont fray at tio as quick. There are several other bruah packs on amazon comprable and maybe better then what i listed. I literally just got my windsor brushes today in mail so i cant comment how much better they are but i know i would have destroyed them if i got them when i started. Its a nice way to reward yourdelf after a few months painting
Thanks, good tip. Was planning on getting this from amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Heartybay-10Pieces-Round-Pointed-Nylon/dp/B00V4EG6D6
the duck is alive
I LOVE this stuff. It's like powdered Christmas. Big Train Spiced Chai
And now I can't stop thinking about how nice it'd be to be sipping on that while playing with these... Pentel Arts Aquash Water Brushes 😀
Those were Aquash waterbrushes by the brand Pentel :)
It works like normal brushes you use for watercolor but with little barrel inside to store water.
1.) Cut your paper pattern to just a little bit bigger than your surface. I got my paper from paper source
2.) Put down a thin layer of mod podge using a sponge brush. Make sure to cover the entire surface. I use matte, but you can use glossy or whatever you want
3.) put the paper down on the mod podge, being careful not to let air bubble develop
4.) push down the edges, but if they don't stick at this point it's not a big deal
5.) Let it dry for like 30-40 minutes
6.) When it's dry, use an exacto knife to trim the edge to your surface's dimensions. It's very important that the underlying glue already be dry because trying to cut it when it's still wet can tear the paper
7.) If the edges aren't totally glued down at this point, use a small sponge brush to touch them up and let them dry for 30-40 minutes
8.) Finally, with the paper glued down and cut to shape, use sponge brush to spread a thin layer of mod podge across the surface, making sure to spread it evenly. If you use a regular brush, your finish is going to get a much more textured feel to it, so that's why I prefer sponges. Let dry for 1 hour or more depending on how thick you applied the finish
Legion is my first miniature game as well! A buddy of mine recommended a army painter set when I first started. To be honest they are not that great and a couple of the brushes have fallen apart. I have been eyeing these brushes on amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Miniature-Brushes-Detailing-Painting-Watercolor/dp/B01M7UFLP5/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=18KR6TIBSRBKI&keywords=miniature+brushes&qid=1550092873&s=gateway&sprefix=miniature+bru%2Caps%2C127&sr=8-2-spons&psc=1
they seem like a nice set! Those vallejo paints will work perfectly, I have a few of them and I really like their product. Citadel paints (in my opinion) are top tier paint quality wise. If you dont want to shell out the "Citadel Tax" for them, vallejo is an awesome product for the price.
Great advice thank you. I got a set of 12 synthetic detail brushes on amazon for a little over $20 that seems like a great jumping-off point: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M7UFLP5?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Once I am more confident in my brush care I will spring for W/N. I got the pick of masters brush cleaner too, and set up a wet palette in a small Tupperware box the way I saw on the Tabletop Minions channel: https://youtu.be/96mjmqWTPfM
Airbrushing still seems miles away (advanced) and I don’t think I have a workstation set up for it. I’m going to rattle-can prime the dark imperium box next.
What about buying thicker handled brushes? Or putting pencil grippies on them.
Edit: Like these
I got the shelves here.
For Christmas, may I suggest a set of Winsor & Newton Series 7 brushes? It's hard to suggest without knowing what she already has/wants/needs.
What would you recommend as a good middle range brush? I got a pack of Meeden Sable brushes from Amazon. Their usefulness and lifetime varies wildly.
https://www.miniaturemarket.com/gw-63-29.html?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&adpos=1o4&scid=scplpGW-63-29&sc_intid=GW-63-29&gclid=CjwKCAjw2cTmBRAVEiwA8YMgzQ54Y6PKKdY0oD7lG64JySDVn0SAH-TnWqM-vajLfzHjl91QVNcm1xoClDgQAvD_BwE
This brush ?
These are what i have, besides a couple of citadel brushes that are frayed and ruined (my fault ) https://www.amazon.com/Miniature-Brushes-Detailing-Painting-Watercolor/dp/B01M7UFLP5 some of these brushes seemed fine others split immediately
Mudder Watercolor Brush Pen Water Paintbrush, Assorted Brush Tips, 6 Pieces https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EONVX5Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_WhbUe5EQ3QPOX
Been liking this one
Some folks just tip the handle of the brush and use it to transfer (personally I think that's a bit of a mess but could work in a pinch). You could probably use toothpicks or cotton swabs just as well as you just need something...
