How to Paint Orc Flesh Wash on Historical Miniatures
By Victrix Limited 28mm miniatures | Published: 2026-10-22
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to use Orc Flesh Wash from Two Thin Coats to add realistic, weathered flesh tones to historical miniatures. Step-by-step guide with common mistakes.
Quick Answer
Orc Flesh Wash from Two Thin Coats works well for adding a subtle, weathered flesh tone to historical miniatures—not just fantasy figures. Apply it as a thin wash over a neutral base coat to create depth and realism.
Why Use Orc Flesh Wash on Historical Figures?
Orc Flesh Wash is designed as a wash for fantasy miniatures, but its muted, slightly greenish undertone can mimic weathered or sun-beaten skin on historical soldiers, especially those in outdoor or campaign settings. It works best on figures like Greek hoplites, Roman legionaries, or medieval infantry where a realistic, non-fantasy flesh tone is desired.
The wash is thin and translucent, so it won't obscure details—important for 28mm historical miniatures where facial features are small. However, it may not suit all skin tones; for lighter, more vibrant flesh, consider a different wash or mix with a neutral base.
How to Apply Orc Flesh Wash on Historical Miniatures
- Prepare the Base Coat: Paint the skin areas of your miniature with a neutral flesh tone (e.g., a light tan or buff color). Let it dry completely before applying the wash. A common mistake is applying the wash over a dark base—the wash will look too muddy. Stick to a light or medium base.
- Thin the Wash if Needed: Orc Flesh Wash is ready to use, but if you prefer a subtler effect, thin it slightly with water or a medium. Test on a spare miniature or sprue first. Over-thinning can make the wash too transparent—aim for a consistency like skimmed milk.
- Apply the Wash: Using a fine brush, apply a thin coat of Orc Flesh Wash over the skin areas. Work quickly and avoid pooling in recesses like eyes or mouth. Let capillary action draw the wash into recesses for natural shading, but wick away excess with a dry brush if it pools.
- Let It Dry and Assess: Allow the wash to dry for 5-10 minutes. Evaluate the effect: it should add a subtle, weathered tone without obscuring the base coat. If the wash looks too strong, gently wipe it off with a damp brush and reapply a thinner coat.
- Seal with a Varnish (Optional): Once satisfied, seal the miniature with a matte varnish to protect the wash and ensure durability during handling and gaming. Skipping varnish can lead to the wash rubbing off on your fingers during play.
Product Facts
- Orc Flesh Wash - Two Thin Coats: Orc Flesh Wash is a wash from the Duncan Rhodes Painting Academy Two Thin Coats range, sold in a 15ml bottle. The wash consistency lets you apply it directly over a base coat to add subtle shading and depth without hiding facial details.
Orc Flesh Wash - Two Thin Coats
