Buying Guide for the Best Watercolor Sets
Choosing the right watercolor set can make a big difference in your painting experience, whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist. The best set for you depends on how you plan to use it, your skill level, and your preferences for color variety and portability. Understanding the key features of watercolor sets will help you make a choice that matches your creative needs and ensures you enjoy the painting process.Type of Watercolor (Pan vs. Tube)Watercolors come in two main forms: pans and tubes. Pan watercolors are solid cakes of paint in small containers, activated with water and a brush, and are great for portability and ease of use. Tube watercolors are creamy paints squeezed out as needed, offering more intense color and flexibility in mixing. If you like painting on the go or want less mess, pans are ideal. If you prefer mixing large washes or need vibrant colors, tubes might suit you better. Think about where and how you’ll paint to decide which type fits your style.
Color RangeThe number of colors in a set can range from a basic handful to dozens. A smaller set (12-18 colors) is often enough for beginners and encourages learning color mixing, while larger sets (24 or more) offer more convenience and variety for those who want a broader palette. If you’re just starting, a basic set covers most needs, but if you want to avoid mixing or need specific shades, a larger set may be better. Consider your comfort with mixing colors and the types of subjects you like to paint.
Pigment QualityPigment quality refers to how pure and vibrant the colors are, and how well they last over time. Student-grade sets use more fillers and less pigment, making them more affordable but less intense. Artist-grade sets have higher pigment concentration, resulting in richer colors and better blending. If you’re learning or painting casually, student-grade is fine, but for serious work or if you want your paintings to last, artist-grade is worth considering. Think about your goals and how important color quality is to you.
Portability and PackagingWatercolor sets come in various packaging, from compact travel kits to larger studio boxes. Travel sets are small, lightweight, and often include a mixing area and brush, making them perfect for painting outdoors or while traveling. Larger sets may offer more colors and space for mixing but are less convenient to carry. If you plan to paint outside or move your set often, look for a portable design. If you’ll mostly paint at home, a bigger set might be more comfortable.
LightfastnessLightfastness is a measure of how well the colors resist fading when exposed to light over time. High lightfastness means your artwork will stay vibrant for years, while low lightfastness can lead to fading. If you plan to display or sell your work, or want it to last, look for sets with good lightfastness ratings. For practice or sketchbooks, this may be less important. Check the product information or labels for lightfastness details if longevity matters to you.
Ease of MixingSome watercolor sets are designed to make color mixing easier, with well-spaced pans or a good mixing area included in the packaging. The ability to mix colors smoothly is important for creating a wide range of shades and effects. If you enjoy experimenting with colors or want to develop your mixing skills, look for sets that provide space and easy access for mixing. If you prefer using ready-made colors, this may be less of a priority.
