The Ultimate Guide to Non Metallic Metal (NMM)

[@Miniac]

I created an album of my NMM attempts over the years: imgur.com/a/SzvY3Ef You can see my progress as I keep attempting. I share this not to be discouraging. At this point in my hobby career, I had been painting for at least 10 years. I had the fundamentals down, it was just a matter of understanding NMM, so don't be discouraged.

[@patrickeisner1656]

Hi, great tutorial! I am struggling to find the right paints for gold NMM. Do you have a list of the paints you used for the NMM?

[@d3ku]

@@patrickeisner1656 NMM Gold can be achieved with just 3 Vallejo paints. Model Color White, Model Air Armor Brown (or Tank Brown), Game Color Scrofulous Brown

[@NoobNoob-ss5hs]

This is such a niche channel. I sub.

[@jamesclews233]

I really wanna see you metal plate a mini now, a chaos marine metalic red and gold lol

[@mutehowl]

Where does that fat guy armor come from?

[@chrisgreene5941]

I'm 34 and just started painting back in October. I didn't think I had an artistic bone in my body but in the very short time that I have been painting I have excelled to "really good table top quality" minis. Your videos have become cornerstone in my advancement. I really appreciate that you take the time to produce high quality videos with personality. Keep up the great work.

[@NecroMancer84]

Chris Greene I would like to see some of your work. Do you post pictures of your work anywhere?

[@chrisgreene5941]

Chris DeMint I've been extremely lazy about doing so. I sometimes post in Tabletop Minions Facebook group. I will start putting more up soon.

[@NecroMancer84]

Oh man I dont have FB but thats ok. You should maybe consider joining the Reaper Mini forums. Lots of really friendly and great painters on there

[@BIZEB]

Just a small correction, or addition, to the art history bit at the beginning: painters used gold and silver for metals before they transitioned to simulating metals with pure paint. Gold and silver leafing were around much earlier than the 17th century, and was a valued technique because it incorporated precious metals into the work, amongst other things (glazing on top of metalic surfaces also created a desireable effect). However, the Renassaince brought about the value of the individual master, and so a painter who could actually emulate metals with pure paint (pigments were still expensive, too) was more valuable to the buyer than just putting gold on it. Gold was never out of the picture entirely, but went increasingly out of fashion, compared to how ubiquitous it was.

[@clockworkpanda8]

The more you knooowww

[@s3rj81]

But gold is always badass no matter what

[@benjaminleyer2555]

Best advice ever was at the end of the video. “We are still learning”. Thanks mate, I really needed to hear that

[@3DPrintedTabletop]

That was so valuable. I don't think I'm quite ready to try this yet, but the physics portion was just so good. Thanks for taking the time to do this, and also for injecting your humor into your videos.

[@Ravenicus]

Literally god bless this video. That explanation of how the reflection is what your eyes are seeing and not just where the lights are, it just made something click.

[@negotiableaffections]

I'm not going to complement your skill - I'm going to compliment your dedication, patience and perseverance. [the skill is your prize for all the work you've done getting there] If you can encourage this attitude in others [makers, modellers or whatever] then you will have come full circle. Of course, none of us ever stop learning, well done my friend.

[@trovarion]

Angry nerd in sweatpants charging awkwardly with a sword...! Nice video. Finally something I can direct people to ^_^

[@Miniac]

trovarion high praise!

[@Ninjon]

Trov-trolled!

[@7sharp9b5]

I know this is 3 years yonder but I just got here recently (To the channel, not the planet)... I really like the fact you mention real actual time taken on a miniature especially blending parts which absolutely takes ages, I was under the false impression for years that people could just knock this stuff out in 12 mins flat, its important to show mortals painting things, great job Scott!

[@brianfoley4328]

I don't paint miniatures, but I've learned so much for painting other models from watching your videos...but more than that...you have a real talent, not just painting, but for teaching. You have real depth with concepts and science...great video.

[@HobbySauce]

I've always had an issue doing this, even with an art background, on a 3D surface. I loved how you approached this video, not going direction into the practical, but starting on the theoretical. This is going to be my go-to recommended video for painting (and your channel is already my go-to recommendation for painting). Good work, Miniac. Real heroes are all on KZbin.

[@westcory3]

Painted my first miniature 2 months ago after years of buying minis pre painted. Never thought I could paint something recognizable, let alone decent. I can't begin to tell you how much your videos have helped me struggle with fear of failure. Like so many of your other videos, this one was brilliant and entertaining! Thanks for what you've given us!

[@jamesfoster7158]

An art instructor once told me "we're not drawing reality, we're drawing what people think reality looks like." Your video echoes a lot of what he tried to teach me. But you were easier to understand.

