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I'm a average painter but i can't seem to get the fine details on the arms of tyranids. So i'm wondering what tricks/methods you use.

For those arm grills you may want to use a combination of ink/wash/ and dry brushing. Capillary action really helps there.

With the fleshy arm grill bits, I leave them white (undercoat) and later wash them with leviathan purple to give a pink colour. It shades them nicely and brings out some highlights, quick and simple.

I can post pics if you want.

Easiest way is to paint them in a different colour and then ink it to show the ribs.

the blue detailing was done with a wash then two highlights - the original color, and 1:1 with a much lighter blue.


A medium wash and the original color will do wonders - something like sepia, or 1:1 sepia/brown then a simple line highlight of the original color will go a long way.

Cue tips. Wet them down and use them to wipe any mistakes away.
No one seems to have addressed the problem the OP posted, which is he can't seem to do them neatly. Suggesting inks is cruel in this situation, since it will likely stain the flesh outside if mistakes are made.

I think he is referring to how do you paint them without messing up. The easiest way if to paint them first then add your chitin color.

Thank you all, this will definitly help. and i'm gonna try the Cue tips execellent idea by the way thanks.