Essential Model Making Tools: Top Picks for Hobbyists and Miniature Painters
There are hundreds of model making tools on the market, and while it's impossible to cover them all, these six are the modelling tools we recommend to beginners and experienced hobbyists alike: a wet palette, brush soap, spray primer, files, sprue cutters and matt varnish. If you're completely new to the hobby, our beginner's guide to Warhammer 40,000 explains how each of these tools fits into building and painting your first models.
Wet Palette for Miniature Painting
A wet palette is a must-have tool for artists and miniature painters, designed to keep paints moist and workable for longer periods. It typically consists of a shallow container with a water-soaked sponge or absorbent layer, topped with parchment or specialised permeable paper.
Using a wet palette prevents paints—especially acrylics—from drying out too quickly, allowing for smoother blending, consistent colour application, and less wasted paint. It also helps maintain the ideal paint consistency, avoiding thick or clumpy textures.
Many wet palettes come with airtight lids, which further extend paint life by reducing evaporation and protecting against dust. Wet palettes are widely used with acrylics, watercolours, and gouache, making them a versatile tool for any painting setup.
Paintbrush Soap for Proper Brush Care
Paintbrush soap is essential for cleaning and maintaining your paint brushes after painting. Specially formulated to remove paint without damaging delicate bristles, it helps extend the lifespan of your brushes and ensures consistent performance.
Most brush soaps contain surfactants that break down paint residues, whether you’re using acrylic, oil, or watercolour paints. Regular cleaning prevents paint buildup, which can ruin brush shape and affect precision.
To use, simply wet the brush, work it into the soap to create a lather, then rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear. Clean brushes are key to achieving accurate colours and high-quality results in your models and artwork.
Spray Paint Primer for Models
Using a spray paint primer is a crucial step in model making, as it prepares the surface for painting and improves paint adhesion.
How to Prime a Model with Spray Paint:
- Clean the model: Remove dust, grease, or residue using a soft brush or water (if suitable).
- Choose the right primer: Use a spray labelled “model primer” for best results.
- Shake the can well: Ensures an even and consistent spray.
- Test spray first: Practice on scrap material to check flow and coverage.
- Apply thin coats: Hold the can 6–8 inches away and spray in smooth, even strokes.
- Let it dry: Leave the primer to dry and cure fully before you paint. Check the drying time on the can, and when in doubt, leave it overnight.
- Inspect the surface: Reapply primer if needed to fix imperfections.
Proper priming creates a smooth, even base that enhances the final paint finish and durability.
Sprue Cutters and Plastic Glue for Clean Builds
Before you can tidy up a model, you need to get the parts off the sprue cleanly. Sprue cutters snip components free with far less stress than twisting or pulling them, which protects fine detail. Cut a little away from the part, then trim the leftover nub flush with a hobby knife or file. Once the parts are clean, plastic glue bonds them together, so dry-fit each piece first to check it sits properly.
Model Files and Fine Sandpaper for Mould Line Removal
Removing mould lines from miniatures is essential for achieving a professional finish. These lines are leftover seams from the casting process and can affect the look of your model if not properly removed.
Tools for Removing Mould Lines:
- Hobby knives
- Needle files
- Fine grit sandpaper
- Specialist mould line removers
Steps to Remove Mould Lines:
- Identify seam lines along the model surface
- Carefully scrape or sand them down
- Work slowly to avoid damaging details
- Check progress regularly
- Clean off dust and debris
Taking the time to remove mould lines ensures a clean, smooth surface ready for priming and painting.
Matt Varnish for Model Protection and Finish
Applying a matt varnish is a key finishing step in scale model painting. It not only protects your work but also enhances the overall appearance.
Benefits of Matt Varnish:
- Protection: Shields models from scratches, dust, and wear
- Realistic finish: Reduces shine for a natural, non-glossy look
- Increased durability: Helps prevent paint chipping and flaking
- Easy cleaning: Creates a surface that’s easier to dust and maintain
Matt varnish is especially useful for blending decals and paintwork into a cohesive finish, giving your model a professional-quality look.
Want to see where each of these tools fits in a real project? Our step-by-step guide on how to build and paint your first Warhammer 40k army walks through the whole process — and you'll find everything above in our painting tools collection.
Keep Reading: More Painting Guides
- Warhammer painting tips for beginners: where to start and what to skip
- How to paint your first miniature, step by step
- Citadel paint types explained: base, layer, shade and more
Frequently asked questions
What model making tools do I need to start?
A wet palette, brush soap, spray primer, sprue cutters, a hobby knife or needle files for mould lines, plastic glue and a matt varnish will cover most beginner projects. Add more specialist tools as your skills grow.
What is a wet palette and do I need one?
A wet palette is a shallow container with a damp sponge and permeable paper that keeps your paints moist and workable for far longer. It makes blending smoother, wastes less paint, and is one of the most useful tools a painter can own.
How do I remove mould lines from miniatures?
Mould lines are seams left from casting. Remove them before painting using a hobby knife, needle files or fine sandpaper — scrape or sand gently along the seam, work slowly to avoid damaging detail, then clean off the dust.
Why should I use a spray primer on models?
Primer prepares the surface and helps paint adhere properly. Clean the model first, shake the can well, then apply thin, even coats from around 6–8 inches away and let it cure fully before painting.
What does matt varnish do for a finished model?
Matt varnish protects your paintwork from scratches and chipping, reduces shine for a natural finish, and helps blend decals into the model. It's a key finishing step for durable, professional-looking results.
How do I keep my paintbrushes in good condition?
Clean them with a dedicated brush soap after every session. The soap lifts paint residue without damaging the bristles, preventing paint build-up that ruins the brush's shape and point.
