Historical model figures let you hold a piece of history in your hand — researched, sculpted and painted to bring a soldier, a moment or a whole era to life. If you’re thinking of starting out, this guide explains the essentials: scales, materials, what you’ll need, and how to choose your first kit.
What are historical miniatures?
Historical miniatures are fine-scale model figures of real people, soldiers and events — as opposed to fantasy or sci-fi gaming models. They’re made for collectors and display painters who value historical accuracy and the craft of painting. At Hawk Miniatures they’re researched, sculpted in the UK by artists such as Alan Ball, DF Grieve and Rob Lane, and cast in high-quality resin.
Understanding scale
Scale is the first thing to get your head around. It describes how big the figure is, usually measured to the eyes or the top of the head:
- 75mm — a popular, versatile size with lots of detail but quick to finish. A great place to start. See our 75mm figure kits.
- 90mm and 100mm — larger display pieces with room for advanced painting techniques; ideal centrepieces.
- 150mm — big, impressive showpieces for the confident painter.
- Busts (1/12th and 1/9th scale) — head-and-shoulders studies that focus on the face and uniform. Superb painting projects. Browse our model busts.
Bigger isn’t harder, exactly — larger figures are more forgiving of brush control but demand smooth blending over bigger areas. Many beginners find 75mm a comfortable balance.
Resin vs metal
Traditional miniatures were cast in white metal; today high-quality resin is widely used. Resin is lightweight, holds crisp detail, and is easy to clean up and assemble. It does need a quick wash before painting to remove mould-release residue (see our painting guide). Hawk Miniatures kits are cast in resin and supplied unassembled and unpainted.
What you'll need to start
- A figure kit — pick a subject you find genuinely exciting.
- Brushes — a detail brush and a basecoating brush. Not sure which? Read our guide to Kolinsky sable vs synthetic brushes, then see our paintbrush range.
- Primer, paints and varnish, plus basic tools: a hobby knife, fine sandpaper and superglue.
- A base to display the finished figure — wooden or resin.
Choosing your first subject
The best first figure is one you love the look of — enthusiasm carries you through the learning curve. To browse by era, explore our Napoleonic, Crimean War, Victorian and American War of Independence ranges, among others spanning Ancient Rome to the World Wars. Single figures are a gentler start than multi-figure sets or vignettes.
Take your time and enjoy it
Historical miniature painting is a craft you grow into. Your tenth figure will look better than your first — that’s the point. Start with one kit, a couple of good brushes and a little patience, and you’ll be hooked.
Frequently asked questions
What scale is best for a beginner?
75mm is a popular starting scale — large enough to show detail and forgiving to paint, but quick enough to finish. Busts are also beginner-friendly as they focus on one area.
Are resin miniatures better than metal?
Resin is lightweight, holds crisp detail and is easy to assemble; metal is traditional and durable. Both paint up beautifully — resin simply needs a wash to remove mould-release residue first.
What do I need to start painting historical miniatures?
A figure kit, a detail brush and a basecoating brush, primer, paints, varnish, and a few basic tools (knife, sandpaper, glue). A display base finishes the piece.
Do Hawk Miniatures kits come painted?
No — kits are supplied unassembled and unpainted, ready for you to build and paint. That’s the enjoyable part.
Ready to begin? Browse our historical figure kits and model busts.
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