Painting levels

The aim of this page is to provide a good indication of the differences between the different painting levels I offer for commission work, using four simple and near-identical models to demonstrate - these models have been left unbased so as not to distract from the paintjobs with extra bits. There is a more detailed table at the bottom of the page listing approximate pricing for a range of different models.

Level 1: No longer offered.

 

I prefer to paint models to a higher standard, and given how few colour schemes are appropriate for this level I've decided to stop offering it as an option.

Level 2 - $12-$15 per basic troop model.

L2 is the standard to which I usually paint armies. This level is recommended for most armies, with only characters or centrepiece models done to a higher level.

Level 2 entails:

  • Multiple painted higlights, 3-4 levels - no drybrushing.

  • added painted detailing, eg borders on cloth, names on shoulderpads, a small amount of simple tattooing etc.

  • This level includes as default all assembly, cleaning, multi-flock basing etc.

  • Simple characters can be done to this level, although I prefer to work on complex characters at at least Level 3 so I can take some time with them.

Level 3 - $25+ per troop model.

L3 is a good place to go with characters, and for a army that will really stand out.

Level 3 entails:

  • Non-standard techniques such as non-metallic-metals (NMM), or very complex patterns such as tartans across the whole army, eg an all NMM Grey Knights army (as opposed to just a grey one) would be a L3 army.

  • Many levels of highlighting for extra smooth transitions.

  • Extra detailing to make each model really stand out as an individual, or

  • simple conversions on each model, with L2 painting.

Level 4 - $50+ per troop model.

L4 is for the crazy-awesome unit, or the army general, the converted character, converted unit... this is the level at which I go all out to produce the best result possible.

This might mean intense freehand detailing, in-model light sourcing, or maybe just GD level simple perfection. The devil is in the details here - note in the above example small things like the painted display on the bolter.

This is the level at which is is best to have detailed discussions so I can get the best result for you. I would not recommend this level for a large army due to the cost and lengthy turnaround, but if that's not an issue don't let me dissuade you.

Price Guide

Prices are based on 28mm scale and are indicative only on higher levels or larger models as variation in model size, complexity or colour scheme may require price adjustment - email me to discuss.

All prices in US dollars Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Level 4
Basic trooper No longer available $12-15 $25+ $50+
Larger/elite trooper No longer available $20-35 $50+ $80+

Large models (eg ogres, bikes, cavalry)

 No longer available $40-80 $80+ $120+

Simple characters (attached to units, or a group of roleplaying models)

 No longer available $30-50 $80+ $120+

Army generals (foot)

 Not painted at this level Not painted at this level $100+ $200+

Army generals (cavalry)

 Not painted at this level Not painted at this level $150+ $250+

Army generals (large mount)

 Not painted at this level Not painted at this level $200+ $300+
Small vehicles (landspeeders, chariots) Not painted at this level $75 $120+ $200+
Large Vehicles (tanks, warmachines) Not painted at this level $120 $200+ $300+

Individual troopers / very small units will be treated as the next level up for level 2.