Citadel Contrast paints give you colour and shading in a single coat — fast, punchy, and beginner-friendly. They flow into recesses for instant depth while leaving raised details brighter for natural highlights. Perfect for batch painting armies or getting great-looking minis on the table without the marathon.
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Citadel Colour Contrast paints are the “cheat code” for getting great-looking minis on the table fast. They’re formulated to do two jobs at once: the pigment tints the surface like a basecoat, while the paint naturally settles into recesses to create instant shading. One coat can give you definition, depth, and colour without the usual multi-step slog.
They shine on textured areas—fur, scales, chainmail, skin, cloth, Tyranid bits, you name it—where the paint can flow and do its thing. Over a light primer, Contrast produces vibrant colour with natural shadows, making it ideal for batch painting armies, quick character work, or anyone who wants solid results without needing a masterclass in blending.
For best results, load the brush, paint in controlled sections, and guide pooling away from flat panels before it dries. Let it fully cure, then level up with a quick highlight or a few crisp details—Contrast gets you 80% of the way there, and the last 20% is where the magic happens.
Frequently Asked Question
Contrast paints are designed to give you basecoat + shade in one go—they flow into recesses for shading while leaving raised areas brighter.
You’ll get the best results over a light, smooth primer (typically white/cream/very light grey). Contrast works because light shows through the transparent pigment.
Sometimes. If you want a lighter, smoother finish, thin with Contrast Medium (best option) rather than water, which can make them behave unpredictably.
Work in sections, keep a “wet edge,” don’t overbrush as it dries, and use the brush to wick away excess from flat areas before it dries.
Absolutely. Once dry, you can shade more, drybrush, edge highlight with Layer paints, or even glaze—Contrast is a great first step, not the whole journey.