I use Army Painter Quickshade Inks (the eye droppers) over a colored primer, then tweak and highlight with hobby paints.

These cheap brushes are good for advanced tabletop and general abuse. (: : https://www.amazon.com/Synthetic-Brushes-Miniature-Painting-Watercolor/dp/B073YDKWWP/ref=sr_1_3?crid=NPEE0P0J41CW&keywords=one+happy+choice+brushes&qid=1567033046&s=gateway&sprefix=FZ-R45HFU%2Caps%2C211&sr=8-3

For basing, glue and playground sand. Add a tiny amount of static grass or Army Painter tufts. Amazon prices are on the high side, so patronize your FLGS!

Don't worry about how good it looks up close. While our gaming group likes painted miniatures, they don't look at them up close during play.