A Few Painted Sisters of Battle

We paint Sisters of Battle quite a bit these days. These had some nice bases the client sent, and we added some transfers. Otherwise, they were pretty straightforward.

These were painted to Exhibition quality. 

Shameless tags: miniature painting service, warhammer painting service, warhammer 40k painting service, miniature painting services, miniature painting commission, professional miniature painting, miniatures painting service

Paintedfigs is a miniature painting service. You can send us your figurines to paint, and we also have painted miniatures for sale. We paint mainly Games Workshop (Warhammer 40k, Warhammer Fantasy, Age of Sigmar, Necromunda, Space Hulk, Bloodbowl, and so on), Star Wars, Warmachine and Hordes, and pretty much every Kickstarter and board game under the sun.

And we do so at the lowest rates on Earth (we’ve checked).

Some Thousand Sons Chaos Space Marines

Just some reinforcements for a Thousand Sons army we’ve been working on, over the past year or so.

These were painted to Showcase quality. 

Shameless tags: miniature painting service, warhammer painting service, warhammer 40k painting service, miniature painting services, miniature painting commission, professional miniature painting, miniatures painting service

Paintedfigs is a miniature painting service. You can send us your figurines to paint, and we also have painted miniatures for sale. We paint mainly Games Workshop (Warhammer 40k, Warhammer Fantasy, Age of Sigmar, Necromunda, Space Hulk, Bloodbowl, and so on), Star Wars, Warmachine and Hordes, and pretty much every Kickstarter and board game under the sun.

And we do so at the lowest rates on Earth (we’ve checked).

Painting Salamander Space Marines with Bubbling Lava Bases

We’ve painted Salamander Chapter Space Marines so many times we’ve given those commissions their own web page. Here we did another interpretation of the scheme. What stood out most was the bases. The client wanted a bubbling lava effect.

For this we used beads of varying sizes. We blended their edges in with the bases using some modelling paste. Some cork for dark, rocky elevation, and the rest was painting.

These were painted to Showcase and Exhibition quality. 

Shameless tags: miniature painting service, warhammer painting service, warhammer 40k painting service, miniature painting services, miniature painting commission, professional miniature painting, miniatures painting service

Paintedfigs is a miniature painting service. You can send us your figurines to paint, and we also have painted miniatures for sale. We paint mainly Games Workshop (Warhammer 40k, Warhammer Fantasy, Age of Sigmar, Necromunda, Space Hulk, Bloodbowl, and so on), Star Wars, Warmachine and Hordes, and pretty much every Kickstarter and board game under the sun.

And we do so at the lowest rates on Earth (we’ve checked).

Exploring Space Marines we’ve painted: From Loyalist Chapters to Chaos Legions

Over the years at PaintedFigs, we’ve had the opportunity to paint a wide range of Space Marine factions, spanning both Loyalists and Chaos Legions. Each faction has its own distinctive look and feel, and we’ve worked hard to reflect that in our painting. From the proud colors of the Ultramarines to the dark, twisted schemes of the Chaos Legions, we try to approach each project with care and attention to detail, aiming to capture the essence of what makes each faction unique.

When we think about the Space Marine factions we’ve worked on, it’s clear that there’s more to them than just their color schemes. Every chapter and legion tells a story—whether it’s of loyalty to the Imperium or rebellion against it. Our role is to bring those stories to life through paint. Loyalist factions like the Raven Guard or the Blood Angels come with a sense of duty and history, while Chaos factions like the Word Bearers or the Death Guard challenge us to capture their darker, more chaotic nature.

In this article, we’re going to take a look at some of the factions we’ve had the pleasure of painting, sharing what makes each one special from a painter’s perspective. We’ve had the opportunity to do a lot of Space Marine armies throughout the years. Whether you’re looking to paint up a Loyalist chapter or bring some Chaos to the battlefield, we’re here to share what we’ve learned along the way.

At the end of the day, our goal is simple: to help you get the best possible version of your army on the table. We know that your minis represent more than just plastic and paint—they’re part of the stories you want to tell, the battles you want to fight. And if we can play a small part in making those stories a reality, we’re happy to do so.

A Massive Ultramarine Army - 163 Miniatures

One of the most memorable commissions we've had the privilege of working on was an Ultramarine army of truly impressive size. This wasn’t just any Ultramarine project—it was the largest we’ve ever tackled at PaintedFigs, and it pushed us in ways we hadn’t anticipated. The client was meticulous, with a clear vision for how every detail should be handled. From the paint shades to the placement of decals on each and every unit, the instructions were comprehensive and detailed. This was no small undertaking, but the results we feel were more than worth the effort.

The army included multiple squads of Tactical Marines, Devastators, Terminators, Dreadnoughts, vehicles like Rhinos and Land Raiders, and several high-ranking characters like Marneus Calgar himself. Every unit had a role to play in this grand force, and each had to be painted with the utmost care to ensure consistency and precision across the entire army. With so many units to cover, the key was to stay organized and take things step by step, without letting the sheer size of the project become overwhelming.

What made this commission challenging was the client's attention to detail. From the very start, it was clear they had a strong vision for their Ultramarine army, and they weren’t afraid to communicate it. They provided us with references, down to the exact placement of chapter symbols, squad markings, and battle honors on each model. Decals had to be applied with precision, and any slight variation from the specifications would have been noticeable. While this level of detail required an extra layer of care and planning, we knew it was essential to meet the client’s expectations.

Throughout the process, we found ourselves taking on a variety of challenges. The sheer number of models alone was enough to make this project stand out, but it was the complexity of the instructions that really set it apart. Each unit had its own set of specific guidelines, meaning that no two squads were alike. This difference mainly took place through differing decals and marks. It wasn’t just about painting—they wanted their army to tell a story through every unit, every detail, and every mark of honor.

The decals, in particular, were a delicate task. Working on a large army means working with a lot of decals, and in this case, the placement of each one had to be precise. Every squad had their own unique badges and identifiers, and the client had requested that we go the extra mile in making sure they were aligned. It required a steady hand and a lot of patience, but as the army began to come together, the decals added a layer of authenticity that brought the Ultramarines to life. Each unit felt cohesive yet unique, contributing to the overall narrative of the army.

Despite the challenges, this project was an incredibly rewarding experience for our team. We had to dig deep into our skills, learning new techniques along the way and refining our process to handle the scale and level of detail required. This wasn’t a project we could do in our sleep. Every step of the way, we made sure to review our progress with the client, ensuring that their vision was coming to life as they had imagined.

One of the most satisfying moments of the entire project came when we were able to deliver the completed army to the client. Reading their reaction made all the hard work worth it. Their meticulous feedback throughout the project had set high expectations, and meeting those expectations was a huge achievement for our team. The army wasn’t just a collection of models anymore—it had become a unified force, ready to take on the battlefields of the 41st millennium.

Looking back on this Ultramarine commission, it’s easy to see why it stands out as one of the most significant projects we've taken on. It pushed us to our limits, challenged our abilities, and required a level of coordination and communication that we don’t often encounter. But that’s the nature of this work—every project is a learning experience, and every client brings something new to the table.

At the end of the day, we’re proud of the work we did for this army. It's satisfying to know that we were able to deliver a high-quality product that met the exacting standards of our client. It’s commissions like these that remind us why we do what we do—helping players bring their armies to life, one detail at a time, no matter the scale of the challenge.

