10 Best Watercolor Sets 2025 in the United States

The Grabie Watercolor Paint Set is designed for artists, amateur hobbyists, and painting enthusiasts who appreciate a versatile and portable option for their projects. With 50 vibrant colors, this set provides a broad range that caters to various artistic needs. The paints are known for their good transparency and tinting strength, making them easy to mix and blend for unique creations. Additionally, the high-quality, non-toxic formulation ensures safety for users of all ages, aligning with common safety standards.

On the practical side, the set comes with essential accessories, including a water brush pen, nylon paintbrush, and detail brushes, making it a complete kit for artists on the go. The compact metal case is lightweight and easy to carry, perfect for travel and outdoor painting sessions.

There are some drawbacks to consider. The paint does not have waterproof properties once dry, which can limit its application in certain projects. Additionally, while the range of colors is extensive, some shades may require multiple layers to achieve the desired opacity.

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.

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.