You could use a good brush but you need to be careful to avoid getting paint in the ferrule as that can damage the brush and it ultimately probably isn't worth it when there's cheaper / safer options.
I'd say grab a few cheap brushes and sacrifice them to the paint pot gods. They're really helpful for basing (applying PVA glue), transferring paint to pallets, whatever.
Don't sacrifice a more expensive nylon or sable brush as you should be able to get a bunch of cheap nylon brushes for $5 or so:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00V4EG6D6/ref=sxts_kp_bs_tr_lp_1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=8778bc68-27e7-403f-8460-de48b6e788fb&pd_rd_wg=sg8RE&pf_rd_r=9305E087JXWVP7GH3QN6&pf_rd_s=desktop-sx-top-slot&pf_rd_t=301&pd_rd_i=B00V4EG6D6&pd_rd_w=LaPb9&pf_rd_i=brushes&pd_rd_r=630f9240-898b-4d16-8b7a-8d86041a5674&ie=UTF8&qid=1538679271&sr=1
They should! I've used that exact brand of white before.
You should also get a set of small tip paint brushes like these if you don't already have some.
http://www.amazon.com/Winsor-Newton-Kolinsky-Miniature-Watercolor/dp/B000OL5L7C/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1459461613&sr=8-2&keywords=windsor+newton+series+7
As a beginner you really should be fine just with an 0 until you get some big tanks etc, but if you have money burning a hole in your pocket go with an 1, 0, and 00. that will last you a while and they are very nice brushes. Dry brushing can be done with pretty much any cheap, small, flat brush from a local art store (if you have a joanns nearby you can often get stuff for 50% off with coupons.)
Once you really start to get into lots of bigger models
Looks like there is no size 2 in that set, but it still would be fine to get because there are a variety of small sizes, so you can decide what you like to use. If you don't like them, it'll be okay because when you do decide to buy nice brushes, you'll know more what you like and want.
I hope you don't mind my saying, but if you'd rather get something someone else has tried, then I recommend these. I got them for Christmas, because there were so many good reviews, and have not been disappointed. They're holding up way better than the citadel brushes I bought, too.
They're not the best quality (two of mine came with warped handles and I had to trim the tips of some), however I recommend them because I use them all the time now.
They have sharp points, they don't splay out right away like the citadel ones did, in fact the bristles stay clumped together very well, I don't worry about wearing them out fast because they were cheap, using them is so smooth, it's great, and they hold a good amount of water and paint. As a bonus, they come with a carrying case!
Happy painting!
I'd start with Army Painter brushes. Cheap but decent quality.
https://www.amazon.com/Miniatures-Paint-Brush-Miniature-Brushes/dp/B007H4YR8S/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1550227646&sr=8-9&keywords=army+painter+brush+set
www.amazon.it
Look for atossico aquerello
Link here.
Today I learned the word for watercolor in Italian is "acquerello" and the word for non-toxic is "atossico".
You're almost certainly going to ruin your first brushes, god knows I did, so don't buy anything too expensive. I'd recommend this set as a good starting point;
https://www.amazon.com/Miniatures-Paint-Brush-Miniature-Brushes/dp/B007H4YR8S/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?crid=3MTI00RQ46DDG&keywords=army+painter+brush+set&qid=1550772527&s=gateway&sprefix=army+painter&sr=8-4
Also make sure to grab some brush soap to clean your brushes out;
https://www.amazon.com/General-Pencil-105-BP-Masters-Preserver/dp/B0027AEANE/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?crid=1FDUSPRMEW4OW&keywords=masters+brush+soap&qid=1550772664&s=gateway&sprefix=masters+brush+&sr=8-1
Here's a vid on how to take care of your brushes and use the soap;
https://youtu.be/GeDwTY7C9xs
You should absolutely make a wet palette too, here's another vid;
https://youtu.be/96mjmqWTPfM
As far as paints go, vallejo and citadel are probably your best option, both are very good brands of paint, some people tend to avoid citadel because they tend to cost a little more and if the jars aren't closed tightly they can dry out easily, so It's best to get what you can get both cheaper and the easier.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M7UFLP5/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apap_VXeK8UhVERMpw
This brush set was the single best (and one of the cheapest), investments I made early on in this hobby. There's a great variety of sizes and styles, and it really let's you figure out what you're comfortable with.
