Sorastro's Zombicide: Black Plague Painting Guide Ep.2 - The Abomination

[@Miniac]

Your production values are an inspiration to me. Thank you for doing what you do.

[@Sorastro]

+SDub Thank you mate!

[@millr8222]

And the inspiration led to another hell of a channel!

[@Diego-lf7dm]

These are hands down the best painting tutorials for beginners and pros alike and are such a joy to watch.

[@Sorastro]

Thanks a lot Diego! I'm glad you're enjoying the series :)

[@Fishtank33]

You are probably one of the greatest KZbin creators. Your camera work, narration, editing, and skill are out of this world! I'm totally going to get this game for Christmas.

[@Sorastro]

Thank you so much! Really means a lot to me 😀

[@michaelj2276]

These videos are just amazing. You've helped open up a whole new hobby for me and I can't thank you enough. I'm more of a Fantasy/Horror guy, but there are things that I pick up from watching the Star Wars-centered videos as well. If you can keep making more of these... just wow. Incredible production quality.

[@Sorastro]

+Michael J Thanks a lot Michael! I also love me some horror and fantasy (Kingdom Death Monster is screaming at me to paint it at the moment) :) I certainly will be making more videos - especially from September when I make this my full-time occupation :)

[@michaelj2276]

Full-time occupation? Really? Keep us in the loop - I'd certainly like to repay you by purchasing DVD's, ect. of your Painting Guides should they ever become available. Congratulations!

[@Sorastro]

+Michael J Thanks Michael! I posted this a while ago which explains things a little further: sorastro.com/2016/04/17/a-leap-of-faith/ I hadn't planned on releasing DVDs but will be releasing a series of albums containing the music I've composed for people to game or paint with :)

[@michaelj2276]

Very cool! Thanks for the link!

[@MarkYale]

This video is Masterclass quality, especially with the in depth focus on the highlighting process. So much good information, and stroke "theory" loaded into one video. Bravo!

[@Sorastro]

+Curtis Delaney Thank you mate! You're always one of the first to comment on one of my videos and I always appreciate your feedback :)

[@chrisd4814]

I agree with Curtis, although why so obsessed with Citadel paints? Is P3 not a thing in the UK?

[@nixiestarlight158]

@@chrisd4814 Obsessed? Hmm... I take it P3 is YOUR favorite brand of paints. Thing is, just because you prefer it, doesn't mean it is the best, or that everyone else must use it. Everyone has/prefers what they want...if you want a "P3" centered tutorial, I'm sure you can find one instead of telling Sorastro he should be using a different kind of paint...

[@milozdu1366]

This is easily the best tutorial on highlighting skin tones I've come across. I used this as a guide for my first attempt at proper highlighting on the season 1 abomination and the results while nowhere near your quality have been much so better than I could have hoped for. Cheers Sorastro....

[@Sorastro]

Thanks Milo! I'm glad you found it useful! If you haven't already seen it, you may also be interested in a slightly different approach which I took with the Ettins from Descent: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gaGvmKygeLeVrJo It's a pretty fun (and fearless) approach and pretty quick too :)

[@milozdu1366]

Funny you should say that... I was looking at that one just yesterday. By the way have you ever considered creating a cross-referenced index of the different skills/ techniques you use? I've been going through the Black Plague Videos and have been really interested by the variety of different techniques you display for different miniatures at various stages.

[@Sorastro]

That's not a bad idea! I do like to try new ideas out for various miniatures all the time so the techniques in the videos do jump around a bit. If I can find the time I may have a go at creating some kind of index and sharing it on my website :)

[@milozdu1366]

Well, as I've pretty much worked my way through nearly all of the Black Plague tutorials I could always put a list together for you of those at least.... just a thought.

[@EddieTheKingofYango]

Thank you for yet another outstanding tutorial. I used your zombie painting guide for zombicide : Black Plague having left miniature painting over ten years ago and loved the results. I'm a teacher by day and I have to say your ability to communicate simply and effectively with the audience, while demonstrating your skills, is a gift. I look forward to future instalments. Thanks

[@Sorastro]

+EddieTheKingofYango Thank you very much Eddie! As a teacher you have my instant respect. I myself will soon be leaving my current day job to focus fully on producing these videos and I'm very much looking forward to being able to work on them full time :)

[@chrisd4814]

A good note for all beginners or even novice painters. At one point in this video he realizes that the left leg is not flesh and actually clothing, if you prime your models with a black it is much harder to pick out the details that he saw to figure this out. The only time I use black as my primer is when I am painting Chaos marine type models that are going to be mainly dark in tone or if the model is going to be mostly metallic colors. A black undercoat with metallic paints makes them shine a bit more and a white coat under neon based colors makes them glow a bit more. There is some science behind why but simply knowing that is the fact is good enough. Also if you watch his videos keep in mind he is Pro to Master class at least and has a skilled hand that has a crap ton of experience. I would suggest not following how he seems to randomly pick which area to paint next and instead go with the deepest recesses of the miniature and expand outward to the most outward parts. The reason for this is simple he RARELY makes a mistake and hits another area but when you first start or are still learning this craft you will often, hell notice I said he rarely does it? Cause even the best painters can make a mistake. Going outward with which areas you paint allow you to have less risk of a mistake. Also for newer painters notice he mixes paints often? I wouldnt suggest doing that until you can paint a model like he can without seemingly endless retouches. Usually the proportions he has to use to get the color he wants leaves a lot of wasted paint. And if you are having to constantly remake that one color to touch up an area where you made a mistake this hobby will be more expensive then it needs to be. Just food for thought for anyone willing to read through all this.