A Chaos Army of Incredible Scale - 234 Miniatures

After completing the massive Ultramarine army, we were approached by the same client with another exciting commission: a Word Bearer Chaos Space Marine army of equally impressive scale. Given the attention to detail they had demonstrated with their Ultramarines, we knew this Chaos project would be just as meticulous—and we weren’t wrong. The client once again brought a high level of care and concern to how every aspect of this army should be handled, from the color schemes to the placement of symbols and decals on each model. This order proved to be just as challenging as the Ultramarines, but also just as rewarding.

The Chaos army was vast, filled with a variety of units that reflected the dark and twisted nature of the Chaos Legions. From warped Daemon Engines to corrupted Space Marines and even imposing Lords of Chaos, each model demanded a unique approach to bring out the sense of rebellion and decay that defines Chaos factions. The color palette for this project was drastically different from the clean, bright blues and golds of the Ultramarines. Instead, we worked with darker, more sinister tones—deep reds, blacks, and rusted metallics—along with vibrant, eerie highlights to emphasize the unnatural energy that these forces channel.

The client’s vision for this Chaos army was just as clear as it had been for the Ultramarines. They wanted each model to tell a story of corruption and rebellion, with symbols of their allegiance to the Dark Gods visible on every unit. This meant that, once again, we had to pay close attention to the placement of decals, ensuring that each squad’s allegiance was clearly marked. The client provided detailed instructions, specifying where certain symbols of Chaos should go—whether they were the eight-pointed star of Chaos Undivided or the specific iconography of the Traitor Legions like the World Eaters and the Death Guard.

The decals themselves were a challenge. Just as with the Ultramarines, precision was key. The twisted, chaotic designs meant that placement was more than just aligning them perfectly—it was about making sure they felt integrated into the models. Chaos decals often involve intricate, warped patterns that had to blend into the weathered, battle-worn look of the army. We spent a lot of time making sure that these symbols didn’t just look placed on, but rather like they had become part of the armor and skin of the models, as though they had been branded by the Dark Gods themselves.

Painting the Chaos army also posed its own unique challenges. The Ultramarines had been all about clean lines and bright colors, whereas Chaos required a more organic, chaotic approach. We experimented with blending techniques to give the models a more “corrupted” look, using layering and washes to create a sense of decay and wear. The use of darker tones, combined with vibrant, unnatural highlights, helped bring the models to life, capturing that menacing aura that defines Chaos forces.

Despite the differences between the Ultramarine and Chaos armies, there was a similar level of care and precision required for both projects. The client had high expectations, and we knew from our previous experience with them that meeting those expectations would require patience and meticulous attention to detail. Each unit, whether a hulking Chaos Terminator or a twisted Daemon, had its own set of specific instructions, and we approached each with the same level of care we had brought to the Ultramarines.

Looking back, this Chaos army commission stands out not just because of its scale, but because of the creative challenges it posed. It pushed us to explore new techniques and approaches, especially in terms of blending, weathering, and making sure the army felt cohesive while still embracing the chaotic, fragmented nature of Chaos forces. Like the Ultramarines, it was a project that tested our skills, but in the end, it was worth every moment of effort.

For us at PaintedFigs, this Chaos army was another opportunity to bring a client's vision to life, helping them create a force that not only looks incredible on the tabletop but also captures the essence of the Warhammer 40k universe. It’s projects like these that remind us how much we enjoy the challenge of working on large-scale commissions, no matter how chaotic they may be.

Black Templars in All Their Glory - 81 Miniatures

One of the more recent commissions we worked on was a Black Templars Space Marine army of such a size that we had to split the project into two separate phases. The client came to us with a very clear vision for how they wanted their army built and painted. Right from the start, we knew this was going to be another amazing project, with a lot of attention to detail. This also includes the weapon configurations and the overall appearance of the figures as well.

What stood out to us the most was the level of preparation the client had put into this commission. They provided us with a detailed document outlining exactly how they wanted each figure constructed—down to the specific weapon loadouts and poses for each unit. It’s not uncommon for clients to request specific builds, but the precision and clarity in this case were impressive. Not only that, but the client requested photos after the building process to double-check that everything had been done according to their specifications. This level of involvement was something we admired—it was clear they had a deep connection to the project and a vision they wanted to see realized down to the smallest detail.

We wanted to ensure the client was completely satisfied, so after we finished building the models according to their instructions, we sent over the requested photos. Seeing the models in this pre-paint stage allowed the client to verify that everything was in order before we moved on to the painting process. It also gave us an extra level of reassurance that we were on the right track, and the client’s feedback at this stage was crucial for ensuring that everything was progressing smoothly.

One part of this process that we found particularly rewarding was creating a sample model for the client before diving into the full army paint job. This sample allowed us to nail down the details of the paint scheme and gave the client a chance to make any final adjustments before we proceeded. The Black Templars have a striking and iconic color scheme—predominantly black armor with white and red accents—and the client wanted to stay true to that traditional look. However, after reviewing the sample, they did request one change to the color of the shoulder pads for certain models, which we were more than happy to accommodate.

Here’s what the client said after seeing the sample:

"The model looks great! There'll only be one change that I'd like with the shoulders that my build instructions will address. Basically on veterans, sergeants, and characters, the shoulder should be a black base with the cross being red. The red trim will stay for veterans as well, so the only change to the example model will be white --> black, Black cross --> red cross. The grime effect on the white background looks great and is exactly what I'm looking for with the rank and file of the army!"

This adjustment to the shoulder pads added a nice touch of character and distinction between the ranks, and it was a simple change that really enhanced the overall look of the army. The grime effect the client mentioned was another important element we incorporated, adding a weathered and battle-worn feel to the rank-and-file troops, which helped to emphasize the Black Templars’ relentless crusading nature.

With the sample approved and the final details clarified, we moved on to the full army. The Black Templars, known for their close-combat prowess and fanatical devotion to the Emperor, deserved a paint scheme that reflected their zeal. We stuck with the traditional black-and-white color palette, incorporating the red crosses and trim where needed, and made sure that each model had the gritty, battle-worn look that the client had requested. Each figure, from the rank-and-file Initiates to the towering Dreadnoughts and heroic HQ units, was painted with care to reflect the noble yet brutal nature of the chapter.

The result was an army that stayed true to the iconic look of the Black Templars while also incorporating those small, personalized touches that made it truly unique to the client. Seeing it all come together in the end was incredibly satisfying, especially knowing that we had worked so closely with the client to ensure every detail was just right. This commission, like the Ultramarines and Chaos projects before it, was a reminder of how rewarding it can be to take on large-scale, complex orders—especially when the client’s vision is so clearly defined.

It was quite the experience working on this client’s miniatures. With his claim that there’s more Black Templars to come, we are eager to see how big this army will grow with each passing order. Whether it’s a traditional scheme like the Black Templars or something entirely unique, we’re always eager to take on new challenges and help bring our clients’ visions to life.

The Emperor’s Children: Post-Heresy Brilliance in Full Display

One of the more striking commissions we've worked on was an Emperor’s Children army, painted in their Post-Heresy color scheme. Unlike some of the more rigid and detailed commissions we receive, this client was flexible with their instructions. They provided a collection of reference art, primarily drawing from Warhammer 40k’s established aesthetic, but they gave us the creative freedom to make decisions regarding the build and painting process.