I'll post it here, so others can see.
Paint: Miniature Painting Kit with Bonus... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MTXRUUT?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf
Brushes: MyArtscape Detail Paint Brush Set -... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B010QLOJ3G?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf
Printer: Monoprice Mini Delta 3D Printer With... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CJQ3D6L?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf
https://www.amazon.com/Miniatures-Paint-Brush-Miniature-Brushes/dp/B007H4YR8S/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1538011654&sr=8-10&keywords=miniature+paint+brushes
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These will get you started for sure! 13 bucks (13.19 to be exact) and you'll continue to use these even after your brush collection grows.
mi hermana menor antes de irse del pais dejo unos cuantos utensilios de acuarelas que los trajo de usa creo que son estos para ser mas especificos: https://www.amazon.com/Mudder-Watercolor-Paintbrush-Assorted-Pieces/dp/B01EONVX5Y
Thanks for the detailed reply! I'm gonna run a few potential purchases by you if you don't mind. I'm looking at this Sakura Kai set. As a total beginner should I be looking for one with more/less colors? I also figured I'd need more than the single brush that comes with it so I was looking at these but I don't know if those are the right sizes. They seem to all be pretty narrow. And lastly was looking at this notebook. Seems to be a good size for me as I want to mostly try land/cityscapes or just objects.
To clarify, a watercolor pencil will allow you to sketch the shape which then disappears but you use a fountain pen which doesn't disappear right? Is that just so you can add bold linework before/after the watercolors? Both sound pretty cool but at the same time seem to serve different purposes.
This is all going on my wishlist by the way which is why I'm linking to amazon. My family is a bit odd in that everyone just checks amazon wishlists for gifts lmao. Practical if a little uninspired.
Has anyone tried this set? The price seems too low to be legit kolinsky sable brushes.
I use these and love them, they aren't too expensive either which is great
https://smile.amazon.com/Miniature-Brushes-Detailing-Painting-Watercolor/dp/B01M7UFLP5/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=26021GRETRWYH&keywords=minature+paint+brushes&qid=1567396526&s=gateway&sprefix=minature+%2Caps%2C212&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzNUdBS0k2M0VDQTRPJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMzc2OTg2MkdBUkpSSEo0VUVPVCZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMDgwMTIxMU5ZM1pDVkpFUlNENyZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=
I've heard acrylics or paint specifically made for painting miniatures is the way to go. I'm currently working on a Rockstar Pikachu and bought
http://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0099Q1GR2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
http://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B007H4YR8S/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
For the black on him I actually used India Ink due to the fact it's archival and will last forever. I'm still waiting on the paint set to arrive so I can't comment on how good they are.
If you want to give your custom any sort of topcoat I highly recommend
http://smile.amazon.com/TOPCOAT-Gundam-Hobby-Semi-Gloss-88ml/dp/B0000WS122/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1422304418&sr=8-1&keywords=topcoat+gundam&pebp=1422304401545&peasin=B0000WS122
There's a few different ones, gloss, semi gloss, matte. I personally go for matte as it gives models a nice touch of class. You don't have to use a topcoat, but it can add a little to the appearance of your custom. I use this topcoat all the time for Gundam models, just be careful of humid days if you use it.
Ok so TLDR Vallejo better bang for your buck and just as good paint as other competitors. Do they provide any matte or is it all satin for Vallejo? Additionally, is the weathering wash from Vallejo the only time you'd recommend Vallejo wash over something like citadel/army painter?
https://www.amazon.com/Miniature-Brushes-Detailing-Painting-Watercolor/dp/B01M7UFLP5/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=1ABEORS65JT83&keywords=winsor+and+newton+brushes&qid=1572855562&s=arts-crafts&sprefix=winsor+and+newton+brus%2Carts-crafts%2C188&sr=1-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExSElGVUkyTjFKUzFKJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMzMzNzkwMUlBVDVJMVNQMzVPWiZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwNTMzOTYyMkNSSlVKV1NTV1c0OCZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=#customerReviews
Would these be worthy of just a beginner set?