[@Miniac]

James Foster thanks for the high praise!

[@madnessbydesignVria]

Victory offers validation. Failure offers education. To fear failure is to never truly learn... Love your channel. So much great information and practical advice :)

[@diamondflaw]

My wife from the other room while I'm watching this: "SEEE? I'm not the only one who asks!"

[@davekachel]

they all ask and the answer is always the same xD

[@sebs2157]

Ive been doing this hobby for over 16 years since I was 10, and I remember hanging out at the GW stores and NMM was the 'Next best thing' that everyone wanted to learn (but we were like 12 so we didnt have the skill lol) Finally got around to learning this as I wanted to show that I've at least learnt something in the past 10 years and this video has helped so damn much you have no idea! Thank you so much!! xD

[@TheMiniJunkie]

Before I even watch this - that thumbnail is ON POINT.

[@bensonkattenhorn1495]

i have watched this so many times since you first posted this. the one thing i love about your videos and explanations is the depth that you go into to explain how you get the results you do using lighting shapes ect ect. thank you for the content you produce you got me back into the hobby after a 2 and a half year break

[@BigBwanaBen]

Great video as always! The production value of these tutorials is head and shoulders above most. The time and effort you put into putting these together really shows

[@SchnauzerFaceMinis]

This is my favorite mini painting channel. Thank you for all the hard work you put into your videos. You’re an asset to the community. Thank you!!

[@skitzy_]

When you wanted a guide on NMM but instead get a history, science and life lesson. (Amazing video, sir)

[@naughtyzoot1]

So funny and so helpful. -I've been painting minis since about 1985 and your channel fixed a ton of things I was doing wrong/ the hard way. You are rad.

[@AggressivelyMediocre]

Great final advise sir. Just last week I experienced exactly what you did. The piece I was doing for a friend was just not working for me but I powered through and the wash i put on pulled the whole thing together. It was like those paintings people do in public. Where you don't know what they are painting until you realize they've been painting upside down and suddenly the whole piece comes together.

[@Klatubarada1979]

10 hours!?!? No NMM for me. Love this vid. Fave part is your T-shirt!

[@coldseid]

That white boy is out the back with his sword again. great video man!

[@nicorender]

Awesome video, simply the best guide for "pre-producing" NMM. Also great video value and quality as always

[@deathtyrantart]

I don’t paint minis but as a concept artist I struggle the most with metals and armor. This video has taught me more than all the videos I’ve watched from industry professionals. Thank you

[@jedisith3864]

You're very humble and that's always something that I find highlighting quality content providers.

[@apollohokyu3618]

I was really on the fence up until that final picture of the mini. Really fantastic work and a great in-depth tutorial, thanks!

[@bitzbox]

I think this is the best NMM video I've watched and I've watched quite a few. It's a technique I'm determined to get good at this video will really help. Thank you

[@018music018]

Thank you for saying that took 10 hours. Up until that point, and after watching tons of other NMM videos that don't say a time like that, I was really starting to wonder if I suck at painting. I think mine just looks like a beginner at 1.5 hours now, the difference makes sense finally!

[@albin3dklein]

Oh mate, I'd love to be your patreon and a soon as I get again on track, I'll be because you've a video for everything so far and you, mate, have taught me about every single topic I've researched for. I love your channel, thanks again. Today I had that exact question: "how to make non metallic paint, look metallic", and here I am. I'll just go to your channel and search there, it'll be faster. 🤟

[@JoshuaSmith-wh2rf]

You’re the kind of guy I wish I had in art critiques. You’re scientific as F all and spot on. In other words, highly informative and extremely constructive. Rock on!

[@xvalhallaboundx1187]

Always such a good message behind the videos you got here. I love it. Keep on rocking out dude. I love the videos.

[@jpf338]

Best T-shirt ever! seriously man I enjoy this channel in so many lvs, the comedy add so much.

[@DDCRExposed]

Almost did a spit take with my tea when he put the metallic spheres on the mirror! So damn funny!

[@TheMiniJunkie]

yeah I lol'ed for real hahahah

[@jaysal_dies]

This guide was way more extensive than I was expecting. Also love the Uncle Atom shirt. Keep up the quality content dude

[@mikeljokinecheveste1287]

Excellent tutorial, the physics examples make much more easier to know how to apply the painting techniques. I'm missing your streams on twitch, but if this means that you make more awesome KZbin videos like this one, then it's OK. :)

[@netdogca]

Nailed it! That was an amazing learning experience filled with tons of useful information and demonstrations. The humor is appreciated and the Mrs. needs an answer. :)

[@eduardorodriguezcorrea7386]

This is one of the best videos out there on nmm

[@Malachi57]

Wow. That demo was crazy. I didn’t see where it was going then you pull a Bob Ross and make it look amazing lol.

