Marcus Chen
The question of whether the Start Collecting! Tau Empire box set comes pre-painted is a common one among Warhammer 40,000 enthusiasts. This starter kit, designed to provide players with a foundational Tau Empire army, includes a variety of models such as Fire Warriors, Pathfinders, and a Commander. However, like most Warhammer model kits, the Start Collecting! Tau Empire set comes unpainted, requiring assembly and painting by the hobbyist. This allows players to customize their miniatures to their liking, aligning with the creative and immersive nature of the Warhammer hobby. For those new to the game, this presents an opportunity to develop painting skills while building a personalized army.
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What You'll Learn
What's Included in the Box?
When you unbox the Start Collecting: T’au Empire set, you’ll find a comprehensive selection of miniatures that serve as the perfect foundation for building your T’au army. The box includes 13 multipart plastic models, all of which are meticulously designed to capture the advanced technology and sleek aesthetic of the T’au Empire. These models are supplied unpainted and unassembled, allowing you to customize their appearance to match your preferred color scheme or the official T’au livery.
Among the models included are 1x Ethereal, the spiritual leader of the T’au, whose presence inspires nearby troops. The box also contains 10x Fire Warriors, the backbone of the T’au military, armed with pulse rifles and ready to hold the line. Additionally, you’ll find 1x XV8 Crisis Battlesuit, a highly versatile and powerful unit capable of being equipped with various weapons to suit different battlefield roles. These models are scaled for use in Warhammer 40,000 and come with their respective bases.
The Start Collecting: T’au Empire set also includes 1x Drone, a small but essential unit that can support your troops in various ways, such as repairing battlesuits or providing additional firepower. All models feature the signature T’au design elements, including geometric armor, energy-based weaponry, and intricate detailing that reflects their advanced technology. While the miniatures are unpainted, they are molded in high-quality plastic with crisp details, making them ideal for painting.
In addition to the miniatures, the box comes with assembly instructions that guide you through the process of building each model. These instructions are clear and easy to follow, ensuring that even beginners can assemble their T’au army with confidence. The set also includes Warscrolls for use in Warhammer 40,000, providing you with the rules needed to field these units in your games.
Lastly, the box includes a Getting Started guide for Warhammer 40,000, which is perfect for new players. This guide introduces the basics of the game, including how to assemble, paint, and play with your T’au models. While the miniatures do not come pre-painted, this guide offers tips and suggestions for achieving the iconic T’au color scheme, ensuring your army looks as impressive on the tabletop as it is effective in battle.
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Are Miniatures Pre-Painted?
When considering whether miniatures, such as those in the Start Collecting: Tau Empire set, come pre-painted, it’s essential to understand the standard practices in the tabletop gaming industry. Most official miniature sets from major manufacturers like Games Workshop, the producer of Warhammer 40,000 models, are not pre-painted. The Start Collecting: Tau Empire set, for example, includes unpainted plastic models that require assembly and painting by the hobbyist. This is a common approach across the industry, as it allows players to customize their armies with unique color schemes and styles.
The reason miniatures typically come unpainted is twofold. Firstly, it keeps the cost of entry lower for consumers, as pre-painted models would significantly increase the price due to the labor and materials involved. Secondly, the hobby aspect of assembling and painting miniatures is a core part of the experience for many players. It encourages creativity and personalization, which aligns with the immersive nature of games like Warhammer 40,000. Therefore, if you’re purchasing the Start Collecting: Tau Empire set, expect to spend time assembling and painting the models yourself.
For those who prefer pre-painted miniatures, there are alternative options available, though they are not directly associated with official starter sets. Some third-party sellers or commission painters offer pre-painted models, but these are typically more expensive and not part of the standard product line. Additionally, certain board games or skirmish-scale miniatures may come pre-painted, but this is rare in the large-scale wargaming hobby, especially for Warhammer 40,000.
If you’re new to the hobby and unsure about painting, many resources are available to help you get started. Games Workshop provides paints, brushes, and tutorials to guide beginners through the process. Alternatively, you can play with unpainted models, though many gaming communities encourage painting as it enhances the visual appeal of the game. Ultimately, the decision to paint or not is up to you, but the Start Collecting: Tau Empire set, like most miniature kits, does not come pre-painted.
