Finding the perfect primer for your miniatures can feel like an endless quest. I’ve stood there myself, surrounded by options, trying to figure out which one will make my painting project more enjoyable and successful. A good black primer provides a solid foundation for successful painting results, enhancing shadows and ensuring paint adheres effectively to the model.
In this article, I’ll walk you through the essentials of using black primers for some of my favorite tabletop games. Whether you’re painting plastic armies for Warhammer 40K, resin D&D miniatures, or white metal figurines for historical wargames, applying a good primer is always the first step. And, if you’re looking for a black-colored primer that will do the job best, you’re in the right place.
My Top Two Black Primers for Painting Miniatures
- Vallejo Surface Primer (Black): A versatile primer that’s airbrush-ready and can also be applied with a brush.
- Vallejo Black Spray Primer: Designed for superior coverage and a smooth matte finish, it works efficiently across a variety of surfaces, making it ideal for miniature painting.
If you’re short on time, here’s my top recommendation: Vallejo Surface Primer (Black). I love this primer! It stands out for its versatility—It’s airbrush-ready, and can also be applied with a brush. For those who prefer spray options, Vallejo Black Spray Primer is my recommendation. If you apply it under the right ambient conditions, e.g., humidity and temperature (see more about this below), Vallejo’s spray primer is a reliable black primer. It finishes in thin, even coats, protecting details and prepares your surface for your paint.
Read on below to learn more about which black primer you should choose and why you should use a prime before painting any miniatures.
Why Use a Primer for Miniature Painting?
Priming miniatures is the foundation of a great paint job. A good primer makes paints adhere better, stay durable, and prevents common issues like chipping or peeling. It creates a solid base that protects the paint during handling and game play.
Primers also smooth out surface flaws, creating an even texture that’s easier to paint over.
Priming also improves visibility. Whether I’m painting a batch of gaming models or a single display piece, priming ensures they models are ready for any technique I apply; whether I’m going fast or taking my time. And, the final paint job will last a lot longer without wearing or chipping, especially if you apply a good varnish.
Black primer is the best color choice for those looking for the most efficient (fastest) way to paint miniatures or models. The black undercoat of a black primer naturally creates shadows, which is less work for you. You’ll have more contrast in your final painted miniature with less effort. For example, starting with a black primer allows you to use quick, speed painting techniques like zenithal highlighting.
Now, there are challenges with starting a black primer. You’ll be limited when it comes to painting with bright colors like yellow or orange. It’ll take more effort to create even layers of color without streaks or splotches when painting over a black primer using a bright-tone, e.g., yellow paint. There are tricks around this, of course; but it will take more planning than if you started with a brighter primer color, like white or neutral gray.
RELATED: Do You Prime Your Miniatures? Here’s 3 Reasons Why You Should
What Makes a Good Primer for Miniatures?
Primers vary in quality, and choosing the wrong one can lead to challenges like poor adhesion or uneven coverage. Here’s what makes a primer worth your time:
- Adhesion: It must stick to plastic, resin, or metal securely. A primer that peels defeats the whole purpose.
- Even Coverage: You want thin, uniform coats that preserve every fine detail.
- Durability: A solid primer protects your paint job from wear and tear.
- Quick Drying Time: Nobody likes waiting around for paint to dry—quick-drying primers keep the workflow moving.
- Application Flexibility: Whether you’re using sprays, brushes, or airbrushes, the best primer works seamlessly with your tools.
- Color Options: Black primers are perfect for creating dramatic shadows and depth.
Best Black Primer for Painting Miniatures
1. Vallejo Surface Primer (Black)
This is my favorite primer for almost every miniature painting project. I use this for almost all my miniature painting projects, including those I do for commissioned work or for those casual side projects I like to indulge in when I’m trying out a new technique.
When versatility is what you need, Vallejo Surface Primer delivers. From my understanding, it’s not a regular acrylic paint. It a combination of plastic and a highly adhesive polymer (e.g., an acrylic-polyurethane) that sticks effortlessly to plastic, resin, and metal. Whether applied with a brush or an airbrush (see how I use it), it flows evenly, ensuring every detail remains sharp.
