Introduction
Welcome to the vibrant world of watercolor painting, where the fluidity of colors meets the boundless creativity of artists. Choosing the right watercolor paints is akin to selecting a symphony of hues that will dance across your canvas, bringing your imagination to life. In this guide, we embark on a journey to explore the best watercolor paints for artists, demystifying the vast array of options available in the market.
Whether you’re a seasoned painter or just dipping your brush into the captivating realm of watercolors, the choices can be overwhelming. Our aim is to unravel the nuances of pigments, binders, and formulations, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your artistic vision. From lush landscapes to intricate portraits, the quality of your watercolor paints can elevate your artwork to new heights.
Join us as we navigate through the top contenders, considering factors such as color vibrancy, lightfastness, and ease of use. Whether you prefer traditional pan sets or the convenience of tubes, we’ll guide you towards the paints that will become your trusted companions on your artistic journey. So, let’s dive into the world of aqueous brilliance and discover the best watercolor paints that will inspire and enhance your artistic expression.
Here’s the list of 7 Best Watercolor Paints in Germany – 2024
1. Mijello MWC-1524P Gold Watercolors
9.6
Conclusion: Mixed color accuracy
The Mijello Mission Wasserfarben MWC-1524P gold is a non-toxic watercolor set with excellent color intensity, making it ideal for beginners. However, some users have noted that the colors in the set may not match the colors shown on the website, which could limit the mixing options. Additionally, some users may need to order extra tubes to have a complete range of options.
Pros
- Excellent color intensity
- Ideal for beginners
- Non-toxic
Disadvantages
- The colors in the set may not match the colors shown on the Mijello English language website, which could affect the mixing options
- Some users may need to order additional tubes to have a complete range of options
The Mijello Mission Wasserfarben MWC-1524P gold is a set of 12 watercolor paints that are known for their exceptional clarity and vibrancy. These watercolors are made without the use of silicone dioxide, a thickening agent that can inhibit transparency and create a granular effect on paper. As a result, the Mission Gold watercolors are naturally viscous and offer unparalleled clarity and brilliance. Made from the finest available pigments, which are matured in traditional Korean pots for maximum brilliance, these colors are pure, intense, and lightfast with minimal color shifting. The absence of a thickening agent also allows the concentrated colors to spread beautifully on a dry palette and easily rehydrate after being dried for months. With the option to mix them with a little titanium white, Mission Gold can even replace gouache, making it ideal for design work.
High-Quality Pigments for Vibrant Colors
- Lightfastness
- Non-toxic
- Gold color
- MWC-1524P model
2. Nevskaya Palitra Sonnet Aquarell Set – 24 Studio Aquarellfarben
9.3
Vibrant and practical
The Sonnet Aquarellfarbkasten Set – 24 kräftige Studio Aquarellfarben – Hochwertige Künstler-Aquarelle von Nevskaya Palitra is a convenient and practical watercolor set with 24 vibrant and intense colors. It offers excellent lightfastness, transparency, and brilliance, although some users may find the colors to be too vibrant and pigmented.
Benefits of the Set
- Vibrant and intense colors
- Excellent lightfastness, transparency, and brilliance
- Convenient and practical to use
Cons
- No explanations provided
- Some users found the colors to be too vibrant and pigmented
The Sonnet Aquarellfarbkasten Set – 24 kräftige Studio Aquarellfarben – Hochwertige Künstler-Aquarelle von Nevskaya Palitra is a set of watercolor paints that offers high color intensity and excellent lightfastness, transparency, brilliance, and mixing properties. The pigments used in these paints ensure vibrant and long-lasting colors. Additionally, the set is easy to clean, making it convenient for artists to work with. The reviews praise the set for its vibrant colors, ease of use, and affordable price, making it a recommended choice for artists looking to unleash their inspiration.