In summary, the Start Collecting: Tau Empire set and similar miniature kits are not pre-painted. They are designed for hobbyists to assemble and paint themselves, fostering creativity and personalization. While pre-painted options exist through third-party services, they are not the norm for official starter sets. Understanding this will help set expectations and prepare you for the hands-on experience of building and painting your Tau Empire army.
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Painting Requirements for Tau Empire
When considering the Painting Requirements for Tau Empire models, it’s essential to understand that the Start Collecting: Tau Empire box set, like most Warhammer 40,000 kits, comes unpainted. This means hobbyists must paint the models themselves to bring them to life on the tabletop. The Tau Empire’s aesthetic is characterized by sleek, futuristic designs with clean lines, geometric shapes, and a color scheme often dominated by blues, whites, and metallic accents. Painting these models requires attention to detail to maintain their high-tech, alien appearance.
The painting process for Tau Empire models typically begins with priming. A light gray or white primer is recommended, as it allows the bright colors of the Tau’s armor and weaponry to stand out. After priming, base colors are applied, focusing on the primary hues of the Tau’s sept (clan). For example, the Fire Caste often features shades of blue, while the Air Caste may incorporate more whites and grays. Layering and highlighting are crucial to achieve the smooth, almost ceramic look of Tau armor, ensuring transitions between colors are seamless.
Detailing is another key aspect of painting Tau Empire models. The intricate designs on their armor, such as sept markings, drones, and weaponry, require precision. Using fine brushes and steady hands, hobbyists should carefully apply contrasting colors to make these details pop. Metallic paints are often used for weapons and mechanical components, adding a futuristic sheen. Washes can be applied to recesses to add depth, but they should be used sparingly to avoid dulling the Tau’s clean aesthetic.
For those new to painting Tau Empire models, practice and patience are essential. The unique design of Tau miniatures, with their smooth surfaces and sharp edges, can be challenging to paint smoothly. Starting with simpler models, like Fire Warriors or Pathfinders, can help build confidence before tackling more complex kits like the Riptide or Ghostkeel. Online tutorials and community guides are invaluable resources for learning specific techniques tailored to Tau models.
Finally, customization is a significant part of painting Tau Empire models. Hobbyists often incorporate their own color schemes or sept markings to personalize their army. This not only adds individuality but also allows for storytelling through the army’s appearance. Whether adhering to the official Tau color schemes or creating something entirely unique, the painting process is an opportunity to express creativity while staying true to the faction’s futuristic and disciplined identity. In summary, while the Start Collecting: Tau Empire set does not come painted, the painting requirements offer a rewarding challenge for hobbyists to master, resulting in a visually striking army.
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Tips for Beginners to Paint Tau
When starting to paint your Tau Empire miniatures, it’s important to understand that the "Start Collecting! Tau Empire" box set comes unpainted, giving you the opportunity to customize your army. Painting Tau miniatures can be both rewarding and challenging, especially for beginners. Here are some essential tips to help you get started on the right track.
Begin with Proper Preparation: Before applying any paint, ensure your miniatures are clean and primed. Remove any mold lines using a hobby knife or file, as these can detract from the final look. Wash the models with warm, soapy water to remove any residue from the manufacturing process. Once dry, apply a thin, even coat of primer. For Tau, a light gray or white primer works well, as it allows the bright colors of their armor to pop. Avoid over-spraying, as it can obscure fine details.
Understand Tau Color Schemes: Tau miniatures are known for their sleek, futuristic designs and vibrant color schemes. Familiarize yourself with the standard Tau color palette, which often includes shades of blue, white, and yellow. However, don’t be afraid to experiment with your own scheme. Start by basecoating the armor with a primary color, such as a bright blue. Use thin layers to build up the color, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next. This technique ensures smooth coverage and preserves detail.
Focus on Layering and Highlighting: Layering is key to achieving depth and realism in your Tau miniatures. After the basecoat, apply progressively lighter shades of the same color to raised areas. For example, if you’re painting blue armor, mix in a small amount of white to create highlights. This technique mimics the way light interacts with surfaces, making the model appear more three-dimensional. Practice on a test model to get a feel for how much paint to use and how to control your brush.
