Quick answer
For best results with GameMaster Terrain Primer, shake the can for two minutes, spray from 20-30 cm away in short bursts, and apply in thin, even coats to avoid pooling on textured surfaces.
Why terrain needs a dedicated primer
Terrain pieces like ruins and cliffs have uneven surfaces, deep recesses, and sharp edges. A general-purpose primer may not adhere well or may fill in fine details. The GameMaster Terrain Primer is formulated to bond with textured plastic, resin, and MDF, providing a durable base that won't chip during handling or gameplay.
Common mistakes with spray primer on terrain
Spraying too close or too heavily is the most frequent error. On textured surfaces, excess primer pools in crevices, obscuring cracks and stonework. Another mistake is not shaking the can enough—settled pigment causes uneven coverage and a gritty finish. Finally, spraying in humid or cold conditions can cause the primer to dry before it hits the surface, resulting in a dusty, rough coat.
Step-by-step application guide
- Shake the can thoroughly: Shake the GameMaster Terrain Primer can for at least two minutes. You should hear the mixing ball rattling freely. This ensures the pigment and solvent are fully blended. If you don't hear the ball moving, the primer may be clogged—warm the can in lukewarm water for a few minutes and shake again.
- Test spray on a scrap piece: Before spraying your terrain, do a quick test on a piece of cardboard or sprue. This confirms the nozzle is clear and the spray pattern is even. A sputtering or spitting nozzle indicates a clog—clean it with a pin or replace the nozzle.
- Hold the can at the right distance: Keep the can 20-30 cm (8-12 inches) from the terrain surface. Spray in short, sweeping bursts rather than holding the nozzle down continuously. Holding the can too close causes pooling in crevices; too far and the primer dries mid-air, creating a rough texture.
- Apply thin, even coats: Start with a light dusting coat, then let it dry for 5-10 minutes. Apply a second thin coat to cover any missed spots. Two thin coats are better than one thick coat. If you see primer pooling in cracks or on flat surfaces, you've applied too much—wipe it off immediately with a paper towel.
- Allow full curing before painting: Let the primer cure for at least 24 hours in a well-ventilated, dry area. This ensures the primer fully bonds and won't peel when you apply paint or washes. Painting too soon can cause the primer to lift or react poorly with your paint, ruining the finish.
Product details
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GameMaster Terrain Primer: Ruins & Cliffs: The Army Painter GameMaster Terrain Primer: Ruins & Cliffs is a versatile spray primer designed specifically for miniature terrain. Each can contains 300 ml of high-quality primer. The 300 ml capacity provides ample coverage for multiple terrain projects, and the terrain-specific formulation ensures better adhesion on rough surfaces like stone and ruins.
GameMaster Terrain Primer: Ruins & Cliffs
