Leo Martínez
Painting Blood Angels, the iconic Warhammer 40,000 Space Marine chapter, has become even more exciting with the release of new paints and techniques. Whether you're a seasoned painter or a newcomer to the hobby, mastering the vibrant red armor and intricate details of these angelic warriors requires a blend of precision and creativity. With the latest paint ranges offering richer pigments and smoother application, achieving the signature Blood Angels look—from the deep crimson of their power armor to the golden accents and battle-worn effects—has never been easier. This guide will walk you through step-by-step processes, highlight essential tools, and share tips to bring your Blood Angels to life with stunning realism and fidelity to the chapter's lore.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Base Colors | Mephiston Red (base coat), Evil Sunz Scarlet (highlight) |
| Shading | Carroburg Crimson (shade over base coat) |
| Edge Highlighting | Wild Rider Red or Squig Orange (for extreme highlights) |
| Gold Trim | Retributor Armour (base), Reikland Fleshshade (shade), Runefang Steel (highlight) |
| Black Details | Abaddon Black (base), Nuln Oil (shade) |
| White Details | Corax White (base), Drakenhof Nightshade (shade), Ulthuan Grey (highlight) |
| Chapter Icon | Corax White or Dorn Yellow for the droplet, Mephiston Red for the background |
| Base Technique | Astrogranite or Martian Ironearth texture paint, drybrushed with Administratum Grey |
| New Paint Recommendations | Contrast Paints (e.g., Flesh Tearers Red for quick shading) |
| Special Effects | Blood for the Blood God technical paint for battle damage or blood effects |
| Tools Needed | Citadel Base, Layer, and Shade paints, fine detail brushes, layering technique |
| Time Estimate | 2-3 hours per model (depending on detail level) |
| Skill Level | Beginner to Intermediate |
| Additional Tips | Thin paints for smooth application, use a wet palette to keep paints fresh |
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What You'll Learn
- Base Coat Techniques: Apply smooth, even layers of Mephiston Red for vibrant armor bases
- Shading Methods: Use Carroburg Crimson or Druchii Violet for deep, natural shadows
- Highlighting Tips: Layer with Evil Sunz Scarlet or Wild Rider Red for sharp edges
- Symbol Painting: Freehand chapter symbols with careful brushwork and steady hands
- Finishing Touches: Add gloss varnish for wet blood effects and seal the model
Base Coat Techniques: Apply smooth, even layers of Mephiston Red for vibrant armor bases
Achieving a flawless base coat is the cornerstone of painting Blood Angels with new paints, and Mephiston Red is your secret weapon for vibrant, eye-catching armor. This bold, saturated red forms the foundation for the chapter’s iconic color scheme, demanding precision and patience to apply correctly. Unlike thinner paints, Mephiston Red requires a deliberate approach to avoid streaking or patchiness, ensuring a smooth, even finish that sets the stage for subsequent layers and highlights.
Begin by thinning your Mephiston Red with a suitable medium—a ratio of 1:1 paint to water or a dedicated acrylic thinner works well. This reduces the paint’s viscosity, allowing it to flow more easily and settle into a consistent layer. Apply the paint in thin, even coats using a synthetic brush with a fine tip, such as a size 2 or 3. Work in a methodical manner, covering the armor piece by piece rather than attempting to paint the entire model at once. Allow each layer to dry completely before adding another, as rushing this step can lead to muddied colors or uneven coverage.
One common pitfall is overloading the brush, which results in pooling or tidelines. To avoid this, wipe excess paint on the palette or a paper towel before applying it to the model. Use a light touch, letting the brush glide smoothly across the surface. For recessed areas, such as panel lines or crevices, consider using a glaze of Mephiston Red mixed with a glazing medium to ensure the color settles naturally without obscuring detail. This technique enhances depth while maintaining the armor’s uniformity.
The true test of a well-executed base coat lies in its ability to serve as a canvas for future steps. A smooth, even layer of Mephiston Red not only amplifies the richness of the color but also simplifies the application of edge highlights, washes, and battle damage. Think of it as the primer for your masterpiece—a solid foundation that elevates the entire painting process. With practice, this technique becomes second nature, transforming your Blood Angels into striking, tabletop-ready miniatures that honor the chapter’s fiery legacy.
