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 a range of 24 vibrant colors inspired by nature, making it ideal for artists who appreciate vivid, opaque hues. The paint quality is professional-grade, ensuring smooth application and a slight sheen upon drying. The set includes larger-than-average pans, which are convenient for both small and large brush use, and the water-based pigment can be adjusted for varying levels of opacity and transparency, allowing versatility for different artistic techniques.

The packaging, while elegant with its green washi overlay, is made of simple cardboard, which might not be as durable for long-term use or frequent transportation. Additionally, the paints are not water-resistant, which may be a limitation for certain projects.

The set's non-toxic formulation and replaceable pans add to its practicality and appeal, especially for artists who seek a reliable and high-quality watercolor set.