Product Features: High-Quality Watercolor Set
- 24 vibrant studio watercolors
- Excellent lightfastness, transparency, brilliance, and mixing behavior
- Easy cleaning of brushes
- Resistant to ruining brushes
- Convenient and practical to use
3. Funcils Watercolor Set – 50 Watercolors with Metallic and Fluorescent Colors, for Beginners and Professionals, Artist-Quality
9.1
Overall Impressive
The Funcils Aquarellfarben Set is a comprehensive watercolor set that includes 50 watercolor paints, metallic and fluorescent colors, 3 watercolor brushes, and various additional tools. It offers a wide range of colors, making it suitable for both beginners and professionals. The set also comes with a water brush for easy application and has a durable and high-quality construction. However, some colors may have lower pigment quality compared to other watercolor sets, and the plastic palette insert and adhesive used to hold the colors in place may not be very durable. Overall, it is a beautifully designed set with a convenient carrying case.
High-Quality Watercolor Set
- Wide range of colors including metallic and fluorescent options
- Suitable for both beginners and professionals
- Watercolor set with water brush for easy application
- Durable and high-quality materials
- Beautifully designed packaging with a convenient carrying case
Cons
- Some colors may have lower pigment quality compared to other watercolor sets
- The plastic palette insert and adhesive used to hold the colors in place may not be very durable
The Funcils Aquarellfarben Set is a comprehensive watercolor painting kit suitable for both beginners and professionals. It includes 50 watercolor pans, including metallic and fluorescent colors, along with 3 watercolor brushes, watercolor paper, a pencil, an eraser, a water brush pen, a black pen, and a sponge. The set comes in a beautiful box and is highly appreciated by users, making it a perfect choice for anyone who wants to explore the world of watercolor painting.
Versatile and High-Quality Watercolors
- Includes 50 watercolor paints
- Includes metallic and fluorescent colors
- Comes with 3 watercolor brushes
- Includes watercolor paper, pencil, eraser, water brush pen, black pencil, and sponge
4. Winsor & Newton Cotman Aquarellfarbenset – Einsteigerset 20 Farben
9.1
Inconsistent filling, limited selection
The Winsor & Newton Cotman Aquarellfarbenset is a high-quality starter set with excellent vibrancy, transparent colors, and intense color strength. However, some users have reported inconsistent tube fillings and a limited color selection.
High-quality beginner set
- High-quality artist pigments
- Excellent vibrancy
- Transparent colors
- Intense color strength
Weaknesses
- Inconsistent tube fillings
- Limited color options (20 colors)
The Winsor & Newton 390665 Cotman Aquarellfarbenset is a high-quality watercolor set that utilizes premium artist pigments in a concentrated form. These watercolors are known for their excellent transparency and vibrant color intensity. The set includes 20 colors in 5 ml tubes, allowing for easy mixing and beautiful color combinations. Users have reported that the colors are highly pigmented and long-lasting, requiring only a small amount for mixing. Overall, this set is highly recommended for artists looking for vivid and versatile watercolor paints.
High-quality watercolor set
- High-quality artist pigments
- Excellent vibrancy
- Transparent colors
- Intense color strength
- 20 colors in 5 ml tubes (starter set)
5. Ohuhu Watercolor Set: 36 Colors, 24 Tubes, 6 Brushes – Non-Toxic, Rich Pigments, Fast-Drying – Perfect Gift for Artists
9.1
Mixed bag
The Ohuhu Aquarellfarben Set 36 is a well-packaged watercolor paint set that includes a variety of colors and brushes. The pigments are of good quality and can be easily diluted or used directly, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced artists. However, some users have reported dark spots appearing on the paper when wet, and the quality of the paper provided is not very convincing.
High-Quality Watercolor Set
- Well-packaged set with a variety of colors and brushes included
- Good quality pigments that can be easily diluted or used directly
- Suitable for both beginners and experienced artists
Limitations
- Dark spots appear on the paper when it gets wet
- The quality of the paper is not very convincing
The Ohuhu Aquarellfarben Set 36, 24 Farben Wasserfarben (12ml/Tube) & 6 Aquarellpinsel is a premium watercolor paint set that is packed with finely ground pigments, resulting in rich and vibrant colors that do not fade or wash out on canvas. Each tube contains 12ml (0.4 oz) of high-quality, highly pigmented watercolor paint. The set also includes 6 watercolor brushes for easy and precise application. This set is perfect for artists and enthusiasts who are looking for a non-toxic, quick-drying, and high-quality watercolor paint set.