[@joshscottuk]

this was so well done, best NMM tutorial I’ve seen on yt

[@jfreeze8567]

Dude your videos are hilarious and really informative. You hold my attention better than anyone else.

[@pasqualecirone9755]

Wow, such an amazingly insightful video. I know I'll be watching this over and over and inspires me to try some of these techniques. Really well done.

[@blackearthdreams]

That was worth it for the last frame, if nothing else! But all great advice for a beginning miniature painter, such as myself. And love the “Pa-chow” shirt! Thanks, Scott. -Geoff.

[@chrisbarrett1006]

Thanks for the nice guide . I've been using metallic paints in the past and will be diving into trying NMM . Great description on where the highlights and shadows and the sharp contrasts between the 2.

[@swiip100]

this video is amazing. I cant often say i find all the answers im looking for in a single video or post but you certainly managed it

[@RoboticDragon]

I have to say I am very impressed with how well you teach and break things down. Your video was very well done, as was your miniature. I am going to share your stuff with some friends of mine and maybe it will help them out as it likely will benefit me also.

[@jmikeh73]

Best NMM explanation I’ve ever seen. Terrific job man.

[@isophistchambers6694]

I've learned more useful theory watching a dozen of your videos than in 2yrs as an Art Minor!

[@GiaTribiani]

Hands down best nmm video

[@ThorMan91587]

Awesome video, on several different levels. I like that you dive into the basics of color theory in a way that's easy to comprehend, instead of spouting off "lawl, idk, I'm not a scientist" like other YT personalities. It shows that you have a deeper understanding and interest in the process, rather than faking it till it looks okay enough to fool the viewer. And as always, you were funny as hell, and I enjoy your somewhat intentionally awkward and off-beat humor. As soon as I'm not poor as fuck, I'll be joining your patreon ranks. Keep kickin ass, my man

[@Paepercuts]

Very nice vid and great tips! I liked your reference to Rembrandt and the others, they were true masters of light and shadow in an age without photoshop!

[@danielgrimes1097]

Your words of encouragement keep me going I’m in your painting competition I can’t wait for feedback and I love your vids thank you this was my first competition ever

[@redbaron671]

Solid video. I need to practice this more on my own minis. I think I will just stick with weapons for now though. Armor is very intimidating.

[@DziobatyDziobak]

Great guide! I'm just about my 4th attempt with NMM on one figure. Hope that will help. And your pronunciation of 'Polska Liga Walk Rycerskich' is priceless XD

[@lewisdimmick3933]

Love the videos! FYI, metallic paints have been around far longer than Rembrandt / old master painters - many artists, such as your Rembrandt example painted NMM because it required a higher level of skill and gave a truer reflection of the subject - texture, depth, light source etc are all under the artists control by using nmm.

[@Miniac]

You have some documentation of this? I couldn't find any! It also makes sense that they would not use metallic pigment because they're painting a 2D canvas unlike a 3D mini. The main benefit of metallics is that it creates the highlights and shadows for you to a certain degree but on a flat canvas, it's just another color.

[@lewisdimmick3933]

Forgot to reply to this - see early catholic paintings (I'd assume other cultures have examples too but I'm too ignorant to reference), holy figures were painted with true metallic paint halos so long as the commissioner was wealthy enough. This was in a time when they hadn't even got to grips with perspective in painting.

[@Jonny_Wrigs]

Dude, I love your vids and seeing uncle Adam another one of my favorite channels was awesome.

[@kurtisbechard9725]

it was really cool too see you process on this from start to finish because it really give me hope that i can practice this and one day make it look halfway like metal.

[@gingerwhale871]

With this vid, youve both elevated your nmm and video game!

[@jeffyellowega5828]

love your vids.... wish i had the time too sit and watch them all..... i like that its easy to understand.... and simply to the point!

[@broadside339]

Best mini painting channel out there!!!!!

[@kylerobinson9994]

this is one of my favorite KZbin videos.

[@waynehayman8183]

A fantastic tutorial Scott of a subject not often covered

[@vincentgregory1470]

*Excellent* video man, and I really liked how you closed with encouraging words to push through failure. Thank you!!

[@bettsdn]

Fantastic video I really liked the physics explanation. I'm not ready for advanced techniques like this, but it's inspiring to watch!

[@Fnordathoth]

Awesome video! Very well explained and demonstrated. Love the Uncle Atom shirt "Pa-chow!"

[@halarkin]

Holy crap, you're really good at teaching. Well done!

[@bobyoung8730]

You sir have the patience of a... well a person with a lot of patience. The bit with the spheres on the mirror made me laugh out loud at a very quiet workplace (yeah I'm watching this at work shhh).. and I had almost the same discussion with my wife last night painting up some stuff too :P Keep up the awesome work!

