How to choose the right watercolor paint set
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
For most beginners and hobbyists, the smartest buy in 2026 is a mid-range pan set with 12 to 24 colors from a reputable brand like Winsor & Newton, Daniel Smith, or Schmincke, because it balances quality, portability, and cost without overwhelming you. If you’re just testing the waters, a budget-friendly student-grade set will do, but expect more chalkiness and less pigment payoff. For serious artists, invest in a professional-grade set with a wide color range and excellent lightfastness, even if it costs more upfront.
What should you look for in a watercolor paint set?
Start with the basics: pigment quality, binder, and lightfastness. Professional-grade paints use more pigment and less filler, so they stay vibrant even when diluted, while student-grade paints often contain more binder and chalk, which can make colors look flat or muddy. Check the label for lightfastness ratings, look for “I” or “Excellent” to ensure your paintings won’t fade over time. Next, consider the format. Pans are compact and great for travel, but they can be harder to mix large washes from; tubes give you more control and are easier to squeeze out fresh paint, but they dry out if left open. Many artists use a combination, but for a first set, a pan set is usually the most convenient and mess-free option. Finally, think about color selection. A set with 12 colors is enough to mix a wide range, but 24 gives you more convenience and variety. Avoid sets with too many pre-mixed colors, they can limit your learning and lead to muddy mixes. Instead, look for sets that include a warm and cool version of primary colors, plus a few earth tones and a neutral gray.
How many colors do you really need in a watercolor set?
For a beginner, a 12-color set is the sweet spot. It forces you to learn color mixing, which is a core skill in watercolor, and it keeps your palette manageable. With a warm and cool red, yellow, and blue, plus a few earth tones and a green, you can mix almost any hue you need. If you’re a hobbyist who wants convenience without constant mixing, a 24-color set is a nice upgrade. It gives you more premixed greens, purples, and browns, which can save time when you’re painting landscapes or florals. However, be wary of sets that include too many similar shades, they can clutter your palette and make it harder to choose. Professional artists often prefer larger sets or individual tubes, but even they will tell you that a well-chosen 12-color palette is more than enough for most work. The key is to know your palette and how to mix from it, not to own every color under the sun.
Pan sets vs. tube sets: which is better for you?
Pan sets are the classic choice for watercolorists. They’re compact, portable, and easy to clean, just rinse your brush and go. They’re ideal for plein air painting, travel, and quick sketches. The downside is that pans can be harder to use for large washes because you have to rub the brush to pick up pigment, which can be time-consuming for big areas. Tube paints, on the other hand, are more versatile. You can squeeze out exactly as much paint as you need, making it easier to mix large quantities and achieve intense, saturated washes. Tubes also stay moist longer if you keep them capped, but they can dry out if you leave them open or if the cap isn’t sealed properly. They also require a palette to mix on, which adds bulk. For most beginners, a pan set is the best starting point because it’s self-contained and forgiving. As you progress, you might add a few tubes of your favorite colors to expand your palette. Many artists use both: pans for travel and quick studies, tubes for studio work.
What are the best watercolor paint brands for different budgets?
In the budget-friendly category, brands like Reeves and Cotman (Winsor & Newton’s student line) offer decent quality at a low price. These sets are great for kids, absolute beginners, or anyone who wants to experiment without a big investment. Expect less pigment intensity and more binder, but they’re perfectly usable for learning. Mid-range options include Van Gogh (by Royal Talens) and Sakura Koi. These are a step up in pigment load and color clarity, and they’re still affordable enough for hobbyists. They often come in nice tin cases with mixing areas, making them great for travel. If you’re ready to invest in professional-grade paints, look at Winsor & Newton Professional, Daniel Smith, Schmincke Horadam, and Sennelier. These are the gold standard, rich, vibrant, and highly lightfast. They cost more, but a little goes a long way, and they can last for years. Many artists consider them worth the splurge for the difference in luminosity and blending.
How do you choose the right size and portability for your needs?
Think about where you’ll be painting. If you’re mostly at a desk or studio, a larger set with half-pans or full-pans is fine, it gives you more room to mix and access to more colors. If you’re a traveler or plein air painter, a compact set that fits in a pocket or small bag is essential. Look for sets with a built-in mixing area and a secure closure to prevent spills. Also consider the size of the pans themselves. Half-pans are the most common and are easy to replace individually. Full-pans hold more paint and are better for colors you use frequently, but they take up more space. Some sets come with a mix of both, which is a nice compromise. Finally, check the case material. Metal tins are durable and often have a fold-out mixing tray, while plastic cases are lighter but can crack. For travel, a metal tin with a secure latch is usually the best bet.
What are the common mistakes to avoid when buying a watercolor set?
One big mistake is buying a set with too many colors, especially if they’re all pre-mixed. This can lead to muddy paintings and a lack of understanding of color theory. Stick to a smaller palette and learn to mix. Another mistake is ignoring lightfastness. Some cheap sets use fugitive pigments that fade quickly, especially in sunlight. Always check the label for lightfastness ratings, and avoid sets that don’t provide them. Also, don’t overlook the quality of the paints themselves. Some sets look appealing with bright colors, but once you use them, you’ll find they’re chalky, granulating, or hard to rewet. Read reviews from other artists, and if possible, try a single pan or tube before committing to a full set. Finally, don’t forget to consider the cost per use. A cheap set might seem like a bargain, but if you end up replacing it within a year, it’s not. A professional set can last for decades if cared for properly, making it a better long-term investment.
Frequently asked questions
Are expensive watercolor paints worth the extra cost?
Yes, for serious artists, because professional-grade paints have higher pigment concentration, better lightfastness, and more vibrant color payoff. They also re-wet better and mix more cleanly, which can make a noticeable difference in your work. For beginners, a mid-range set is a good compromise.
What is the difference between student-grade and artist-grade watercolors?
Student-grade paints use less pigment and more filler, so they’re cheaper but less vibrant and can look chalky. Artist-grade paints have more pigment and less binder, giving richer colors and better lightfastness. The difference is most noticeable in washes and layered glazes.
Can I mix colors from a basic set to get all the colors I need?
Absolutely. With a warm and cool primary set (red, yellow, blue), you can mix a wide range of colors, including greens, oranges, purples, and browns. It takes practice, but it’s a valuable skill that will make you a better painter.
How long do watercolor paints last?
Pans and tubes can last for years if stored properly, keep them away from extreme heat and humidity, and always close tubes tightly. Professional-grade paints are especially durable, and many artists use the same set for a decade or more.
Should I buy a set or individual pans/tubes?
For beginners, a set is the best value because it gives you a curated palette at a lower cost per color. As you progress, you can replace individual colors with your favorites or add new ones. Many artists eventually build a custom palette from individual pans or tubes.
What is the best way to store watercolor pans to keep them moist?
Keep pans in a sealed tin or plastic case, and mist them lightly with water before closing if they start to dry out. Avoid leaving them in direct sunlight or a hot car, as heat can cause the paint to crack or shrink.