Citadel Paints | Base, Layer, Shade & Technical Paints for Warhammer Miniatures

Bring your miniatures to life with the complete range of Citadel Colour paints. Designed specifically for Warhammer models, the Citadel system makes painting easier and more rewarding, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned hobbyist. Choose from Base, Layer, Contrast, Shade, Technical, Dry, and more – all engineered for smooth application and vibrant results.

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The Citadel Colour paint range is designed by Games Workshop to help you achieve professional-looking miniatures with straightforward techniques. With paints formulated for strong pigmentation, smooth coverage, and brush-friendly flow, you can achieve everything from battle-ready tabletop finishes to display-quality detail.

Paint Ranges Included:


High-opacity colours that form the foundation of your scheme. Ideal for strong, solid coverage.

Lighter colours for building up highlights and adding depth.

One-coat solutions that act as base, shade, and highlight in one — great for speed painting.

Thin, high-flow paints designed to settle in recesses and create natural shadows.

Thicker formulations for drybrushing raised details.

For special effects like blood, rust, cracked earth, glowing warpstone, and textured bases.

Thinner versions of the standard colours, specifically for airbrush use.

Why Choose Citadel Paints?

Whether you're painting your first model or refining a full army, the Citadel paint system helps you get great results at every stage.

Helpful answers

Frequently asked questions

What’s the difference between Citadel Base and Layer paints?
Base paints have a high pigment load and are designed to give solid, opaque coverage over a primed surface. They provide the foundation colour for your model.
Can I use Citadel Contrast paints on all models?
Yes, Contrast paints work on any model but perform best over light primers like Wraithbone or Grey Seer. They combine base, shade, and highlight in one coat.
What is the best way to shade miniatures using Citadel paints?
Shade paints like Agrax Earthshade and Nuln Oil are formulated to run into recesses, creating natural shadows. Apply liberally over a basecoat, then let it dry completely.
Are Citadel paints water-based?
Yes, all Citadel paints are water-based and non-toxic, making them safe and easy to use for hobbyists of all levels.
Do Citadel paints work on resin and metal models?
Citadel paints work on plastic, resin, and metal miniatures. Always prime your models before painting to ensure adhesion and smooth coverage.
What are Technical paints used for?
Technical paints are used for effects like rust, blood, glowing energy, or textured bases. Examples include Blood for the Blood God, Nihilakh Oxide, and Stirland Mud.
Can I airbrush Citadel paints?
Yes, you can airbrush Citadel paints. For best results, use Citadel Air paints or thin standard Citadel paints with a proper acrylic thinner or airbrush medium.
How do I thin Citadel paints for airbrushing?
To thin Citadel paints for airbrushing, use a dedicated acrylic thinner (like Vallejo Airbrush Thinner) or a 1:1 mix of paint and thinner, depending on the paint’s viscosity.
Are Citadel paints suitable for beginners?
Citadel paints are designed to be beginner-friendly, with clear categories and consistent performance. They’re ideal for learning to paint miniatures with structured guides.
What’s the best paint range for speed painting an army?
Contrast paints are the best choice for speed painting, offering base, shade, and highlight in a single coat. Great for batch-painting armies quickly.