I’ll repeat myself: I use this primer close to 95% of the time because it’s easy to use indoors (no aerosol). It’s safe and doesn’t have any fumes. Apply with brush or airbrush!
Key Reasons to Use This
- Compatible with airbrush and brush applications (it’s versatile).
- Durable adhesion across multiple materials.
- Water-based for easy cleanup.
2. Citadel Chaos Black Spray Primer
Citadel’s Chaos Black Spray Primer is a go-to for many miniature painters. But, it’s kind of expensive (the main downside). It’s ultra-thin spray coats preserves details. Of course, make sure to keep the nozzle more than 6-12″ away from your working model’s surface and sweep the spray side-to-side to avoid pooling the primer on your models. Spray in bursts.
It dries quickly, letting you get to painting sooner. You’ll need to find a well-ventilated area to spray this primer. There are ways to spray indoors; but it’ll takes some extra precaution and planning. Make sure the humidity is reasonable, under 60% RH, and the ambient air isn’t too cold.
Key Reasons to Use This
- Designed specifically for miniatures.
- Provides deep shadows and excellent coverage.
- User-friendly spray application.
RELATED: Best Primers for Miniatures
3. The Army Painter Color Primer (Matt Black)
The Army Painter’s Matt Black Primer does double duty as a primer and a base coat, saving you time. I love using it for those large batch paint jobs. But, as an aerosol rattle-can primer, I only tend to pull it off the shelf when the weather is good to spray outside.
It’s a workhorse for gaming miniatures, providing a durable matte finish that holds up to frequent use. For best results, as above, make sure you’re spraying in a good environment with decent humidity levels that isn’t too hot or cold.
Key Reasons to Use This
- Combines primer and base coat in one product.
- Dries quickly and evenly.
- Ideal for batch painting projects.
READ MORE: Army Painter and Other Great Spray Primers Review
4. Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch 2X Ultra Cover (Flat Black)
For larger projects or terrain pieces, Rust-Oleum 2X is my go to. I don’t want to waste those more expensive spray primers designed for high detailed miniatures. And, the airbrush surface primers don’t really cover large surfaces very well or efficiently.
Instead, I reach for the industrial, primer stuff. The Rustoleum Black Primer has amazing coverage. It sweeps over any surface with a beautiful matte undercoat of black. Deep black. Its strong adhesion and easy coverage make it an affordable option for hobbyists tackling bulk work.
Be forewarned: This isn’t designed for fine detailed miniatures. It will go on kind of thick. But, it’s absolutely my top choice for achieving a really, really durable surface for larger pieces like DIY terrain or big open, surfaced vehicles.
Key Reasons to Use This
- Affordable and accessible.
- Covers large surfaces effectively.
- Reliable adhesion for mixed materials.
RELATED: 5 Professional Miniature Priming Tips for Best Results
5. Stynylrez Black Primer
If you’re an airbrush enthusiast, Stynylrez by Badger is another great surface primer to work with. Similar to Vallejo’s Black Surface Primer (above), Synylrez is self-leveling and with excellent durability which makes it great for retaining details in models. From my experience, this primer is a good choice for airbrushing, especially. Yes, you can use a regular brush with this, too.
It flows really well with almost no thinning required for airbrushes, and I’m not really worried about clogs or uneven texture (here are more tips for airbrush priming). It’s my go-to when precision and ease of use are top priorities.
Key Reasons to Use This
- Airbrush-ready and clog-free.
- Self-leveling for an ultra-smooth surface.
- Exceptional durability for handling.
6. Vallejo Black Spray Primer
Okay, so you want something efficient and easy to use? This is it. Vallejo Black Spray Primer has been a reliable black primer for many, including myself. Although I lean toward using the airbrush-able Vallejo surface primer because I can use it indoors, the aerosol version is much more convenient because I don’t have to deal with airbrush upkeep, cleaning, or the maintenance of a spray booth fume extractor.
Designed for miniatures, it offers consistent coverage and a smooth finish that enhances paint adhesion and durability. Whether you’re working with plastic, resin, or metal, this primer provides the perfect surface for detailed painting.
Key Reasons to Use This
- Acrylic-based formula that is easy to clean up.
- Smooth, even coats with minimal overspray.
- Dries quickly, allowing you to start painting sooner.
