Service Description

In this one-on-one lesson, we’ll break down the fundamentals of Non-Metallic Metal (NMM)—the painting approach that makes normal paint look like reflective metal through smart placement of light and shadow. This session is designed for introductory skill levels, focusing on the “why” behind NMM so you can apply it confidently to any model. To keep it clear and practical, we’ll use a sword as our main study piece. Swords are everywhere in the miniature world and are one of the best surfaces for learning NMM because they have clean shapes, strong edges, and obvious reflection zones. You’ll learn how to identify highlight placement, build contrast, and create the illusion of shine without metallic paints. What you’ll learn • How light behaves on “metal” and how to translate it into paint • Mapping highlight zones and shadow shapes on a blade • Building contrast for a convincing reflective look • The difference between NMM steel vs. gold/brass (theory + quick examples) • Common beginner mistakes and how to fix them fast What to bring • Bring your own miniature/figure with a sword, or add a provided miniature at booking. • We provide paints and brushes, or you’re welcome to bring your own. Best for • Beginners who want to understand NMM without feeling overwhelmed • Painters ready to move past basic metallics and expand their skill set • Anyone who wants cleaner, more dramatic blades and weapon details