Painting vehicle interiors

I have lost count how many Rhino transports I’ve built over the years, but in that time I don’t think I have ever failed to paint the interior.

I understand that it may seem a bit strange to some hobbyists since most of the time you won’t really see the interior, and I know that many people glue the back door shut anyway. Initially, it started as a “just because I can” approach, but now I do it because it truly helps immerse the model in its world and adds an extra element of visual interest for viewers. While not all kits have an interior, for those that do, I go out of my way to paint it fully, including seat covers and consoles.

For me, painting the interior serves as a way to create a sense of realism. Even if the details are not immediately visible, they contribute to the overall authenticity of the model and its function in the Warhammer universe.

One method for them all

Regardless of the legion or vehicle, I employ the same basic method for all of them. I start by priming them in black and applying a rough zenithal dusting of white to achieve a basic greyscale effect. Then, depending on the legions’ primary armor color and the desired interior ambiance, I airbrush either a deck tan or neutral gray onto the model. This choice determines whether I aim for a warmer interior or a more neutral/cold one.

Once the base color is applied, I proceed to create a contrasting sponge chipping and metallic texture, while also painting the basic details such as storage bins, consoles, and trunking. To add cohesion and tonality to the interior, I generously coat it with varnish and wash. Finally, I assemble the kit, and it’s ready for exterior priming.

Bigger kits

If the model serves as a centrepiece or if the interior plays a significant role in the kit itself, like with the Warhound or Reaver Titans, I dedicate more time and effort to it.

In this case, I’ll focus on the number 008 ‘Lucius’ Warhound produced by Forgeworld, which deserves its own portfolio page in the future. Building and painting this kit was incredibly enjoyable due to the abundance of intricate details. Unlike tanks and flyers, the interior is worth the extra time and effort. With this build, every crew area can be revealed, making the additional effort truly worthwhile and transforming it into a diorama in its own right.

Kits designed to showcase fully detailed interiors are a rarity in tabletop wargaming. However, those that do, especially transports, are worth showcasing because they add another dimension to the model.

Initially, the viewer observes the force as a whole, but upon closer inspection, they discover the subtler details. Directing the eye towards an interior reinforces the world in which the miniatures exist, similar to a compelling background. It’s especially effective as not all of the interior may be fully visible, allowing the viewer’s imagination to fill in the gaps. This technique is particularly valuable for those who display their armies.

Personally, I find great satisfaction in painting the Rhino and Land Raider transport bays, and as long as designers continue to create them, I will continue to paint them.