Inspect the miniature and test-fit parts
Inspect the miniature under good light first. Check delicate weapons, fingers, horns, wings and contact surfaces. Test-fit multipart models without glue so you understand alignment and which areas may become difficult to reach later.
Tip: Large or hidden areas are often easier to paint if you leave major sub-assemblies separate until later.
Remove dust and residue before priming
Primer adheres most reliably to a clean, dry and grease-free surface. If the miniature is only dusty, a soft brush is usually enough. For visible contamination, gently clean it with lukewarm water and mild dish soap, then let it dry completely.
Do not use aggressive solvents “just in case.” Different photopolymer resins can react differently, so mild cleaning is the safer default.
Smooth support marks and small imperfections
Resin prints can show small contact marks where supports were attached. Remove only what is necessary using a fine file, sharp hobby knife or fine sandpaper. On visible areas, work progressively from coarser to finer grits instead of removing material with heavy pressure.
Fine detail is the advantage of resin — aggressive sanding or a high-speed rotary tool can remove those details faster than it improves the surface.
Glue resin miniatures correctly
Cyanoacrylate (CA), commonly called super glue, is generally suitable for resin miniatures. Apply it sparingly to clean contact surfaces and align the part without unnecessary force. For large or heavily loaded joints, a suitable two-part epoxy can provide more working time.
Very heavy parts can also be pinned, using a small metal rod to reinforce the joint. This is especially useful for large wings, arms or diorama pieces.
Why primer matters on resin miniatures
A suitable primer creates an even, matte surface that miniature paints can grip. The key is a thin coat: heavy primer can fill facial features, engravings and small textures.
Black
Useful for dark, metallic or atmospheric schemes. Recesses remain naturally dark.
Grey
Neutral and versatile. A good choice when combining both bright and dark colours.
White / Light
Helps produce bright colours and works well with contrast- or speedpaint-style techniques.
With spray or airbrush primer, several light passes are better than one wet, heavy coat. Follow the primer manufacturer guidance for temperature, humidity and ventilation.
Build acrylic colour in thin layers
Water-based miniature acrylics work very well on primed resin. Thin opaque paints slightly when needed and prefer two light coats to one heavy coat. This keeps edges, facial features and surface texture crisp.
Base colours
Block in the main colour areas cleanly. Perfect coverage does not need to happen in one pass.
Shadows / washes
Thin washes settle into recesses and quickly increase contrast on armour, fur and folds.
Highlights
Brighter edges and raised surfaces give the model readability and volume.
Drybrush
Especially effective on fur, scales, stone, chainmail and textured terrain.
For beginners: Base colour → wash → restore the base colour on raised areas → highlight is a simple workflow that already creates strong depth.
Protect the paint job and store miniatures properly
Display pieces do not always need an additional clear coat. Gaming miniatures are handled and transported more often, so a suitable matte or satin varnish can help protect paint from wear and minor knocks. Apply it lightly and allow it to dry fully.
Store miniatures somewhere dry and low-dust, away from prolonged strong sunlight or excessive heat. During transport, swords, staffs, wings and other protruding details should not be under pressure.
Five mistakes that can cost you fine resin detail.
Heavy primer that fills recesses and facial detail.
Aggressive sanding around delicate edges and ornaments.
Too much glue squeezing from joints and obscuring surfaces.
Thick paint layers instead of several controlled light coats.
Putting pressure on thin weapons, wings or staffs during handling and transport.
Common questions about painting resin miniatures
Do I need to wash a resin miniature before painting?+
If the miniature is clean and dry, no aggressive cleaning step is necessary. Remove dust; if there is visible residue, mild cleaning with water and a little dish soap can help. Let it dry completely before priming.
Which paints work on resin?+
After a suitable primer, common water-based miniature acrylics work very well. Good primer adhesion and thin paint layers are the key factors.
Which glue should I use for resin?+
Cyanoacrylate (CA/super glue) is a common choice for resin miniatures. Depending on the model, two-part epoxy can also suit larger joints. Follow the adhesive safety instructions.
Should I varnish painted gaming miniatures?+
For frequently handled gaming miniatures, a suitable matte or satin varnish can help protect the paint from wear. It is more optional for display-only pieces.
More questions about resin, scale, shipping and care in our FAQ →