This detailed guide will help you create volcanic-themed bases with a dynamic glowing lava effect and rugged rocky textures. Using AK Interactive Volcanic Earth for the rocky textures and Mordant Earth for the cracked lava, this method will give your bases the fiery, molten look that fits perfectly with the Horns of Hashut.

Materials You'll Need:
AK Interactive Volcanic Earth (for rocky textures),
Mordant Earth (Citadel),
Citadel Evil Sunz Scarlet (for cooler lava edges),
Citadel Fire Dragon Bright (for intermediate lava zones),
Citadel Troll Slayer Orange (for transitioning the lava to hotter areas),
Citadel Flash Gitz Yellow (for the hottest lava),
Citadel Yriel Yellow (for intense highlights),
Citadel Abaddon Black (for base and rocks),
Citadel Eshin Grey (for rock drybrushing),
Citadel Dawnstone (for rock highlights),
Citadel Administratum Grey (for final light rock drybrush),
Citadel Nuln Oil (for washes and shading),
Citadel Munitorum Varnish (for sealing),
PVA Glue,
Small stones or debris

Steps for Creating the Volcanic Base:

Step 1: Apply the Base Texture (AK Interactive Volcanic Earth)

1. Start by applying AK Interactive Volcanic Earth to the base with a spatula or an old brush. Sculpt the texture while it’s wet, creating rough, uneven surfaces to mimic jagged volcanic rocks.
   Embed small rocks or debris into the wet texture to add more definition to the rocky landscape.
   Let the base dry completely before moving on to painting.

Step 2: Paint the Lava Zones (Coolest Color First, Then Hotter)

1. Start by painting the entire lava zone with Evil Sunz Scarlet . This will be the coolest, outer edge of the lava and will form the foundation for the layering process.
2. Apply Troll Slayer Orange to the inner areas of the lava zones, leaving the Evil Sunz Scarlet visible around the outer edges. This step adds depth and warmth to the lava.
3. Use Fire Dragon Bright to paint the middle areas of the lava, closer to the center. This will begin the transition from the cooler outer edges to the hotter, glowing center.
4. Apply Yriel Yellow in the very center of the lava zones or in the deepest parts of the cracks. This will represent the hottest part of the lava.
5. For an even more intense glow, carefully apply small touches of Flash Gitz Yellow in the hottest parts to enhance the brightness and intensity of the molten lava.

Step 3: Apply Mordant Earth for the Cracked Lava Effect

1. Apply a thick layer of Mordant Earth over the painted lava zones. The thicker the layer, the larger the cracks that will form as it dries, revealing the glowing lava underneath.
   As the Mordant Earth dries, it will shrink and crack, exposing the hot lava beneath. Let it dry completely for the full effect.

Step 4: Paint the Rocky Areas

1. Paint the rocky surfaces and raised areas with Abaddon Black to create the look of volcanic rock.
2. Lightly drybrush the rocky areas with Eshin Grey to highlight the raised surfaces.
3. Apply a lighter drybrush of Dawnstone for additional highlights.
4. Finish with a very light drybrush of Administratum Grey on the edges and most prominent areas for added texture and detail.

Step 5: Refine the Lava Glow

1. After the Mordant Earth has cracked, you can go back with Flash Gitz Yellow or Yriel Yellow to enhance the hottest areas of the cracks, adding extra brightness and making the lava look like it's glowing from beneath.
2. Use Yriel Yellow or Fire Dragon Bright around the edges of the cracks to simulate the glow radiating from the molten center.

Step 6: Additional Accents (Optional)

1. Add Ash and Debris: Sprinkle grey or black pigments around the rocky areas for a volcanic ash effect, further enhancing the realism.
2. Burnt Grass Tufts: You can glue scorched grass tufts to the base for additional contrast between the glowing lava and the surrounding environment.

Step 7: Sealing and Protection

1. Once you’re satisfied with the look of your base, apply Munitorum Varnish to protect your work and reduce any excess shine.

This approach, starting with the coolest lava color first and layering hotter colors on top, will give you a smooth transition from the dark, cooling edges to the glowing hot center. The Mordant Earth will provide an excellent cracked effect, exposing the bright molten core beneath, resulting in a dynamic and fiery volcanic base.