Among these watercolor painting sets, I would choose the Winsor & Newton Cotman 45 Half Pan Studio Set as the best overall for its focused, established artist-grade format and studio-friendly range. The Nicpro 36-Color Set stands out for beginners who want paper and tools in one package, while the Artecho 100-Color Metallic Set suits painters who want a broad, decorative palette in a portable tin. The main choice is between a compact, pigment-focused set and a larger kit that adds brushes, paper, or specialty colors. More colors do not automatically mean better mixing, and included accessories can vary in usefulness. Read on for the full breakdown of what each set is best suited to and where it asks you to compromise.
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Key Takeaways
- The Cotman 45 Half Pan Studio Set is the strongest all-around choice for painters who value a coordinated half-pan palette more than a bundle of extras.
- Nicpro’s 36-color kit prioritizes getting started: paper, brushes, and a palette reduce the need to assemble supplies separately.
- Large color counts serve different purposes. Grabie’s 100-color set pairs its range with brush pens, while Artecho’s 100-color tin adds metallics for decorative work.
- Portable formats are not interchangeable. The tabletop easel set is built around a small painting station; compact tins and palettes are better suited to carrying paints.
- Specialty sets fill narrow roles: Kuretake Starry Colors adds shimmer, Art Nouveau offers a themed 24-color palette, and Pelikan’s opaque colors with Chinese White suit more covered, illustrative effects.
| ARTISTRO Sunrise Set: 50-Color Watercolor Paint Kit with Palette and Brushes |  | Best for Travel | Brand: ARTISTRO | Set name: Sunrise Set | Paint type: Watercolor | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| ARTISTRO 50-Color Watercolor Paint Set with Palette and Brushes |  | Best Brush-Inclusive Set | Brand: ARTISTRO | Paint type: Watercolor | Colors and form: 50 half pans | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 48-Color Washable Watercolor Paint Set with 2 Brushes and 1 Water Brush |  | Best for Young Beginners | Brand: Blablaovy | Paint type and form: Watercolor, solid pans | Colors: 48 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Portable Watercolor Paint Set with Wooden Tabletop Easel and Storage Drawer |  | Best Complete Painting Station | Brand and model: AOTEMOON 70001B | Easel material and type: Pine; single mast tabletop easel | Paint: 24 watercolor tubes, 12 mL each | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Winsor & Newton Cotman Watercolor Paint Set, 45 Half Pan Studio Set |  | Best Established Pigment Range | Brand: Winsor & Newton | Range and model: Cotman; 0390471 | Paint type: Watercolor | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Grabie 50-Color Watercolor Paint Set with Brushes |  | Best for Portable Everyday Painting | Brand: Grabie | Paint type: Watercolor | Colors: 50 semi-transparent colors | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Nicpro 36-Color Watercolor Paint Set with Brushes, Paper, and Palette |  | Best Complete Starter Kit | Brand: Nicpro | Colors: 36 | Paint format: Tubes, 12 ml each | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Grabie Watercolor Paint Set with 100 Colors and Brush Pens |  | Best for Color Variety | Brand: Grabie | Colors: 100: 50 regular, plus metallic, macaron, and fluorescent shades | Accessories: 3 water brush pens, drawing pencil, natural sponge, and swatch sheet | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Artecho 48-Color Watercolor Paint Set with 3 Brushes |  | Best Washable Option | Brand: Artecho | Colors: 48 watercolor pans | Included components: 48 pans and 3 brushes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Artecho 100-Color Watercolor Paint Set with Metallic Colors and Portable Tin Case |  | Best Accessory-Rich Specialty Set | Brand: Artecho | Colors: 100 | Color breakdown: 51 classic, 35 metallic, 4 fluorescent, 10 macaron and candy | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Kuretake Gansai Tambi Starry Colors Watercolor Set, 6 Colors |  | Best for Pearlescent Accents | Brand: Kuretake | Paint type: Watercolor | Color count: 6 pearlescent colors | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Kuretake Gansai Tambi Watercolor Paint Set, 24 Colors, Art Nouveau |  | Best for Opaque Everyday Painting | Brand: Kuretake | Color count: 24 | Paint form: Solid | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Pelikan Opaque Watercolor Paint Set, 12 Colors with Chinese White Tube |  | Best for Quick-Dissolving Opaque Color | Brand: Pelikan | Color count: 12 | Included component: Tube of Chinese White | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| watercolor painting set | Brand | Colors |
