Picking a paint scheme for your Warhammer 40k army is one of the most personal and important hobby decisions you’ll make. It sets the look of your force, shapes how you feel about painting, and can even tie your models to a specific faction or story.
Start with the lore (or ignore it)
Every faction in Warhammer 40k has official colour schemes tied to its lore. Ultramarines are blue, Blood Angels red, Dark Angels green. If you’re building a lore-accurate army, those are your starting points.
But you don’t have to follow them. Your dudes can be a custom chapter, a splinter fleet, or a renegade warband. The galaxy’s big enough that any colour combo has a place.
- Official schemes make it easy to match box art and existing lore.
- Custom schemes let you paint what you love without worrying about canon.
- Some tournaments require a minimum amount of painted models, but not specific colours.
Use colour theory without overthinking it
You don’t need an art degree. Basic colour theory helps you pick combos that look good together. Complementary colours (opposites on the wheel, like blue and orange) pop. Analogous colours (neighbours, like red and orange) feel harmonious.
Value matters more than hue. A dark blue and light blue can look great together even if they’re the same colour. Contrast makes details readable on the tabletop.
| Approach | Example | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Complementary | Blue armour + orange lenses | High contrast, eye-catching |
| Analogous | Red armour + orange trim | Cohesive, natural look |
| Triadic | Green, purple, orange | Balanced but bold |
Practical tips for painting your scheme
Test your scheme on a single model before committing to the whole army. What looks good in your head might not work on plastic. Paint a test miniature and see how it feels.
Keep your palette limited. Two or three main colours plus a spot colour is plenty. Too many colours can make your army look messy and take forever to paint.
Consider how much time you want to spend. A simple scheme with one main colour, a wash, and a drybrush can look great and get you playing faster.
- Paint a test model first.
- Limit your palette to 2-3 main colours plus a spot colour.
- Think about batch painting: simpler schemes are faster.
Where to find inspiration
Look at real-world military camouflage, historical uniforms, or even nature. Sports teams, flags, and corporate logos can spark ideas too.
The community is a goldmine. Browse social media, forums, or painting blogs. Ask for feedback on your test model. Sometimes a fresh pair of eyes catches something you missed.
Key facts
- Your paint scheme doesn’t have to match official lore.
- Colour theory basics (complementary, analogous) help you pick combos that work.
- Test your scheme on one model before painting the whole army.
- Limited palettes (2-3 colours) are easier to paint and look more cohesive.
- Community feedback and real-world references can spark ideas.
FAQ
Do I have to use the official colour scheme for my faction?
No. You can paint your models however you like. Official schemes are just a guide. Many players create custom chapters or warbands with unique colours.
What if I can’t decide on a scheme?
Try painting a single test model with a few different ideas. Or start with a simple scheme and add details later. You can always repaint if you change your mind.
How many colours should I use?
Aim for two or three main colours plus a spot colour for details. This keeps your army looking cohesive and makes painting faster.