A 75mm resin figure is one of the most rewarding subjects a painter can take on: large enough to show real detail, small enough to finish in a few sessions. If you’re new to the hobby, this step-by-step guide walks you through the whole process — from an unpainted kit to a finished display piece.
What you'll need
- Your figure kit — browse our 75mm resin figure kits.
- Brushes — a detail brush and a basecoating brush. Our round Kolinsky sable brushes are ideal for detail; a dry brush is handy for highlights.
- Primer, acrylic or enamel paints, a palette, water pot, kitchen roll, and a matt varnish to seal.
- Assembly — superglue (cyanoacrylate), a hobby knife and fine sandpaper.
Step 1 — Clean and assemble the kit
Resin kits carry a trace of mould-release agent that stops paint sticking, so wash the parts in warm soapy water and let them dry. Carefully remove any thin “flash” or casting seams with a hobby knife and smooth with fine sandpaper. Dry-fit the parts, then glue with a small amount of superglue. Fill any gaps if needed.
Step 2 — Prime
Primer gives paint a key to grip and reveals any surface flaws. Apply a thin, even coat — grey or white is the most beginner-friendly. Let it cure fully before painting.
Step 3 — Block in your basecoats
Paint each area its base colour, working from the inside out (skin and clothing first, equipment last). Thin your paints with a little water — two thin coats always look better than one thick one, which hides detail. This is workhorse painting, so a synthetic or blend brush is fine here.
Step 4 — Shade (wash) the recesses
A darker, thinned wash flowed into the recesses instantly adds depth — it settles into folds, straps and around raised detail to create natural shadow. This single step makes a beginner’s figure look dramatically better.
Step 5 — Layer and highlight
Now build the light back up. Reapply your base colour on the raised areas, then add progressively lighter tones to the highest points — the tops of folds, cheekbones, edges of equipment. Keep the paint thin and the transitions gradual. This is where a fine Kolinsky sable brush earns its keep.
Step 6 — Paint the details
Eyes, buttons, buckles, piping and insignia bring a figure to life. Work with the very tip of a fine round brush and a steady hand — rest your painting hand against your other hand for control. Metallics go on last, as they can contaminate other colours.
Step 7 — Seal the figure
Protect your work with a coat of matt varnish. It unifies the finish and guards against handling wear. Add a gloss coat only to selected areas (eyes, gems, wet-look leather) if you want contrast.
Step 8 — Base and display
Mount the finished figure on a base to complete the piece. A classic wooden base or a resin plinth lifts a good paint job into a proper display item, and scenic elements let you set the scene.
Beginner tips
- Thin your paints. The single most common beginner mistake is painting too thick.
- Two thin coats beat one thick coat every time.
- Let layers dry before glazing or washing over them.
- Look after your brushes — see our guide on choosing brushes and caring for them.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to wash a resin figure before painting?
Yes. Resin kits carry mould-release residue that stops paint adhering. Wash the parts in warm soapy water and let them dry before priming.
What paints are best for beginners?
Acrylics are the easiest starting point — they thin with water, dry quickly and clean up easily. Hawk kits suit acrylics, oils and enamels.
How long does it take to paint a 75mm figure?
A beginner might spend several evenings on their first figure. There’s no rush — the process is meant to be enjoyed, and skills build quickly.
What brush do I need to paint a 75mm figure?
A round size 0 or 1 sable for detail and a larger round or flat for basecoating will handle almost everything. Add a dry brush for highlighting.
Pick your first project from our figure kits and gear up with our paintbrushes.
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