This guide documents our Necron paint workflow, from primer to base finishing. Follow the steps carefully for best results.
Materials Used#
- Black primer (spray)
- GW Runelord Brass (Base & Layer)
- GW Agrax Earthshade (Gloss)
- GW Runefang Steel (Layer)
- White undercoat (for glow areas)
- Tesseract Glow (Airbrush)
- Abaddon Black (Rim)
- Monster Brown, Desert Yellow, Skeleton Bone (Base)
Step-by-Step Painting Process#
1. Primer#
- Apply a black spray primer to the entire model.
- Ensures base coverage and helps shades stand out.
2. Base Coat#
- Dry brush Runelord Brass over the model.
- Focus on metallic surfaces for initial highlights.
3. Shade#
- Apply Agrax Earthshade (Gloss) to shaded areas.
- Concentrate “on the meaty parts” — recesses, joints, and armor gaps.
4. Highlights#
- Use Runefang Steel for streaking and edge highlights.
- Adds metallic shine and detail definition.
5. Glow Areas#
- Apply a white undercoat where energy or glow effects will appear.
- Prepares surfaces for the airbrushed glow.
6. Airbrush Glow#
- Airbrush Tesseract Glow over previously white areas.
- Creates the iconic Necron energy effect.
7. Rim#
- Paint Abaddon Black along the rims and edges.
- Adds depth and contrast to the model.
Base Painting#
- Monster Brown – main base layer.
- Desert Yellow – highlights and dry brushing.
- Skeleton Bone – final highlights and dry brushing.
Notes & Tips#
- Always thin paints appropriately for smooth layers.
- Work from darkest to lightest shades to enhance depth.
- Dry brushing should be done lightly for subtle metallic texture.
- For glow effects, multiple light layers with the airbrush give the best result.