Don’t Neglect the Details: Tau miniatures feature intricate details, such as sensors, drones, and weaponry, that can elevate your paint job. Use a fine detail brush for these areas, and consider adding contrasting colors to make them stand out. For example, paint the lenses of sensors in a bright green or red, and use metallic paints for weapons and mechanical components. Take your time with these details, as they can make a significant difference in the overall appearance of your models.
Seal Your Work with a Varnish: Once you’ve completed painting your Tau miniatures, protect your hard work by applying a coat of varnish. Matt or satin varnishes are ideal for preserving the colors while adding durability. Avoid glossy varnishes unless you’re aiming for a specific effect. Apply the varnish in thin, even layers, and allow ample drying time between coats. This final step ensures your models can withstand the wear and tear of gaming while maintaining their vibrant appearance.
By following these tips, beginners can confidently approach painting their Tau Empire miniatures. Remember, practice makes perfect, and each model you complete will help you refine your skills. Enjoy the process, and soon you’ll have a beautifully painted Tau army ready for the battlefield.
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Alternatives to Painting Tau Models
When considering alternatives to painting Tau models, it's essential to explore methods that save time, reduce effort, or offer unique aesthetic options without compromising the visual appeal of your miniatures. One popular alternative is using pre-painted or primed models. While the "Start Collecting: Tau Empire" box set does not come pre-painted, you can opt for third-party services or marketplaces where skilled painters sell ready-to-play miniatures. This option is ideal for players who want a professional finish without investing hours in painting themselves. However, it can be costly, so it’s best suited for those with a higher budget.
Another effective alternative is utilizing spray primers and washes. By applying a uniform base coat with spray primer, you can achieve a cohesive look across your Tau army with minimal effort. Follow this with a heavy application of washes (such as Citadel’s Nuln Oil or Agrax Earthshade) to add depth and shading. This method enhances recessed details and gives your models a tabletop-ready appearance without requiring intricate layer painting. It’s a time-efficient approach that still yields visually appealing results.
For those seeking a more unconventional route, decals and transfers can significantly enhance the look of your Tau models. The Tau aesthetic relies heavily on clean lines and technological details, making decals an excellent way to add intricate designs, markings, or symbols without painting them by hand. Combine this with a simple base coat and wash, and your models will look polished and thematic. Many hobbyists also use stencil techniques to apply patterns or logos, further streamlining the process.
A growing trend in the miniature hobby is 3D printing custom details or entire models. While this requires access to a 3D printer, it allows you to create unique Tau designs or add-ons that can be left unpainted or finished with a simple color scheme. For example, you could print custom drones, weapon upgrades, or base terrain that complements your army’s theme. This method is particularly appealing for players who enjoy customization and innovation in their armies.
Lastly, drybrushing and edge highlighting are quick techniques to make your Tau models stand out without full painting. Drybrushing involves applying a lighter color over a darker base to highlight raised surfaces, while edge highlighting adds a thin line of brighter color along edges. Both methods are beginner-friendly and can be completed in a fraction of the time compared to traditional layering. Pair these techniques with a simple base coat, and your Tau army will look dynamic and ready for the battlefield.
By exploring these alternatives, you can achieve a visually striking Tau army without the extensive time commitment of traditional painting. Whether you opt for pre-painted models, quick techniques, or custom additions, there’s a method to suit every hobbyist’s skill level and preferences.
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Frequently asked questions
No, the Start Collecting Tau Empire box does not come with pre-painted miniatures. The models are supplied unpainted and require assembly.
Yes, the models in the Start Collecting Tau Empire box are unpainted, so you will need to paint them yourself or hire a painting service.
The miniatures require assembly and painting, so they are not ready to use straight out of the box.
While you can technically play with unpainted models, most gaming groups and tournaments encourage or require painted miniatures for a better tabletop experience.
No, Games Workshop does not offer pre-painted versions of the Start Collecting Tau Empire box. All models are supplied unpainted.