I came across these Jane Davenport Mermaid Markers at Michael's when I went to pick up some Tombow brush pens. I went back and forth on buying them but in the end I caved. They're like any old refillable water brush, and it's way cheaper than buying 12 water brushes and filling them with fountain pen inks (I have one water brush dedicate to FP ink). They're a dye-based water soluable ink and the tips are bristles instead of a flexible marker tip. A little ink goes a long way so I can see these lasting for a long time before I need to refill them!
 
Also I love seeing /u/colette0101's posts and I need more art-doing in my life!
We use refillable water brush pens for flux and alcohol, like these
https://www.amazon.com/Xpassion-3-Piece-Water-Brush-White/dp/B01DA0DPOE/ref=sr_1_10?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1503148163&sr=1-10&keywords=watercolor+brush+pens (random find on amazon)
Honestly, those brushes should do just fine but I can’t guarantee it because I have never used them, imo 12 brushes seems a bit excessive but you do you. I bought the Army Painters Wargamers most wanted brush set https://www.amazon.com/Miniatures-Paint-Brush-Miniature-Brushes/dp/B007H4YR8S . Honestly these have been the best for me, the insane detail brush is one of my all time favorites for detail and the regiment is great for any kind of base coating or medium-large size miniatures. The small drybrush is great for highlighting and (obviously) dry brushing if you’re into that (you should be).
I actually just got a few and I'm making a watercolor journal for my DnD character :D It's not as clean and pretty as yours though lol.
You ever think about using water brushes? https://www.amazon.com/Pentel-Aquash-Water-Assorted-FRHBFMBP3/dp/B00AX31TZO
https://www.amazon.com/Virtuoso-15-Piece-Paintbrushes-Handmade-Detail/dp/B01M3PSN8T/ref=sr_1_2?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1481925113&sr=1-2&keywords=detail+brush+set
You would think these would be bad for being so cheap, but if you take care of them they'll last a decent amount of time, and won't break the bank. You'll be surprised at how much easier it gets with the right brushes. Keep going and you'll keep improving!
This isn't the exact set I got, but it's similar. I mostly used the three brushes on the right. The fan-like one was great for broad painting like the white and the black, and used the smaller ones to get into the little spaces, to clean up lines as much as possible, and do the smaller parts like the eyes, nose, ears,etc.
No problem. Are they a good price? They aren't anything super special just good quality brushes for a decent price. That being said, this one is literally the 3 I would suggest, if not maybe the psycho for details. And that's a really good price since they'd be at least $12 separate at my local shop.
Detail Paint Brush Set 12pc Minute Series XII Miniature Brushes for Fine Detailing & Art Painting. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M7UFLP5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_ylINzbFVDJHES
If these ever come back in stock, they are really nice brushes for the money. Been using them almost exclusively recently. They get more use than my Windsor and Newton brushes.
I've been strongly recommended to pick up a couple of Windsor and Newton Series 7 brushes to start painting with instead of the Citadel Brushes. I'm looking at them on amazon, and there's two different kinds: Series 7 Miniature and Series 7 Watercolour. I can guess from the name which version I need, but I just wanted to check before purchasing them.
Miniature
Watercolour
For someone just starting out, quality paper is the most important thing followed by paint and brushes. I recommend shopping online as you'll pay 2-3x more locally (unless you have a Blick store nearby, they usually match their online prices) and you can set your girlfriend up nicely without breaking the bank. I'm not sure what you're looking to spend so I'll try to give you a decent range of options.
Paint
Cotman and Van Gogh are the student versions of professional brands (Winsor Newton & Rembrandt) and the most often suggested for beginners. They come in pans (dried paint blocks you swipe with a wet brush to reactivate) and tubes. Though these are student grade they're both used professionally and very high quality. They're lightfast (won't fade with exposure to sun), use the same pigments that the professional brands do (though with a smaller amount) and are both very reasonably priced. And if she enjoys painting and looks to upgrade in the future, she could pick up the Professional version with minimal relearning how the paint performs (All brands behave a little differently on paper).