The Emperor’s Children, as followers of Slaanesh, are known for their indulgence in excess, both in terms of their battlefield tactics and their visual style. The Post-Heresy color scheme reflects this perfectly, with its bold purples and silvers. The client wanted to stay true to this palette, emphasizing the traditional look of the Emperor’s Children without deviating too far into custom territory. However, they weren’t overly specific about details like weapon loadouts or poses, which gave us room to explore the models creatively while ensuring the core visual style was maintained.

Building the army itself was a smooth process. The client allowed us to make decisions about how the units were configured, which is always a great opportunity for us to ensure each figure looks dynamic and engaging. While some clients are very particular about exact poses and weapon configurations, this one was happy to leave those choices up to us, as long as the end result captured the essence of the Emperor’s Children. Despite the creative freedom, they did request photos after the building process to ensure everything was on track, which we gladly provided. This allowed the client to review the models before we began painting, giving them peace of mind that everything was progressing as expected.

The painting process was where the project really came to life. Sticking closely to the established Emperor’s Children color scheme, we worked with a palette dominated by rich purples and shimmering silvers. The deep, royal purple armor of the Emperor’s Children is iconic, and it was important to get the tones just right. We used careful blending techniques to give the armor a polished, almost luxurious appearance, contrasting nicely with the silver details that adorned the figures. Black and silver accents were used to break up the brighter colors and add depth to the overall look.

The client’s reference art gave us a good idea of what they were looking for, but they also encouraged us to take some liberties with smaller details. For example, while we stayed true to the established scheme, we added subtle variations in shading and highlights to give the army a sense of depth and movement. The models were also given a slightly weathered look to reflect their battle-hardened nature, without going overboard on grime or damage. This balance between a clean, regal appearance and a worn, battlefield-ready aesthetic was something the client was very happy with.

One of the key challenges with any Emperor’s Children project is ensuring the models don’t become too overwhelming visually. The bright colors and bold designs can easily dominate if not handled carefully, so we focused on keeping the details crisp without overloading the models with too much flair. By focusing on the natural contrast between the purple and silver, we managed to create a cohesive look that was striking without feeling too chaotic.

In the end, the client was very pleased with how the project turned out. The flexibility they allowed us made the process enjoyable and gave us the opportunity to bring their vision to life while adding our own touch. Working on an Emperor’s Children army, with its iconic color scheme and rich history in Warhammer 40k, is always a rewarding experience, and this project was no exception. It was a great reminder of how a balance between client input and creative freedom can lead to a fantastic result.

For anyone considering a Chaos faction for their next Warhammer 40k army, the Emperor’s Children offer a chance to work with a visually stunning and narratively rich palette. Whether you're sticking to Games Workshop’s established designs or adding your own twist, the possibilities with this faction are nearly endless, and we’re always excited to see what clients bring to us next.

Painting the Wolfspear: A Chapter Born from the Space Wolves

One of our more detailed projects involved painting a Wolfspear army—a relatively new successor chapter of the Space Wolves. The client came to us with a clear idea of what they wanted, but instead of providing a long list of instructions, they handed us an issue of White Dwarf magazine, which featured an entire section dedicated to how the Wolfspear Space Marines are painted. The article included everything from color schemes to weathering techniques, along with a decal sheet specifically designed for this chapter. Our task was to use the article as a guide to bring the Wolfspear to life on the tabletop.

The Wolfspear is a successor chapter that retains much of the feral, wolf-like nature of the Space Wolves, but with a distinct color scheme and personality. Their armor is primarily grey with black and white details, which gives them a stealthy, tactical appearance. The client specifically requested that we follow the painting guide in the magazine to the letter, ensuring that the models stayed true to the established look of this chapter. They wanted their army to reflect the lore and design that Games Workshop had laid out for the Wolfspear, which made the White Dwarf article an invaluable resource for us throughout the process.

One of the key elements of this project was the use of decals. The magazine issue provided a decal sheet for the Wolfspear, which we applied to various units. These decals helped define the chapter markings and other insignias, such as the chapter symbol and tactical squad identifiers. However, as the project went on, it became clear that the decals provided weren’t quite enough to cover the entire army. Rather than cut corners or leave any models unfinished, we decided to take matters into our own hands. Using the decals from the magazine as a template, we printed additional decals ourselves to make sure every unit was properly marked and consistent with the Wolfspear theme.

While this required a bit of extra effort, we knew it was important to meet the client’s expectations. They had trusted us to stay true to the Wolfspear design, and cutting back on the decals would have diminished the overall impact of the army. By going the extra mile and printing more, we were able to maintain the high standard of quality the client was looking for, and ensure that every model looked cohesive and true to the chapter.

The painting process itself followed the guide closely. The Wolfspear have a muted, tactical color scheme, which meant a lot of focus on clean lines and subtle highlights. We paid careful attention to the black and white details, making sure they contrasted well with the grey armor without overpowering it. The client didn’t request any major deviations from the established scheme, so we worked to keep everything in line with the official guide, adding some light weathering to give the models a battle-worn look. This helped emphasize their role as a more tactical, stealth-oriented chapter compared to their parent chapter, the Space Wolves.

The project wasn’t without its challenges, but those challenges were what made the process so rewarding. The client was clear in their expectations, but flexible enough to allow us to find solutions—like printing the extra decals—when necessary. This kind of collaboration always makes for a smoother experience, and the result was an army that reflected the client’s vision, as well as the established lore of the Wolfspear chapter.

In the end, the client was pleased with the result, especially the attention to detail we had given to ensure the decals matched the official design. For us, it was a reminder of how important it is to adapt and find solutions when working on armies that have specific, lore-based designs like the Wolfspear.

Whether it’s a project based on classic Space Marines, a newer successor chapter like the Wolfspear, or even a completely custom faction, we’re always happy to work with clients to bring their armies to life. This Wolfspear commission was a great example of how even the most detailed and specific requests can be met with the right tools, patience, and a bit of creativity. It’s commissions like this that remind us why we love what we do.

Thousand Sons: Bringing Magnus and His Legion to Life

This particular project marked the first time we worked with a new client who was looking to commission a Thousand Sons army. From the very beginning, it was clear that they wanted to stay faithful to the official colors of the Thousand Sons, the infamous legion of sorcerers that serves Tzeentch, the Chaos God of change. The vibrant blue and gold color scheme of the Thousand Sons is iconic, and the client wanted to ensure that every model, from the rank-and-file Rubric Marines to the towering Magnus the Red, stayed true to Games Workshop’s official vision.

Magnus the Red, the Primarch of the Thousand Sons, was the centerpiece of this order. This massive figure, with its dynamic pose and intricate details, stood out as the star of the entire army. The client wanted Magnus to be painted with a level of care and attention that would make him truly stand out on the battlefield, while still being in line with the established lore and colors of Warhammer 40k. We knew that the success of this project hinged on getting Magnus just right, and we took the time to ensure every detail was handled carefully.

The challenge with painting Magnus, and the Thousand Sons in general, is balancing the vivid colors with the intricate details. Magnus himself features a lot of contrasts, from the fiery red of his skin to the deep blues of his armor and the shining golds of his embellishments. To stay true to the official scheme, we made sure that the blues were rich and deep, contrasting beautifully with the gold trim. Magnus’s massive wings were another focal point—carefully blending the colors to give them a dynamic, almost ethereal look was essential to capturing his larger-than-life presence.