[@stanleymartens9784]

excellent tutorial, you've got an outstanding grip on highlighting, shading, and colour tones...every video gives me an education. Thanks.

[@Sorastro]

+Stanley Martens That's very kind Stanley - thank you!

[@janmertens7956]

Excellent tutorial as always. Family moment for me and the kids. Keep up the good work.

[@Sorastro]

+Jan Mertens Lol Jan :) Thanks

[@brysonbrewer5750]

I just want to say that you have the best and most creative paint styles that I've seen yet! Keep up the great work!!

[@Sorastro]

+Bryson Brewer Thank you so much Bryson! I'm not the most advanced painter to be honest, but I do try to find easy ways of creating effective results :)

[@davidhuwybarber2190]

Just superb work...as always! You are a credit to the gaming industry with your easy to follow...step by step painting tutorials...fantastic production quality as is the Sorastro norm! 10/10

[@Sorastro]

+Huwy Barber Thanks so much Huwy! I couldn't ask for a nicer comment :)

[@bryanmadewell8896]

I just found your channel and I absolutely LOVE it. The time you take to explain what you are doing and what paints and colors you use is extremely helpful. I am new to painting miniatures although I have been building models for 30 + years. This will bring my hobby and figures to a whole new level.

[@Sorastro]

Thanks a lot Bryan! I'm glad you find the videos useful :)

[@bryanmadewell8896]

I should be getting my first set of figures and basic core paint kit that I ordered from reaperminis. I am excited to start painting minis as it will help with my diorama figures. Do you have any suggestions or helpful hints? Wish me luck.

[@bodilydismemberment864]

I am 44, been painting well since as a kid, seen and read so many tutorials it drove me mad. and got hit with painter's block, been having it for years. finaly your tutorials make me want to pick up painting again, thanks you so much! and also love the music, looking forward to your tunes and more painting vids, cheers !!!!

[@Sorastro]

+Bodily Dismemberment Thank you so much! I'm very happy hear my humble videos have helped motivate you to pick up the brush once more :)

[@jahuras88]

The best tutorial around the internet ! Beautiful music! I love your work!

[@Sorastro]

+Jahuras Thank you for saying so Jahuras! I'll eventually be compiling all of the music into an album :)

[@LBSira]

The production value on your videos are unbelievable. Subscribed!

[@Sorastro]

+LBSira Thank you very much LBSira! I just like to make the kind of video I would want to watch :)

[@homelessjoe]

I was literally hating the skin right up until you added the blue glaze, then I loved it. I should just learn to trust. Well done as always!

[@Sorastro]

+Joseph Lynn lol thanks Joseph; it's a small touch but does make quite a difference :)

[@trickmonkeystudios]

Just got this game and became a patron on Patreon. Love your work Sorastro!

[@Sorastro]

Thank you so much Andy! I really appreciate that :)

[@clawhammr666]

Always enjoy seeing your videos in the subscription box as they are always high quality production and end results looks excellent.

[@Sorastro]

+clawhammr666 Thank you very much! I appreciate all of your positive comments :)

[@senorjavier22]

Amazing video! I'm still a little nervous about painting my figures, but your series gives me so much to work with.

[@Sorastro]

+senorjavier22 Thank you senorjavier22! You needn't be too nervous; even if they're not perfect they will still look so much better than unpainted (and you'll hopefully enjoy the process) :)

[@nixiestarlight158]

Yeah...I know that feeling of being nervous/intimidated. The trick is to just get started...the nervous feelings will fade once you get going. Also, something I think Sorastro's videos is lacking, (sorry Sora) is teaching the BEGINNERS what a wet palette is, and how to make/use one. If you use a dry-palette like you see sora using, you will waste so much paint, as the paints you pull out will dry up, sometimes in a matter of minutes. You then have to open up the paint pot and pull out even more paint, and re-thin it...all because you are following a tutorial to the letter, including not using a wet-palette. Also: ALWAYS THIN YOUR PAINTS! (Sora mentions that one, but it is VERY important)

[@Adamslee72]

very enjoyable and well explained tutorial really found this inspiring just ordered a aerchon ever chosen thank for getting me back to mini painting

[@Sorastro]

+Faron Adams Thanks for the lovely comment Faron :)

[@thebrewgeek]

So good that I had to watch it again. Just about to start painting my set and your video is invaluable. Great work!

[@Sorastro]

+brewgeek1 Thanks a lot! :)

[@ZMBFREKweekly]

Its totally great to see your keeping up the great work.i love black plague.i havnt uploaded videos in months but I just got new equipment for when I start again.been working alot of overtime for my job.but otherwise when I make zombicide videos I will mention your channel as a go to channel for painting the miniatures

[@Sorastro]

+Z0MB13FRE4K weekly Hi Zomb! Nice to hear from you :)

[@DKDunk]

First time I have seen someone taking a picture for highlight reference... cool idea!