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Shading Methods: Use Carroburg Crimson or Druchii Violet for deep, natural shadows
Carroburg Crimson and Druchii Violet are not just shades; they are transformative tools for achieving depth and realism in your Blood Angels miniatures. These washes, when applied thoughtfully, mimic the natural shadows cast by armor plates, fabric folds, and anatomical contours, enhancing the model’s three-dimensionality without overwhelming the base colors. Their red and violet hues complement the Blood Angels’ iconic crimson scheme, ensuring shadows feel integrated rather than artificial.
To begin, thin your base coat of red (e.g., Mephiston Red or Evil Sunz Scarlet) with a 1:1 ratio of water and paint, applying two to three layers for a smooth finish. Once dry, apply Carroburg Crimson or Druchii Violet as a recess shade, focusing on areas where light naturally recedes—crevices, under armor segments, and around joints. Use a size 1 or 2 brush for precision, and avoid overloading it to prevent pooling. For deeper shadows, layer the wash in thin coats, allowing each to dry completely before adding another.
The choice between Carroburg Crimson and Druchii Violet depends on the desired effect. Carroburg Crimson adds a warm, blood-like shadow that enhances the red tones, ideal for areas directly tied to the armor’s crimson hue. Druchii Violet, on the other hand, introduces a cooler, more dramatic contrast, perfect for creating stark transitions or emphasizing depth in recessed areas. Experiment with both to see how they interact with your base colors and lighting conditions.
A practical tip for beginners: test your shading technique on a scrap model or sprue before committing to your miniature. This allows you to gauge how the wash interacts with your base coat and adjust your application technique accordingly. Additionally, consider using a glaze medium to further thin the wash for subtle, gradual shading, especially in larger areas like capes or vehicle panels.
In conclusion, Carroburg Crimson and Druchii Violet are indispensable for elevating your Blood Angels miniatures from flat to lifelike. By understanding their properties and applying them with precision, you can achieve shadows that feel natural, dynamic, and true to the chapter’s dramatic aesthetic. Master these shades, and your Blood Angels will stand out on the tabletop with a depth that commands attention.
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Highlighting Tips: Layer with Evil Sunz Scarlet or Wild Rider Red for sharp edges
Achieving sharp, defined edges on your Blood Angels miniatures requires precision and the right layering technique. Start by applying a base coat of Mephiston Red, ensuring full coverage. Once dry, introduce Evil Sunz Scarlet or Wild Rider Red as your highlight layer. These brighter reds are ideal for catching the light and creating contrast. Use a fine detail brush to apply the paint in thin, controlled strokes, focusing on raised areas like muscle definitions, armor edges, and weapon details. This method not only enhances depth but also maintains the iconic vibrancy of the Blood Angels chapter.
The choice between Evil Sunz Scarlet and Wild Rider Red depends on the desired intensity. Evil Sunz Scarlet leans toward a warmer, orange-red tone, perfect for a fiery, battle-hardened look. Wild Rider Red, on the other hand, offers a cooler, purer red that pops against darker shades. Experiment with both to see which aligns better with your vision. Remember, consistency is key—apply the highlight layer uniformly across all miniatures for a cohesive army aesthetic.
A common mistake is overloading the brush or applying too much paint, which can dull the sharpness of edges. Instead, use a "less is more" approach. Dip your brush lightly into the paint, remove excess on a palette or tissue, and apply in smooth, even strokes. For ultra-fine details, like the edges of a sword or the trim on a helmet, consider thinning the paint slightly with a medium to improve flow and control. This technique ensures clean lines without obscuring the underlying layers.
To elevate your highlights further, incorporate a subtle edge highlight with Yriel Yellow or Flash Gitz Yellow for an extreme contrast. This step is optional but can make your miniatures stand out on the tabletop. Apply this final highlight sparingly, only to the most prominent edges, to avoid overwhelming the red base. The result is a dynamic, eye-catching finish that captures the essence of the Blood Angels' fiery zeal.
In summary, layering with Evil Sunz Scarlet or Wild Rider Red is a game-changer for achieving sharp edges on Blood Angels miniatures. By mastering this technique, you’ll add depth, vibrancy, and professionalism to your paintwork. Practice patience, maintain a steady hand, and let the colors do the talking. Your Blood Angels will thank you with their battle-ready, striking appearance.
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Symbol Painting: Freehand chapter symbols with careful brushwork and steady hands
Freehand painting chapter symbols on Blood Angels miniatures demands precision, patience, and a steady hand. Unlike stencils or transfers, this technique allows for customization and a truly unique finish, but it’s not for the faint of heart. The Blood Angels’ iconic symbol—a winged heart—is deceptively simple in design yet requires careful planning and execution to achieve crisp lines and smooth curves. Before diving in, practice on scrap surfaces or spare models to refine your technique and build confidence.
