Just startin' out.

[Wolffy]

Well, I'm just starting out and such, I'm going to buy a German HMG and some partisans.

I was curious about what I'll have to do all and all.
I really hate to ask it, but, what all do I need to get started?

I've lurked the forum here for awhile and finally decided to buy some figures.
But, I really don't know what I'm doing.

My main question was, do I need a dip or shade?

Regards, Wolffy.

[carvel2]

Hi
I'm not into WW2 but I'm sure there'll be a bus load of posts to help you out soon
Welcome aboard
Define...'started'..painting, gaming, buying?
Before you buy WW2 have you considered Romans....

[Wolffy]

Haha, I'm just starting painting. I've got a few other WWII German infantry that I purchased from Victory Force awhile back.

And, I was actually looking at some Romans but I figured, I should start with my favorite time-frame. Haha.

But, yeah. I'm just starting out with painting them. I'm not a top-notch painter, by far.
However, I'd love to learn how to paint things properly and get into a good habit of having the materials I need.

[Parus Ater]

There's a book that's worth the money is a GW book called How to Paint Citadel Miniatures. Basically starts at the never touched a brush level to the advanced techniques.
I'd suggest getting a German paint set like the warlord deal on vallejo or the Coat d'arms set from maelstrom games' shop. That way you get the exact colours needed and none of the ones you don't. One of them, a can of spray, two brushes some glue and you're off.

[Wolffy]

Alrighty! I appriciate the help. I'll look into all of that!
My only issue in reality, is I don't have a ton of money to spare.

I'll have to invest wisely from the start.
Plus, I'm not an awful painter. I've painted models before but nothing this small.

[Biggus Dickus]

Hi Wolffy and welcome to the forum!

i have just spent the last half hour typing a reply for you...but we are in the middle of a thunderstorm and lost the internet for a while...and my response...but it invloved G.W. so Yes i agree 100% with Parus Ater, I use G.W style of painting, try ebay for the book it will be cheap and will help you become fairly adept at painting in a short period of time! I still use their techniques.

I would try this style of painting before you think about dipping (i personally wouldn't recommend this as a starting point) but there are some serious experts on here ( I won't mention any names. but you know who you are!) who could help you out with that, but it isn't just dip a base coated figure in the gunk and out comes a work of art...so advise caution.
learn basics from G.W first they have a lot to offer regarding painting techniques (not going to get into their figures and prices though )....then try other things if you want
Keep it simple, don't attempt to paint SS camo to start with!......You know romans are good for this...perhaps start with a pack of those?
Remember it is fun......and don't be put off from posting pictures of your figures on here, everyone is very supportive and will offer help and advice, you'll pick up a lot of tips and help.....check out the modelling forum...there will be tips you can use straight away.
Use acrylic paint...start with G.W as it will be easier for you if you are using their books, but I can recommend Vallejo (probably one of the best paints) and Ammericanna acryllics to pad out your colours..the latter available from hobbycraft and very affordable.
get a range of brushes...a fine detail one, one that will be used to do most of your work,one for washes, one for dry brushing.....I'm sure in the first instance G.W will be useful for this....but once you get the feel for it you'll be able to look elsewhere for other options.
hope this helps and good luck.

[Parus Ater]

By the way, I can't speak for the latest edition, mine's the first one with Mr Priestley. It could be the newer one is better since it'll cover the washes and foundation paints that weren't out back in the day.

[Biggus Dickus]

By the way, I can't speak for the latest edition, mine's the first one with Mr Priestley. It could be the newer one is better since it'll cover the washes and foundation paints that weren't out back in the day.

yes, basecoat, wash, highlight...that's it in a nutshell! washes are relatively new! but really have an impact

[Parus Ater]

True.....

On second thought, add two pots of Devlan mud to the card, matey!

[carvel2]

On the GW front..pick a local shop and go in. They are really good at tutorials.
Dont forget to base your figures with a little gravel, colour and tufts. It really sets them off.