10 Best Watercolor Sets 2025 in the United States

The Kuretake GANSAI TAMBI Watercolor Paint Set with 24 metallic and pearlescent colors stands out for artists who want vibrant, shimmering effects in their work. The color range is quite unique due to the inclusion of metallic tones and five new gem-inspired shades, making it great for creative projects that benefit from a bit of sparkle. These paints are traditional Japanese watercolors known for their high-quality pigments that dissolve quickly and blend well. The paint is water-based but offers opacity like gouache, allowing you to work with either transparent washes or more solid coverage.

The pans are larger than usual, which makes them convenient to use with different brush sizes and good for both beginners and professionals. While these paints have bright and vivid colors, metallic and pearlescent types typically have lower lightfastness compared to standard watercolors, so artwork might fade faster when exposed to strong light over time. The paints dry with a slight sheen, which adds to their metallic effect but might not suit every style.

Packaging is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around for painting on the go. This set is best suited for artists looking for specialty metallic watercolors rather than those needing a broad range of traditional transparent colors or maximum archival quality. Non-toxic and made in Japan, it offers a high-quality experience but may be less versatile for strictly classic watercolor techniques.

The Kuretake GANSAI TAMBI Watercolor Paint Set offers an impressive range of 48 vibrant and opaque colors, inspired by the natural hues of traditional Japanese watercolors. This makes it an excellent choice for artists who appreciate vivid, nature-based tones. The paint quality is professional-grade, ensuring the colors are smooth, non-granulated, and dry with a subtle shiny finish, which can add a unique touch to your artworks.

The set's large pans accommodate both small and large brushes, providing flexibility in brush techniques and making it easier to achieve flat washes without hard edges. Layering colors is also quite manageable with this set. Additionally, the inclusion of a protective sheet that doubles as a palette mixer, along with a color chart for easy swatching, enhances the user experience.

The packaging is beautifully designed, with an elegant green washi overlay on a sturdy cardboard box, making it a great gift option for artists. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The set's opacity may not suit those who prefer more transparent watercolor effects, and while the paints are water-based and non-toxic, they are designed for adult use only. The packaging, while attractive, may not be as durable for frequent transport. Nonetheless, this set is a reliable and high-quality choice for serious artists seeking versatile watercolors.

The Winsor & Newton Cotman Watercolor Paint Set is a solid choice for both beginners and more experienced artists looking for a reliable watercolor option. One of its notable strengths is the extensive color range, boasting 45 half pans that provide a wide spectrum of hues to experiment with. This is particularly beneficial for artists who enjoy mixing and blending colors, as the excellent tinting strength allows for vibrant results with minimal effort. Additionally, the set is designed for good transparency, which is essential for watercolor techniques that require layering and glazing.

In terms of quality, while the Cotman range uses some less expensive pigments compared to professional-grade options, it still adheres to high-quality standards. This makes it an economical choice without compromising too heavily on performance, making it suitable for art students or hobbyists.

Packaging is another strong point; the compact case includes a mixing tray, making it easy to carry and set up for painting sessions. This portability is perfect for artists who like to paint outdoors or travel, offering convenience without sacrificing functionality.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. Some artists might find that the use of alternative pigments affects the color saturation when compared to professional-grade sets, which could be a concern for serious artists seeking the richest colors. Also, while the set is excellent for general use, those who require specific lightfastness ratings may need to research individual colors since the lightfastness may vary within the Cotman range.

The Winsor & Newton Cotman Watercolor Paint Set is a great option for those who value a wide color range and good quality at an affordable price, but serious artists may want to evaluate their specific needs regarding pigment quality and lightfastness.