DREADNOUGHT CHALLENGE – how did we do?
This past weekend, my home studio in Swansea, South Wales, hosted a dedicated painting course focused entirely on Dreadnoughts—those iconic war machines of the Horus Heresy and Warhammer 40,000 universes. Over two days, a group of enthusiastic hobbyists joined me to explore the full process of painting a Dreadnought model from start to finish.
The course was designed to cater to a range of skill levels, from those looking to build foundational techniques to more experienced painters seeking to refine their approach. Regardless of experience, the aim was the same for everyone: to leave with a completed Dreadnought and a clear understanding of each stage of the painting process.
We began by breaking down the preparation and planning phase, looking at sub-assembly, priming, and establishing a strong basecoat. From there, we moved through a series of core techniques—modulation, edge highlighting, weathering, and detailing—alongside discussions on colour theory, brush control, and finishing touches. Airbrushing techniques and oil-based weathering methods were also covered in depth, giving attendees a versatile toolkit they can apply to future projects.
Throughout the weekend, the atmosphere remained focused but welcoming, with plenty of opportunities for questions, one-to-one guidance, and collaborative feedback. It was genuinely rewarding to see each participant’s confidence grow over the course of the two days, and the final results were a testament to their commitment and creativity. Each Dreadnought reflected its owner’s chosen Legion or Chapter, with careful attention paid to tone, balance, and battlefield narrative.
Thank you to everyone who attended and made the event such a success. It was a pleasure to work with such a dedicated group of hobbyists and to share techniques and ideas in a hands-on, practical setting.
There are more painting weekends and courses planned for later this year, covering a variety of topics and model types. Whether you’re looking to build on what you’ve learned or join us for the first time, I look forward to welcoming you to the studio soon.
