The Perfect Start

Get your miniatures primed and ready for the Slap Chop technique!
With a solid base coat, you’ll be able to quickly add depth and detail, bringing each piece to life with minimal effort and maximum effect.

Priming Your Miniature: The Essential First Step

This step is all about priming—whether you go for the classic Slap Chop method or add depth with a Zenithal Prime for striking highlights, setting up the foundation is key!

Prime Black

Before diving into painting, priming your miniature is crucial to achieve smooth, even colors and to help the paint adhere properly. You can either spray prime or brush on the primer, depending on your preference and setup.

1 – Spray Priming: This method provides a quick, even coat over the entire miniature, perfect for covering hard-to-reach areas. Ensure you’re in a well-ventilated area and shake the can thoroughly for best results. Hold the spray can about 12 inches away for a light, even layer.

2 – Brush-On Priming: If you prefer more control or don’t have outdoor space, brush-on primer is a great option. Apply a thin layer over the entire miniature, ensuring even coverage.

We always start with black prime to build strong contrast and depth. You can find black primer at your nearest hobby shop, and while we use Army Painter, any acrylic-compatible primer will work well. This foundational step will set you up for success as you move into the Slap Chop technique!

Slap Chop: Adding Contrast and Depth

Ready to bring your primed miniature to life? The Slap Chop method is a fantastic way to add quick, effective contrast that makes details pop with minimal effort. Here’s how to get started:

1 – Drybrush with Grey: After priming in black, use a medium or large drybrush to apply a layer of grey over raised areas. This highlights details and builds a mid-tone for added depth.

2 – Drybrush with White: Follow up with a lighter drybrush of white, focusing on the highest points and edges. This step enhances the brightness and prepares the miniature for vibrant colors.

3 – Apply Speed Paints or Washes: Now that your miniature has a strong foundation, you are ready to apply thin layers of color (using Speed Paints, washes, or thinned acrylics). The pre-highlighted areas will create natural shading and bring out those fine details.

With Slap Chop, you’re ready to get striking, tabletop-ready miniatures faster than ever!

Or Optional Zenithal Prime

You can opt to use the optional Zenithal Prime: Optional Technique for Extra Depth.
If you’re looking to add more dimension to your miniature, Zenithal Priming is an excellent option. This technique uses layered highlights to create a natural light effect, giving your model a more dynamic look.

1 – Start with Black Primer: Begin by fully priming your miniature in black as your base coat.

2 – Spray Grey Primer from Above: At a 45-degree angle, lightly spray grey primer over the model. This simulates ambient lighting, catching mid-level surfaces.

3 – Spray White Primer from the Top: Finally, spray a light dusting of white primer directly from above. This highlights the highest points, enhancing contrast and creating the look of natural light.

Zenithal Prime adds depth and makes painted details stand out, giving your miniature a polished, professional look even before color goes on!.

Unlock Exclusive Painting Tutorials

Access our video tutorials that guide you through each step of miniature painting, from priming to advanced techniques like Slap Chop and Zenithal Priming. Otherwise, ask at the Paint-A-Thon! Although this may delay you from starting…

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Create. Master. Achieve.

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Your Miniature Painting?

What if you could skip the frustration and bring your miniatures to life with ease, skill, and style?
Imagine the pride you’ll feel watching your tabletop fill with expertly painted figures, each one a reflection of your unique vision.
Slapchop is the perfect way to get started—and as your mentor, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. This method is fast, effective, and designed to build your confidence.
You don’t have to do this alone; together, we’ll make your miniatures stand out, making every game more immersive and satisfying.

Are you ready to unlock your potential and see your skills grow?

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