🎨 How to Drybrush Miniatures Like a Pro

Drybrushing is an old school technique that has been used by modellers for decades. With it, we try to emphasize the three-dimensional appearance of the different textures and details of our models. Due to its simplicity and quick application, it was used in the movie industry to paint sets and models. For many years it was the most used technique by all modellers all around the globe. Although other new weathering techniques appeared eventually, drybrushing is still widely used for dioramas and groundwork, buildings, science fiction and wargames, fantasy, figures, and military vehicles. It is a versatile and easy to use technique that can produce convincing effects of volume, authentic textures, and highlight details on any model.


🔹 What You Need:

  • POP ART Drybrush Paint
    POP ART Drybrush Paint
  • POP ART Acrylic Surface Primer
  • Drybrushes (flat or stubby round brushes)
    Drybrush Types
  • Kitchen towel or tissue
    Tools
  • A miniature or textured model

🛠️ STEP 0: Prime Your Model

Before painting, always apply a thin and even coat of POP ART Acrylic Surface Primer for better paint adhesion and durability.

Priming with POP ART primer


🪄 Step-by-Step Guide:

✅ STEP 1: Load Your Brush Lightly

Use a small amount of POP ART drybrush paint and wipe off the excess on a tissue until almost dry.

Drybrushing step 1: loading paint and wiping excess

✅ STEP 2: Gently Brush Over Raised Surfaces

Use soft, quick strokes across the textured areas to catch only the raised details.

Drybrushing raised areas

✅ STEP 3: Build Up Highlights

Repeat the drybrushing process using progressively lighter colors to create highlight layers.

Drybrushing highlights and layering


💡 Pro Tip:

Use larger, fluffier brushes for broad textures (like terrain) and small flat brushes for miniatures. Don’t rush — use thin layers for better control.


🌟 Final Result

After following these steps, your model will have natural shadows and dramatic highlights with minimal effort!

Final painted model


📦 Products Used in This Tutorial:


🧠 Final Thoughts:

Drybrushing is an incredibly fast and satisfying technique. Perfect for beginners and pros alike! If you try it out, tag us in your projects on Instagram at @popartegypt — we’d love to share your work!