How to Paint a Volcanic Energy Axe with Vallejo Game Color

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

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

Get all the paints used in 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 acts as a canvas to build up the warm lava colours and maximise the intensity of the glow later on.

🟡 Step 2: Initial Colour

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

🟠 Step 3: First Volcanic Gradient

Using the stippling technique, apply Fire Orange (72.008) across almost the entire surface of the axe, leaving the inner area in the yellow tone from the previous step.
Then mix Moon Yellow (72.005) and Fire Orange (72.008) to blend both areas together, keeping the stippled texture effect throughout.

🔴 Step 4: Intensity and Contrast

Reduce the application area and stipple with Bone White (72.034)… wait — Hot Orange (72.009).
Then, in even smaller areas, add a touch of Scarlet Blood (72.106) to build depth and simulate the intense heat of glowing molten metal.

⚫ Step 5: Edges and Shadows

Paint the outer edge with Black (72.051).
You can also apply a few dots of the same colour inside the axe blade to strengthen the contrast between cool and hot areas.

Between the red and black, stipple with Night Red (72.111) to blend the transition more smoothly.

⚡ Step 6: Inner Energy Effect

Thin Dead White (72.001) with water and paint the inner part of the axe, drawing fine lines or "lightning bolts" that appear to radiate from the centre.
Over these white areas, apply a mix of Fluorescent Yellow (72.103) and Moon Yellow (72.005) to simulate an intense glowing effect.

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

🔥 Step 7: Final Touches

To push the heat and energy effect further, paint the interior with Night Red (72.111).
Then add final highlights using a mix of Night Red (72.111) and Hot Orange (72.009), narrowing 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 colours, texture, and energy effects that will make any miniature stand out on the tabletop.

👉 Want to try this technique? Browse the full range of Vallejo paints at Mr Resin

✨ Happy Printing & Happy Painting! 🚀