The client had a clear idea of what they wanted, but they also trusted us to bring our own expertise into the mix. While they were firm about staying true to the official Thousand Sons colors, they gave us some room to enhance certain elements. For Magnus, we focused on shading and highlights to bring out the depth in his muscular form and armor, while making sure the figure looked cohesive with the rest of the army. We avoided any excessive custom details, instead leaning into the natural grandeur of the model and letting the official design do most of the talking.

For the rest of the army, we followed the same approach. The Thousand Sons are known for their Rubric Marines—soulless warriors encased in their distinctive blue and gold armor. These units needed to reflect the same attention to detail as Magnus, ensuring that the army looked cohesive while still allowing Magnus to stand out as the central figure. The vibrant blue armor of the Rubric Marines, paired with their ornate gold details, provided a lot of opportunity for crisp, clean painting, with the goal of making them look as though they had stepped straight out of a Games Workshop showcase.

Despite the high level of detail required for this project, it was a smooth process from start to finish. The client was clear in their vision, and they trusted us to handle the execution. That trust gave us the space to focus on what we do best—delivering high-quality painting that stays true to the lore while adding just enough flair to make the army feel unique.

The end result was a Thousand Sons army that remained faithful to the official color scheme while still feeling dynamic and visually striking. Magnus the Red, with his imposing presence, stood as the centerpiece of the army, commanding attention both on and off the battlefield. The client was pleased with how the project turned out, especially with the way Magnus was handled, which is always gratifying for us as painters.

Working on armies like the Thousand Sons, where color and detail are so integral to the faction’s identity, is always a rewarding experience. It reminds us of how important it is to balance faithfulness to the source material with the need to make each model stand out. Whether it's a new client or someone we've worked with for years, we always strive to bring their vision to life in a way that stays true to Warhammer 40k’s rich lore while adding our own touch.

Crafting a Warhammer 40k army can be pretty satisfying. Whether it’s the unwavering loyalty of the Ultramarines, the chaotic brilliance of the Emperor’s Children, or the mysterious might of the Thousand Sons, each army tells a unique story. Staying true to the iconic colors and designs, while capturing the spirit of the game, is key to making these armies stand out on the battlefield.

From meticulous attention to decals on a Wolfspear Space Wolves force to recreating the grandeur of Magnus the Red in a Thousand Sons army, each project carries its own set of challenges and rewards. Staying true to the established color schemes and lore—whether loyalist or chaos factions—ensures that the models not only look cohesive but also feel authentic to the Warhammer 40k universe. The careful combination of official guidelines and personalized details results in armies that are visually striking and lore-accurate, without compromising the player’s vision.

From Warhammer 40k Painting Commissions to Custom Warhammer 40k Models and Unique Miniature Commissions, the world of Warhammer offers endless possibilities for crafting armies that are both beautiful and battle-ready. Each project is a journey, from selecting the color palette to ensuring the right decals and finishes are applied. Whether it's loyalist chapters like the Ultramarines or the corrupted ranks of the Thousand Sons, the process of building a Warhammer army is a rewarding and creative endeavor.

When working on Custom Warhammer 40k Models and Terrain, staying true to Games Workshop’s vision while embracing personal touches allows each army to stand out as a unique force. Every completed commission is a testament to the balance between official lore and individual creativity, ensuring the models are both faithful to their origins and reflective of the player’s personal style.

Different Ways We’ve Painted Tyranids Over the Years

Tyranids are one of the most iconic factions in Warhammer 40k, a race of terrifying, ever-evolving alien creatures that swarm across the galaxy, consuming everything in their path. From the tabletop to the painting table, Tyranids offer players a unique opportunity to flex their creativity. Whether you're working on a Tyranid Hive Fleet for a large-scale army or just adding a few custom-painted miniatures to your collection, this faction’s endless adaptability makes it a painter’s dream.

Tyranid players often go beyond the classic schemes like Hive Fleet Leviathan’s bone-white and purple, Hive Fleet Kraken’s red and bone, or Hive Fleet Behemoth’s deep blue and red. The freedom to paint Tyranids has led to some unique creations, as players craft their own "head-canon" to justify their faction’s appearance. This freedom is part of what makes Tyranids such a fun faction to paint—their very nature allows for almost any color scheme to fit into the lore.

At PaintedFigs, we've had the privilege of bringing numerous Tyranid armies to life over the years, each with its own distinctive look. From officially recognized schemes to the custom creations, we’ve seen it all. In this article, we’ll walk you through some of our favorite Tyranid painting projects and share a few highlights from over the years.

Hive Fleet Leviathan: A Classic

This Tyranid commission had us painting an entire army of Hive Fleet Leviathan models, all in line with the official Games Workshop box. The client came to us with a clear request: they wanted their entire Tyranid force painted exactly as the models were presented in the Warhammer 40k Leviathan box set. This meant following the established scheme of bone-white armor plates and rich purple carapaces, which has become an iconic look for this terrifying faction.

While the Leviathan color scheme may be one of the more common and recognizable across the Warhammer community, it’s no less striking for its popularity. The contrast between the pale bone exoskeleton and the dark purple, almost black, carapace provides a vivid sense of danger and otherworldliness—perfect for an army designed to devour entire planets. The addition of sharp red accents on the claws and tendrils gives these models an extra edge, further cementing their menacing appearance on the battlefield.

The project involved painting every single miniature in the Leviathan box, from the smaller Termagants and Hormagaunts to the massive, imposing Tyranid Warriors and Carnifexes. Each model required careful attention to detail, particularly with the armor. The client made it clear they wanted the models to look as close to the box art as possible, so we took great care to replicate the exact hues and effects that make this scheme visually compelling.

As a team, we’ve painted many Tyranid armies over the years, but this project is our first time working with the then-newly released Tyranid sculpts from the Games Workshop Leviathan set. The new sculpts bring so much more detail and dynamism to the Tyranid models, and getting to work on them was a fun experience for us all. The Carnifex Screamer-Killer, with its hulking mass and brutal claws, felt even more imposing with the new design improvements.

While we were following an established paint scheme, it still felt like we were doing something new because of these updated sculpts. There’s always a bit of magic in working on fresh models. The extra detail allowed us to get creative with the shading and highlighting, making the Leviathan scheme come to life in a way that was both faithful to the source and full of depth.

It’s always a pleasure to bring a client’s vision to life. The result was a striking Leviathan army that stood out on the tabletop, and we were happy to know the client was pleased with the final product. It’s always rewarding when we can match expectations, especially when those expectations involve replicating a well-loved scheme like Leviathan. 

We’ve had the opportunity to work on many Tyranid armies over the years, but this Hive Fleet Leviathan project remains one of our favorites. The combination of new sculpts and classic colors made it a joy to work on, and it’s always a pleasure to see these iconic models come to life, ready to swarm the battlefield in all their bone and purple glory.