|---|---|---|
| ARTISTRO Sunrise Set: 50-Color | ARTISTRO | 50 pans |
| ARTISTRO 50-Color Watercolor P | ARTISTRO | — |
| 48-Color Washable Watercolor P | Blablaovy | 48 |
| Portable Watercolor Paint Set | — | — |
| Winsor & Newton Cotman Waterco | Winsor & Newton | — |
| Grabie 50-Color Watercolor Pai | Grabie | 50 semi-transparent colors |
| Nicpro 36-Color Watercolor Pai | Nicpro | 36 |
| Grabie Watercolor Paint Set wi | Grabie | 100: 50 regular, plus metallic, macaron, and fluorescent shades |
| Artecho 48-Color Watercolor Pa | Artecho | 48 watercolor pans |
| Artecho 100-Color Watercolor P | Artecho | 100 |
| Kuretake Gansai Tambi Starry C | Kuretake | — |
| Kuretake Gansai Tambi Watercol | Kuretake | — |
| Pelikan Opaque Watercolor Pain | Pelikan | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
ARTISTRO Sunrise Set: 50-Color Watercolor Paint Kit with Palette and Brushes
The ARTISTRO Sunrise Set is a strong choice for painters who want a broad color range without packing separate supplies. Its 50 pans, brushes, compact case, and built-in palette keep the basic painting setup together for a class, trip, or sketching session away from home. Compared with the AOTEMOON kit, this set is much easier to carry, though it lacks that option’s easel, painting surfaces, and larger collection of tools. The tradeoff is the compact format: the pans may hold less paint, which can be limiting for frequent or large-scale work. I’d choose it over a simpler 48-color set when an organized, self-contained travel kit matters more than a generous supply of paint in each pan.
Pros:- 50 pans offer a broad color selection for mixing and varied subjects.
- Built-in palette and included brushes reduce the need to pack extra tools.
- Compact case is suited to painting on the go.
- Water-activated colors can be used for washes, gradients, and layering.
Cons:- Compact pans may not provide much paint for repeated or large paintings.
- The set does not include paper or an easel.
Best for: Traveling students and hobbyists who want many colors, brushes, and a mixing surface in one compact case.
Not ideal for: Painters who use large amounts of paint or want an easel and practice surfaces included.
- Brand:ARTISTRO
- Set name:Sunrise Set
- Paint type:Watercolor
- Colors:50 pans
- Included components:50 watercolor pans, compact case, built-in mixing palette, painting brushes
- Case material:Metal
- Dimensions:8 × 10 × 0.74 inches
- Age range:Kid, teen, adult
Our verdict“Choose the Sunrise Set if portability and a wide range of colors matter more than larger paint pans or a complete painting station.”
ARTISTRO 50-Color Watercolor Paint Set with Palette and Brushes
This ARTISTRO set makes sense for buyers who want a ready-to-use selection of colors and a substantial brush assortment in one package. Its 50 half pans and 8 brushes give it a more defined tool advantage over the ARTISTRO Sunrise Set, whose listing confirms brushes but does not specify their number. The metal case and built-in mixing palette also make storage and transport straightforward. Its main limitation is that the paints are listed as not water resistant; that matters if you need a water-resistant finish, though watercolors are generally intended to react to water during painting. Compared with the Blablaovy set, this one has a metal case and more specified brushes, while the Blablaovy listing calls out washable paints and safety standards. Choose based on whether brush quantity or those attributes matter more.
Pros:- 50 half-pan colors support a wide range of mixes.
- Includes 8 brushes and painting accessories.
- Built-in mixing palette keeps color mixing with the set.
- Metal case helps keep supplies together for travel or class.
Cons:- Paints are listed as not water resistant.
- No paper or painting surfaces are listed among the included components.
Best for: Hobbyists and students who want a large color selection with a clearly specified brush set in a portable case.
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking water-resistant paint or a set with included paper and painting surfaces.
- Brand:ARTISTRO
- Paint type:Watercolor
- Colors and form:50 half pans
- Included brushes:8
- Case material:Metal
- Palette:Built-in mixing palette
- Finish:Matte
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
- Model:WCBR
Our verdict“Pick this ARTISTRO set if you want 50 colors and a specified eight-brush assortment in a portable metal case.”
