Painting Samurai Command for Feudal Japan Wargames

Quick answer

Start with a dark brown primer, then layer armor with metallics and lacquer reds for the commander. Use a wash to define details and finish with a matte varnish for durability on the tabletop.

Painting steps for Samurai Command figures

1. Prime the figures: Use a dark brown or black spray primer. This creates shadows in the recesses and provides a neutral base for the metal armor and cloth areas. Avoid white primer—it makes the dark armor and lacquer reds look flat and requires more coats.
2. Basecoat the armor and weapons: Paint the samurai armor plates with a gunmetal or steel metallic. For the commander, add a gold or brass accent on the helmet crest and sword fittings. Keep the brush damp to prevent streaks. Thin metallics slightly with water or medium so the brush strokes don't show on the curved armor surfaces.
3. Paint the cloth and details: Use a deep crimson red for the commander's sashimono (back banner) and any fabric panels. Apply two thin coats for even coverage. Paint the skin with a flesh tone, leaving a tiny gap at the edges to avoid bleeding. Don't overload the brush with red—it can pool in the banner's fine folds and obscure the sculpted detail.
4. Apply a wash: Use a dark brown or black wash (like Army Painter Strong Tone) over the entire figure. Let it flow into the armor joints, face crevices, and banner folds. Wipe excess from flat areas with a clean brush. Let the wash dry completely before the next step—rushing it can lift the basecoat and create muddy patches.
5. Highlight and finish: Drybrush the armor with a lighter silver to bring out the edges. Add a final highlight to the commander's helmet crest and banner. Seal with a matte varnish spray to protect the paint during handling and gaming. Skip gloss varnish—it makes the armor look like plastic and catches light unevenly on the small scale.

Product facts

• Samurai Army Command: This hard plastic box set includes two frames and allows you to field up to 108 10mm soldiers. You get a complete command group in one purchase, saving time and money compared to buying individual metal figures.