How to Paint Your First Gundam Assemble Miniature

By Tanuki Games | Published: 2026-10-28

Category: How-to Guides

Learn to paint your first Gundam Assemble miniature with this beginner-friendly guide. Follow simple steps, avoid common mistakes, and get great results.

Quick Answer

To paint your first Gundam Assemble miniature, start by cleaning the figure, apply a primer, then base coat with thin layers, add a wash for depth, and finish with highlights and a sealant.

Why Thinning Your Paints Matters

Thinning your paints with a little water or medium ensures smooth application and preserves the fine details of your Gundam Assemble miniature. Thick paint can obscure panel lines and vents, making the figure look chunky and less crisp.

A good rule is to aim for the consistency of milk. This may require two or three thin coats rather than one thick one, but the result is a much cleaner finish that highlights the sculpt's details.

Choosing the Right Brush Size

For most Gundam Assemble miniatures, a size 1 or 2 round brush is ideal for base coating and larger areas. For fine details like eyes or sensors, a size 0 or 00 brush gives you the control you need without overloading the brush with paint.

Invest in a decent brush and take care of it by cleaning it thoroughly after each session. A well-maintained brush will hold its tip longer and make your painting experience much more enjoyable.

Step-by-Step Painting Process

Prepare the Miniature: Wash the miniature in warm soapy water to remove any mold release agent, then let it dry completely. This ensures the primer adheres properly. Check that the miniature is completely dry before priming.
Prime the Miniature: Apply a thin, even coat of primer (spray or brush-on) to the entire figure. Hold the spray can about 15-20 cm away and use short bursts to avoid pooling. Let it dry for at least 24 hours. If the primer looks grainy, you were too far away or too close; shake the can well and try again.
Base Coat the Main Colors: Thin your base colors slightly and apply two to three thin coats to each major area (e.g., torso, limbs, head). Let each coat dry before applying the next. Ensure the paint is fully dry before moving to the next area to avoid smudging.
Apply a Wash for Depth: Use a dark wash (like Nuln Oil) to shade the recesses and panel lines. Apply it generously but wipe away any excess with a clean brush or cloth to avoid dark stains on flat surfaces. If the wash pools too much, wick it away with a dry brush to keep the surface clean.
Add Highlights and Details: Go back with your base color (or a lighter shade) and paint the raised areas, leaving the recesses dark. Use a fine brush to pick out details like eyes, sensors, and vents. Take your time; a steady hand and a good brush will make a big difference.
Seal the Miniature: Once everything is dry, apply a matte or satin varnish to protect your paint job from chipping and wear during gameplay. Use a spray varnish for an even finish. If you plan to handle the miniature often, consider a varnish with a bit of durability.

Product Highlight

Gundam Assemble: Expansion Pack 03 (EX03): The Gundam Assemble: Expansion Pack 03 (EX03) introduces three Mobile Suits with distinctive resource-driven playstyles, such as ammo-based abilities and limited-use power moves. Painting these units with clear color separation helps you and your opponent quickly identify their unique abilities on the tabletop, enhancing gameplay clarity.
Gundam Assemble: Expansion Pack 03 (EX03)

Once your miniature is sealed and dry, you're ready to hit the tabletop with a custom-painted Gundam Assemble figure. If you're looking to expand your collection, consider the Gundam Assemble: Expansion Pack 03 (EX03) to add new units with unique playstyles to your games.