For my first blog post, I want to share the process of painting a truly unique model – Lady Élisse Duchaard. This stunning figure, riding a majestic unicorn, perfectly embodies the symbolism of beauty and purity, which I aimed to reflect through my choice of colors and painting techniques.
The Challenge of White – Shading from Gray to Light
Painting white is always a challenge. Pure white paint offers little room for shading, so the key is to build up from darker tones. For this model, I created smooth transitions from cool gray to pure white, giving the fabric and armor depth and realism.
Key Steps:
✔ Gray primer – provides better control over light tones.
✔ Shading with gray – subtle transitions add a natural look.
✔ Gradual highlighting – multiple thin layers of white create a glowing effect.
The Unicorn – More Than Just a Mount
The unicorn in this model is more than just a means of transportation for Lady Élisse; it is a symbol of purity and perfection. To emphasize this, I focused on soft contrasts – its coat transitions from light gray to an almost ethereal white, while the horn and hooves feature a delicate pearlescent sheen, giving it a mystical aura.
The Final Effect
The completed model balances the contrast between rich, dark details of Lady Élisse’s attire and the light, almost radiant white of her cloak and unicorn. With careful shading and attention to detail, the miniature captures a regal and elegant presence – just as befits a true noble.
📸 Check out the gallery below to see the finished piece!
Stay tuned for more projects, painting techniques, and miniature showcases – this is just the beginning! 🎨✨