Watercolour painting is one of the most rewarding and versatile art forms. Whether you're mesmerised by its fluid washes, love the way colours blend effortlessly, or simply enjoy the spontaneity of the medium; watercolours offer something for every artist.
At Eckersley’s, we know that choosing the right watercolour paint set can feel overwhelming—especially with so many options available. Whether you’re picking up a brush for the first time or searching for professional watercolour paints, we’ve got you covered. This guide will walk you through different types of watercolours, how to pick the best set for your needs, and essential techniques to take your painting to the next level.
Types of Watercolour Paints
Not all watercolours are created equal. The type of paint you choose—pans, tubes, or discs—can impact everything from your painting style to your workflow.
Pan vs. Tube Watercolours
- Pan Watercolours: These are dry, solid paints that activate when mixed with water. They’re perfect for travel, quick sketches, or artists who like to work with controlled amounts of pigment. If you’re after a reliable, portable set, try the Winsor & Newton Cotman Half Pan Watercolour Pocket Set, which offers a stunning colour payoff in a compact format.
- Tube Watercolours: These have a creamy consistency and pack a serious punch in terms of pigmentation. They're ideal for larger washes, intense colour mixing, and layering techniques. If you want bold, vibrant hues, the Winsor & Newton Cotman Watercolour Sets are a fantastic option.
- Watercolour Discs: If you love experimenting, watercolour discs offer a fun alternative. Sets like the Micador For Artists Brilliant Watercolour Discs and Jasart Voyager Watercolour Disc Sets deliver bold colours in a unique, easy-to-use format.
Student vs. Professional-Grade Paints
- Student-Grade Watercolours: These are more affordable and designed for beginners. While they have slightly less pigment than professional paints, they still offer vibrant colours and great versatility. If you’re just starting, the Jasart Byron Watercolour Bundle Set and Reeves Watercolour Paint Set are fantastic choices.
- Professional Watercolours: These have higher pigment concentration, better blending capabilities, and increased lightfastness—meaning your artwork will stand the test of time. If you’re after top-tier quality, the Art Spectrum Watercolour Paint Sets is trusted by artists worldwide.
How to Choose the Right Watercolour Set
Your ideal watercolour set depends on your experience level, painting style, and personal preferences. Let’s break it down.
Best Watercolours for Beginners
If you're new to watercolour painting, simplicity is key. A well-rounded, easy-to-use set will help you explore colour mixing, layering, and brush techniques without feeling overwhelmed.
Professional-Grade Options
If you’re serious about watercolour painting, investing in artist-quality paints is worth it. Professional sets offer richer pigmentation, smoother blending, and better control over water effects.
Essential Accessories for Watercolour Painting
Your watercolours will shine even brighter with the right tools. A good brush, quality paper, and a mixing palette can make all the difference.
- Watercolour Brushes: A mix of round, flat, and detail brushes will give you the versatility to paint everything from fine details to large washes.
- Watercolour Paper: Cold-pressed watercolour paper has a slight texture, making it great for general use. Hot-pressed paper is smoother and better for fine details.
- Watercolour Palettes: Essential for mixing colours, especially when using tube watercolours.
Find Your Perfect Watercolour Set at Eckersley’s
No matter where you are in your watercolour journey—whether you’re just starting out or looking for professional watercolour paints—the right set can make all the difference. Browse our collection of watercolour paint sets at Eckersley’s and find the perfect fit for your creative style!
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