Tyranids in the “Color of Madness”: A Darkest Dungeon-Inspired Scheme

This Tyranid commission involved a unique paint scheme inspired by the expansion The Color of Madness from the popular PC game Darkest Dungeon. This project was special for several reasons, not least because it departed from the more traditional Tyranid color schemes like Hive Fleet Leviathan or Kraken. The client wanted something distinct and haunting, a desaturated purple base with deep black shading and vibrant, glowing blue highlights in the recesses of the models. We were thrilled to take on this challenge, because the order was for Exhibition Quality, meaning the goal was to achieve a striking effect on the Tyranid figures.

The scheme itself was centered around creating a sense of eerie desolation. The desaturated purple gave the Tyranids a worn appearance, far removed from the more naturalistic schemes we often see in Tyranid armies. To enhance this, we used black shading to deepen the shadows across the model’s carapaces and exoskeletons, making the figures appear as if they were creeping out of some dark abyss. This heavy shading gave the Tyranids a sense of foreboding, fitting the dark, Lovecraftian atmosphere of The Color of Madness. The stark contrast between the muted purples and blacks provided a perfect foundation for the final element of the scheme: the glowing blue accents.

The glowing blue-green was perhaps the most distinctive feature of the entire project. The client requested that we incorporate bright, almost ethereal blues into the recesses of the models. This includes around the eyes, mouths, and bioweapon elements. This color was meant to evoke the unnatural, eldritch energy seen in Darkest Dungeon’s Color of Madness expansion, where strange crystalline structures and cosmic horrors dominate the aesthetic. To achieve this effect, we used a series of techniques, gradually building up the glowing blue in layers to give it a radiant quality. When viewed on the tabletop or in a display case, the models almost seem to pulse with energy, as if they were imbued with some alien power.

What made this project exciting was the level of precision required. From the smooth transitions between the desaturated purples and blacks to the blending of the glowing blue highlights, each step required attention to detail. This wasn’t just a tabletop-ready army; it was a collection designed to show the models as true pieces of art, meant to be displayed and admired up close. With steps we were able to achieve the look the client envisioned: figures that seem to glow from within.

This project also gave us the chance to explore the versatility of the Tyranid sculpts. The alien, organic nature of the Tyranid models is perfect for this more abstract and atmospheric color scheme. The flowing lines and textured surfaces of the figures provided the perfect canvas for the interplay between dark shadows and vibrant blue glows. The Tyranid Warriors, for example, with their long limbs and sharp features, looked menacing in this scheme, their dark forms lit up by the eerie blue glow in the crevices of their armor and weapons. The Carnifex, with its hulking form and massive claws, became an imposing figure, as if it had emerged from the heart of the Darkest Dungeon itself.

The result was a Tyranid army unlike any other we’ve painted. This scheme, inspired by The Color of Madness, perfectly captured the unnatural beauty that defines the Darkest Dungeon aesthetic. For us, it was a pleasure to bring such a creative vision to life. While most Tyranid armies we work on follow more traditional or established color patterns, this project reminded us of how flexible and imaginative the Warhammer 40k universe can be. The combination of desaturated purples, deep blacks, and glowing blue accents made these Tyranids a standout project, one that continues to draw attention whenever they’re showcased.

For anyone looking to push the limits of what Tyranid models can look like, this scheme offers endless possibilities. Whether you’re a fan of Games Workshop’s classic color schemes or want to explore something more atmospheric and abstract, Tyranids provide a perfect canvas for creativity—and we’re always excited to see where that creativity takes us.

Hive Fleet Kraken: A Balance of Quality and Precision

One of our more recent Tyranid projects involved the iconic Hive Fleet Kraken, known for its distinct red and bone color scheme. Hive Fleet Kraken has long been a fan-favorite among Tyranid players, with its striking combination of deep crimson and pale bone creating a visually impactful presence on the tabletop. When we were tasked with painting an entire Kraken army, the client requested a combination of Standard Quality for the majority of the force, with a special focus on the Screamer Killers, which were to be painted at Exhibition Quality. This blend of quality levels allowed us to prioritize both affordability and artistry, ensuring that the army looked fantastic while keeping key units eye-catching.

The Hive Fleet Kraken color scheme is one of the most recognizable across the Warhammer 40k universe, with its vibrant contrast between the red and bone armor plates. The rich, crimson red gives the Tyranid models a sense of aggression and bloodthirst, while the pale bone carapace adds an element of stark, organic realism. These colors combined create an almost predatory appearance, perfect for a fleet that is known for its relentless and fast attacks. The red tends to dominate the larger sections of the model, such as the limbs and back, while the bone color frames the edges and covers the underbelly, giving the models a nice balance of light and dark tones.

For the bulk of the army, we applied our Standard Quality painting approach. This involved focusing on achieving clean base coats, sharp contrasts, and effective highlights to bring out the key details of the models. Even at this quality level, we made sure to capture the essence of the Kraken color scheme, using careful shading to give depth to the red and bone armor. Standard Quality is a great option for those looking for a solid, tabletop-ready army without going into the higher price brackets, and we always make sure that even at this level, the models will turn heads at any Games Workshop event or local gaming table.

The real showstoppers in this order, however, were the Screamer Killers, which the client requested to be done in Exhibition Quality. These massive creatures are a staple of any Tyranid army, known for their monstrous size and ferocity. Painting these at Exhibition Quality gave us the opportunity to push the level of detail. We took extra care with the bone-colored carapace, adding multiple layers of highlights to create a smooth, natural gradient that emphasized the depth and texture of the model. The red sections were enhanced with edge highlighting, making them appear more dynamic and alive, as if the creatures were ready to burst into action at any moment.

The Exhibition Quality work on the Screamer Killers extended beyond just the typical armor and limbs. We focused on the faces and bioweapons, ensuring that every small detail, from the rows of teeth to the ridges on the exoskeleton, was crisp and clean. The glowing eyes were painted to give an impression of unnatural, alien intelligence, with a sharp, piercing look that draws attention. When combined with the stark contrast of the red and bone, the overall effect was a powerful presence on the battlefield.

While we were able to give the rest of the army a strong, cohesive look through the Standard Quality painting, the Screamer Killers took center stage. Their larger size and increased detail made them the focal point of the army, and the Exhibition Quality finish ensured that they would stand out, even among the horde of other Tyranid creatures. The combination of quality levels in this project allowed us to deliver an army that not only looked great as a whole but also had key elements that shone, bringing balance to both affordability and visual impact.

Painting a Hive Fleet Kraken force is always a challenge, given the iconic nature of the scheme and the wide range of miniatures involved. From the smaller Hormagaunts to the massive Carnifexes and Screamer Killers, every model plays a part in bringing the vision of this ravenous Tyranid fleet to life. This particular project was no different, allowing us to explore the versatility of the Kraken color scheme and highlight what can be achieved with a mix of Standard and Exhibition Quality painting.

Custom Tyranids: Blue, Red, and Bone in Showcase Quality

Painting Tyranids comes with the limitless freedom to explore custom color schemes. We had the opportunity to work on a unique Tyranid army with a bold combination of a blue carapace, red highlights, and a stark bone-colored body. This custom scheme was something the client had envisioned from the start, wanting a departure from the traditional Warhammer 40k Hive Fleets like Leviathan or Kraken. They were looking for something striking and personal. This order was commissioned at Showcase Quality, which allowed us to bring out the full potential of this daring color palette.

