SlapChop Speedpaint Set
The SlapChop Speedpaint Set is our complete solution for miniature painters who want studio-quality results in half the time. This technique combines zenithal priming with translucent contrast paints to create stunning depth and shadow definition on fantasy miniatures, tabletop wargaming armies, and scale models.
We’ve assembled every essential tool in one kit: rattlecan primers in three values, our most versatile speedpaint colors, premium synthetic brushes, and a detailed instruction guide written by competition painters. Whether you’re batch-painting an army or showcasing a hero character, the speedpaint slapchop method delivers professional shading without the learning curve of traditional layering.
What’s included in your SlapChop Speedpaint Set
Paint Formulation & Finish Quality
Our speedpaint formulation uses ultra-fine pigment suspension in a translucent acrylic medium that flows into recesses while maintaining color intensity on raised surfaces. Each color is pre-thinned to optimal brush consistency, eliminating the guesswork that frustrates beginners.
The rattlecan primers feature precision valve systems that deliver even coats without pooling or texture buildup. The black primer creates maximum contrast for the zenithal technique, while the white topcoat provides luminosity that shines through subsequent speedpaint layers. All paints cure to a satin finish that accepts varnish topcoats without color shift.
Step-by-Step SlapChop Technique
Zenithal Priming Foundation
The speedpaint slapchop method begins with our three-stage primer sequence. Spray the entire miniature with black primer from all angles to establish the shadow base. Once dry (15 minutes), apply medium gray primer from a 45-degree angle on all sides, leaving only the deepest recesses black.
Finish with white primer sprayed directly from above in a zenithal (overhead) direction. This creates a natural light-and-shadow map that guides your speedpaint application. The gradient from black shadows through gray mid-tones to white highlights becomes visible through the translucent color layers.
Brush Care & Paint Storage
The included synthetic brushes maintain their point through hundreds of painting sessions when cleaned properly. Rinse brushes in lukewarm water immediately after use, working paint out from ferrule to tip. Never leave brushes standing in water, which loosens the glue bond and causes bristle spread.
Store speedpaint bottles upright in the foam case insert to prevent pigment settling. Shake each bottle for 30 seconds before use to re-suspend pigments evenly. If paint begins to separate after extended storage, add 1-2 drops of distilled water and shake vigorously.
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Common Questions About the SlapChop Speedpaint Set
The three rattlecan primers contain enough paint to prime approximately 80-100 standard 28-32mm miniatures when applied in thin, even coats. Each 18ml speedpaint bottle covers 40-60 miniatures depending on model size and coverage needs.
Larger models like vehicles or monsters consume more paint per figure, while smaller 15mm scale miniatures stretch supplies further. With typical use patterns, most hobbyists complete 30-40 fully painted miniatures before needing to replace primer cans or speedpaint bottles.
Yes, the zenithal priming method works with any translucent or contrast-style paints that allow undercoat show-through. However, we formulated our speedpaint line specifically to complement the value progression of the included primers.
Other brands may use different translucency levels or pigment densities that affect how the zenithal undercoat appears through the color layer. For best results and color-matched formulas, we recommend using SlapChop speedpaints with the included primer system. The paints are also compatible with traditional acrylic miniature paints for detail work and edge highlighting.
The speedpaints cure to a durable satin finish suitable for display miniatures and casual tabletop gaming. For miniatures that will be handled frequently during gameplay, we recommend applying a matte varnish topcoat after all painting is complete.
Spray varnish or brush-on acrylic sealers both work well over cured speedpaints. Apply varnish in thin coats to avoid pooling in recesses, which can obscure fine details. Allow each varnish coat to dry for 24 hours before handling miniatures normally. Tournament players often apply two coats of matte varnish followed by a gloss coat on metallic areas for maximum protection.
Most beginners achieve good zenithal results on their first attempt when following the included instruction guide. The technique requires only directional awareness, not advanced painting skills.
Practice on 2-3 inexpensive miniatures to develop feel for primer distance and spray duration before working on premium models. The most common beginner mistakes are applying primer too heavily (which obscures details) or insufficient white zenithal coverage (which reduces the translucent effect). The instruction booklet includes photo examples showing proper primer coverage at each stage to help you calibrate your technique quickly.
The speedpaint bottles contain water-based acrylic paints that are non-toxic and safe for indoor use with normal ventilation. The rattlecan primers use low-VOC propellants but should be applied outdoors or in a well-ventilated spray booth due to aerosol mist.
Always wear a dust mask rated for aerosol particles when using spray primers, even outdoors. Allow primed miniatures to off-gas outdoors for 30 minutes before bringing them inside for speedpaint application. The acrylic binder cures fully within 24 hours, after which miniatures are completely inert and safe to handle without precautions.
The speedpaints are pre-thinned for brush application and require further reduction for airbrush use. Mix speedpaint with our airbrush medium at a 1:2 ratio (one part paint to two parts medium) to achieve proper viscosity for 0.3-0.5mm airbrush nozzles.
Thinning with water alone can break the translucent suspension and cause uneven pigment distribution. Always test thinned paint on scrap material before applying to finished miniatures, as over-thinning reduces color intensity and may require multiple coats. For dedicated airbrush zenithal work, consider our Advanced Zenithal Airbrush Kit, which includes pre-thinned primers optimized for fine spray equipment.
Wet speedpaint lifts easily with a damp brush or cotton swab within the first 10 minutes of application. For mistakes discovered after the paint has cured, apply isopropyl alcohol with a cotton swab to soften the acrylic layer, then wipe away gently.
Serious errors can be corrected by re-priming the affected area with white primer and reapplying speedpaint. The translucent formulation is forgiving of minor imperfections, as the zenithal undercoat naturally draws the eye toward highlighted areas. Most perceived mistakes become invisible once the entire miniature is completed and viewed from normal tabletop distance.