[@jelunislaw]

I really apreciate your videos and admire your skills. Personally I only like painting minis in, as many of folks would say, very simplistic way like throw base colours, some washes, some dry brush, tryhard wetblending, kindergarden highlights and trying not to lose half a day for a session and the only minis I'm painting are from my boardgames but im really enjoying myself and this channel was always both helpful and entertaining for me. Keep it up:)

[@CronusandRhea]

I've been practicing with Vallejo's NMM kit on one miniature and I am on my second try now.

[@callum5257]

Great work Scott. Exceptional.

[@CharlieO_]

@OrgunUK agree that guy looks like Sam Lenz. "Portrait of a Man in Armour with a Red Scarf" indeed! Scott, its a really great start and you've given me a proper introduction to a concept that I've literally never even tried to wrestle with before. I feel confident and scared (the good kind of scared) at starting now - and not a moment too soon! I'm super curious to see how this comes across on vehicles - my current fascination. As always, you are showing that Illustration borrows from almost every other discipline and (might I add) you are ILLUSTRATING it (ahha) very well.

[@darktower74]

I'm so glad I watched this video. Substantive, funny, and inspiring. Triple-threat tutorial Pa-chow!

[@neilburns372]

You're like the Idubbz of painting (that's a good thing), love your work!

[@petroopa1667]

Neil Burns I know right?! Lmao

[@seanbybee6047]

Very good technique video with great real world references. Subscribed. I'm always trying to learn more techniques to advance my skill sets.

[@yegoodoneson3477]

Exceptionally well explained video and very helpful. You Sir have earned yourself a subscriber.

[@HiveMind3006]

Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!! So so helpful matey! I have always wanted light and reflections explained and man you did the job so well! Thanks very very much!!

[@SuyePhoto]

amazing! good work explaining how metal works with light! this is so important and is definitely glossed over too often, awesome!! (Also need to find some different metal cubes those seem to help too)

[@Boodoosh69]

wow - this was really compelling and informative - so much info and logical - nice job Miniac

[@twoloonspainting2718]

Exceptional vid Scott! Really got me wanting to give it a try soon.

[@theser247]

I just love your confidence in using your own face like that.

[@YvraineSimp]

Love your positivity my dude Deff subbing

[@Hand_of_Maedhros]

Congrats for the video and the hard work u are doing! this was one of the better tutorials on nmm i ever seen.

[@AMattyDevil]

This is a great video, very informative. Thanks Scott!

[@matthewmorris101]

Yeh! My shout out in the video I've looked forward to the most (I'm "Troll-In" -> Trolen)! Of all the videos and tutorials I've watched yours is the most relatable and easiest to follow, no matter the subject! Thanks for all of your effort, it is most appreciated!/

[@ocarlo3]

I freaking love the shirt!!! Goes to show how cool you are by promoting other content producers.

[@madcowrebel4216]

Incredible. figure painting seems so much more possible now that I understand so much more

[@benrichardson5662]

Nice stuff. I'm going to experiment with NMM to paint some Custodes for a competition so this should help.

[@ukspeedy1048]

Your painting skills are really coming along keep at it kid

[@Miniac]

thanks old person

[@gunberyl3075]

So much went into this vid. Learned a lot thanks bro.

[@Xarsir]

I so recognise the wife/GF walking in part :') Really clear video, I've been challenged by a few guys in our local group to give NMM a shot on the Volturnos model from GW.. I think this video has given me the motivation I need to give it a go!

[@jedrzejwilinski8148]

Since you seem to be quite a rock/metal aficionado, it sounds really funny when you try to share some thoughts on... non metallic metal :D As always, loving your stuff (and your dogs).

[@ciarfah]

Jędrzej Wiliński my first though was Nickelback

[@DannyEastes]

I think you're actually a wizard. I've been painting for a while now but NMM is just... magic

[@RedWhineman]

Excellent technical analysis of the subject! Very educational. Thanks a lot!

[@TheButteryGamer]

i just watched him paint NMM after explaining it and i still don't know how he did it xD Your too good at painting Miniac. i have no idea where to start or go from to painting NMM

[@akselolsson7576]

This has to be your best video yet!

[@benharmes1245]

Very helpful! One shall be attempting this later. Thank you

[@cerethpainting6606]

This is a spectacular video. This is really the last technique I need to lean. Thank you for this.

[@Stilghar]

Polska leega valk rytzerskih - something like that. A great video. Probably the most intimidating thing about NMM is that it takes a whole lot of time to get a decent effect, just as you said. Guess patience comes with the hobby. :-)