As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
The post-apocalyptic world of This Is Not a Test demands miniatures that look like they’ve survived the wasteland—rusted, grimy, and battle-worn. Whether you’re painting scavengers, mutants, or survivors from the definitive edition of This Is Not a Test, mastering weathering techniques will bring your tabletop to life. Here’s how to achieve that gritty, lived-in look.
Materials and Tools for Painting This Is Not a Test Miniatures
Weathering requires specialized tools beyond basic paints and brushes. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Weathering Paints: Opt for textured paints like Citadel’s Typhus Corrosion or Vallejo’s Rust Effects. These create realistic grime and oxidation.
- Pigments: Dry pigments (e.g., MIG Productions) simulate dust and mud. Apply them with a soft brush or fixative.
- Sponges: For chipped paint effects (more on this below).
- Washes and Inks: Dark washes (e.g., Nuln Oil) deepen recesses, while brown inks mimic dried blood or dirt.
- Fine-Grit Sandpaper: Lightly scuffing surfaces pre-paint helps texture adhere.
Pro tip: If you’re new to the game, the original This Is Not a Test rulebook includes lore that can inspire your color schemes—think faded military gear or scavenged tech.
Step-by-Step Weathering Techniques for This Is Not a Test
Base Coating
Start with a muted palette: olive drab, rust red, or concrete gray. Avoid bright colors—this is the wasteland, after all.
Washes and Streaking
- Apply a heavy wash of Agrax Earthshake or similar to recesses.
- Use a damp brush to streak grime downward, mimicking rain stains.
Sponge Weathering for This Is Not a Test
Dip a torn sponge into a dark brown or black paint, dab off excess, and lightly press onto edges (armor, weapons). This creates chipped paint. Follow with a rust-colored sponge dab for oxidation.
Pigment Application
Sprinkle pigments on boots or cloaks, then blend with a brush. Seal with matte varnish to prevent smudging.
Tips for Achieving a Gritty Look on This Is Not a Test Miniatures
- Focus on Storytelling: A scavenger’s gear might have mismatched repairs; a raider’s armor could be caked in mud.
- Layer Grime: Combine techniques—streaks over sponge chips, pigments over washes.
- Less Is More: Over-weathering can obscure details. Build up gradually.