Of the two I would suggest Van Gogh as they're extremely vibrant, the pans are very easy to rewet (Cotman pans are difficult to get pigment from in my experience, and for someone learning to paint having to scrub a pan with a brush will be frustrating. The tubes better.) and come in nice compact travel sets that have a built in palette for mixing. The Set of 12 Pans is plenty to start with, you can mix a wide variety of colors from that. The 18 pan + 2 tube set is a great option as well as it gives you a nice variety of warm and cool primaries as well as convenient greens and earth colors, it comes with a small brush and sponge, I'd go with that one. The larger sets of 30-48 aren't necessary as they're mostly colors that are mixed from the single pigment paints included in the smaller sets, but if you think she'd enjoy having a ton of colors available without having to mix those are something you can look at too.
If you wanna ball out a little bit and get her some professional paints, Da Vinci has a ton of pan and tube set options. The 12 Full Pan Set again has everything she'd need getting started. They're as good as any brand out there. The pans are also twice the size of the student brand options and will last a very long time.
There's a ton of great paints out there, I suggest these because they're great value as well as quality and don't include a lot of the weird and rarely used colors you find in a lot of sets. I'd go with pans because they're ready to go as soon as you open them, you don't have to wait for the tube paint to dry for a day or two before you can store it or take it with you, they're very attractive gifts that are nice to look at (if you look on youtube you'll see 100s of videos of people just opening them and showing them off) and you can refill them with your own tube paints later on once you know what you like and start building your own palette. This time of the year there's tons of deals out there so if you find a nice set of Winsor Newton or something on amazon that's a great snag as well. Just avoid "store" brands like Artist's Loft or Masters Touch, or the tons of really cheap chinese sets you'll find online.
Paper
100% Cotton is the way to go. It can handle any technique and can take a ton of water without buckling or falling apart. Even the nicest paint will appear dull on poor watercolor paper and they can't handle much water before they start to give out. It can be a little pricey but it's well worth it. Again there's tons of brands but Arches is the most used and it's excellent so I don't wanna bog you don't with a bunch of brands. You could also grab a 22x30 inch sheet of Arches and tear it into a variety of smaller sheets (this is the most common and frugal way). Cold press is medium textured, Hot Press is smooth and Rough is obvious. Cold press is the most versatile so I'd start there. I don't use sketchbooks but if you're looking for something like that I've heard these are good.
Brushes
Brushes are personal preference, some people only use one for everything and some people like a variety of size and hair types. If you wanna keep it simple a 10 or 12 Round is a good workhorse that can handle small detail and a larger wash. There's sets if you wanna get her a few to see what she likes. Synthetic or a blend is where I'd start as real sable or squirrel is pretty expensive. There's water brushes that aren't "traditional" but are popular for sketching or coloring ink art and are easy to use.
Hope this helps!
Series 7 breaks down into regular brushes and Miniature brushes. Miniature ones will say 'Miniature' on it and they're all far fatter shaped than regular watercolour ones.
See miniature versus non-miniature
Hi all. I was thinking about easing my way into painting by way of brush painting details. I'm just looking for recommendation on brushes and set of paints.
In particular, I've read good reviews about the D'Artisan Shoppe's set - is it worth the price?
I'm a big fan of Army Painter products. I've had pretty good luck with them so I'm kind of slanted towards them. So I recommend...
1- a set of these brushes.
2- Any of the Army Painter primers are good. But this is my favorite. Coats and covers well. Also works for a lot of different models.
3- A set of these have come in handy for me several times.
4- These clear bases are my favorite. I've rebased several figures with these. Love them for there ability to show the terrain the figure is standing on.
5- And a cheap basecoat sized brush for mixing paints and brushing on quickshades.
This is obviously just my opinion. But I hope it helps.
Everyone touts the W&N line and natural hair brushes but I've been having no problems with my synthetic brushes. You dont need to pay an arm and a leg for brushes if you dont need to, if you are looking for a decent set here is one on amazon for 26 bucks that has a great selection of sizes. Heck a lot of the reviews for this specific set came from warhammer painters. Here is a set with a few more brushes and costs less, reviews seem good too.