The first thing that stands out with this scheme is the blue carapace. Blue is not a typical choice for Tyranid armies, which tend to lean toward darker, more naturalistic tones, but this particular shade of deep blue gave the army an almost regal appearance. To keep the blue from being too overwhelming, we incorporated red highlights along the ridges and edges of the carapace, adding a sense of energy and movement to the models. This combination of blue and red created a dynamic effect, contrasting the coolness of the blue with the warmth of the red. The red highlights were placed with precision, emphasizing the Tyranid creatures' natural contours and making the armored plates appear even more intricate.

For the body, the client opted for a bright bone color. Bone is a challenging color to work with, but when done right, it can make a model look sharp and striking. In this case, the bone colored body served as the perfect counterpoint to the darker carapace, creating a high level of contrast that made each model stand out. The smoothness of the bone color required careful layering and blending to ensure there were no harsh transitions, keeping the look crisp and polished. The shading was done in subtle greys, giving the models depth without detracting from the clean, bright look the client wanted. The bone color also gave the army nice contrast, enhancing the overall otherworldly feel of the Tyranid models.

The Showcase Quality level of this project allowed us to add a layer of finesse and detail that elevated the models beyond standard tabletop quality. With Showcase Quality, every inch of the model receives special attention, from the smooth transitions in the shading to the precise placement of highlights. The red accents on the carapace were blended, and we added subtle edge highlighting to make the details pop. The blue sections were treated with the same level of care, ensuring that the carapace looked dynamic and alive under different lighting conditions.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of this project was working with the Tyranid sculpts themselves, which are rich in texture and organic shapes. The client’s color choices helped to bring out the intricate details on the larger creatures like the Tyranid Warriors and Hive Tyrants. The flowing, segmented armor plates of the carapace allowed for beautiful blends between the blue and red, while the large, smooth surfaces of the body let the bone color shine through as a central feature. This combination of colors gave the models a sense of fluidity and motion, as if they were in the process of evolution—perfect for the adaptable, ever-changing Tyranid species.

In terms of overall composition, the contrast between the dark, vibrant carapace and the stark bone colored body created a dramatic visual effect on the tabletop. The client was thrilled and we were proud! This project was a great reminder of how much flexibility Tyranid models offer in terms of color schemes. While Games Workshop has provided us with some fantastic official paint schemes, there’s something rewarding about working on a custom commission. Whether it’s Hive Fleets painted to match the box art or unique creations, Tyranids always offer a chance to explore new artistic possibilities. For us, it was a pleasure to push the boundaries of what’s possible with Tyranid painting, and we look forward to seeing more custom projects like this in the future.

Jungle Tyranids: Navin’s Weird Army of Classic, 3D Printed, and Proxy Miniatures Done to Exhibition Quality

The most unique Tyranid project we’ve done was Navin Weeraratne’s own Tyranid army. (No pressure at all when writing about the boss’s minis…) 

Navin wanted a theme that captured the essence of the jungle, a scheme that would make his Tyranids feel as though they had evolved in an alien rainforest. The entire army was painted at Exhibition Quality.

The color scheme revolved around vibrant, deep greens to give the Tyranids a natural camouflage look, as though they were native to a lush jungle world. The armor plates were painted in a rich, dark green, with lighter highlights that created a smooth transition across the carapaces. This range of greens, from forest hues to brighter, almost fluorescent accents, gave the army an organic feel. The models looked like they could be lurking in the underbrush, adapted to blend in with their surroundings.

One of the key elements of the project was the shading and blending, which allowed us to give the green carapaces a sense of depth and texture. We also used muted browns and warm earth tones to offset this, especially in the basing. 

What made this project stand out was the attention to detail afforded by the Exhibition Quality finish. Every element of the model received special care, from the smooth transitions between colors to the fine highlights that accentuated the Tyranids' sharp features. The larger creatures, such as the Classic Carnifex and Forgeworld Winged Hive Tyrant (without the wings), were fun to work on, as their broad surfaces allowed for more intricate shading and texture. Their bio-weapons, meanwhile, were painted with a slick, organic sheen, making them look as if they were dripping with venomous, living matter.

A unique feature of this army was the basing. To complement the jungle theme, we used real tea leaves to simulate fallen leaves and ground cover. This natural material gave the bases an earthy, textured feel that worked perfectly with the green and brown tones of the models. The tea leaves added an extra layer of immersion, making the Tyranids look as though they were advancing through the dense foliage of an alien jungle. Basing is often an underrated aspect of miniature painting, but for this project, it was essential in tying the whole army together (Navin is also nuts about basing). The use of tea leaves gave the models a sense of being part of their environment, enhancing the jungle aesthetic we were aiming for.

This job was a fun reminder of the creative freedom Tyranid models offer. Warhammer 40k is rich in established lore, but Tyranids allow painters to explore endless color and thematic possibilities. This jungle scheme was a perfect example of how a few custom details can turn these fearsome creatures into something unique.

Whether it’s recreating classic Hive Fleet color schemes or crafting something new like this jungle army, painting Tyranids is always a rewarding experience. The natural, organic feel of these models makes them a great canvas for creativity, and this project was no exception. 

Over the years, we’ve had the opportunity to work on a wide variety of Tyranid armies, each with its own unique character and style. From classic schemes like Hive Fleet Leviathan and Hive Fleet Kraken to custom, imaginative creations like the Color of Madness-inspired Tyranids and Navin Weeraratne’s jungle-themed army, the sheer versatility of Tyranid models continues to inspire us as painters. Each project allows for new challenges and creative opportunities, whether it’s replicating the exact look of Games Workshop box art or crafting something original.

What makes Tyranid painting so special is the flexibility these alien creatures provide. Their ever-evolving nature, both in the lore and on the painting desk, means that no two armies need to look alike. Whether you prefer to follow established color schemes or invent your own, Tyranids offer a blank canvas where imagination can run wild. We’ve enjoyed every moment of bringing these alien creatures to life, whether through Standard, Showcase, or Exhibition Quality painting. Each commission has its own story, and we’ve been fortunate to help our clients bring their visions to reality.

As we continue to paint Tyranid armies and explore new ways to push the boundaries of creativity, we’re reminded that, in the Warhammer 40k universe, there’s more to discover. No matter the scheme, no matter the fleet, Tyranids remain a fascinating and rewarding faction to work with. We can’t wait to see what future projects bring and what new Tyranid schemes will emerge from the imaginations of hobbyists and painters alike.

Genestealer Cultists with Cool Spectrum Tones

This was another fun job. We had to work with an existing, dark blue tone. The brief was to keep the same, evil sort of cooler tone and mood.

We added in purple and green. The tie it all together, a bit of bright red

The lights could have gone in many directions — bright blue, bright green, or yellow. Yellow of course worked well with the blue tone, and wherever you can sneak in all 3 primary colors, you do alright.

These were painted to Showcase quality. 

Shameless tags: miniature painting service, warhammer painting service, warhammer 40k painting service, miniature painting services, miniature painting commission, professional miniature painting, miniatures painting service

Paintedfigs is a miniature painting service. You can send us your figurines to paint, and we also have painted miniatures for sale. We paint mainly Games Workshop (Warhammer 40k, Warhammer Fantasy, Age of Sigmar, Necromunda, Space Hulk, Bloodbowl, and so on), Star Wars, Warmachine and Hordes, and pretty much every Kickstarter and board game under the sun.