48-Color Washable Watercolor Paint Set with 2 Brushes and 1 Water Brush
The Blablaovy set is the most youth-oriented pick here: it combines 48 washable colors with a lightweight plastic case and a removable cover that doubles as a palette. Its listing describes the paints as non-toxic and compliant with ASTM D4236 and EN71, useful details for adults choosing supplies for children. Compared with the metal-cased ARTISTRO sets, this one is less focused on a sturdy, polished travel kit and more on portability and easy cleanup. The listed tools include two brushes and a water brush, although the product description is inconsistent about the brush count, so I would not buy it based on a specific tool total. Solid pans also need water before use, and the set is recommended for paper rather than a broader range of surfaces.
Pros:- 48 colors give beginners plenty of options for exploration and mixing.
- Washable paints can make cleanup easier for family use.
- Removable cover doubles as a mixing palette.
- Listing identifies ASTM D4236 and EN71 safety standards.
Cons:- The listing is inconsistent about the included brush count.
- Plastic case may feel less robust than the metal ARTISTRO cases.
- Solid pans require water before painting and the stated surface recommendation is paper.
Best for: Parents, caregivers, and young beginners who want a portable, washable watercolor set for paper activities.
Not ideal for: Artists who need a dependable, clearly documented brush assortment or supplies for painting on multiple surfaces.
- Brand:Blablaovy
- Paint type and form:Watercolor, solid pans
- Colors:48
- Included components:2 paint brushes, 1 water brush, palette case
- Case material:Plastic
- Safety standards:ASTM D4236 and EN71
- Recommended age:3 years and up
- Surface recommendation:Paper
- Use:Indoor and outdoor
Our verdict“Choose this set for a young beginner who values washable paints and a lightweight case more than a precisely documented tool lineup.”
Portable Watercolor Paint Set with Wooden Tabletop Easel and Storage Drawer
Unlike the compact pan sets in this roundup, the AOTEMOON kit is built around a folding pinewood tabletop easel and a lockable drawer. It also includes 24 watercolor tubes, 13 brushes, three canvas panels, and two sketch pads, giving a beginner or class attendee materials to work with rather than just paints and mixing tools. That makes it a more complete studio-style package than either ARTISTRO set, but also a bulkier choice to carry. The easel is designed for a tabletop, not freestanding use, so it will not suit painters who need a stand-alone setup. With five palette knives, six sponges, and other extras, the kit favors variety; buyers seeking a small, simple watercolor palette may find much of the included equipment unnecessary.
Pros:- Folding pinewood tabletop easel includes a lockable storage drawer.
- 24 tubes provide a different format from the half-pan sets.
- Includes 13 brushes, three canvas panels, and two sketch pads.
- Palette knives and sponges add options for experimenting with tools and texture.
Cons:- Tabletop easel is not freestanding.
- The many components make it less compact than the ARTISTRO pan sets.
- Canvas panels and sketch pads add bulk for buyers who only need watercolor paper and paints.
Best for: Beginning painters or class attendees who want a tabletop setup with paint, tools, and practice surfaces in one kit.
Not ideal for: Travel sketchers who need a lightweight pan set, or painters who need a freestanding easel.
- Brand and model:AOTEMOON 70001B
- Easel material and type:Pine; single mast tabletop easel
- Paint:24 watercolor tubes, 12 mL each
- Canvas panels:3, 8 × 11 inches
- Sketch pads:2 A4 pads, 50 sheets each
- Paintbrushes:13
- Palette knives and sponges:5 palette knives; 6 sponges
- Dimensions:3.7 × 10.6 × 13.7 inches (D × W × H)
Our verdict“Choose this kit if you want an all-in-one tabletop painting station, not a minimal watercolor set for carrying in a bag.”
Winsor & Newton Cotman Watercolor Paint Set, 45 Half Pan Studio Set
The Cotman Studio Set is the paint-focused choice in this group: its 45 half pans sit in a compact case with an integrated mixing palette, without the larger accessory bundle found in the AOTEMOON kit. Winsor & Newton describes the Cotman range as introductory quality, with good transparency and tinting strength; that makes it a practical step for hobbyists who want to explore washes and mixing without moving straight to professional-grade paints. Compared with the ARTISTRO sets, Cotman has fewer listed colors than their 50-pan options, but the appeal is the established paint range rather than a larger number of shades or included brushes. The tradeoff is that these pigments may not match professional colors for intensity or lightfastness, and the set does not include brushes or paper.
