Understanding color theory elevates your painting from good to great. The color wheel isn't just art school theory - it's a practical tool for creating striking miniatures.
Complementary Colors
Colors opposite on the wheel create maximum contrast. Red and green, blue and orange, yellow and purple - these combinations make each color pop. Use sparingly for accent colors.
- Red armor with green gems
- Blue robes with orange flames
- Purple cloth with yellow trim
- Use 80/20 ratio for balance
For more on this topic, check out our guide on Color Theory for Miniatures: Painting Metallic Armor.
Color Temperature
Warm colors (reds, oranges, yellows) advance visually while cool colors (blues, greens, purples) recede. Use warm highlights and cool shadows to enhance depth.
- Warm highlights draw the eye
- Cool shadows increase depth
- Mix temperatures for interest
- Consider your army's overall temperature
Creating Cohesion
Limit your palette to create unified forces. Choose 2-3 main colors plus neutrals. Repeat accent colors across the army to tie everything together.
Related Reading
Expand your miniature painting knowledge with these guides:
Article by Enoch Thoreux, dedicated to helping miniature painters of all skill levels improve their craft.