[@Sorastro]

Thanks Knud!

[@sadwolfofthemountain]

great video as always! a great inspiration and help for us beginers in the hobby! thank you for your wonderful work!!!!!

[@Sorastro]

+Bibliodentro Panos You're most welcome Bibliodentro! Thank you for the nice comment :)

[@magnusthimberg6836]

You're a Wizard Sorastro. Thanks! Amazing as always.

[@Sorastro]

+Tim Mercy Cheers Tim! Wizard - I like it :)

[@Genera1en]

Great video. The music is really epic.

[@Sorastro]

+Peter Kraft Thanks a lot Peter! Glad you like the music :)

[@chadashton7029]

Not often does music enhance a tutorial video like this...but the way you do it and the selection is just perfect!

[@Sorastro]

Thank you Chad! :)

[@millr8222]

I love the music, the editing and the masterful teaching! You are an inspiration even if one is a bit lazy on the painting at the moment :)

[@dreadknot69]

Amazing work as always! I like the music you composed as well. I almost feel like using it while I play the game. :)

[@Sorastro]

+dreadknot69 Lol - thanks mate ;)

[@philong02]

the highlight is really wonderful!

[@Sorastro]

+Phi-Long TRAN Thanks Phi-Long!

[@sim2570]

It's very nice done, I like it a lot, the blood effect is so well done! (not too much, just the right amount!) and I specially like the music in this video! ...AWESOME like always!!! ;)

[@Sorastro]

+Monte Cristo Thank you friend!

[@BoxedHero]

Makes me want to reach for that dragon bile. Great work!

[@Sorastro]

+BoxedHero Do it! Thanks BoxedHero :)

[@johnevans2710]

Just a wonderful video. Production is always high. But I really enjoyed seeing more of your technique - your mixing of color and how you apply it to the miniature. Thank you. I think the biggest challenge for me is getting just the right consistency of paint and not overloading my brush, but keeping enough on there so it doesnt dry too fast. I'm using shorter hair Windsor & Newton "miniature" bristle brushes. I like how your brushes are longer and appear to hold paint better. I love this channel. Simply the best of it's kind. In the future i'd love to see how you load your brushes, and how you may ensure they are pointed well with the right amount of paint in them.

[@Sorastro]

+John Evans Thanks so much John. I have had a few requests to see more closely how I literally get the paint onto the brush and apply it, as well as how to highlight, so I thought this would be a good opportunity to focus on those things. I'm very glad you enjoyed the video :)

[@throbbertable]

This is a fantastic video. Helped me paint my abomination and it looks fantastic. I was wondering if you were going to do some walk throughs for the Wolfsburg expansion. A guide to pain the Wolfbomination would be amazing!

[@Sorastro]

Thanks Matthew! I'd love to do some Wolfsburg at some point :)

[@Runehammer1]

how in blazes are your hands that steady?! incredible

[@nixiestarlight158]

Eh...as a fellow mini painter (I was inspired to start by this series by Sorastro, actually!) ... I can tell you that it is a lot easier to keep steady at key points than you may think! I've found with very fine details, it helps sometimes to hold your breath.

[@akoni63]

Some of the best painting tutorials out there. Outstanding work again. Could you please show us how to avoid the dreaded frosting that can occur with the dull coat application? Thanks in advance!

[@Sorastro]

+Chris Ross Thank you Chris! I've never really had that problem to be honest; I believe it can happen if it's too humid (not often a problem here!) or perhaps from over spraying? Try just applying light coats (and of course give the can a really good shake for a few minutes first) :)

[@akoni63]

+Sorastro's Painting hmmmm. It must be for over spraying. Maybe I'll try it on a test figure first. Thanks for the response.

[@Sorastro]

+Chris Ross No problem Chris; I hope you crack the frosting issue :)

[@ronjodway3521]

Again, very well done tutorial, mate! I especially appreciate the part where you recommended taking reference photos of the raw mini for lighting purposes. Most painters simply say, "High light where the light would naturally hit the mini.". With your target audience being beginners, that is a very nice touch! By the way, what sort of camera/lighting setup do you use, if I may ask? Your area is very well lit and the video is superb. Thanks in advance and cheers!

[@Sorastro]

+Ron Jodway Thanks a lot Ron! I use a Nikon D750 with a Tamron zoom lens (check out last-year's channel update: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fWmbh2eJq9aShtE) and for lighting I just have a couple of 135W photo studio bulbs (5500k colour temperature so it's pure white light) with reflective hood thingies (one positioned roughly above, and the other pointing front on). Hope this helps!

[@HellBoyAc]

Your videos are very inspiring. Congratulations on the quality of its videos and its talent. Blood Rage is a boardgame with very interesting miniatures, very well produced and beautiful . Any chance of having a tutorial related to Blood Rage ?

