Citadel paints are the backbone of any Warhammer hobbyist's collection. From base coats to fine details, these acrylic paints bring your miniatures to life. But nothing is more frustrating than opening a pot of paint only to find it dried out, separated, or clumpy. Proper care and storage can dramatically extend the life of your Citadel paints, saving you money and preserving your favorite colors.
In this guide, we'll explore the best practices for storing and maintaining your Citadel paints. Whether you're a seasoned painter or just starting your journey, these tips will help you get the most out of every pot. We'll cover everything from the ideal storage environment to simple habits that prevent paint from drying out. Let's dive in and make sure your paint collection stays vibrant for years to come.
Why Citadel Paints Dry Out and How to Prevent It
Citadel paints are water-based acrylics, which means they are prone to evaporation. When the water content escapes, the paint thickens and eventually hardens. The main culprits are improper sealing, exposure to heat, and simply leaving the lid off for too long. Even a tiny gap in the lid can allow air to enter and slowly dry out the paint.
To prevent this, always ensure the lid is firmly closed after each use. Wipe the rim of the pot and the inside of the lid with a damp cloth to remove any dried paint that could prevent a tight seal. This simple habit is one of the most effective ways to extend the life of your paints. Additionally, avoid storing your paints in direct sunlight or near heat sources like radiators, as heat accelerates evaporation.
- Always close the lid immediately after use.
- Clean the rim and lid regularly to ensure a tight seal.
- Store away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Optimal Storage Conditions for Citadel Paints
The ideal storage environment for Citadel paints is cool, dry, and dark. A temperature range of 15-25°C (59-77°F) is perfect. Avoid storing paints in a garage or shed where temperatures can fluctuate drastically. Instead, keep them in a room where the climate is stable, such as a hobby room or a closet.
Humidity also plays a role. High humidity can introduce moisture into the paint, while low humidity can cause it to dry out. Aim for moderate humidity levels. If you live in a very dry climate, consider using a humidifier in your hobby space. Conversely, if you live in a humid area, keep your paints in a sealed container with silica gel packets to absorb excess moisture.
Another key factor is the orientation of the pots. Storing Citadel pots upside down can help prevent air from reaching the paint, as the paint settles at the lid. However, this can cause the paint to collect in the lid, making it messy. A better approach is to store them upright but ensure the lids are sealed properly. Some hobbyists use paint racks that hold the pots at an angle, which is also fine as long as the seal is intact.
- Keep paints in a cool, dark place with stable temperature.
- Use silica gel packets in humid environments.
- Store pots upright with properly sealed lids.
Stirring and Mixing: Reviving Separated Paints
Over time, even well-stored Citadel paints can separate, with pigment settling at the bottom and medium rising to the top. This is a natural process and not a sign that the paint is ruined. To restore it, you need to stir the paint thoroughly. Shaking the pot is often not enough, especially for paints that have been sitting for a long time.
Invest in a good paint stirrer or use a toothpick to mix the paint from the bottom. For a more efficient solution, consider using a vortex mixer or a small electric stirrer. These tools agitate the paint evenly, bringing it back to a smooth consistency. If the paint has thickened due to evaporation, you can add a few drops of water or a dedicated acrylic medium to thin it back to its original consistency.
Remember to stir your paints regularly, even if they seem fine. This prevents separation from becoming severe and keeps the pigment evenly distributed. A little maintenance goes a long way in extending the life of your paints.
- Use a stirrer or toothpick to mix from the bottom.
- Add water or medium if the paint has thickened.
- Stir regularly to prevent separation.
The Role of Paint Mediums and Additives
Another way to extend the life of your Citadel paints is to use mediums and additives. Acrylic mediums, such as Lahmian Medium, can be added to thin paints without affecting their color or consistency. This is particularly useful for glazes and washes. If your paint has become too thick, adding a medium can restore its original flow.
Flow improver can also help by reducing surface tension, which prevents paint from drying out as quickly on your palette. While these additives are not a substitute for proper storage, they can help you salvage paints that have started to thicken. Always test the paint after adding any medium to ensure it still performs as expected.
For Citadel Contrast paints, which have a unique formulation, be careful with additives. They are designed to flow into recesses, and adding too much water or medium can ruin their properties. Instead, use a dedicated Contrast medium if you need to thin them.
- Use Lahmian Medium to thin paints without losing color.
- Flow improver helps prevent paint from drying on the palette.
- Be cautious with additives for Contrast paints.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Citadel Paint Storage
Many hobbyists unknowingly shorten the life of their paints through common mistakes. One of the biggest is leaving paint on the rim of the pot. This dried paint prevents a tight seal, allowing air to enter. Always wipe the rim clean before closing.
Another mistake is storing paints in a place where they are exposed to temperature fluctuations, such as near a window or a radiator. This can cause the paint to separate more quickly and even degrade the binder. Additionally, some people shake their paints vigorously, which can introduce air bubbles and cause the paint to dry out faster. Instead, stir gently.
Finally, avoid using the same brush to scoop paint directly from the pot if you have dipped it in water or another paint. This can contaminate the pot and introduce bacteria, which can spoil the paint. Always use a clean brush or a palette.
- Wipe the rim before closing the lid.
- Avoid temperature fluctuations.
- Never contaminate the pot with a wet brush.
When to Say Goodbye: Recognizing Paint That's Beyond Saving
Despite your best efforts, some paints will eventually reach the end of their life. A paint that has become a solid, rubbery lump or has a foul smell is likely beyond saving. Also, if the paint has separated into a watery layer and a thick sludge that cannot be recombined, it may be time to replace it.
However, many paints can be revived if caught early. If you notice a paint starting to thicken, act quickly by adding a few drops of water or medium and stirring thoroughly. The sooner you intervene, the better the chance of saving it. Regular maintenance is the key to avoiding waste.
When you do need to replace a paint, consider investing in a high-quality replacement. For example, the Citadel Layer: Skavenblight Dinge 12ml is a popular choice for many painters. If you're looking to expand your collection, the Citadel Contrast: Mantis Warriors Green 18ml is excellent for vibrant base coats. Proper care will ensure these paints last as long as possible.
Citadel Contrast: Mantis Warriors Green 18ml
- Throw away paints that are solid or have a foul smell.
- Act quickly to revive thickening paints.
- Invest in quality replacements when needed.
Taking care of your Citadel paints is a simple yet essential part of the hobby. By following these storage and maintenance tips, you can extend the life of your paints, save money, and always have vibrant colors ready for your next project. Remember to store them properly, stir regularly, and address any issues early. For all your painting needs, check out the Citadel Layer: Skavenblight Dinge 12ml at GUNNZO to add a reliable shade to your collection.