Begin by sketching the symbol lightly with a fine brush and thinned paint or a mechanical pencil. Use reference images to ensure proportions are accurate; the wings should flare outward symmetrically, and the heart must be centered. Once the outline is satisfactory, mix a small amount of your chosen paint (typically red for the heart and gold for the wings) to a thin, flowing consistency. Load your brush minimally to avoid blobbing, and start with the heart, painting from the center outward. For the wings, work in layers, building up opacity gradually to maintain control.
A common pitfall is rushing the process, which often results in uneven lines or smudges. To avoid this, anchor your elbow on a stable surface and take breaks to reassess your work. If mistakes occur, don’t panic—a steady hand and a fine detail brush with a touch of paint stripper or careful scraping can correct errors without damaging the surrounding area. Alternatively, incorporate the mistake into the design, such as adding battle damage or wear to the symbol.
Advanced painters may experiment with highlighting and shading within the symbol to add depth. For the heart, apply a thin layer of a brighter red along the edges to suggest light catching the surface, and use a darker red or black for subtle recess shading. The wings can be enhanced with a gold-to-silver gradient or a wash to create a metallic sheen. Remember, less is often more—subtle enhancements elevate the symbol without overwhelming the miniature’s overall aesthetic.
Mastering freehand chapter symbols is a rewarding skill that sets your Blood Angels apart on the tabletop. While it requires practice and precision, the results are well worth the effort. Start small, be patient, and embrace imperfections as part of the learning process. With time, your steady hand will transform a simple symbol into a striking emblem of your chapter’s pride and heritage.
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Finishing Touches: Add gloss varnish for wet blood effects and seal the model
Gloss varnish isn't just for protection; it's your secret weapon for transforming flat, matte blood into visceral, dripping gore. Apply a thin layer of high-quality gloss varnish (like Vallejo Gloss Varnish or Army Painter Anti-Shine) directly to painted blood areas using a fine detail brush. This creates a wet, freshly spilled look, adding depth and realism to your Blood Angels' battle-worn aesthetic.
The key to success lies in precision and restraint. Too much varnish will pool and look unnatural, while too little will lack impact. Practice on a test model to find the sweet spot. Focus on areas where blood would naturally accumulate: blade edges, claw tips, and around wounds. For larger blood splatters, use a slightly larger brush and vary the thickness of the varnish application to suggest different stages of drying.
Remember, less is often more. A subtle gloss highlight can be more effective than a heavy-handed approach.
While gloss varnish is ideal for fresh blood, consider using a satin varnish for older, dried blood. This creates a more matte finish with a subtle sheen, suggesting blood that has begun to crust over. Experiment with layering different varnish types to achieve a range of blood effects, from freshly spilled to dried and cracked.
Finally, don't forget the practical benefits of varnish. It seals your paint job, protecting it from chipping and wear. Choose a varnish specifically designed for miniatures, as these are formulated to be durable and non-yellowing. Apply a thin, even coat over the entire model, allowing it to dry completely before handling. With this final touch, your Blood Angels will be ready to take to the battlefield, their crimson armor gleaming with the visceral evidence of their bloody victories.
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Frequently asked questions
The new Citadel Colour range, including Contrast and Base paints, is highly recommended. Key colors include "Evil Sunz Scarlet" (Contrast) for quick red basecoats, "Mephiston Red" (Base) for layering, and "Wild Rider Red" (Layer) for highlights.
Start with a basecoat of "Evil Sunz Scarlet" Contrast paint over a "Abaddon Black" primer. Layer with "Mephiston Red" for depth, and edge highlight with "Wild Rider Red" for a vibrant finish.
Use "Retributor Armour" Base paint for the initial gold layer. Shade with "Reikland Fleshshade" or "Cairn Wraith" Contrast paint, then highlight with "Stormhost Silver" or "Balthazar Gold" for a polished look.
Thin your paints with medium or water and apply multiple thin layers. Use "Mephiston Red" for midtones and "Wild Rider Red" for highlights, blending carefully with a wet palette or by feathering the edges.
For chapter symbols, use "Macragge Blue" Base paint and shade with "Nuln Oil" or "Contrasts Guilliman Blue." For details like purity seals, "Screaming Skull" or "Zandri Dust" works well, shaded with "Agrax Earthshade."
