BEHIND BEAR CAVALRY
WHAT WE STAND FOR
At Bear Cavalry Paints, we believe sustainability should be fun. Our paints are crafted with the planet in mind, using recyclable bottles, compostable labels, and a roadmap to fully biodegradable packaging. But it’s not just about being green; it’s about creating products that make miniature painting more accessible, enjoyable, and convenient.
WHO WE ARE
Welcome to Bear Cavalry Paints—where craftsmanship, sustainability, and creativity meet. Founded by Dan and Tracy Zehner and perfected by paint master Tyler Richman, the company began when Dan set out to create the high-quality, eco-friendly paints he couldn’t find himself. From a home garage to a trusted brand, Bear Cavalry Paints continues to redefine miniature painting with innovation and care.
OUR TEAM
-
MASTER OF OPERATIONS
Layne discovered miniature painting as a teen but paused to pursue engineering. In 2017, his brother rekindled his interest, and with guidance from skilled San Diego artists, his passion flourished. Now a competition painter, Layne combines an engineer’s problem-solving with a love of color in his work with Bear Cavalry.
-
GRAND DESIGNER
We get asked ALL. THE. TIME. who designed your logo? Where did this amazing bottle artwork come from? David Richards. Introduced by Dan’s friend Jerry Hawthorne (the brains behind the amazing board game, Mice and Mystics), David is the secret to our amazing style. Check out his work here!
-
CHIEF OF FULLFILMENT
Before joining Bear Cavalry Paints, Chris co-owned a local game store and built a thriving hobby community. With 25 years of painting experience, he now oversees fulfillment and shipping, sharing his passion by helping hobbyists - new and experienced alike - grow their skills and love for the craft.
-
KEEPER OF MARKETING
Lyla Mev is a YouTuber, competitive miniature painter, and occasional college professor who brings a wealth of expertise in marketing, photography, and the art of miniature painting (along with a healthy dose of badassery). Check out her incredible YouTube channel and miniature photography here!
-
COLOR ALCHEMIST
Tyler Richman is the lead color formulator at Bear Cavalry Paints, hand-mixing every batch with an artist’s precision and a craftsman’s eye. Combining technical expertise with a passion for miniature painting, he creates richly pigmented, smooth, and reliable paints that feel as good to use as they look on the model.
LISTEN TO YOUR PAINT
Each of our products are named after epic metal hits. Listen to our playlist and get inspired.