Two Thin Coats
The foundation of all mini painting — thin your paint and apply multiple coats for smooth, even coverage.
Two thin coats is the single most important technique in miniature painting. Instead of slapping on one thick coat of paint (which obscures detail and looks chunky), you thin your paint with water until it flows smoothly, then apply two or more coats. Each coat adds color density while preserving the sculpted details underneath.
Best For
Recommended Paint Types
Step-by-Step
Put a small amount of paint on your palette.
Dip your brush in water and mix it into the paint. Aim for a milk-like consistency — it should flow off the brush smoothly without being watery.
Load your brush and wipe off excess on the palette edge.
Apply the paint in smooth, even strokes following the contours of the mini.
Let the first coat dry completely (2-5 minutes).
Apply the second coat the same way. The color should now be solid and smooth.
If coverage isn't complete, apply a third thin coat rather than one thick one.
Pro Tips
The paint should look slightly translucent on the first coat — that's normal and correct.
If paint pools in recesses, you've used too much. Wick it away with a dry brush tip.
A wet palette keeps your thinned paint workable for much longer.
Different colors need different amounts of thinning. Yellows and whites often need 3-4 coats.
Common Mistakes
Using paint straight from the pot — always thin it.
Not waiting for the first coat to dry before applying the second.
Adding too much water, making the paint run everywhere.
Trying to get full coverage in one coat.