One of the most memorable and unique Warhammer 40k painting commissions we received was an order centered around the ever-mischievous Night Goblins and the chaotic Gloomspite Gitz. This project was not only exciting because of the characters involved, but it also marked one of the first times we incorporated 3D printing into our custom basing work. The result was a dynamic and immersive set of miniatures that reflected the unpredictable and wild nature of the Gloomspite Gitz, while elevating our craftsmanship to a new level.
When we first received this order, we knew it was going to be special. The client had a clear vision in mind—one that required attention to detail and a unique approach to the basing that would bring these miniatures to life. With Night Goblins and Gloomspite Gitz, the challenge was to create bases that reflected their chaotic, subterranean environment. The client requested custom basing that would not only complement the figures but also set the stage for their unruly nature.
Incorporating 3D Printing: A New Dimension in Custom Basing
What made this particular project stand out was the introduction of 3D printing into our workflow. While we’ve always prided ourselves on our ability to craft intricate bases using traditional methods, this was one of the first times we used 3D-printed elements to truly take the basing to the next level. For this commission, we designed and printed small, detailed mushrooms—an iconic element for the Gloomspite Gitz. These mushrooms, printed at varying sizes and textures, were scattered across the bases to give them an authentic, organic feel that resonated with the lore of the Gitz. This addition helped bring out the whimsical yet dangerous nature of the Night Goblins, as these mushrooms are often linked to their erratic behavior and connection to underground caves.
By using 3D printing, we were able to achieve a level of precision and consistency that hand-sculpting couldn’t provide. The mushrooms, along with other small details, fit seamlessly into the overall design of the base. This not only made the miniatures look more cohesive but also provided a glimpse into the chaotic underground world that the Night Goblins inhabit.
Elevating the Terrain: Custom Basing with Rocks and Dirt
While the 3D-printed mushrooms were the star of the show, the basing needed more elements to create a dynamic environment for these figures. To further enhance the terrain, we incorporated pieces of rock and dirt, strategically placed to elevate the composition. This added texture and depth to the bases, making each figure appear as though they were truly navigating treacherous underground caverns or emerging from the shadows of a rock-strewn battlefield.
The incorporation of real-world elements such as rocks and dirt gave the bases a tactile quality that contrasted beautifully with the colorful, exaggerated features of the Gloomspite Gitz. Our team carefully positioned each piece of rock and dirt to create a sense of movement and storytelling. Some bases featured slopes and raised areas, giving the impression that the Goblins were perched on rocky ledges, ready to pounce on their enemies. Others were scattered with rough terrain, suggesting the chaos and unpredictability that these characters embody.