How to Paint 3D Printed Terrain: A Comprehensive Guide for Hobby and Miniature Gamers
Introduction
Painting 3D printed terrain can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be. With the right knowledge and tools, you can transform your 3D printed pieces into stunning, detailed landscapes that enhance your gaming experience. This guide will walk you through the myths, do's and don'ts, and top tips for painting 3D printed terrain, ensuring you get the most out of your creations.
Dispelling the Myths: Painting 3D Printed Terrain
Myth: Painting 3D Printed Terrain is Harder and More Frustrating Than Regular Terrain
One of the most common myths in the hobby gaming community is that painting 3D printed terrain is harder and more frustrating than painting traditional terrain pieces. This simply isn’t true. While 3D printed terrain does have its unique characteristics, with proper preparation and technique, it can be just as satisfying and enjoyable to paint. In fact, many hobbyists find that the customization options available with 3D printing make the process even more rewarding.
Myth: 3D Printed Terrain Requires More Prep Work Than Cast Terrain
One of the biggest myths regarding 3D printed terrain is that the final product takes a ton of prep work - sanding, filing, removing fill lines, etc. This simply is not the case - especially with the quality printers that we use! You’ll find that your terrain from Tabletop Terrain shows up in beautiful condition, and all you need to do to prep is use a primer. Any spraycan, airbrush, or paint-on primer you use for miniatures will do here!
Myth: You Need Expensive Equipment to Paint 3D Printed Terrain
If you find terrain painting tutorials online, many content creators will rely on airbrushes to get their terrain done in a quicker fashion. But don’t fret - this is not a necessary step! Terrain can be painted in the same method you paint any of your other miniatures, from traditional basecoating and edge highlighting, to slapchopping and utilizing speedpaints.
We’ve found that with terrain you can actually focus a little less on the minute details - and don’t feel the need to use your most expensive paints! Do your basecoating in an affordable acrylic paint, and with a quick drybrush you’ll be surprised how much your ruined walls or trees will pop on the table.
The Do's and Don'ts of Painting 3D Printed Terrain
Do's:
- Do Prime Your Models: Apply a primer designed for plastic models to ensure the paint adheres well. For priming, any spray or rattlecan primer from the large paint brands will do! Additionally, you can brush on or airbrush your primer - use the same method you use when painting miniatures.
- Do Use Thin Layers: Just like painting your miniatures, you want to apply paint in thin, even layers to avoid obscuring details. Multiple thin coats are better than one thick coat. It can be tempting to avoid thinning the paints when you're working on larger, flat areas, but you'll likely find the end result undesirable.
- Do Seal Your Work: After painting, use a clear sealant to protect your terrain from wear and tear during gameplay. You put in all the work - don't let greasy fingers steal away your progress!
Don'ts:
- Don’t Forget to Plan: Before painting, plan your color scheme and techniques. This helps ensure a cohesive look and prevents mistakes. This is especially true with detailed pieces - ensure you know what part of the terrain is metal, ceramic, wood, etc. while planning out your paint scheme to avoid going back over it later.
- Don’t Use Excessive Heat: Avoid using heat to speed up drying times, as this can warp your 3D printed models. Additionally, don't leave 3D printed models outside in direct sunlight to dry after priming, and don't leave these in a hot car.
- Don’t Overlook Safety: Always prime in a well-ventilated area and use appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and masks, when handling paints and chemicals.
Top Tips for Painting 3D Printed Terrain
1. Use The Right Paints and Brushes
Investing in the right paints and brushes will significantly impact the final look of your terrain. Quality products provide better coverage, more vibrant colors, and longer durability. Any acrylic paint brand - Citadel, Privateer Press, Pro Acryl, Army Painter, etc. - will do the job here, but we’ve found that basic craft store paints to just as well for large, flat surfaces to cover. Reserve your more expensive paints for detailed areas. Make sure to break out the big brushes too - nothing will stretch out a terrain project longer than using small detail brushes to paint gigantic ruined walls. Again, check out your local craft store to find some larger brush sizes you can use to make this step a breeze!
2. Add Depth to Your Terrain With a Dry Brush
Applying a quick dry brush to your base coated terrain will do wonders for the final product. Here, you want to use a slightly brighter color than the base coat (for example, a light gray with a gray-black base). Grab a flat, stiff-bristled brush and load it with a small amount of paint. Remove most of the excess paint by wiping the brush on a dry paper towel, and then gently brush the raised surfaces of your terrain in quick, light strokes. There’s no need to apply a ton of pressure here.
This process will allow the lighter paint to catch the edges of models and brighten them slightly, add a ton of depth to the final product.
3. Highlight Details for Extra Pop
Highlighting interesting details on your terrain can give it that extra push over the edge from tabletop ready to something you can truly be proud to display! Look for things like lights, monitors, windows, symbols - anywhere you can add a pop of color and detail will do!
But remember - the star of the show on most game nights are the minis! Make your terrain beautiful, but don't feel the need to highlight every small detail. Just focus on picking out the elements you find the coolest and most visually engaging.
4. Incorporate Natural Elements
For a truly immersive gaming experience, incorporate natural elements like flock, static grass, and small rocks into your terrain. These additions can enhance the realism and make your terrain pieces stand out.
Many hobbyists will "base" their terrain after painting it and use this extra basing area to include rocks, dirt, or grass.
5. Practice Makes Perfect
Like any skill, painting 3D printed terrain takes practice. Don’t be discouraged by initial setbacks. Keep experimenting and refining your techniques, and you’ll see improvement over time.
Conclusion
Painting 3D printed terrain is a rewarding process that, with the right approach, can enhance your gaming experience. Remember, the key is to enjoy the process and continuously seek to improve your craft.
Whether you're a seasoned hobbyist or just starting, painting 3D printed terrain is an excellent way to bring your gaming landscapes to life. Happy painting!