Shade
Citadel Shade paints for quick shading, added depth and enhanced detail
Citadel Shade paints are more fluid acrylic paints designed for quick and natural shading of miniatures. Their consistency allows them to flow easily into recesses, folds and surface textures, where they create darker shadows and help define individual details of the model.
Shade paints are most commonly applied over Base or another base colour and add greater depth and contrast to the model in a single step. Individual shades can be selected to match the underlying surface colour – from versatile dark washes through warm browns and flesh tones to green, blue, red or purple shades.
The more fluid consistency allows the paint to flow naturally into folds, gaps and other recessed areas. This quickly gives the surface greater depth and makes its texture more pronounced.
Dark shades work well on metal, armour or for neutral shadows, while brown and warm tones are suitable for skin, bone and natural materials. Coloured Shade paints help preserve the character of the underlying base colour.
The classic process is simple: first apply a Base colour, then use Shade to create shadows, and finally add a lighter Layer colour to re-establish highlights on raised areas.
Apply enough paint to allow it to flow naturally into recesses, but keep an eye on how it settles. If too much paint collects in one area, remove the excess with a clean or slightly damp brush before it dries. This will give you cleaner shadows without unwanted dark marks.
