Introduction: How Much Should You Expect to Spend on Warhammer Paints?
If you're getting into Warhammer, one of the first questions you'll ask is: how much do Warhammer paints cost?
Painting is a core part of the hobby, but it can feel confusing and expensive at first. With dozens of colours, different paint types, and various tools available, it’s easy to overspend if you don’t know what you actually need.
This guide explains exactly how much Warhammer paints cost, what you need as a beginner, and how to build a paint collection without wasting money.
What Are Warhammer Paints?
Warhammer paints are specially designed acrylic paints used to paint miniature models for tabletop games like Warhammer 40,000 and Age of Sigmar.
Simple Definition
- Water-based acrylic paints
- Designed for small, detailed models
- Used for layering, shading, and highlighting
Quick takeaway: Warhammer paints are optimized for miniature painting, not general art use.
How Much Do Warhammer Paints Cost Individually?
Individual Warhammer paints typically cost:
- £2.75–£4.75 per pot (depending on type)
Types of Paints and Their Prices
- Base paints: £2.75–£3.50
- Layer paints: £2.75–£3.50
- Shade paints: £4.00–£4.75
- Contrast paints: £4.75–£5.50
- Technical paints: £4.00–£5.00
Key takeaway: Individual paints are affordable, but costs add up quickly if you buy too many.
How Much Do You Need to Start?
As a beginner, you don’t need every colour available.
Minimum beginner setup:
- 8–12 paints
- 1 brush
- Water pot and palette
Estimated cost:
- £25–£50 total
Simple answer: You can start painting Warhammer for around £30–£50.
The Cheapest Way to Buy Warhammer Paints
Starter Paint Sets (Best Value)
Starter sets are the most cost-effective way to begin.
- Includes multiple paints
- Includes essential tools
- Cheaper than buying individually
Quick takeaway: Paint sets provide the best value for beginners.
Buying Individual Paints
This approach works if:
- You only need specific colours
- You already have tools
Downside: Costs increase quickly.
Total Cost of a Beginner Paint Setup
Budget Setup
- Starter paint set: £25–£35
- Total: £25–£35
Standard Beginner Setup
- Paint set + extra colours: £35–£60
- Total: £35–£60
Expanded Setup
- Full paint range: £80–£150+
- Total: £80+
Key takeaway: You only need the budget setup to start.
What Paints Do You Actually Need?
A simple beginner paint selection includes:
- Primary colour (army colour)
- Metallic paint
- Black and white
- Shade (wash)
- Highlight colour
For a full breakdown, see What Paints Do You Need for Warhammer.
Quick summary: You only need a small selection to get started.
Why Warhammer Paints Cost What They Do
Specialised Formula
- Designed for miniatures
- Smooth coverage
- High pigment density
Consistency and Reliability
- Predictable results
- Beginner-friendly performance
Wide Colour Range
- Hundreds of colours available
- Designed for specific factions and effects
Key takeaway: You’re paying for convenience and quality.
How to Save Money on Warhammer Paints
1. Start With a Paint Set
- Better value than individual paints
2. Limit Your Colour Palette
- Use 8–12 paints initially
3. Expand Gradually
- Add paints only when needed
4. Learn Basic Techniques First
See How to Paint Warhammer Miniatures.
Quick takeaway: Smart buying reduces long-term costs.
Common Beginner Mistakes With Paint Costs
- Buying too many colours at once
- Buying paints for multiple armies
- Ignoring starter sets
- Overinvesting in advanced paints early
Key takeaway: Keep it simple at the start.
Paint Costs vs Overall Warhammer Costs
Compared to the full hobby:
- Paints: £25–£60 (initial)
- Miniatures: £50–£300+
- Total hobby cost varies widely
Simple answer: Paints are a small but essential part of the overall cost.
Are Warhammer Paints Worth It?
Yes, because:
- They are designed for miniatures
- They produce consistent results
- They simplify the learning process
Quick takeaway: They offer convenience and reliability for beginners.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much do Warhammer paints cost?
Individual paints cost around £2.75–£5.50, while starter sets cost £25–£50.
How many paints do I need to start?
You only need 8–12 paints to begin painting miniatures.
What is the cheapest way to buy Warhammer paints?
The cheapest way is to buy a starter paint set that includes multiple colours and tools.
Are Warhammer paints better than regular acrylics?
Yes, they are specifically designed for miniature painting and provide better results.
Can I start painting Warhammer for under £50?
Yes, a basic paint set and tools can cost around £25–£50.
Conclusion: How Much Should You Spend on Warhammer Paints?
Warhammer paints are affordable when approached correctly. While individual paints are inexpensive, costs can quickly add up if you buy too many at once.
The best approach is to start with a small paint set, learn the basics, and expand your collection over time. This keeps your costs low while still allowing you to enjoy the full painting experience.
If you're just starting out, stick to the essentials and focus on learning—your wallet will thank you.
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