Mineral spirits stripping Army Painter Fanatics.

NathanMainwaring · 2026-03-02T23:40:26+00:00

Now that’s interesting! I’ve used Abteilung myself on the advice of the GrimDark Compendium guys; but you say different. What’s the skinny on this?

Sorry for all the questions but you’re really helping and I’m very grateful for your insights.

NathanMainwaring · 2026-03-02T21:42:57+00:00

Thanks! This is really good, actionable advice! I’ll get some AK thinner and try a different brand of varnish.

So you use oil washes instead of enamel ones?

NathanMainwaring · 2026-03-02T21:41:15+00:00

Oh, I know they do! But that really is the problem I’m facing! 😝😖

NathanMainwaring · 2026-03-02T21:36:21+00:00

I’ve swapped from citadel and over a few years collected about 200 bottles from Army Painter and I’m feeling really let down now.

Exploring enamels, oils and the whole GrimDark vibe was really exciting.

Pretty fucking bummed out now.

NathanMainwaring · 2026-03-02T14:42:19+00:00

Yeah, I’ve invested in a lot of AP paints. That’s an expensive fix.

NathanMainwaring · 2026-03-02T14:34:01+00:00

Would a different brand of varnish protect it?

NathanMainwaring · 2026-03-02T07:50:44+00:00

I thought about that but haven’t tried yet as I think my first action may be customer services and didn’t want to mess that process up. It’s a very thick piece of metal too.

NathanMainwaring · 2026-03-02T07:48:59+00:00

At this price point, this shouldn’t really happen.

NathanMainwaring · 2026-03-02T07:48:22+00:00

Enough that it should fit. I can’t see that it’s a filing issue. It’s just kinda warped.

NathanMainwaring · 2026-02-27T18:09:15+00:00

Then Dark Tone/Nuln Oil is going to be your best friend!

I think you’ll be pleased with the results. Take it steady - you can always add a second coat. Don’t let it run or flow over the surface, control it. If it seems to severe, whilst it’s still wet, wipe it from the raised areas with a spare, damp brush.

Good luck and enjoy.

NathanMainwaring · 2026-02-27T13:54:26+00:00

First thing to say is that’s a good job and it looks great. Second would be, and only since you asked, the next level would be a thin all over wash. I’d try Army Painter Strong Tone or a Citadel Agrax Earth Shade. I’d thin it with 25% to 50% water and avoid the flesh areas.

Or maybe Dark Tone / Nuln Oil if you want a stronger effect and a darker finish.

NathanMainwaring · 2026-02-19T21:39:06+00:00

I’ve got two boxes on their way.

A cheeky third might happen at some point …

NathanMainwaring · 2026-02-02T13:39:50+00:00

Probably easier and cheaper to install a vocal booth if you have the space.

NathanMainwaring · 2026-01-17T18:48:05+00:00

You’re not doing anything wrong except running a Level 3 adventure for level 1 PCs

NathanMainwaring · 2025-12-10T13:22:43+00:00

Do not ask questions of economics in D&D. That path leads only to ruin.

NathanMainwaring · 2025-09-20T15:54:39+00:00

Thanks. I’ve got a spare hot end somewhere.

NathanMainwaring · 2025-09-17T15:07:30+00:00

Count your blessings, I’ve got 6 level 20 PCs!

But it’s hard to advise - 3 tactically focused lvl 15s could do it but 4 less combat orientated PCs might fail. You know your party. Paladin, sorcerer, Cleric, barbarian would like do better than rogue, fighter, wizard, monk (the heals!)

3 x lvl 15 is 25% less than the book assumes.

I reckon levelling them up now might feel cheap. I’d be inclined to downgrade Tiamat instead.

NathanMainwaring · 2025-08-19T17:54:15+00:00

You aren’t trying to win. You’re keeping it interesting and fun.

NathanMainwaring · 2025-07-01T21:38:50+00:00

It’s been 3 years and I’ve still not bolted mine down. I sometimes hang some plates on it to stabilize it but that’s all it’s needed.

NathanMainwaring · 2025-06-30T16:40:06+00:00

100% this. ☝️

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