Happy New Year!
The start of a new year invites a particular kind of pause. It’s the time of year to look back and reflect about what we made, what we learned, and what we didn’t quite get around to. It's a time to consider what might come next.
In the hobby, the beginning of the new year can arrive with ambitious resolutions. Finish the backlog, complete the army. Master a new technique. Paint faster. Paint better. Paint more.
But maybe 2026 doesn’t need to begin with a list. Instead, maybe it can begin with asking yourself a question instead: what would make this hobby feel fun for you? Miniature painting has always offered something unique in a busy world. Time to focus, experiment, and make something simply because you want to. As we step into a new year, we’re embracing the idea that progress doesn’t have to be loud or fast to be meaningful. An hour a week is enough. A single finished model is enough. Sitting at your paint desk and finding joy is enough.
Looking Back
Before turning fully toward the year ahead, let’s take a moment to appreciate what the past year brought. 2025 was a year of expansion and exploration at The Army Painter and for the community that continues to inspire us every day.
- We were proud to release the John Blanche Masterclass Volumes 1 and 2, celebrating one of the most iconic and influential artists in miniature hobby history.
- We also introduced our Historical range with Warpaints Fanatic sets for three World War II armies, featuring the first-ever historian approved miniature paints.
- Another major milestone was the launch of Speedpaint Markers - a new way to bring colour to your miniatures quickly and intuitively.
Beyond the products, some of the most meaningful moments happened face to face. Meeting hobbyists at events and competitions, sharing painting tips, and seeing your projects in person reminded us why this hobby is so special.
And Looking Ahead…
We have exciting releases and news ahead in 2026, and we can't wait to share them with you when the time is right. But more than anything, our hope for 2026 is simple: that you reconnect with your hobby in a way that feels good and fun. If setting huge goals feels like too much pressure, try something smaller and more sustainable. One hour of pressure-free hobby time each week. No deadlines. No expectations. Just time to paint.
Progress is progress—whether that’s finishing a model, learning a new technique, or simply enjoying the process. Use colours that make you smile. Pick miniatures just because they look fun. Experiment without worrying about the outcome. Miniature painting is meant to be relaxing and joyful. Let it be that. Start with the goal of an hour a week and see what happens.
And if you feel like sharing the experience, invite others in. Paint with friends. Post your work online. Show us your work on social media. The hobby is even better when it’s shared.
Here’s to more painting. More experimenting. More fun.
Here’s to more hobbying in 2026. No Rules, Just Paint.