[@Sorastro]

+HellBoyAc Thank you HellBoyAc! Yes - I love the Blood Rage minis and am actually planning to produce some videos for them this Autumn :)

[@jesserivas1779]

Another great video. I wish I had your talent. Greetings from, Las Vegas, Nevada. USA

[@Sorastro]

Thank you Jesse! Much appreciated :)

[@nixiestarlight158]

Oh, I don't know. I had never painted a mini in my life before I saw Sorastro's videos in this Black Plague series. They inspired me to paint MY black Plague set, and mine are (in my opinion) turning out just as good as Sorastro's. I won't deny he is quite skilled and talented, but I just wanted to point out that truly anyone can do what you see in Sorastro's videos. You just have to DO IT.

[@alexandreroue252]

very nice videos ! easy to reproduce and very good looking !

[@Sorastro]

+Alexandre Roué Thank you Alexandre! I'm happy to hear that :)

[@MyAllexa]

Great tutorial, thank you! Xx

[@Sorastro]

+MyAllexa Thank you MyAllexa! I'm glad you like it :)

[@OursBleuQC]

Just discovered your channel and your videos tutorial Oo Oustanding Quality!

[@Sorastro]

+Svens Daerthe Thanks a lot Svens! I really appreciate that :)

[@OursBleuQC]

I have always get doubt on the Quickshade and never used it.. but now.. its a MUST HAVE buy! :P

[@greengoblingaming9733]

I enjoyed the video a lot, and the zombie guide as well. The videos have really inspired me. Are you planning to make videos for the rest of the figures in the core box ?

[@Sorastro]

+Greengoblingaming Thank you! Yes I am, although they may be coming quite slowly :)

[@richie1771]

I've been on a binge watching your tutorials, they are the best I have found! Thank you. I'm curious though, I love the red glowing eyes from your white lion, do you think the same technique would work on this and the other zombie models?

[@Sorastro]

Thanks a lot Richie! Sure - I think it would work great :D

[@jollybankes3527]

I adore your videos and your production. You have convinced me to paint my zombies!! I havnt painted them yet however I am really looking forward to! I was wondering if you were going to do a guide for the other abominations as I the Beserker abomination is very hard and I might need some guidance! Anyway one last thing I only have citadel shades and I was wondering if they were ok, I did see the results of all the shades I just wanted some reassurance that painting with that shade will make the model lokk good. Thank you so much for your videos!

[@Sorastro]

+Jolly Bankes Thank you Jolly! The Citadel shades will be fine; After applying it (Aggrax & Nuln combination I guess) you could apply a second layer or two just into the creases of the skin to darken them down if need be. The results should be very similar to that of the Quickshade if you get it dark enough :)

[@jollybankes3527]

Thank you Sorastro's Painting​

[@BreinGames]

Applies shade to mini then proceeds to paint over the majority of figure. Shade: am I a joke to you? Lol love the videos.

[@Sorastro]

Lol - thanks mate :)

[@pezcow23]

Wow I was afraid of painting and I just bought some games to start painting.This video is very good sir.

[@Sorastro]

Thank you! There's nothing to be afraid of - just go for it and have fun :)

[@darlingstrawberry]

You are so talented! I love these videos so much.

[@Sorastro]

+darlingstrawberry Thank you very much darlingstrawberry! :)

[@RhougeChannel]

Hey Sorastro, would you mind doing a materials/setup showcase? i'd love to see that.

[@Sorastro]

+Rhouge Hi Rhouge! I'd be happy to, perhaps in the Summer when I have a bit more time :)

[@claramajse]

if you got the Rue Morgue packet, would it be really nice if you could make a video with the skinny zombies. I got season 1 and Rue Morgue, and are planning to start painting them but it would be really nice with some inspiration :)

[@MentatOfDune]

Never would have thought about painting on top of the Quickshade as it's also a varnish. Never thought the paint would go on easy. Wonder if the Quickshade would be a good option for my Imperial Assault Bantha?

[@Sorastro]

+DirtyDubs I think it would be great for the Bantha :)

[@paulgreer602]

I been looking through some of your painting videos . Do you have one that shows that bluish tint zombie skin tint? i like that tone of colors

[@Sorastro]

+Paul Greer Hi Paul! You'll find that skin tone in the first Black Plague episode :)

[@wayward8372]

Hey Sorastro. Absolutely love the tutorials - I'm using these as guidance for painting up my Bolt Action US army. Two questions: Have you ever used/why do you not use a wet palette rather than dry, plastic one? What brushes do you use at each stage? At the moment I only have an Army Painter Regiment brush and I don't know what to buy next e.g. should I get a new brush for my washes? Again, love the videos! Thanks. EDIT: Okay, so I took the time to read the comments below and see you answered the wet palette question already :)

[@Sorastro]

+TinSoldier86 Thank you! I've had a few people ask the wet-palette question so I'm going to be lazy and copy my response to a previous comment: I sometimes use one for when I'm trying ideas out or just painting for myself (which I don't often get time to do!) because I can more freely mix my colours up, but for the tutorials I quite like using a traditional palette to help keep the ratios of paint that I'm using clear and easy to follow. Some time in the future I may yet switch to using a wet palette for some tutorials perhaps :)

[@Sorastro]

+Sorastro's Painting Oh.. and I just used a Rosemary & Co. Size 2 for this, and I think I switched to a size 1 for the eyes maybe?

