10 Best Watercolor Pencils 2026 in the United States

The Derwent Inktense Pencils Art Set offers 100 vibrant, water-soluble pencils with a 4mm core, making it a strong choice for artists who want a wide color range and premium pigment quality. These pencils are highly pigmented, allowing for rich, intense colors that blend smoothly when water is applied, creating effects similar to ink. Once dry, the colors become permanent, which is great for layering without disturbing underlying work, a feature valued by professionals and hobbyists alike. The pencil hardness is fine, offering good control for detailed drawing or coloring. Derwent is a well-respected brand, known for quality art supplies, adding to the appeal.

Because these pencils are permanent once dry, they may be less forgiving if you want to lift or rework colors later, which some watercolor artists might find limiting. Additionally, they perform best when used with compatible accessories like Derwent water brushes and Inktense watercolor paper, so beginners may want to consider these extras for optimal results.

This set is suited for adult artists and students seeking a professional-grade watercolor pencil collection with excellent color payoff and durability.

The Derwent Inktense Color Pencils set is a strong contender in the watercolor pencil category, particularly appealing to artists who enjoy vibrant colors and versatility. With a 4mm soft lead core, these pencils deliver bold, expressive drawings thanks to their high pigment quality. Users appreciate the rich color payoff and the ability to blend and layer colors without worrying about bleeding, as the pigments dry quickly and permanently once activated with water.

One of the standout features is their water solubility, which allows for both dry and wet applications. Artists can create beautiful ink-like washes or keep the colors intense and crisp when used dry. The ability to mix colors adds further flexibility for those looking to customize their palette.

They can be used on various surfaces, including fabric and paper, which enhances their usability for mixed media projects. This is particularly beneficial for creative individuals who like to experiment with different materials. The set of 36 colors provides a diverse range to work with, making it a well-rounded choice for both beginner and seasoned artists. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. While the pencils are designed for permanent application, some users may find that achieving the desired colors can depend heavily on their technique and the amount of water used. Additionally, the round core may not be as precise for detailed work compared to harder pencils, which could be a concern for artists focused on fine details. The Derwent Inktense Color Pencils are a solid choice for artists looking for vibrant, versatile watercolor pencils that can be used in various creative projects.

Winsor & Newton Studio Collection Watercolour Pencils come in a large set of 48 vibrant colors, making them great for artists who want a wide palette to explore. These pencils use a wax-based core, which helps in smooth color application and coverage whether you use them dry or add water to create watercolor effects. Their solubility is a strong point, allowing easy blending and transformations when water is applied. The cores are designed to resist breakage, so they can handle pressure and occasional drops better than many other pencils.

When it comes to pigment quality and lightfastness, these pencils are generally reliable, offering bright and lasting colors, though they are more suited for practice, learning, and casual artwork rather than professional archival pieces. Pencil hardness is moderate, balancing between softness for vibrant color and firmness for control. Winsor & Newton is a respected brand in art supplies, which adds confidence in the product’s quality. One thing to keep in mind is that being wax-based, they might not blend as seamlessly as some water-soluble oil or pure watercolor pencils, but they are excellent for layering and mixing.

This set is ideal for beginners, students, and hobbyists looking for a comprehensive and durable watercolor pencil collection with good color variety and dependable performance.