You can save up over time for W&N if you want, look up basic brush maintenance and keep your brushes in good shape and you will rarely have issues. In the end the best brushes are the ones that have good quality while being comfortable to use. W&N is just really good quality hair, but I dont find them comfortable to use so it didn't matter.
I paint on my primer due to living in a complex that doesnt allow aerosol paints on site, so I can really help much there, sorry.
Happy painting.
http://www.amazon.com/The-Army-Painter-Wargamer-Brush/dp/B009CBC0PQ
That's the normal series 7, not the miniature one. "Correct" depends what you're after really, as was pointed out in this thread, the normal ones are apparently what mini painters prefer.
This is the miniature one:
https://www.amazon.com/Winsor-Newton-Kolinsky-Miniature-Watercolor/dp/B000OL1UUY/ref=sr_1_1?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1526908926&sr=1-1&keywords=series+7+miniature&dpID=11XlfUS2k9L&preST=_SX300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch
As a starting point you should probably look into natural Sable Brushes, size 2 for basecoating and 0 or 0/2 for finer detailing. Make sure it has a good point. I am currently using these, the regiment brush is quite good.
Some mini painters will quickly mention Newton and Winsor 7 series brushes or Raphael Kolinsky sable brushes, which are more expensive, but I cannot confirm that, I have not tried Kolinsky sable brushes. Be sure to buy a nice brush cleaner to preserve your natural hair brushes.
Here is a nice unbiased information (mini painters tend to be fanboys on certain brands of paints and brushes) about brushes or this one by one of the best mini painters around, one of the comments mentions Toray brushes which are often used by minipainters
EDIT: Added the APJ link
I looking for a light weight headset that is the price range from 20-60 dollars. I also wear glasses so it has to be able to work with that.
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Right now my current painting equipement:
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Is there anything else I should buy?
Great job for your first time.
Also, can't go wrong with this brush. Get the #00 size.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000OL5L7C/ref=yo_ii_pd_dx_gc_1?ie=UTF8&dpID=11REzLdorfL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_SL500_SR100%2C6_&psc=1&refRID=5F5DJJ2M74C7QP6YJM2H
I did this guy with it... https://i.imgur.com/i9WTUCy.jpg
Is it picking up the paint?
It should dry normal. I prefer a [sponge brush] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003UHJDAS/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1466629896&sr=8-4&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=sponge+brush&dpPl=1&dpID=41KgQ9CCXOL&ref=plSrch#immersive-view_1466629906346), but have used a regular painting brush a gazillion times as well.
It should dry clear. Give it time. It may look foggy while drying. If you brush TOO much, it may also dry foggy. But you really have to brush it a lot to end up with a fog. Just slap it on and let it dry.
When drying, keep the canvas at a slight tilt to avoid puddles. (totally should have mentioned that above, my bad) just prop something small (the corner of a book will do) under one corner so that it's not drying on an entirely flat surface.
You can always apply a second & third coat. But just allow it time to dry in between!!
ALSO
If you live in a relatively humid area, allow more time for everything to dry!!
I use some junk no-brand brushes I found on amazon with good reviews. I cut-down the #3 brush for using as a flat. Base-coat with the #2 & #4, main workhorse #1 & #0, and the 00 & 000 for tiny parts. Perfect for minis. By the time they wear out, you dont care about getting a new one cause the whole set was $10. They hold a good amount of paint and flow well enough.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014GWCLFO/
this mini was done entirely with the linked brushes
EDIT: A warning though, since these are cheap synthetic bristle brushes, the larger ones curl pretty bad with lukewarm water. Use only cold water for cleaning. Keeping the tips moist helps keep the bristles together and from splaying out too. The curly hook, a trademark of cheap brushes, I find to actually be useful for getting a reliable fine-ish point that goes where I want it more predictably. But I may just be a bad brush apologist.
Thanks for the recommendations
After finding no hobby store with paint near me, I finally pulled the trigger on $22 red spray primer, $39 paint set, and $14 brushes on Amazon. Thankful that this game is so cheap at $75 because the paints really kicked it up!
