How long does it take to paint an infantry model?

A single 28mm infantry model takes roughly 45 minutes for tabletop standard (base coat and wash), 1.5 hours for standard quality, 2-3 hours for high quality layered painting, and 4-5+ hours for display level with blending and freehand.

How much time does batch painting save?

Batch painting (painting multiple models at the same time) typically saves 25-35% of total time. The savings come from reducing setup, colour switching and drying wait times. The default batch efficiency is 30%.

How do I estimate for mixed armies?

Run the calculator once for each model type (e.g. 30 infantry, 5 cavalry, 2 vehicles) and add the total hours together. Each model size has different base times.

Is this estimate realistic?

These estimates assume focused painting time and are based on community averages. Actual times vary with experience, interruptions and model detail level. New painters may take 1.5-2x longer than these estimates.

ModelCalcs.uk

Army Painting Time Calculator — Plan Your Project

Estimate total painting hours for your army based on model count, size, complexity and batch painting. Plan deadlines with confidence.

Model Count

Number of this model type in the army (run once per type for mixed forces)

Model SizeLarger models take longer: infantry ~1.5h, cavalry/bikes ~3h, vehicle/tank ~6h, monster ~10h at standard

Paint Scheme ComplexityTabletop = base + wash (×0.5); standard = base/wash/highlight (×1); high = layering (×1.8); display = blending + OSL (×3)

Painting Hours Per Day

Focused hours at the bench per day, used to convert total hours into a calendar estimate

Batch painting

Paint multiple models at once to save time

How We Calculate This

This calculator estimates painting time using base hours for each model size, adjusted for paint scheme complexity and batch painting efficiency.

The formula

Hours per model = Base time x Complexity multiplier x Batch factor

Total hours = Model count x Hours per model

Calendar days = Total hours / Painting hours per day

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: March 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before purchasing materials.