Warhammer Miniature Paint Volume Calculator
Calculate how much paint you need for your Warhammer army. Perfect for planning purchases.
How many miniatures to paint
How much paint does a pot of Warhammer paint cover?
A standard 12ml pot of Citadel paint covers approximately 15-25 infantry miniatures with base coats, or 5-10 with standard detail. Pot loses effectiveness after 2-3 years when paint separates. Airbrush paints (17ml) cover 30-50% more. Bottle paints (24ml) are most economical for large armies. Always shake pots vigorously before use - settled pigment ruins airbrushes.
What is the average paint needed per miniature?
Average coverage: Infantry (28mm): base coat 0.4-0.6ml, standard 0.8-1.2ml, advanced 1.5-2ml. Character: base 0.6-0.8ml, standard 1.2-1.5ml, advanced 2-3ml. Large/vehicle: base 1.5-2.5ml, standard 3-5ml, advanced 6-10ml. These estimates assume medium coverage - two thin coats may use more. Primed miniatures need less paint.
How can I make my paint go further?
Thin your paints - two thin coats not only look better but use less paint total. Use spray primers rather than brush-on primers. Try contrast paints for speed. Wipe excess paint off brush on palette, not on mini. Buy pot extenders or Vallejo airbrush medium for thinning. Keep paint properly sealed - dried paint in pot = waste. Work wet palette extends working time but uses slightly more paint.
What supplies do I need for an army?
For 100 infantry army: spray primer (1 can), base paints (20 colors, ~50ml total), washes (3 types, ~20ml), drybrushing compound (2 types, ~30ml). Budget estimates: basic army $150-250 in paints, intermediate $300-500, display-quality $500-1000+. Buy basics first: black primer, white/neutral grey, skin tone, primary colors, flesh wash. Build up color selection over time.