Why I Base Before Base Coating

I used to base my miniatures after I’d painted them, seeing it as a “final touches” sort of stage. But when I started using the zenithal priming approach to undercoat, I decided to try basing them first. I find it gives them a lot more overall consistency and has improved my process.

I’m not going to try and convince you that you should do the same. I just wanted to share a few pics to demonstrate how it’s working well for me.

15mm-trolls

base1

base2

I glue wee ripped-up bits of notebook to cover the slots, and smooth the area out with plastic putty.

base3

I use Vallejo Ground Texture on my bases, which turns rock-hard after about 12 hours. This can be painted up in any colour to represent any type of terrain.

base4

Then it’s a typical zenithal approach, a black undercoat then a skoosh of Wraithbone from above.

base5

I use the Citadel Plaguebearer Flesh contrast paint on the base. I find this works well with the natural shading from the zenithal spray. Then, being stuck firmly in the mid-90s, I paint the sides with Goblin Green.

As I say, it works well for me!