I am just starting to get an interest in painting military figures. I just painted a big plastic soldier I bought at Dollar Tree in a woodland camo scheme. I just want to know all the techniques for shadowing, brushing techniques, airbrushing figures, etc. Also, I was wondering what type of acrylic paint to use. I’m currently using various brands; however, over half of them are the bottles you can buy at WalMart (Apple Barrel, etc.).
Unfortunately, one could (and have) written entire series of books on how to do figures. I do mine the fairly easy way: Start with a light flesh base, then wash with a brown wash to seep into the faces’ creases and folds. I then highlight with the origional base color, then a lighter fleshtone drybrushed very lightly for highlights across cheekbones, nose bridge, forehead, etc. Finish with the eyes, teeth, etc. Of course, use colors appropriate to the skin tone desired. This works quite well for 1/48 and 1/32 scale figures. 1/16 are alot more complex to do correctly, but I haven’t tried them yet.
demono69
I would suggest buying a book, Kalmbach sells one called How to Paint Realistic Military Figures, second edition.
This is a pretty good place to start.
thanks for the info! Where would I get the book? thx in advance.
You can order the book from this site.
Kalmbach also publishes FSM.
As for paint, as long as it covers and adheres and it looks good…use it. I use Tamiya, Model Master, Grumbacher artists oils, liquitex and ceramacoat acrylics, pastels, you name it. If it works then its the right paint.
Welcome to the aspect of the hobby that will make you go blind…or at least squint alot. 
Mike
Thanks a lot everyone. hehehe funny comment, renarts! lol
I have to agree with everyone there is so much information to tell about doing figure that some of the books offered are the best way to go