Enhanced Watercolor Experience
- 36 colors of high-quality watercolor paint
- Each tube contains 12ml (0.4 oz) of richly pigmented paint
- Comes with 6 watercolor brushes
- Colors are fade-resistant and vibrant on canvas
6. Artistro Watercolor Set – 48 Vibrant Colors in Portable Box
9.1
Conclusion: High-quality and vibrant
The Artistro Aquarellfarben Set, with its 48 vibrant colors, including metallic and fluorescent options, is a perfect travel watercolor set for artists, hobby painters, and painting enthusiasts. The portable metal box provides convenience and the high-quality, highly pigmented paints offer excellent coverage, resulting in vibrant and vivid artwork. However, there have been concerns about the durability of the clasp on the metal box and the need for improved packaging to prevent damage during shipping.
Advantages of Artistro Watercolor Set
- Wide variety of 48 vibrant colors
- High-quality and highly pigmented paints
- Excellent coverage with vibrant and vivid results
- Portable and convenient metal box for easy storage and travel
Weaknesses
- The clasp on the metal box may be prone to breaking
- The packaging could be improved to prevent damage during shipping
The Artistro Aquarellfarben Set is a high-quality watercolor set that brings vibrant colors to life. Suitable for both beginners and professionals, these watercolors are perfect for coloring books, bullet journaling, and sketching. The set includes 48 colors, including metallic and fluorescent shades, providing a diverse palette for creating a wide range of color mixes and nuances. The colors are vivid and bright, adding depth to artwork. The high-pigment and excellent coverage ensure that the colors remain vibrant and do not lose their intensity. The set comes in a portable box, making it convenient for artists on the go. The box also features a removable mixing palette insert, making painting on the move or in nature a breeze. The colors work well on different types of paper and maintain their vibrancy, whether on watercolor paper, sketch paper, or other surfaces. The colors dry evenly without any unwanted changes. Overall, the Artistro Aquarellfarben Set is highly recommended for artists of all levels, offering versatility, quality, and portability for creating beautiful watercolor artworks.
Vibrant and Portable Watercolors
- 48 vibrant colors
- Portable box for easy travel
- Includes metallic and fluorescent colors
- Suitable for artists, hobby painters, and painting enthusiasts
7. DazSpirit 48 Aquarell Farbkasten
8.9
Overall: Good value
The DazSpirit 48 Aquarell Farbkasten is a complete package that offers 48 vibrant and versatile watercolors, perfect for beginners. While some reviewers mentioned that the colors may appear a bit dull, investing in higher quality watercolor paper and brushes can enhance the overall experience.
Vibrant Watercolor Palette
- 48 vibrant and versatile watercolors
- Easy to mix and create beautiful color effects
- Complete package with everything needed for painting
- Perfect for beginners
Cons
- Some reviewers mentioned that the colors may appear a bit dull
- It is suggested to invest in higher quality watercolor paper and brushes for a better experience
The DazSpirit 48 Aquarell Farbkasten is a versatile and vibrant watercolor set that is perfect for beginners. This limited-time offer includes everything you need to start painting, including a brush and paper block. Customers have praised the beautiful colors and the inclusion of small canvases and additional brushes. While some reviewers found the colors a bit dull, they still found the set suitable for practicing and recommended investing in higher-quality watercolor paper and brushes for a better experience.
Product Features
- 48 vibrant and versatile watercolors
- Easy to mix and create beautiful color effects
- Complete package with everything needed for painting
- Perfect for beginners
Comparing Watercolor Paint Brands
Buyer’s Guide
When it comes to selecting the best watercolor paints for your artistic endeavors, the choices can be as diverse as the palettes they offer. In this comprehensive buyer’s guide, we’ll delve into the key factors that should influence your decision, ensuring that you not only find the perfect pigments for your style but also enhance the overall quality of your artistic output. From pigment characteristics and color vibrancy to considerations like lightfastness and transparency, we’ll navigate the intricate world of watercolor paints.
