How do I paint realistic denim on figures?

Painting realistic denim on your figures can elevate their appearance and add a touch of authenticity to your work. Whether you're creating a wargaming army, a diorama, or a display piece, denim is a common and iconic material that deserves attention. Here, we'll guide you step-by-step to achieve a convincing denim effect using straightforward techniques.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

To start, ensure you have the right materials:

• Paints: A range of blue paints (e.g., dark blue, medium blue, and light blue), white, and optionally a grey or beige for weathering.

• Brushes: Fine detail brushes and a drybrush.

• Palette: For mixing paints.

• Water or medium: For thinning your paints.

• Varnish: A matte varnish for sealing.

Step 2: Choose the Right Base Colour

Denim comes in various shades, so choose a base colour that matches the type of denim you want to replicate. For a classic look:

• Use a dark blue as your base coat (e.g., navy or Prussian blue). Thin your paint slightly to ensure it goes on smoothly and doesn’t obscure fine details on the figure.

Apply the base coat evenly over the areas representing denim, such as trousers or jackets, and allow it to dry fully before moving on.

Step 3: Add Highlights

To make the denim look natural, you'll need to build up highlights. This creates the appearance of wear and texture:

1. Mix a Mid-Tone: Combine your base blue with a lighter blue or a touch of white to create a medium shade.

2. Apply Highlights: Use a fine brush to carefully paint raised areas, such as creases, folds, and edges. Focus on areas that would naturally catch the light.

3. Blend: If the transitions between the base and highlights look too harsh, use a damp brush or glaze medium to blend the colours.

Step 4: Create a Faded Look

Denim often has a worn or faded appearance, especially on high-wear areas like knees or pockets. For this:

1. Drybrush: Use a very light blue or mix white with your mid-tone. Wipe most of the paint off your drybrush, then gently drag it across the raised surfaces of the denim.

2. Focus Areas: Concentrate on areas where fabric would naturally fade, such as the thighs, knees, and seat of trousers.

Step 5: Add Texture (Optional)

For extra realism, you can simulate the weave of denim fabric:

1. Crosshatch Pattern: Using a fine detail brush and a slightly lighter shade, paint subtle crosshatch lines on the fabric. Keep the pattern consistent but not overly precise, as denim is irregular in real life.

2. Stipple Effect: Alternatively, use a stippling technique to suggest texture by dabbing lightly with the tip of your brush.

Step 6: Introduce Shadows and Depth

To make the denim pop, add shadows:

1. Wash: Use a diluted dark blue or black wash to emphasise the creases and recesses. Apply it sparingly to avoid darkening the highlights too much.

2. Refine: If the wash spreads too far, tidy up with your base colour or mid-tone.

Step 7: Weathering (Optional)

If your figure represents a well-worn look, add weathering:

• Dust and Dirt: Use a mix of beige or light brown paint to drybrush dirt onto the hems and knees.

• Fraying: Add tiny strokes of white or light grey along edges to suggest frayed threads.

Step 8: Seal Your Work

Once you're satisfied with the look, apply a matte varnish to protect the paint and unify the finish. This step is particularly important if the figure will be handled frequently, such as in wargaming.

Final Tips

• Practice: Before painting your main figure, test your technique on a spare piece or less important figure.

• Reference: Look at photos of real denim or actual jeans to understand the colour variations and wear patterns.

• Experiment: Don't be afraid to try different shades or techniques to find what works best for you.

With a bit of patience and attention to detail, you'll be able to create realistic denim that adds depth and character to your figures.