How to Paint an Entire Company of Space Marines – The Hidden Lair Hobby Guide

Building a full company of Space Marines is one of the most ambitious undertakings in the Warhammer hobby. Whether you’re marching to war for the Emperor, the Warmaster, or simply building a dream collection, there’s something awe-inspiring about seeing row after row of power-armored warriors lined up and ready for battle.

Painting that many models, however, can feel like a daunting challenge. But fear not—this guide from The Hidden Lair breaks down the process into clear, achievable steps that will help you bring your vision to life without burning out your hobby enthusiasm.

1. Craft Your Vision – Build Your Story Before You Build Your Army

Every great project begins with purpose. Painting a company isn’t just about quantity—it’s about telling a story.

Ask yourself:

• What does this company represent?

• Are they the honored sons of Guilliman, a battle-worn detachment of the Iron Warriors, or a shadowy strike force of the Raven Guard?

• Is your focus on tanks, fast assault units, or a full combined-arms force?

Your narrative will keep you motivated. A well-defined story makes every brushstroke more meaningful and gives your project a sense of identity that goes beyond just color schemes.

2. Choose Your Miniatures with Intention

Once you’ve decided on your Legion or Chapter, it’s time to think about how that theme translates to the tabletop.

Do you prefer the clean symmetry of Mk IV power armor, or the brutal, utilitarian look of Mk III? Do your veterans carry relic armor, or do your troops scavenge gear from fallen comrades?

For example:

• Ultramarines might showcase pristine, uniform armor to reflect their discipline.

• Iron Hands could feature cybernetic replacements and scorched steel finishes.

• World Eaters? Expect worn red, blood stains, and trophies of war.

Every detail—from the armor mark to the choice of weapon—builds on your army’s visual and narrative theme.

3. Strategize Your Building and Painting Flow

Building a company takes time, so pace yourself. The trick is to make steady progress while keeping your motivation high.

If you love building:

• Build one squad at a time.

• Paint them to a tabletop standard before rewarding yourself with the next kit.

If you love painting:

• Build everything up front, then focus purely on painting.

• Store your unpainted models out of sight to avoid the overwhelming “pile of shame” effect.

This project isn’t a sprint—it’s a campaign. Plan your workflow like a general preparing for war.

4. Test and Commit to a Paint Scheme

Since you’ll be painting the same colors across dozens of models, make sure you love the look before you commit.

Paint one test model first. Try different tones, washes, and trim colors. Take photos under good lighting—it helps you spot what works and what doesn’t.

Then break your painting plan into stages:

• Stage 1: Basecoat, wash, and basic basing (enough for tabletop play).

• Stage 2: First layer of highlights and edge work.

• Stage 3: Fine details, spot highlights, lenses, weathering, and advanced effects.

Each stage is a victory—don’t wait for perfection before you play. A fully shaded and based company already looks incredible on the tabletop. You can always return to add polish later.

5. Batch Painting – Your Secret Weapon

Batch painting is how you win the war of attrition. But remember, your batch size should fit your schedule and energy.

If you only have 30 minutes, work on a few base colors for three Marines.
If you’ve got a long weekend, aim to finish a full squad.

End each session by setting aside your next batch of paints and models—make it easy to pick up where you left off. Facing three half-finished models is far less intimidating than staring down thirty unpainted ones.

6. Keep the Hobby Fun

Remember why you started this project—to enjoy the process. Every miniature you finish adds to your growing army, your story, and your skill as a painter.

Celebrate milestones. Take photos. Share progress online or bring your squads to The Hidden Lair for Hobby Night. Watching your company grow week by week is one of the most satisfying experiences in the Warhammer hobby.

Painting an entire company of Space Marines is a test of patience and passion. But when you finally deploy 100 painted warriors, Dreadnoughts, and tanks on the battlefield, the sight is nothing short of glorious.

So whether you’re fielding a stoic Ultramarines battle line, a corrupted Word Bearers warband, or a weathered Death Guard host—start small, stay consistent, and remember: even the mightiest Legions were built one Marine at a time.

And when you’re ready to equip your painting arsenal, visit The Hidden Lair in Mt. Zion, IL for paints, brushes, and hobby supplies. The Emperor protects—but primer and patience do the real work.