1. Understanding Pigments:
At the heart of every watercolor paint is its pigment – the finely ground particles that determine the color and characteristics of the paint. Artists often encounter two main types of watercolor pigments: natural and synthetic. Natural pigments, derived from minerals and organic materials, offer earthy tones and unique granulation. On the other hand, synthetic pigments provide a broader color spectrum, enhanced lightfastness, and consistency. Consider the specific hues you require for your artwork, and don’t hesitate to experiment with a mix of both types for a well-rounded palette.
2. Transparency and Opacity:
The transparency or opacity of a watercolor paint significantly impacts the final appearance of your artwork. Transparent colors allow light to pass through, creating luminous and layered effects, ideal for glazing and building complex tones. In contrast, opaque colors cover underlying layers, offering more solid coverage and vibrant, bold statements. A well-balanced watercolor palette often includes a mix of transparent and opaque colors to provide versatility in your creative process.
3. Color Vibrancy:
The vibrancy of watercolor paints is a key factor in bringing your artwork to life. High-quality pigments contribute to intense, brilliant colors that remain vivid even after drying. When assessing color vibrancy, consider the range of tones available in a set and how well they mix to create secondary colors. Some brands excel in producing paints with unparalleled vibrancy, providing artists with the tools to convey the full spectrum of emotions on their canvases.
4. Lightfastness:
Preserving the longevity of your artwork requires attention to lightfastness – the paint’s resistance to fading when exposed to light over time. A high lightfastness rating ensures that your masterpiece retains its brilliance for years to come. Manufacturers often indicate lightfastness using a scale, with ratings ranging from excellent to poor. Prioritize paints with excellent or good lightfastness, especially for pieces that will be displayed in well-lit areas or under natural sunlight.
5. Consistency and Flow:
The consistency of watercolor paints influences how they interact with water and the surface of your paper. Some artists prefer a thicker, more concentrated paint that allows for fine details and controlled strokes, while others opt for a more fluid consistency that facilitates smooth washes and gradients. Explore various brands to find paints that suit your preferred working style, whether you enjoy the precision of detailed brushwork or the expressive freedom of loose, flowing techniques.
6. Presentation: Tubes vs. Pans:
Watercolor paints are commonly available in two main formats: tubes and pans. Tubes contain moist, concentrated paint that can be squeezed onto a palette and diluted with water as needed. This format is favored by artists who appreciate the flexibility of adjusting paint consistency. Pans, on the other hand, are solid cakes of dried paint arranged in a compact palette. They are convenient for outdoor or on-the-go painting but may require more effort to achieve certain consistencies. Consider your studio setup, painting preferences, and mobility when choosing between tubes and pans.
7. Brand and Quality:
The reputation of a brand often reflects the quality of its watercolor paints. Established brands with a history of producing artist-grade materials are generally a safe bet. However, don’t shy away from exploring newer brands that have gained acclaim for their innovative formulations and color ranges. Reading reviews from fellow artists and conducting small-scale tests can provide valuable insights into the performance and consistency of different brands.
8. Palette Selection:
Many watercolor paint sets come in pre-arranged palettes designed for specific purposes, such as landscape painting or portraiture. While these curated sets can be convenient, don’t feel restricted by them. Building a customized palette tailored to your artistic vision allows for greater control and personalization. Start with a basic set of primary colors and expand your collection based on the unique color combinations you envision for your artwork.
9. Budget Considerations:
Investing in quality watercolor paints is an investment in the longevity and visual impact of your artwork. However, budget constraints are a reality for many artists. It’s crucial to strike a balance between quality and affordability. Some reputable brands offer student-grade paints that provide decent quality at a more accessible price point. Consider your current skill level, the importance of lightfastness for your projects, and how frequently you paint when determining your budget for watercolor paints.
