Top 7 Citadel Paints Every Hobbyist Should Own

A Must-Have Paint List for Warhammer & Miniature Painters

With hundreds of paints available from Citadel, it can be overwhelming to know which ones to buy first — especially if you're new to the Warhammer painting hobby. Whether you're building an army of Space Marines, Orks, or Stormcast Eternals, some paints stand out as essential, versatile, and time-tested.

At WarModels UK, we've compiled this list of the top 7 Citadel paints that every miniature painter should have in their kit — perfect for beginners and veterans alike.

1. Abaddon Black (Base)

Use: Armor, weapons, undercoating details, fixing mistakes
Why it's essential: Abaddon Black is the most-used colour in Warhammer painting. It's smooth, opaque, and the perfect black for basecoating or touching up.

2. Leadbelcher (Base)

Use: Metallics, chains, weapons, armour edges
Why it's essential: A reliable metallic base for any steel, gunmetal, or mechanical component. It pairs beautifully with washes and highlights for a quick and realistic metal effect.

3. Mechanicus Standard Grey (Base)

Use: Armour panels, rocks, bases, buildings
Why it's essential: One of the most versatile neutrals. Great for everything from Space Marines to scenery, this grey takes washes and drybrushing extremely well.

4. Retributor Armour (Base)

Use: Gold details, trim, weapons, sigils
Why it's essential: Citadel’s most popular gold. It's rich, bright, and applies far better than most metallic golds from other brands. A must-have for Stormcast, Custodes, and ornate gear.

5. Agrax Earthshade (Shade)

Use: Shading, definition, weathering
Why it's essential: Known as "liquid talent," Agrax Earthshade instantly adds depth and realism to your models. Apply it over armour, skin, cloth, or metallics — it just works.

6. Rakarth Flesh (Base)

Use: Bone, parchment, skin, cloth, icons
Why it's essential: A flexible, warm off-white that makes an excellent base for lighter colours or natural finishes. Works great for purity seals, skulls, robes, and more.

7. Mephiston Red (Base)

Use: Armour, cloaks, lenses, power weapons
Why it's essential: A bold, smooth red that covers well and is a staple for Blood Angels, Chaos, and more. It’s one of the most vibrant and forgiving reds in the range.

Honourable Mentions

• Wraithbone – Great for contrast paint undercoats

• Nuln Oil – A black wash staple for dark definition

• Corax White – A smooth white basecoat alternative

• Seraphim Sepia – Ideal for organic or parchment shading

• Caliban Green – Dark and rich for Death Guard and Dark Angels

Final Thoughts from WarModels UK

If you're building your first Citadel paint collection or just want to fill out your paint rack with the most useful colours, this list gives you a strong foundation. These paints are workhorses — reliable, versatile, and used across thousands of paint schemes.

As your skills grow, your collection will too — but these seven paints will always have a place on your desk.

Need to stock up on paints?
Explore our full Citadel range and starter bundles at WarModels.co.uk