[@nixiestarlight158]

@@Sorastro Just to give input from things I've learned since I've started painting: A wet-palette is very much best to use for the purpose of not wasting paints due to the paints drying up. To any beginner mini painters who happen upon this, USE A WET-PALETTE! It allows you to keep using the paints you pull out of your paint pots, avoiding the paint in the pots drying out, or just having to grab more and more to replenish the dried up paint in your plastic dry-palette. Also, I know Sorastro mentions this throughout his tutorials, but do remember to ALWAYS thin your paints when painting minis! There's a lot of people who have been painting for YEARS that never learned to thin their paints...so do make it easier on yourself and just learn your techniques from the start with thinned paints!

[@MrKellyfish44]

Please do the chibis from Arcadia Quest! Their cartoon features are odd and you do an amazing job at showing how to paint!

[@Sorastro]

+Kelly Vernon Thanks Kelly! I'd love to paint Acradia Quest - perhaps a bit later this year when I have more time :)

[@bradthomson6945]

I know this is so long ago and I cannot imagine you answering this post but looking at your reference shots and the same shots I’ve taken do not come close to what you have above. Now I understand that positioning the light is different. My positioning I have it over head with a slight angle. Still comparing to the back portion of the figure I cannot tell how you got any lighting on the ripped green clothing to define the highlight. Mine is completely covered in shadow regardless of angle I’ve changed it to so I’m fascinated how you took/take your reference shots

[@Sorastro]

Hi Brad! I think the difference might simply be that my light (s) have quite a large soft box which creates a nice, diffuse light. I wouldn't worry about it though, as the reference shots are just the to give us some ideas.. 😃

[@bradthomson6945]

@@Sorastro That you so much for replying. It seems such a foolish thing to obsesses about but it was just bothering me that my lighting did not come close to matching your references so I do appreciate the explanation of how you set up your shots. Thanks Again!

[@Sorastro]

No problem! 🙂

[@bradthomson6945]

@@Sorastro Of course after reading your reply I look two comments down and read about how you have your lighting setup now it makes much more sense how you had the hoods placed.

[@navigator6974]

Thanks again for this great tutorial! :) I have a question, I finished the abomination until the shading step and then added the blood to it. Now looking at it, I like it but I am thinking I should have went on to follow your skintone highlights and go all in with this one. Now that the blood is already on the mini, what would you recommend, in terms of proceeding, do you think it would still look good to paint over the blood with a skintone highlight or better to paint around it?

[@Sorastro]

Hi there! I guess that depends on how thick the blood is that you added. But I guess you could just paint over it, and re-apply your final blood on top.. 😀

[@DethCricket]

Hey Sorastro, I am brand new to mini's and mini painting but i am getting into it because of the Dark Souls Board Game, and i was wondering if you have any plans on making any tutorials for it next year when it comes out? ...Also your videos are amazing!

[@Sorastro]

+DethCricket Hello! The minis do look awesome for that game but I think my current schedule is already looking pretty full (for some time to come!) :)

[@VRListic]

Awesome as always man..Keep up =)

[@Sorastro]

+VRListic Thank you!

[@dimhalo08]

Great video Sorastro. Can you let us know what paintbrushes you use for your model painting?

[@Sorastro]

+Nick R Hi Nick! I'm using mostly brushes by Rosemary and Co (you'll find details in the video description) :)

[@dimhalo08]

Hello again Sorastro! I have just finished painting my core set, your guides were a great help. I was wondering about your choice of glue when re-basing to clear bases? anything specific you use to avoid misting? Also - I noticed you dont re-base all your models...like this abomination...any reason why? Why do you do some on clear bases and other not? Thanks again, keep up the good work.

[@Sorastro]

+Nick R Hi Nick! I just used Citadel's superglue; it can still cause misting if you apply too much though. The reason I've chosen not to re-base my Black Plague minis is because I've started playing the game with my 8-year old daughter and the clear bases are a little fragile (although they do look great!) :)

[@maciej8603]

Like always... amazing work. Maybe someday I will paint miniatures like you :)

[@Sorastro]

+jediwolf Thank you jediwolf! Go for it :)

[@heinrichgrabig667]

Are you using matt varnish again, after highlighting stage? Thank you for this outstanding content!!

[@Sorastro]

Thanks Heinrich! I can't remember to be honest, but it wouldn't hurt 😀

[@heinrichgrabig667]

@@Sorastro I started painting my Zombicide minis following your tutorial. I like the approach for the zombies - how did you go about the survivors? I want them to look much more clean - would you recommend following the same steps but using a lighter quick shade? If so, which one could do the job?

[@MrH-GB]

Would dry brushing be a valid shortcut method for highlighting? I’m new to the hobby and watching a lot of videos and I think it would be a good time saving alternative?

[@Sorastro]

Hi Steve! Absolutely - dry brushing would be a lot quicker and give a result that would be fine for an OK table top standard. I personally like to spend a bit more time on the more unique figures (the heroes especially) providing more controlled highlights is all :)

[@EvolverDX]

Would you recommend a zenithal priming for the figure and glazing instead of basecoating the miniature? Love your work at the highlights.