Pros:- 45 half pans provide a broad selection in a compact case.
- Integrated mixing palette supports color mixing without a separate palette.
- Cotman colors are described as transparent with strong tinting.
- Duplicate popular colors offer extra flexibility for mixing.
Cons:- Introductory-grade pigments may be less intense or lightfast than professional-grade paints.
- Brushes and paper are not listed as included.
- The set has fewer pans than the 50-color ARTISTRO options.
Best for: Adult beginners and hobbyists who prioritize a compact, paint-centered half-pan set for watercolor work on paper.
Not ideal for: Buyers who want brushes and paper included, or artists seeking professional-grade lightfastness and intensity.
- Brand:Winsor & Newton
- Range and model:Cotman; 0390471
- Paint type:Watercolor
- Colors and form:45 half pans
- Container:Box with integrated mixing palette
- Item weight:15.52 ounces
- Item volume:45 mL
- Surface recommendation:Paper
Our verdict“Choose Cotman if you want a compact, paint-led set for learning watercolor mixing and do not need brushes or paper bundled in.”
Grabie 50-Color Watercolor Paint Set with Brushes
Grabie’s 50-color set is a practical pick for painters who want a broad palette and basic tools in one travel-friendly case. Its six fine-point brushes suit detail work better than the three brushes included with Artecho’s 48-color set, while the built-in mixing tray gives you a place to blend without packing a separate palette. The metal case keeps the paints and brushes together for plein air sessions or a class bag. The tradeoff is its semi-transparent, non-water-resistant paint: stronger coverage may take repeated layers, and finished work is not suited to exposure to moisture. Compared with Nicpro’s tube set, this option is more compact but does not include paper, so you will need to bring your own.
Pros:- 50 colors provide a wide palette for varied subjects
- Six fine-point brushes cover a range of detail work
- Built-in mixing tray supports custom blends
- Portable metal case stores the paints and tools together
Cons:- Semi-transparent paints may need multiple layers for stronger coverage
- Paint is not water resistant
- Paper is not included
Best for: Traveling hobby painters who want many colors, detail brushes, and a mixing surface in one compact case.
Not ideal for: Painters who need opaque coverage, water-resistant results, or a ready-to-paint kit that includes paper.
- Brand:Grabie
- Paint type:Watercolor
- Colors:50 semi-transparent colors
- Brushes:6 fine-point brushes, sizes 3/0 to 3
- Paint form:Powder
- Container:Portable metal case with built-in mixing tray
- Surface:Paper
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
Our verdict“Choose this set for portable, color-rich painting with detail brushes, but bring paper and expect to build up coverage in layers.”
Nicpro 36-Color Watercolor Paint Set with Brushes, Paper, and Palette
Nicpro’s set stands out for completeness: it supplies tube paints, assorted brushes, a palette, a guide, and 25 sheets of textured watercolor paper. That makes it a more self-contained starting point than Grabie’s 50-color set, which offers more colors and a travel case but leaves paper to the buyer. The 36 tubes in 12 ml sizes give you paint to dispense as needed, and the brush assortment includes flat, round, filbert, and liner shapes for trying different marks. The included paper is cold-pressed and 140 lb, though each sheet measures just 5.5 by 8.5 inches. Its smaller palette of colors also gives less variety than the 48- and 50-color pan sets, and the paints are not water resistant.
Pros:- Includes paints, brushes, palette, paper, and a user guide
- 36 tube colors include metallic hues
- Ten assorted brushes support varied techniques
- Cold-pressed 140 lb paper offers a textured painting surface
Cons:- Paper sheets are small at 5.5 × 8.5 inches
- 36 colors offer less range than the 48- and 50-color pan sets
- Paints are not water resistant
Best for: New watercolor painters who want paints, varied brushes, textured paper, and a palette in one purchase.
Not ideal for: Artists who prefer a broad ready-made color selection, larger paper sheets, or a compact travel pan set.
- Brand:Nicpro
- Colors:36
- Paint format:Tubes, 12 ml each
- Brushes:10 assorted shapes, including flat, round, filbert, and liner
- Paper:25 cold-pressed sheets, 140 lb (300 g), 5.5 × 8.5 in
- Included components:36 paint tubes, brushes, palette, paper, and user guide
- Special feature:Fade resistant
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
Our verdict“Pick Nicpro if you want a ready-to-start learning kit with paper and varied brushes, and can work on smaller sheets.”
