Use a white primer from the start. Paint the flesh first while the model is still easy to handle, then block in the carapace panels and finish with the claws and details.
Recommended undercoatwhite— Several priority paints in this army converge on white.
Paint list
Sorted by priority
🔴 Must-Have
White bone, purple and flesh
Corax White(Citadel)— Flesh/bone (base) · Primer + 2 coats
Druchii Violet(Citadel)— Veins under flesh · Very fine brush (size 0)
Painting order
Recommended steps
1Step 1: Prime the model white
2Step 2: Glaze Screamer Pink over the flesh
3Step 3: Basecoat every carapace panel with Naggaroth Night
4Step 4: Paint the claws and blades with Leadbelcher
5Step 5: Shade the flesh recesses with Reikland Fleshshade
6Step 6: Wash the carapace with Druchii Violet
7Step 7: Highlight the flesh with Pallid Wych Flesh
8Step 8: Highlight the carapace ridges with Calgar Blue
9Step 9: Finish the claws with Screaming Skull and Agrax Earthshade
Tips
Hints for this army
1A white undercoat is non-negotiable for Leviathan. Trying to force this scheme over black primer usually wastes time and kills the soft flesh tones.
2Thin Screamer Pink heavily over the pale flesh instead of painting it opaquely. The translucent glaze keeps the skin looking organic rather than flat.
3A simple carapace recipe works well here: Naggaroth Night base, Druchii Violet in the recesses, then Calgar Blue on the raised ridges.