How to Paint Fantasy Models

Trim any excess pieces of plastic from the model that were left during the casting process, and using a razor blade.

Assemble the fantasy model, if required, using model glue. Many fantasy figures are sold assembled and do not require assembly.

Paint the entire model in white primer. Depending on the darkness of the figure's material, you may need to prime it twice. Primer is sold in spray cans or standard paint bottles. If priming you spray the primer, do so in light coats and from an 18-inch distance to avoid heavy drips on the figurine. Buy a primer that suits both metal and plastic.

Select the paints for your color scheme. The packaging in which the figurine was sold will likely suggest a color scheme, but, you can design your own color scheme or conduct research for inspiration. Historic figurines like soldiers in period uniforms call for more accuracy than do fantasy figurines, like wizards.

Paint the figurine's most prominent overall colors before moving to the other areas. For example, if you are painting a soldier, paint the soldier's uniform before painting any accents such as badges. Apply a second coat if necessary.

Paint the figurine's face and skin. Use a fine-tipped brush to paint accents such as eyes, eyebrows and lips. Depending on the size of your model, you may use a toothpick to paint precise areas.

Paint any accents and the figurine and add shading, if required. Shading requires painting dark areas that are shaded from the light, and is tricky if you are not an accomplished painter.

Paint the model's base. You may wish to simply paint the base in one solid color like black, or give it additional details such as grass or dirt.

Spray the entire figurine with clear coat to protect your paint job. Depending on how you wish the final product to appear, you can use a glossy or matte clear coat.