An honest look at costs and process of miniature painting commission
So, you’ve got a pile of unpainted miniatures staring back at you, and you’re thinking about getting them professionally painted. Maybe you’re gearing up for the next big Warhammer 40k tournament, or perhaps you’re an Age of Sigmar enthusiast wanting your army to look as epic on the table as it does in your imagination. Either way, you’re probably wondering: how long will it take and Is it really worth the cost?
How long does it take us to paint your miniature?
The time it takes to professionally paint a miniature isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. It varies based on several key factors.
First, the painting level you choose significantly impacts the timeline. If you’re aiming for a high tabletop standard, a solid paint job that looks great during gameplay, a model might take around 2 to 6 hours to complete, including assembling and basing. However, if you desire a display or competition-level piece with intricate highlights and advanced shading techniques, you’re looking at upwards of 20 to 40 hours or more per model. This level of detail transforms your miniature into a true piece of art.
Model complexity also plays a crucial role. Smaller troops can often be painted more quickly than larger, more detailed miniatures like a Warhammer 40k Titan or a complex creature from Age of Sigmar. Bigger models have more surface area and often more details that require careful attention.
Customization adds another layer to the timeline. If you want unique bases, magnetized parts, or specific conversions, these enhancements require additional time for hand-crafted scenery or modifications. While these custom touches make your models stand out, they do extend the painting process.
The size of your project matters as well. Painting a single hero is different from painting an entire army. Larger projects can take weeks or even months, depending on the scale and desired level of detail. At Minis for War, we typically complete smaller projects within a few weeks, while large armies or high-level display pieces might require two to three months or longer. Rest assured, we can keep you updated throughout the process, so you always know what’s happening with your models.
How much does professional miniature painting cost and how do we price our services?
Let’s talk about the investment involved in commissioning a professional paint job. The cost is influenced by several factors, each reflecting the time and skilled work that go into each model.
The painting level you select is a primary determinant of cost. Tabletop standards are perfect for gaming and balance quality with affordability, with prices starting around $30 to $45 per model, including assembling and basing.
If you’re seeking advanced display quality with tons of details and classic brushwork, the price increases due to the extra time and expertise required – you can expect $150+ budget per single model. A medium size, professionally painted army for 40k or AoS is usually an 1500$-3000$ investment.
As we mentioned previously – type and size of the model, customization and advanced bases style, magnetization, freehands, time-consuming techniques like NMM also affect the final price.
Experience and quality are factors you can’t overlook. Choosing a professional studio like ours guarantees consistency, high-quality work, and a level of detail that’s hard to achieve independently. Our team consists of trained artists with years of experience, bringing knowledge and skill to each model we paint.
We believe in transparent pricing. At Minis for War, we provide each client with a detailed quote before starting work, ensuring there are no surprises. This approach helps you understand exactly what you’re getting for your investment.
Why are our services worth the investment?
Investing in professional miniature painting services comes with clear benefits that enhance your gaming experience.
It saves you a significant amount of time. Painting an entire army yourself is a massive commitment. By choosing professional services, you free up your time – often dozens or even hundreds of hours that you can dedicate to other aspects of the hobby or life in general. We handle the entire process, from assembling and priming to varnishing, so you don’t have to spend countless hours working on each model.
You get consistent quality across every model. Achieving a uniform look throughout an army can be challenging. Thanks to our experience, we guarantee that all models will look cohesive and perfectly complement each other during gameplay.
Work with artists – our team consists of experienced and passionate painters who bring dedication to each project. We know what it takes to make every miniature a standout on the tabletop. These skills require years of practice, and we bring that expertise to every model we paint.
We use only top-quality materials. By utilizing the highest quality paints and finishing materials, we ensure that each miniature is not only beautifully painted but also durable enough to withstand years of gaming and even the toughest battles.
Customization options allow your miniatures to reflect your personal style. We offer a wide range of customizations, including unique bases, conversions, and special effects, making your models truly one-of-a-kind.
Is the miniature painting service right for you?
Choosing to have your miniatures painted professionally is a decision that comes with clear benefits. If you lack the time to paint but still want a great-looking army, we can help. If you’re aiming for a cohesive, high-quality look across your collection, we have the expertise to make it happen. If you want to add personal, unique touches to your models, we’re ready to collaborate with you.
At Minis for War, we’re passionate about painting models. We understand the love and dedication you have for your collection because we share it too. Investing in our services means you’re getting a collection you can be proud of for years to come.
If you are ready for the next step, get in touch with us for a quote. Let’s work together to create an army that not only dominates on the tabletop but also looks incredible doing it! Feel free to reach out with any questions or ideas. We’re excited to embark on this creative journey with you.