Citadel Base paints are designed to provide the first solid colour layer when painting miniatures. This acrylic paint range from the Citadel Colour system is known for its high pigment density and strong coverage, allowing hobbyists to build a smooth base coat quickly. In this category at Scenery Workshop you will find a wide range of Citadel Base colours ideal for Warhammer miniatures and other tabletop models.

Citadel Base paints represent the first step in the Citadel painting system. By establishing a solid base coat, hobbyists can easily continue with techniques such as layering, washes and highlighting.

What are Citadel Base paints?

Citadel Base paints are acrylic paints with higher pigment density than many standard modelling paints. This allows them to cover surfaces more effectively and achieve a solid colour in fewer coats.

These paints are typically used for:

• Armour and clothing on miniatures
• Base colours for Warhammer armies
• Large colour areas on models
• The first paint layer after priming

Citadel Base paints come in the familiar 12 ml Citadel paint pots, making them easy to use with a brush.

Why hobbyists use Citadel Base paints

A strong base colour is essential in miniature painting. Citadel Base paints are designed to provide solid coverage while preserving the fine details of a miniature.

Hobbyists often use these paints for:

• Warhammer and tabletop miniatures
• Fantasy and science fiction figures
• Historical miniatures
• Scenery and modelling projects

At Scenery Workshop, Citadel Base paints are popular because they fit perfectly into the Citadel Colour painting system widely used in miniature painting.

How to use Citadel Base paints for miniatures

Citadel Base paints are typically applied with a brush onto a primed miniature. Due to the strong pigmentation, a solid colour can often be achieved with one or two thin coats.

• Prime the miniature before painting
• Apply the base colour in thin layers
• Use Citadel Layer paints for highlights
• Add washes to create shading and depth

Following these steps helps build a structured paint scheme on your miniatures.

What to consider when choosing Citadel Base colours

When selecting base colours it helps to think about the overall colour scheme of your miniature or army.

• Darker base colours for deeper shadows
• Bright colours for vibrant miniatures
• Neutral tones for clothing and accessories
• Metallic colours for weapons and armour details

At Scenery Workshop you can find a wide range of Citadel Base colours to build strong foundations for your miniature painting projects.

Frequently asked questions about Citadel Base paints

What is the difference between Citadel Base and Citadel Layer paints?

Citadel Base paints have higher pigment density for strong coverage, while Layer paints are thinner and designed for highlights and colour transitions.

Should Citadel Base paints be thinned?

Many miniature painters thin the paint slightly with water to apply smooth and controlled layers.

Can Citadel Base paints be used on all miniatures?

Yes. The paints work well on plastic, metal and resin miniatures when applied over a primer.