I’ve created this tutorial to simply show you how to paint a plasma cannon with for a Fists Redemptor Dreadnought, in those striking purple!

Video – How to Paint a Plasma Cannon

All videos are recorded in HD 1080p or higher – use full screen for the full effect and let the video load completely.

Paints Used

• Games Workshop: Naggaroth Night, Corvus Black, Abaddon Black
• Vallejo: Black, German Grey, Neutral Grey, Pale Grey Blue
• P3: Morrow White

How to Paint a Plasma Cannon – Step-by-Step Guide

1. Base Coat and Black Highlights:
   • Begin by painting the plasma gun in Vallejo Black. This base coat sets the stage for the plasma effect.
   • Create a gradient using a mix of Vallejo Neutral Grey and German Grey, starting from the lightest point at the bottom of the gun and transitioning to darker shades towards the skull.
   • Highlight the curved areas of the gun, as these naturally catch more light.
2. Rough Blending Technique:
   • Use a rough blending technique, starting with the 50/50 mix of Neutral Grey and German Grey, then working towards darker and lighter shades.
   • This method creates a textured look, suitable for a tabletop model, with less paint buildup.
   • Use Vallejo Model Colour Black to blend and create a matte effect, contrasting with the primer’s satin finish.
3. Highlighting the Gun:
   • Add highlights along the edges and hard lines of the gun, using Pale Grey Blue. Ensure these highlights are consistent and symmetrical on both sides of the gun for uniformity.
   • Paint rivets with Pale Grey Blue, adding a small dot and line underneath each for a reflective effect.
4. Preparing for OSL:
   • Before painting the plasma effect, make sure the surrounding areas, like the black of the gun, are well highlighted, as the OSL effect will overlap these areas.
   • Paint the plasma coils with Games Workshop Naggaroth Night, ensuring good coverage. This might require multiple coats due to the paint’s translucency.
5. Creating the Plasma Effect:
   • Mix Naggaroth Night with various amounts of Morrow White to create different shades, ranging from dark to light.
   • Start with the darkest purple, painting in between the coils, and then use lighter shades to highlight towards the center of the gun, creating a glow effect.
   • Focus the brightest highlights in the middle of the gun, using lighter purples and whites.
   • Be cautious with white, as it can create stark contrasts and visible brush strokes. Use stippling or glazing to soften these effects.
6. Glazing for Smoothness:
   • Use Corvus Black to glaze over the highlights, starting from the lightest areas and moving towards the darker areas. This technique will soften the transitions and unify the finish.
   • If needed, use Abaddon Black in the darkest areas for deeper contrast.
7. Final Touches:
   • Add additional details and refine any areas that need more attention, especially around the plasma coils.
   • For additional realism, you can create a subtle purple glow around the plasma gun using a glaze of Naggaroth Night.
8. Finishing the Model:
   • Once satisfied with the painting, apply a matte varnish if desired to reduce shine and unify the finish.

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