[@Sorastro]

Hi Thomas! Sure - I think a zenithal prime would be great for this figure :)

[@romaineweber1380]

Hello, I recieved my KS exclusives two dans ago. Will you paint them ? I May need some guidance for the abominarat

[@Sorastro]

+Romaine Weber Hi Romaine! Yes, I will probably paint some of them :)

[@mikestrand3023]

Have you tried the varnish with Satin finish as opposed to gloss finish? Also, a second question. I want to get a blue black finish on my murder of crows. I'm thinking a metallic blue and dark varnish, any input? Thanks, you're freakin' awesome!

[@Sorastro]

+Mike Strand Hi Mike! I'm not sure they make a satin finish version of the Quickshade but I'll check it out... I love the idea of a hint of metallic blue for the crows! I'd have to do some testing before I could offer any further advice, but I'd be tempted to try something like a mix of Kantor Blue, Leadbelcher and black, then throwing some Nuln Oil on maybe..?

[@mikestrand3023]

I was checking out some antique walnut varnish on amazon and I saw that they offered it in gloss and satin. Satin would seem like a no brainer for eliminating a step, but does it yield similar results? I was asking in case you happened to have tried it. I haven't painted figures in over twenty years. I gave it up because my eyesight is failing and my hands shake, but your technique of painting with a #2 brush and the varnish technique have me really excited to take up a brush once again. That and I really want to pimp my Zombicide: Black Plague!

[@TheKillingBean]

When I use a Matt varnish I always use alot of highlights. Do have to use stronger highlights?

[@Sorastro]

Hi! Hmm which matte varnish are you using?

[@TheKillingBean]

Sorastro's Painting I'm using Army Painter matt varnish (spray). Any experience with that brand?

[@lsrmerriam]

If only I waited a week to paint my Abomination!! My first attempt at highlights on him are amateurish at best :'( Perhaps I can try re-highlighting the portions not covered by gore... (Another fantastic video, btw! Thank you for sharing!)

[@Sorastro]

+lsrmerriam Thank you Isrmerriam! It's never too late to do some re-touching :)

[@Alex90680]

I’m thinking about zenithal priming for this figure. Any suggestions to what colors to use?

[@최재영-t3w]

Is it okay the figure primed grey color??(brush on)

[@Sorastro]

Hi! Yes, priming in grey is fine 😀

[@EdyIkeoka]

Great. Congratulations.

[@Sorastro]

+Edy Ikeoka Thank you Edy :)

[@EdyIkeoka]

I would like to painting my miniatures like you. I´ll try.

[@Runehammer1]

so many amaze

[@ZMBFREKweekly]

Hey sorastro, great video.i have a question that I think you might be able to help me with.ive painted a number of miniatures but want to add sand to their bases to paint concrete.whats the best way to do that?

[@Sorastro]

Hi Zomb! I think just mixing the sand into some PVA glue would be fine - it will be malleable to work with but dry hard as a rock :)

[@ZMBFREKweekly]

Awsome thanks alot

[@Sorastro]

No worries mate :)

[@themightygurda2317]

Hello! Appreciate if you could tell me more about the diorama as well. Did you make it yourself? If yes, would you be okay with making a tutorial about that? If you've bought it, could you please share the link of the shop you bought it from? Thanks a lot!!

[@Sorastro]

Hi there! The scenery is from a Games Workshop set that was called the "Garden of Morr" but has since been repackaged (and had the quantity doubled!) thus: www.games-workshop.com/en-GB/Sigmarite-Mausoleum-2017 :)

[@thsterrain]

Is it just me, or should the abs and everything in that area be painted as exposed muscle rather than flesh? The skin at the bottom of the rib cage looks torn open and hanging (especially in the side views), which would also explain why his waist is so narrow (flesh and fatty tissue missing). Just an observation.

[@Sorastro]

Hi! You may well be right there! (It was quite some time ago when I painted this..!) :)

[@gregwhite6005]

I see in your later videos you use zenithal priming methods. Would you expect that if you had used those methods for this miniature you wouldn't have needed to work as hard on the highlighting?

[@Sorastro]

Hi Greg! I think you're right - especially when coupled with wet blending like I did for the Descent Ettins :)

[@thenax7998]

Your brush hairs hardly bends when applying paint. Mine tends to bend quite a lot, making it fairly hard to control the paint. Do you do anything to your brushes, or is that just the way that type of brushes are?

[@Sorastro]

Hi there! I thinks that’s really down to the brushes I’m using (my current favourite is the Rosemary and Co Series 8, Size 2) :)

[@orkusdorkusmaximus]

My zombies turned out not bad . working on heroes now .do you use a white base for your heroes ? i am torn between white or black ? do you use the dark tone quickshade on this ?

[@Sorastro]

+Paul Greer Hi Paul! I haven't primed my heroes yet but I will probably prime in black. I won't be using Quickshade on my heroes at all (except perhaps for the base to keep the look consistent with the zombies and to provide additional protection).

