Learn to paint a volcanic energy axe with Vallejo Game Color

Want to achieve a burning lava effect on your miniatures that looks like it came straight from the core of a volcano? 🌋
In this tutorial we show you step by step how to paint a volcanic energy axe using the Game Color range by Vallejo, achieving a warm and realistic glow with simple techniques.

Artist Jon Gómez (Pintureando) guides us through this process, using a Cthonian Berserk by Games Workshop, perfect for capturing the full fury of molten rock in the heat of battle.

Get all the paints from this tutorial here

Download the PDF version at this link

🎨 Step 1: Preparation and base coat

Start by painting the entire axe with Dead White (72.001).
This tone will serve as a canvas to build up the warm lava colours and reflect the intensity of the glow to come.

🟡 Step 2: Initial colour

Once dry, apply an even coat of Moon Yellow (72.005).
This will be the brightest and warmest tone on the piece, marking the energy focal point at the interior of the axe.

🟠 Step 3: First volcanic gradient

Using the stippling technique, apply Fire Orange (72.008) over almost the entire surface of the axe, leaving the interior with the previous yellow tone.
Then, mix Moon Yellow (72.005) and Fire Orange (72.008) to blend both areas together, always maintaining the textured stippling effect.

🔴 Step 4: Intensity and contrast

Reduce the application area and stipple with Burnt Orange (72.009).
Then, in smaller areas, add a touch of Scarlet Blood (72.106) to create depth and simulate the extreme heat of incandescent metal.

⚫ Step 5: Edges and shadows

Paint the outer edge with Black (72.051).
You can also apply a few dots of the same color inside the axe area to reinforce the contrast between cold and hot zones.

Between the red and the black, apply a stipple of Night Red (72.111) to better blend the transition.

⚡ Step 6: Inner energy effect

Diluting Skull White (72.001) with water, paint the inner part of the axe and draw thin lines or "lightning bolts" that appear to radiate from the center.
Over these white areas, apply a mix of Fluorescent Yellow (72.103) and Moon Yellow (72.005) to simulate an intense glow.

For the brightest highlights, mix Skull White (72.001) with Toxic Yellow (72.109) and apply them to the brightest points.

🔥 Step 7: Final touches

To enhance the feeling of heat and energy, paint the interior with Night Red (72.111).
Then, add final highlights using a mix of Night Red (72.111) and Burnt Orange (72.009), reducing the application area to preserve the contrast.

🏁 Final result

And there you have it! 💥
Your volcanic energy axe will glow with the intensity of molten lava, combining warm colors, texture and energy effects that will make any miniature stand out on the table.

👉 Want to try this technique? Discover all Vallejo paints at Mr Resin

✨Happy Printing & Happy Painting! 🚀