- Suitable for a variety of miniature materials.
Tips for Using Black Primers Effectively
Environmental Considerations
Priming depends not only on the product but also on the environment. Ensuring proper ventilation and ideal conditions can significantly impact the quality of the finish. Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid fumes.
Aim for temperatures between 50°F and 75°F (10°C to 24°C) to ensure the primer cures correctly, and avoid high humidity levels above 55–60% relative humidity, which can cause uneven drying. If you’re unsure about these conditions, consider how the space feels. When wearing a short-sleeved t-shirt, if it feels too hot, too cold, or the air seems heavy with moisture, it’s a sign that you might need to prime in a different environment.
What’s the Difference Between Hobby Paint and a Primer for Miniatures?
Here’s a quick comparison table to highlight the differences between primers and hobby paints. Primers and hobby paints are not the same, and usually not interchangeable. I think this will help you understand why each has a distinct role in miniature painting:
| Key Feature | Primer | Hobby Acrylic Paint |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Purpose | Creates a smooth, durable base for paint to adhere to. | Adds color, detail, and personality to the miniature. |
| Adhesion | Chemically bonds to surfaces, ensuring paint doesn’t chip or peel. | Struggles to stick to bare surfaces without primer. |
| Surface Preparation | Fills minor imperfections and creates an even painting surface. | Can highlight surface flaws if used without primer. |
| Durability | Provides a strong foundation that resists wear and tear. | Less durable on its own, especially during handling or gameplay. |
| Color Options | Black, white, gray, and other tones to enhance shading and depth. | Available in a wide range of vibrant colors and finishes. |
| Usage Scenario | Essential for prepping miniatures, particularly those made of plastic, resin, or metal. | Best for adding artistic details and vibrant finishes after priming. |
| Key Limitation | Doesn’t replace the color and vibrancy that hobby paints bring. (Some colored primer, for example, may overcome this). | Can’t provide the adhesion and durability needed on unprimed surfaces. |
What Else Can You Do with Black? Painting Realistic Black on Miniatures
For readers looking to take their black miniature painting skills further, check out this YouTube video: Painting Realistic Black on Miniatures.
This tutorial dives into techniques for achieving depth and realism when painting black, complementing the advice and primers discussed in this article. It’s an excellent resource to see these concepts in action. Here are three practical tips from the video that can enhance your painting technique:
- Layering for Depth: Use subtle layers of grays and near-black shades to add depth and avoid a flat appearance.
- Controlled Highlights: Apply sharp, focused highlights to edges to make details stand out without overwhelming the black.
- Matte vs. Gloss Finish: Experiment with finishes—use matte for stealthy, muted looks or gloss for sleek, polished styles.
Conclusion
A great primer is the foundation of every successful miniature painting project. Whether you prefer the versatility of Vallejo Surface Primer or the efficiency of Vallejo Hobby Black Primer Spray, these products ensure your models look their best from the start. Investing in the right primer doesn’t just enhance adhesion and durability—it also creates the ideal surface for smooth, detailed, and visually striking finishes.
By using the tips and techniques outlined here, you can refine your miniature painting skills and make the process even more enjoyable. If you’re eager to experiment further, explore complementary resources like our Zenithal Highlighting Tutorial or practical advice in videos like Painting Realistic Black on Miniatures.
What’s your go-to black primer? I’d love to hear about it—drop a comment below!
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The Mr Hobby primer, called Mr Surfacer is absolutely wonderful. There are several different “grits”, from the thick, Mr Surfacer 500 to the super smooth Mr Surfacer 1500. Thinned with Mr Leveling thinner it’s the best primer I’ve ever encountered, and I have tried many.
This I will have to check out ! Thanks!!!
There are a lot of different versions. The one I prefere is the Mr Finishing Surfacer 1500. It gives a super smooth satin finish. But whenever there’s scratches that would benefit from a bit thicker primer, I use some of the coarser variants, usually Mr Surfacer 500. All of them can be had on bottle, and several on spray can. But the best is bottle and thinned with Mr Leveling Thinner.
this sounds like it would be especially good for 3D prints which have imperfections throughout. Also, definitely more interest at the moment for the non spray version since the weather isn’t great around here.
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