[@OldMarinerVintage]

would a couple of hands of agrax earthshade achieve a good effect ?

[@Sorastro]

Hi there! Do you mean instead of the Quickshade? I think the result would be pretty similar :)

[@JamesNettum]

Have you ever considered putting your background music online, like maybe on Bandcamp, KZbin, or as a reward for Patreon? Your video production is always fantastic, and the music is the highlight. (No pun intended.) (Maybe a little intended.)

[@Sorastro]

+James Nettum Thank you James! Yes I'm actually releasing my first album in the Summer: sorastro.com/2016/03/05/music-incoming/ :)

[@JamesNettum]

Fantastic!

[@fornalli]

Will administratum grey or ulthuan make a less chalky finish with german grey?

[@Sorastro]

Hi Bruno! I'd suggest trying them both out and see which you prefer :)

[@mecster012]

You are awesome.

[@Sorastro]

+André Vigilato Bueno (blushes) Thank you!

[@pvt.prinny759]

im pretty bad at highlighting not sure if i wanna risk it with unique minis like the abomination or necromancer :(

[@Sorastro]

+Elvis Presley You could practice on some zombies to build up your confidence a bit? The key is to keep your paint thinned and not to overload your brush; you might be better than you think :)

[@pvt.prinny759]

Sorastro's Painting thanks ill do that before necromancer or abomination

[@h22mantis]

Your brushes are nice. I need to get better ones. The tips of my brushes are deforming. Do you clean yours with anything special?

[@h22mantis]

I see they are Rosemary & co. What series are they?

[@Sorastro]

Hi! I always used to just clean my brushes with water, but recently have been using this: www.rosemaryandco.com/bits-pieces/zest-it/zest-it-acrylicic. Regarding the brush I used for this video it's a Size 2 Series 33 (also in the video description :) )

[@h22mantis]

+Sorastro's Painting Opps sorry didn't see that at the bottom. Thanks. And keep up the great work!! Can't wait to see the Necromancer

[@Sorastro]

No problem! I can't wait to release the necromancer too :)

[@MrGunmanX]

What do you use to stick the miniature to the cork? A Putty?

[@Sorastro]

+MrGunmanX Hi! It's just called White Tack here :)

[@MrGunmanX]

+Sorastro's Painting Thank You! :) Great Videos by the way!

[@andrewmount5717]

This is a seriously good guide, but not sure it's beginner level!!

[@Sorastro]

Ha ha, thanks Andrew! I guess I really wanted this video to help beginners get a handle on the highlighting process.. 🙂

[@andrewmount5717]

@@Sorastro I think it does help, but I am very much a beginner and I struggled to follow the highlighting lol. It's something to build towards though. Currently working through my Zombiecide minis one weekend at a time!

[@Sorastro]

@@andrewmount5717 It takes some time to get the hang of for sure! You'll get there my friend 😀

[@MrAntachan]

Have you ever tried using a wet palette, it is always painful to see that much dry paint in yours XD

[@Sorastro]

+MrAntachan Good question! I sometimes use one for when I'm trying ideas out or just painting for myself (which I don't often get time to do!) because I can more freely mix my colours up, but for the tutorials I quite like using a traditional palette to help keep the ratios of paint that I'm using clear and easy to follow. Some time in the future I may yet switch to using a wet palette for some tutorials perhaps :)

[@MrAntachan]

+Sorastro's Painting I really didn't think about the ratios issue, but you are right about that. I think tho, it would be interesting if you explained how to use it for some of the people that sees your videos, since i started to use one, it feels strange to me to paint with a traditional palette, as you don't have as much time to paint. (excuse me if the text is confusing, english is not my first language)

[@MrAntachan]

+Sorastro's Painting BTW thank you very much for the videos, you encouraged me to paint my descent miniatures.

[@Sorastro]

+MrAntachan I'd be happy to show how to make and use a wet palette (your english is great by the way!) :)

[@MrAntachan]

+Sorastro's Painting Thanks! About the palette, as i said, i already use a wet palette, i was just curious about if you knew of it. Now i will return to internet darkness waiting for your next video :)

[@jorgemartinmanrique3518]

paints dwars samson zombicide ?

[@paulgreer602]

Sorry to bother but i noticed that you removed some zombies . AI been looking for a special way to tell the difference for the NPC special zombies . I was thinking of either skulls on the bases or removing and put them on a special round skulls bases. to remove them i am taking a super shark exacto Knife was used

[@Sorastro]

+Paul Greer Good ideas Paul! I only recently received the NPC zombies and haven't yet decided if or how to differentiate them.

[@NeverStopPlaying]

Благодарю за видео!

[@Sorastro]

+Never Stop Playing - канал о настольных играх You're very welcome! Thanks for the comment :)

[@guillaumel.4241]

Merci

[@HEMASimian]

The link you provide for the brush you use is dead unfortunately

[@Sorastro]

+Julian Schuetze Thank you Julian! That keeps happening for some reason.. I'll take a look at it later :)

[@Sorastro]

+Julian Schuetze Hi Julian! It should be OK now :)

[@HEMASimian]

+Sorastro's Painting Awesome, thank you! Another quick question, when layering what ratio of paint to water do you find most successful? I tend to get impatient so I think I don't water it down enough because I want to see the result faster. Do you use 1 part paint 1 part water? More/less?

