Watercolor paints are a favorite among artists for their versatility and ability to create beautiful, translucent layers.
As an art student, I appreciate the way watercolor allows for spontaneous creativity while still offering control over the application.
The experience of mixing colors and watching them blend on paper can be incredibly satisfying, making it a popular medium for both beginners and seasoned artists alike.
When shopping for watercolor paints, you need to consider a few critical factors.
The pigment quality can affect everything from vibrancy to transparency.
Additionally, whether the paints come in tubes or pans might influence your choice based on your painting style and convenience.
For art students, affordability without sacrificing quality is key, making it crucial to find the right balance.
With these considerations in mind, I explored some of the best watercolor paint options available for art students.
Each choice brings unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs, so let’s take a closer look at the top contenders.
Best 8 Watercolor Paints for Art Students
As an art student, finding the right watercolor paints can make a huge difference in my creative journey.
I’ve put together a list of my top eight watercolor options that are perfect for anyone looking to elevate their painting skills.
Let’s dive in!
Masllutn 48 Colors Watercolor Set
This watercolor paint set is a great choice for students and beginners due to its variety and affordability.
- Offers 48 vibrant colors to choose from.
- Includes 3 brushes made with quality materials.
- Portable and lightweight, ideal for taking anywhere.
- The lid may not be sturdy.
- Some users reported issues with durability.
- Limited professional-grade appeal for advanced artists.
The Masllutn watercolor set is a fantastic option for anyone just starting out.
With 48 colors at your disposal, there’s plenty of room to experiment without the need for extensive mixing.
The accompanying brushes are made from soft nylon, enhancing the overall painting experience.
The portability of this set is impressive.
Weighing in at just 12 oz, I can easily toss it in a bag for days out or even for relaxing sessions in the park.
The removable lid doubles as a palette, making it convenient to set up and create art anywhere inspiration strikes.
While the set shines in many areas, it’s worth mentioning that the lid quality has drawn some criticism.
A few reviewers noted that their lids broke upon arrival.
Despite this drawback, the vivid colors and ease of use make this an appealing option for budding artists looking to hone their skills.
ARTISTRO Watercolor Set
This watercolor set combines quality and convenience, making it an appealing choice for art students.
- Vibrant colors that stand out in various art projects.
- Portable design, easy to carry anywhere you go.
- Non-toxic materials, suitable for all ages.
- Some users find the color intensity varies.
- The case is small, limiting the space for additional supplies.
- A few users wish the paint pans were larger.
I really appreciate the variety in this set.
With 48 colors, including metallic and fluorescent options, there’s plenty to experiment with in my art projects.
The vibrant tones can make a piece come alive, whether I’m working on a sketch or a bullet journal.
The portability of the ARTISTRO set is a major plus.
I can easily pack it up and take it with me wherever I go.
The included brush and paper mean I have everything I need for painting on the road, which is fantastic for a student like me.
While the small size of the case is great for travel, it does limit how much extra stuff I can bring along.
Overall, I find this watercolor set to be a solid choice for both beginners and those more experienced, thanks to its accessibility and quality.
Color Swell Watercolors
This bulk watercolor set is a solid choice for anyone looking to spark creativity in kids and students.
- High quantity of paint sets for a low price.
- Washable and non-toxic, making them safe for various ages.
- Comes with quality wood brushes that enhance painting experience.
- Brush quality might not satisfy more advanced artists.
- Some users found the color vibrancy varies between individual sets.
- Not designed for outdoor or heavy-duty use.
I found the Color Swell Bulk Watercolors to be ideal for art classes.
The 36 sets come in classic colors like red, blue, and yellow, allowing for a wide range of projects.
It’s great that they are washable and non-toxic, which gives peace of mind when working with young artists.
The included wood brushes make painting easy and offer a decent amount of control, especially for beginners.
However, more experienced users might prefer better quality brushes.
With lots of positive feedback, this set stands out for bulk needs such as classrooms and parties.
It’s not only affordable but also practical for art projects at home or school.
Prang Oval Pan Watercolor Paint Set
This watercolor set is a solid pick for students looking to explore their creativity with reliable colors.
- Bright, vivid pigments that blend easily.
- Refillable pans and a convenient mixing tray included.
- Non-toxic and safe for all ages.
- Some users report the brush quality could be better.
- Colors may not be as intense as higher-end brands.
- Limited variety in the color selection.
I find the Prang Oval Pan Watercolor Paint Set to be user-friendly, especially for students.
The colors are bright and vibrant, making it easy to achieve a striking look on paper.
With the inclusion of refillable pans, it’s both economical and practical.
The sturdy case features built-in mixing areas, which simplify the painting process.
The set is designed to cater to budding artists, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish.
Plus, it’s AP certified non-toxic, so it’s safe for kids.
While the brush included is decent, some might prefer to upgrade to a higher-quality brush for better control.
Despite some criticism about color intensity, I appreciate the overall quality for the price.
It’s a great choice for young artists or those just starting out in watercolor painting.
Color Swell Watercolor Paint Set
This set is a solid choice for anyone looking to get vibrant watercolors at an affordable price.
- Includes ten individual paint sets in bright colors.
- Non-toxic and washable, making it safe for kids.
- Comes with high-quality wood brushes, enhancing the painting experience.
- Lacks a white color, which could be limiting.
- Some users may find the pigmentation not as rich as expected.
- Brushes may wear out quicker with heavy use.
I find the Color Swell watercolor paint set particularly appealing for classrooms and at-home art projects.
The vibrant color selection ensures that kids can explore their creativity without compromising on quality.
Plus, the bonus brushes included are a great way to get started right away.
Safety is a big factor when selecting art supplies.
These paints are non-toxic and wash off easily, which is a major plus for parents and teachers alike.
It supports a fun, relaxed environment for young artists, whether they are just beginning or honing their skills.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right watercolor paints can greatly impact my art journey.
Here are some key factors I consider:
1. Pigment Quality
I look for high-quality pigments that offer vibrant colors and good lightfastness.
This ensures my artwork looks great and lasts over time.
2. Transparency
Some projects call for transparency, while others need opacity.
I check the labels or swatch to understand how transparent the paints are.
3. Ease of Use
I prefer paints that mix well and re-wet easily.
Understanding the flow and texture helps me decide if they fit my style.
4. Set Size
Depending on my needs, I evaluate whether a small set or a larger collection suits me.
A variety of colors can be beneficial for experimentation.
5. Price Point
Budget matters.
I often weigh the quality against the price to find an option that fits my wallet without compromising too much on quality.
6. Packaging
I also appreciate user-friendly packaging.
Tubes versus pans can affect how I handle and store the paints, so I consider what works best for me.