And we do so at the lowest rates on Earth (we’ve checked).

Some Painted Chaos Space Marines, Cultists, and Accursed Cultists

I always felt Chaos Space Marines should be able to turn up with lots of maddened, baseline cultists. GW has given us plenty of nice cultist sculpts over the years. The more recent ones are no exception. These were painted to Showcase quality. 

Shameless tags: miniature painting service, warhammer painting service, warhammer 40k painting service, miniature painting services, miniature painting commission, professional miniature painting, miniatures painting service

Paintedfigs is a miniature painting service. You can send us your figurines to paint, and we also have painted miniatures for sale. We paint mainly Games Workshop (Warhammer 40k, Warhammer Fantasy, Age of Sigmar, Necromunda, Space Hulk, Bloodbowl, and so on), Star Wars, Warmachine and Hordes, and pretty much every Kickstarter and board game under the sun.

And we do so at the lowest rates on Earth (we’ve checked).

Adeptus Mechanicus: Painting the Longest Legs in Warhammer 40k

The Sydonian Skratos mini is a bit terrifying to work with because you fear it might snap somewhere inconvenient… It’s got quite the rifle though. We painted these along with a nice-sized force of Adeptus Mechanicus.

These were painted to a mix of quality levels.  

You might have wondered why such mad art leads to Ultramarines… why doesn’t it, instead, lead to more mad art?

A lot of other people have thought this, too. Not content to sit on their brushes, they used them instead to create the art style known as Blanchitsu.

Desaturation. A jaundiced palette. Warhammer Squalor. Here are some examples:

Shameless tags: miniature painting service, warhammer painting service, warhammer 40k painting service, miniature painting services, miniature painting commission, professional miniature painting, miniatures painting service

Paintedfigs is a miniature painting service. You can send us your figurines to paint, and we also have painted miniatures for sale. We paint mainly Games Workshop (Warhammer 40k, Warhammer Fantasy, Age of Sigmar, Necromunda, Space Hulk, Bloodbowl, and so on), Star Wars, Warmachine and Hordes, and pretty much every Kickstarter and board game under the sun.

And we do so at the lowest rates on Earth (we’ve checked).

Neon Genesis-Inspired Tau Armor

These came together nicely. I had no idea where the scheme was going till the helmets were painted. These were left unbased per the client’s request.

These were painted to Showcase with Commander Farsight at Exhibition quality. 

Shameless tags: miniature painting service, warhammer painting service, warhammer 40k painting service, miniature painting services, miniature painting commission, professional miniature painting, miniatures painting service

Paintedfigs is a miniature painting service. You can send us your figurines to paint, and we also have painted miniatures for sale. We paint mainly Games Workshop (Warhammer 40k, Warhammer Fantasy, Age of Sigmar, Necromunda, Space Hulk, Bloodbowl, and so on), Star Wars, Warmachine and Hordes, and pretty much every Kickstarter and board game under the sun.

And we do so at the lowest rates on Earth (we’ve checked).

Some Painted Votann Reinforcements

Always nice seeing Votann in the studio. These were reinforcements for a client's army.

These were painted to Showcase and Exhibition quality. 

You might have wondered why such mad art leads to Ultramarines… why doesn’t it, instead, lead to more mad art?

A lot of other people have thought this, too. Not content to sit on their brushes, they used them instead to create the art style known as Blanchitsu.

Desaturation. A jaundiced palette. Warhammer Squalor. Here are some examples:

Shameless tags: miniature painting service, warhammer painting service, warhammer 40k painting service, miniature painting services, miniature painting commission, professional miniature painting, miniatures painting service

Paintedfigs is a miniature painting service. You can send us your figurines to paint, and we also have painted miniatures for sale. We paint mainly Games Workshop (Warhammer 40k, Warhammer Fantasy, Age of Sigmar, Necromunda, Space Hulk, Bloodbowl, and so on), Star Wars, Warmachine and Hordes, and pretty much every Kickstarter and board game under the sun.

And we do so at the lowest rates on Earth (we’ve checked).

Necromunda: The Underhive Needs No Outside Validation

Was nice to do a big bunch of Necromunda after a while. Really like the Skalvian Explorator!

These were painted to Exhibition Quality.

Shameless tags: miniature painting service, warhammer painting service, warhammer 40k painting service, miniature painting services, miniature painting commission, professional miniature painting, miniatures painting service

Paintedfigs is a miniature painting service. You can send us your figurines to paint, and we also have painted miniatures for sale. We paint mainly Games Workshop (Warhammer 40k, Warhammer Fantasy, Age of Sigmar, Necromunda, Space Hulk, Bloodbowl, and so on), Star Wars, Warmachine and Hordes, and pretty much every Kickstarter and board game under the sun.

And we do so at the lowest rates on Earth (we’ve checked).

Terrain: Some Painted Fronteris Nachmund and Sector Mechanicus

Just some painted terrain. I’m happy that these are a bit less detailed than most GW terrain kits. Detail is nice, but I feel its counterproductive when terrain becomes too much work when people would rather focus their attention on their armies.

These were painted to Standard Quality.

You might have wondered why such mad art leads to Ultramarines… why doesn’t it, instead, lead to more mad art?

A lot of other people have thought this, too. Not content to sit on their brushes, they used them instead to create the art style known as Blanchitsu.

Desaturation. A jaundiced palette. Warhammer Squalor. Here are some examples:

Shameless tags: miniature painting service, warhammer painting service, warhammer 40k painting service, miniature painting services, miniature painting commission, professional miniature painting, miniatures painting service

Paintedfigs is a miniature painting service. You can send us your figurines to paint, and we also have painted miniatures for sale. We paint mainly Games Workshop (Warhammer 40k, Warhammer Fantasy, Age of Sigmar, Necromunda, Space Hulk, Bloodbowl, and so on), Star Wars, Warmachine and Hordes, and pretty much every Kickstarter and board game under the sun.

And we do so at the lowest rates on Earth (we’ve checked).

40k: We Painted Too Much Tau and Kroot

We had the good fortune to be sent this rather large Tau and Kroot force to work on. I quite like all the blue, and mix of heavy armor and exo suits. What stood out in this force the most for me were the Stingwings and the large number of Kroot - enough for an army in their own right.

I think we’ve only done Stingwings once or twice before, and that’s in 19 years of painting. That said, 19 years of painting has taught me how little I remember of what we’ve painted…

These were painted to Showcase and Exhibition Quality.

Shameless tags: miniature painting service, warhammer painting service, warhammer 40k painting service, miniature painting services, miniature painting commission, professional miniature painting, miniatures painting service

Paintedfigs is a miniature painting service. You can send us your figurines to paint, and we also have painted miniatures for sale. We paint mainly Games Workshop (Warhammer 40k, Warhammer Fantasy, Age of Sigmar, Necromunda, Space Hulk, Bloodbowl, and so on), Star Wars, Warmachine and Hordes, and pretty much every Kickstarter and board game under the sun.

And we do so at the lowest rates on Earth (we’ve checked).

40k: We Painted Too Much Death Korps of Krieg

I remember back in the day how Forgeworld had a field in their checkout cart where you could tell them what mini you’d most like to see them make. Each time, I would always write “Greatcoat Imperial Guard.”