[@Sorastro]

+Julian Schuetze Hi again! It can vary, but yes - up to around 1:1 paint to water is usual for me. It's better to start slightly too thin as you can always gradually thicken it up :)

[@iggyflop3777]

It's most beautiful without highlights. Too much is the enemy of good.

[@Sorastro]

Thank you for this - I'll try to remember not to add highlights in the future :)

[@gojoe88]

Is it okay to use acrylic paints?

[@Sorastro]

+Joseph Gomez Hi Joseph! Yes, absolutely :)

[@paulgreer602]

How much time was spent on this mini ?

[@Sorastro]

+Paul Greer I honestly can't remember! Partly because the filming extends the process and I also tend to lose track of time when I'm painting anyway :) it was a good few hours though.

[@DanishArtist]

Here is a little list of the Army Painter paints from the Zombicide sets that would work just as well as the paints Sorastro used, just to keep it all Zombicided :) GW*Steel Legion Drab = Leather brown (Army Painter) VMC*German Grey = Necromancer Cloak (Army Painter) GW*Ceramite White = Brainmatter Beige (Army Painter) GW*WAAAGH Flesh = Elf Green (Army Painter) GW*Kislev Flesh = Survivor Skin (Army Painter) GW*Stormvermin Fur = Filthy Suit (Army Painter) GW*Screaming Skull = Boney Spikes (Army Painter) GW*Rakarth Flesh = Zombie Flesh (Army Painter) (Not 100% sure about this one) GW*Pallid Wych Flesh = Brainmatter Beige (Army Painter) GW*Mephiston Red = Abomination Gore (Army Painter) GW*Loren Forest = Mouldy Clothes (Army Painter) GW*Balor Brown = Boney Spikes (Army Painter) Quickshader Strong = Deep Shader or Zombie Shader

[@AlaskaSaedelaere1]

+DanishArtist you seem to use them more often. I got a pack of them with the zombicide game and i have the problem with them because there is always to much water in them. I shake them several seconds but mostly more water than paint comes out of them. Any suggestions? Thanks for any help :)

[@DanishArtist]

+Alaska Saedelaere, well you need to shake them more then a couple of seconds to mix the paint and the medium (medium is the substance that looked like water), the reason why the paint is like that is mostly because it hasn't been shaken in a while, or just have been laying around in a warehouse or something like that and then it need are good shaking, one can also put some small stainless steel balls in the paint bottles which helps with mixing the paint and medium, but generally giving the bottle a good shake should do the trick to, I hope that helps :)

[@Haldirakos]

When will you pay heroes ? I wait for them :) :) ;)

[@Sorastro]

Hi george! I'm going to paint the necromancer next - possibly in September, then the heroes after that :)

[@Haldirakos]

Oh ok . I will buy thegame soon so i wanted to see your video before paint them. Any suggestions on what colour to paint the vest of silas ?

[@Sorastro]

Sorry george - I haven't had a chance to work out the colors for Silas yet :/

[@Haldirakos]

No worries :) Thanks for answering me !

[@Sorastro]

You're welcome! I'll try to get to Silas first once I've done the necromancer :)

[@SuperFailism]

Fairly certain the chest is actually a piece of cloth. Either way masterful work.

[@Sorastro]

+SuperFailism Thank you! I did wonder about that myself and checked the artwork in the rule book in which it is all skin coloured so I assumed it was just very stylised musculature/flesh.. Anyway, the real question is: Where's my Kickstarter extras!? :)

[@SuperFailism]

Sorastro's Painting No problem, just giving props where due. The artwork is confusing to me too although it looks like concept art rather than the model since the model has no ribs. All that matters is if you're happy with it and I think it would be hard not to. This guy painted it how I see it, goblintramposo.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/P2180092-e1455876646488.jpg Hopefully your extras are in transit but I would've assumed they sent them with your models. I have no idea what you're missing but I'd get in contact with them and try to get a shipping tracking number. Anyway best of luck in future endeavors :)

[@SuperFailism]

I think that guy got a few minor things wrong with the shirt like I would put a hole in it where that different sort of detail is near the rib but I guess I should do it how I want and everyone should have the same right.

[@Sorastro]

+SuperFailism Of course :) Anyway.. I believe orders are starting to arrive in the UK so I imagine my stuff is on its way. I'm looking forward to painting the Wolfsburg expansion minis :)

[@SuperFailism]

Ooo yes they are some nice minis. I'd have lots of fun making different variants of zombie wolves and probably forget all about the humans.

[@anapaulacruz3772]

paint the survivors! !!!

[@Sorastro]

+Ana Paula Cruz It's on my "to do" list :)

[@oliverizzard8751]

i know it's not your goal but, you put all the other tutorials to shame! XD

[@Sorastro]

Thank you Oliver! I'm sure that's not true (I don't watch many to be honest) but I appreciate the compliment :)

[@oliverizzard8751]

Sorastro's Painting You set a high standard, i'm sure they look up to it and it helps the others improve