I looked at a lot of reviews, if anyone is curious:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B010QLOJ3G/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01AC4LATI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004EKCOE2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
> Good but cheap brushes, you’re probably looking at decent synthetics
FWIW: I got two sets of these generic "Artbrush Tower" brushes recently for my kids to ruin: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014GWCLFO
They're fantastic! No, they aren't Series 7's or Raphaels. But they have been very sturdy, hold a great (seriously: great) tip, and are like a dollar a piece in the set.
It might save you some money to go on Amazon. They usually run about $10
Like, it seems, everyone else, that was my starter too. It's supremely useful for basic paints that you'll use on everything, blacks, greys, whites, and browns, but it had little else for specific details. (Which was probably the point). Mine came with a yellow, blue, and green that I don't like and have already replaced (except the yellow because I just don't use the color enough to need to). No red.
I'm personally not a fan of the paints themselves, though. They work for the fact that you don't have the money to buy all those browns and blacks individually, but they're too runny for my tastes, separate really easy and are hard to get back, and I just don't like dropper bottles. I feel like a lot of paint is wasted for the fact that I can't just drip my brush in when I just need it for one or two little details.
That said, I'm still using most of them. I bought my own paints for skin tones and bright colors. I use the GW Citadel paints, I know some people think they're too expensive, but they're over all better quality than most other paints I've tried.
When you first go to get extra paints, try something in a tub instead of with a dropper, see which one you like best. It took me a little getting used to the tubs, but I hate the droppers now.
As is said, you'll want better brushes. What I used for a long while is This They're not exactly great quality but they're better than most basic cheap sets you'll get at a craft store. The exceptional low price comes with a month long shipping time, though. Right now I'm trying out Army Painter brushes I got that set and the Character and Pshyco brushes. I only just bought them so I can't say anything myself, but I've heard good things.
One thing the kit doesn't even mention, if I remember right, is sealer. When I first started I tried to get a basic art acrylic sealer from a craft store, but it stayed forever sticky and destroyed the first few minis I painted, which was a huge disappointment. Your local game store should be able to show you what they use. I use the Citadel Purity Seal simply because it's all that local store had, I couldn't compare it to other spray sealers. It has a mate finish, and you have to be really careful to not over-coat or you'll loose detail.
I also have a little tub of Citadel 'ardcoat which is a high gloss sealer. I use it on top of the spray for a couple details, like anything wet or metal highlights, but in my experience anything glossy has been tacky, so use sparingly if you use at all.
Ok i just ordered one of these https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0013E68TY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
so hopefully that does it.
I have fallen in love with this brush set, https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M3PSN8T/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
They even have air bubbles inside the handle so they float!
I would recommend a battalion as well as an army book.
As for painting, I found it immensely helpful to paint the figures before I clipped them out of their brackets. The only thing would would need to pay attention to there is that you will need to add a small dab of paint to the spot that was attached to the bracket and you will need to know what pieces you are going to use and which you are not going to use. This was useful for me because you have something to hold on to as you paint (especially when detailing). It also allows you to paint areas that would be immensely hard to paint with any degree of detail or accuracy if the piece was already assembled.
Cheap brushes sets with which to paint:
Set 1,
Set 2, Set 3
Cheap Detail Brush: Brush
Professional illustrator here, carry a sketchbook with you, don't sweat materials really but try a softer pencil (You will need to go to at least a Micheal's/HobbyLobby to get these.), I've always enjoyed employing a cheap watercolor set as well just rubberband that shit to your sketchbook, whenever you feel bored bust it out on the train in a waiting room etc, draw what's in front of you fast and poorly just do it, keep quick notes of things you see that you'd like to practise drawing when you have time and actually refer to it use you phone, in that same vein keep an inspiration board pinterest is cheesy but perfect for it really.
TL;DR - Practise practise practise. No shortcuts, sorry. Do it!
ETA - If the watercolor thing strikes your fancy get one of these. They're the tits for on the go.
Why are you using such crappy brushes?! Get some kolinsky sable-hair brushes. I've used my brushes every day for a year and tips look better than that. I mean, you did super great with what you got but it will make your experience much more pleasurable.