10. Trial and Error:
Ultimately, finding the best watercolor paints for your artistic journey may involve a bit of trial and error. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands, pigments, and consistencies. Keep a sketchbook or test paper specifically for trying out new paints and techniques. Embrace the process of discovery, allowing your preferences to evolve as you gain experience and refine your artistic voice.
Armed with these insights, you are now equipped to navigate the vast array of watercolor paints available in the market. Remember that the best watercolor paints for artists are the ones that resonate with your creative vision and enhance your ability to convey the beauty of the world through the vibrant medium of watercolors. Happy painting!
Frequently Asked Questions about Watercolor Paints
How should watercolor paints be stored to maintain their quality?
Watercolor paints should be stored in a dry and cool environment to maintain their quality. It is recommended to store them in airtight containers or palettes to prevent them from drying out or getting exposed to moisture. Keeping them away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures is also important to avoid color fading or melting. Additionally, it is advisable to store watercolor paints horizontally to ensure that the pigments remain evenly distributed and do not settle at the bottom. By following these storage guidelines, the quality and longevity of watercolor paints can be preserved.
What are the main ingredients used in watercolor paints?
Watercolor paints consist of two main ingredients: pigments and binders. Pigments are the colored particles that give watercolor its distinct hues. They are finely ground minerals, synthetic compounds, or organic substances. Common pigments used in watercolor paints include ultramarine blue, cadmium yellow, and burnt sienna.
The second ingredient in watercolor paints is the binder, which holds the pigments together and allows them to adhere to the paper. The most common binder used in watercolor paints is gum arabic, a natural gum extracted from acacia trees. Gum arabic is mixed with water to create a solution, which is then combined with the pigments to form the paint. This binder also gives watercolor paints their characteristic transparency and ability to be reactivated with water.
In addition to pigments and binders, watercolor paints may also contain additives such as preservatives, wetting agents, or dispersants to enhance their performance or extend their shelf life. However, these additional ingredients vary among different brands and formulations.
Are there any safety precautions to consider when working with watercolor paints?
Yes, there are several safety precautions to consider when working with watercolor paints.
Firstly, it is important to ensure proper ventilation in the workspace. Watercolor paints usually contain pigments suspended in a binder, which can release fumes when the paint is being used. Adequate ventilation will help to minimize the inhalation of these fumes.
Secondly, it is advisable to wear protective clothing, such as an apron or smock, to avoid staining or damaging personal clothing. Watercolor paints can be difficult to remove from fabrics, so wearing protective clothing can help prevent any accidental spills or splatters.
Additionally, it is essential to avoid ingesting the paint. Although watercolor paints are generally non-toxic, it is still best to avoid swallowing or eating while working with the paints. Artists should also ensure that they wash their hands thoroughly after using the paints, as some pigments may cause irritation if they come into contact with the skin or eyes.
Lastly, it is important to handle and store watercolor paints properly. They should be kept away from children and pets, as ingestion or misuse can be harmful. Paints should be stored in a cool and dry place to prevent them from deteriorating or becoming moldy.
By following these safety precautions, artists can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience when working with watercolor paints.
Can watercolor paints be used in combination with other mediums, such as ink or gouache?
Yes, watercolor paints can indeed be used in combination with other mediums such as ink or gouache. Mixing watercolor with ink or gouache allows artists to explore different effects and techniques in their artwork. However, it is important for artists to consider the characteristics and properties of each medium when combining them, as they may have different drying times, opacities, or consistencies. Experimentation and understanding the behavior of each medium will help artists achieve the desired results when combining watercolor with ink or gouache.
What types of surfaces can watercolor paints be used on?
Watercolor paints can be used on a variety of surfaces, including watercolor paper, bristol board, illustration board, and specially designed watercolor canvas. These surfaces are able to absorb and hold the watercolor pigments effectively, allowing for proper blending and layering. It is important to note that the texture and absorbency of the surface can affect the final appearance of the watercolor painting. Some artists may also experiment with using watercolor paints on unconventional surfaces such as wood, fabric, or even rocks, although these may require additional preparation and may yield different results.
