Zenithal Priming: The Secret to Faster Miniature Painting

Introduction

Zenithal priming is a powerful technique that enhances contrast, improves color vibrancy, and speeds up the miniature painting process. By applying primer in a way that mimics natural lighting, you create built-in shading and highlights that guide your painting and make colors pop. In this guide, we’ll explore what zenithal priming is, how to do it, and why it’s a game-changer for miniature painters.

What is Zenithal Priming?

Zenithal priming is a method of applying primer in layers to simulate how light falls on a model. The technique uses multiple shades of primer—usually black, gray, and white—to establish contrast before applying paint. This creates natural shadows and highlights, making it easier to see details and improving the final look of the miniature.

Benefits of Zenithal Priming

• Speeds Up Painting – The built-in shading and highlighting reduce the need for excessive layering and blending.
• Enhances Contrast – Colors appear more vibrant and natural when applied over a zenithal prime.
• Guides Paint Application – The underlying grayscale helps you visualize where highlights and shadows should go.
• Works Great with Transparent Paints – Techniques like glazing and contrast paints benefit immensely from a zenithal base.

How to Zenithal Prime Your Miniatures

Step 1: Start with a Black Base Coat

• Spray or brush on a solid black primer as your base layer.
• This creates deep shadows and ensures the next layers adhere properly.

Step 2: Apply a Gray Mid-Tone

• Using a spray can or airbrush, apply gray primer at a 45-degree angle.
• This covers most of the model but leaves the deepest recesses black.

Step 3: Highlight with White from Above

• Hold your spray can or airbrush directly above the miniature and apply white primer.
• Focus on the top and raised areas, leaving lower sections darker.
• This creates a natural light effect, as if sunlight were hitting from above.

Best Uses for Zenithal Priming

• Speed Painting with Contrast or Glaze Paints – Transparent paints retain the shading underneath, making them ideal for quick but striking results.
• Pre-Shading for Detailed Miniatures – Helps visualize lighting and contrast before applying base colors.
• Grayscale or Monochrome Paint Schemes – Some painters use zenithal priming alone for striking black-and-white effects.

Check out our post, How to Paint Miniatures with Contrast Paints (Fast & Easy Method)

Final Thoughts

Zenithal priming is a simple yet highly effective technique that can elevate your miniature painting. Whether you’re looking to speed up the process or create more dynamic lighting effects, this method is a fantastic tool to add to your painting arsenal. Give it a try, and see how it transforms your miniatures!

Zenithal Priming Shopping List

• Citadel Chaos Black Spray Primer
• Citadel Mechanicus Standard Primer
• Citadel Wraithbone Primer
• Star Wars: Legion B1 Battle Droids Upgrade Expansion

Next Steps

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