Then, we got them; the Death Korps of Krieg. It got people excited in a way the Elysians didn’t quite, and even the Blanche-inspired Vostroyans did. Over the years, we’ve seen a fair number of them.

Then this army came in. There’s minis in this that I didn’t even know existed. Below are shots of the whole force on a 4x8 foot table. Below those is a second gallery with close ups of each unit type.

This entire army was painted to Exhibition Quality.

You might have wondered why such mad art leads to Ultramarines… why doesn’t it, instead, lead to more mad art?

A lot of other people have thought this, too. Not content to sit on their brushes, they used them instead to create the art style known as Blanchitsu.

Desaturation. A jaundiced palette. Warhammer Squalor. Here are some examples:

Shameless tags: miniature painting service, warhammer painting service, warhammer 40k painting service, miniature painting services, miniature painting commission, professional miniature painting, miniatures painting service

Paintedfigs is a miniature painting service. You can send us your figurines to paint, and we also have painted miniatures for sale. We paint mainly Games Workshop (Warhammer 40k, Warhammer Fantasy, Age of Sigmar, Necromunda, Space Hulk, Bloodbowl, and so on), Star Wars, Warmachine and Hordes, and pretty much every Kickstarter and board game under the sun.

And we do so at the lowest rates on Earth (we’ve checked).

40k: Painting a Blanchitsu-Style Warband

We all have an artist, scientist, or engineer we can’t stop talking about if someone makes the mistake of prompting us. Tesla. Lovcraft. Marcus Aurelius (I have friends who can’t stop talking about Marcus Aurelius). For me, the person I’m most inspired by these days is John Blanche. His art, and even more than that, his approach to art and lore-building.

Blanche’s 40k art is particularly mad. Here are some examples of his work:

You might have wondered why such mad art leads to Ultramarines… why doesn’t it, instead, lead to more mad art?

A lot of other people have thought this, too. Not content to sit on their brushes, they used them instead to create the art style known as Blanchitsu.

Desaturation. A jaundiced palette. Warhammer Squalor. Here are some examples:

Spyglass Asylum.jpg

Daniel Gutl PuttyAndPaint.jpg

Wargamingpastor DeathzapCoUK.jpg

Nicky Grillet.jpg

holycorpse1.7.jpg

Picture Credits: DeathZap.Co.Uk , SpyGlassAsylum.blogspot.com , PuttyAndPaint.com , and the incredible Nicky Grillet at NickyGrillet.com .

Now, you can imagine we don’t get a lot of requests to paint this way. We have no pictures like this on our site to invite this sort of work. GW does nothing to invite it either; its official art shows clean, clear painting depicting miniatures as realistically as possible.

So naturally, I had have it done on my own minis. Below are shots of an Inquisition warband done in a Blanchitsu style. It’s a mix old and new minis (1st edition Chaos Obliterators as servitors. New Sisters of Battle Arcoflagellants). Also, GW and non-GW figures - three are from Battle for Antares.

They’re so different from what we normally do, I feel like I’m looking at an art crime. I utterly love them.

These were done, as far as that makes sense given the art style, to Exhibition Quality.

Shameless tags: miniature painting service, warhammer painting service, warhammer 40k painting service, miniature painting services, miniature painting commission, professional miniature painting, miniatures painting service

Paintedfigs is a miniature painting service. You can send us your figurines to paint, and we also have painted miniatures for sale. We paint mainly Games Workshop (Warhammer 40k, Warhammer Fantasy, Age of Sigmar, Necromunda, Space Hulk, Bloodbowl, and so on), Star Wars, Warmachine and Hordes, and pretty much every Kickstarter and board game under the sun.

And we do so at the lowest rates on Earth (we’ve checked).

40k Kill Teams: Some Black, Black Ops Kasrkins

These were a gift I did for a friend. He’s always been a strong supporter of the studio, especially in the beginning when were nobodies just trying to keep the lights on for another month.

We play a lot of One Page Rules Firefight in the studio these days (it’s like Kill Team, but much simpler to get into). It’s become the heart of a little wargaming community that’s sprung up around us.

If you ever wonder what the quality of painting looks like at our studio games, here you go :) .

These were done to Exhibition Quality.

Shameless tags: miniature painting service, warhammer painting service, warhammer 40k painting service, miniature painting services, miniature painting commission, professional miniature painting, miniatures painting service

Paintedfigs is a miniature painting service. You can send us your figurines to paint, and we also have painted miniatures for sale. We paint mainly Games Workshop (Warhammer 40k, Warhammer Fantasy, Age of Sigmar, Necromunda, Space Hulk, Bloodbowl, and so on), Star Wars, Warmachine and Hordes, and pretty much every Kickstarter and board game under the sun.

And we do so at the lowest rates on Earth (we’ve checked).

40k Kill Teams: Is that a Kroot rifle or are you happy to see me?

Got to do a Kroot Kill Team this month. The Kroot are fantastic and I’m glad they’re finally getting themselves a practical army. Not just some footnotes in Chapter Approved and some resin kits.

Can’t wait till a full army of these turns up in the building.

These were done to Exhibition Quality.

Shameless tags: miniature painting service, warhammer painting service, warhammer 40k painting service, miniature painting services, miniature painting commission, professional miniature painting, miniatures painting service

Paintedfigs is a miniature painting service. You can send us your figurines to paint, and we also have painted miniatures for sale. We paint mainly Games Workshop (Warhammer 40k, Warhammer Fantasy, Age of Sigmar, Necromunda, Space Hulk, Bloodbowl, and so on), Star Wars, Warmachine and Hordes, and pretty much every Kickstarter and board game under the sun.

And we do so at the lowest rates on Earth (we’ve checked).

40k: Pink Battle Sisters!

Well, mainly white, but that just frames the pink. A little tricky (white always is), but the gold offset the pink and the purple, and the basing grounds the whole look. Nice to see Arco-flagellants in this army; I feel they’re underrepresented. These (even with pink) remind me of the terrifying artwork of them in the Inquisitor rulebook.

These were done to Exhibition Quality.

Shameless tags: miniature painting service, warhammer painting service, warhammer 40k painting service, miniature painting services, miniature painting commission, professional miniature painting, miniatures painting service

Paintedfigs is a miniature painting service. You can send us your figurines to paint, and we also have painted miniatures for sale. We paint mainly Games Workshop (Warhammer 40k, Warhammer Fantasy, Age of Sigmar, Necromunda, Space Hulk, Bloodbowl, and so on), Star Wars, Warmachine and Hordes, and pretty much every Kickstarter and board game under the sun.

And we do so at the lowest rates on Earth (we’ve checked).

Some Leagues of Votann Miniature Painting

Another month, another Votann order.

These were done to Showcase and Exhibition Quality.

Shameless tags: miniature painting service, warhammer painting service, warhammer 40k painting service, miniature painting services, miniature painting commission, professional miniature painting, miniatures painting service

Paintedfigs is a miniature painting service. You can send us your figurines to paint, and we also have painted miniatures for sale. We paint mainly Games Workshop (Warhammer 40k, Warhammer Fantasy, Age of Sigmar, Necromunda, Space Hulk, Bloodbowl, and so on), Star Wars, Warmachine and Hordes, and pretty much every Kickstarter and board game under the sun.

And we do so at the lowest rates on Earth (we’ve checked).