How to Paint the D&D Nolzur's Human Male Bard

Quick answer

Start by priming the D&D Nolzur's Human Male Bard miniature, then layer base colors, apply washes, and finish with highlights to bring out the deep cuts and details.

Step-by-step painting guide

1. Prepare and prime: If you choose to prime, use a spray primer in a well-ventilated area. Since the miniature comes pre-primed, you can skip this step, but a fresh coat can help paint adhere better. Shake the primer well and apply thin, even coats. Check that the primer is fully dry before painting to avoid smudging.
2. Apply base colors: Start with the largest areas: skin, clothing, and accessories. Use a medium-sized brush and thin your paints slightly with water. Apply two thin coats for solid coverage, letting each dry completely. Thin paints prevent clogging the deep cuts and losing detail.
3. Use washes for shading: Apply a wash (like Nuln Oil or Agrax Earthshade) to recessed areas to create shadows. Let it flow into the deep cuts naturally. Wipe away excess with a clean brush if it pools too much. Don't let the wash pool on flat surfaces—it can leave stains.
4. Layer highlights: Mix your base color with a lighter shade and apply to raised areas like the nose, cheekbones, and edges of clothing. Use a fine brush for precision. Build up highlights gradually for a smooth transition. Multiple thin layers give a more natural highlight than one thick coat.
5. Paint the details: Use a small brush for eyes, belt buckles, and instrument details. For eyes, paint the white, then add a thin line of dark color. If you make a mistake, clean up with the base color. Take breaks to avoid shaking hands—precision matters.
6. Seal the miniature: Once everything is dry, apply a matte varnish to protect the paint. This is especially important if you'll handle the miniature during gameplay. Varnish prevents chipping and keeps your work looking fresh.

Product facts

• D&D Nolzur's Marvelous Miniatures: Human Male Bard: These fantastic miniatures include deep cuts for easier painting. The deep cuts help guide your brush and reduce the chance of painting over details, making it easier to achieve a clean result.