Grabie Watercolor Paint Set with 100 Colors and Brush Pens
For painters who want unusual shades ready to use, Grabie’s 100-color set offers more variety than any of the other sets in this batch, including metallic, macaron, and fluorescent options alongside regular colors. That range makes it easier to experiment with accents and playful palettes without mixing every effect from a basic set. Three water brush pens, a pencil, sponge, and swatch sheet add useful tools for portable sketching; unlike Nicpro’s set, however, it does not include paper. The metal case measures 8.19 × 4.93 × 1.38 inches, a tidy format for carrying but one that leaves limited room for extra supplies. Its focus is paper painting, so choose another medium if you need surfaces beyond paper.
Pros:- 100 shades include regular, metallic, macaron, and fluorescent colors
- Three water brush pens support portable painting
- Includes a pencil, natural sponge, and swatch sheet
- Metal case is compact and meets ASTM D-4236 and EN71 standards
Cons:- Watercolor paper is not included
- Compact case limits space for carrying additional supplies
- Recommended for paper surfaces only
Best for: Travel sketchers and color experimenters who want many specialty shades and water brush pens in a compact case.
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking a complete kit with paper, room for extra supplies, or paints for surfaces other than paper.
- Brand:Grabie
- Colors:100: 50 regular, plus metallic, macaron, and fluorescent shades
- Accessories:3 water brush pens, drawing pencil, natural sponge, and swatch sheet
- Case:Metal
- Case dimensions:8.19 × 4.93 × 1.38 in
- Item weight:14.88 oz
- Surface recommendation:Paper
- Safety standards:ASTM D-4236 and EN71
Our verdict“Choose this set for the widest shade selection and portable brush-pen painting, provided you already have paper and other essentials.”
Artecho 48-Color Watercolor Paint Set with 3 Brushes
Artecho’s 48-color set suits painters who value easy cleanup as much as palette range. Its washable, water-soluble pigments can be rinsed from skin, clothing, and surfaces, a practical distinction from Grabie’s 50-color set, which supplies more brushes and a built-in mixing tray but does not list washability as a feature. The organized case packs 48 pans and three brushes for illustration, card making, and calligraphy, without the extra accessories found in Artecho’s 100-color kit. That simpler setup may appeal to buyers who do not need specialty shades, paper, or sketching tools. The limitations are clear: the paint is not water resistant and is recommended for paper, so it is not a fit for durable, moisture-exposed work.
Pros:- 48 pans offer a wide range for illustration and lettering
- Washable, water-soluble pigments support easier cleanup
- Three brushes and an organized case are included
- Acid-free, non-toxic pigment conforms to ASTM D-4236
Cons:- Paint is not water resistant
- Recommended for paper surfaces
- Three brushes provide fewer tool choices than the Nicpro and Grabie sets
Best for: Parents, classroom users, and casual illustrators who want a broad pan set with washable pigments and simple storage.
Not ideal for: Artists who need water-resistant work, a large brush selection, or specialty colors and accessories.
- Brand:Artecho
- Colors:48 watercolor pans
- Included components:48 pans and 3 brushes
- Form:Powder
- Composition:Acid-free, non-toxic, water-soluble pigment
- Special feature:Washable
- Safety standard:ASTM D-4236
- Recommended surface:Paper
Our verdict“Choose Artecho’s 48-color set for washable, paper-based projects with straightforward supplies rather than specialty effects or extra tools.”
Artecho 100-Color Watercolor Paint Set with Metallic Colors and Portable Tin Case
Artecho’s 100-color set pairs a wide selection with a broader collection of painting and sketching tools than Grabie’s 100-color set. Its palette includes 51 classic, 35 metallic, 4 fluorescent, and 10 macaron and candy shades, while the kit adds a water brush pen, nylon brush, pencil, sharpener, sponge, and two sheets of watercolor paper. That makes it a stronger choice when you want to start experimenting without sourcing every accessory separately. The tradeoff is that those two paper sheets are only a small starter supply, and the kit weighs 650 g despite its portable tin and velvet bag. Like the simpler Artecho 48-color set, its washable formula is not waterproof, so finished pieces need protection from moisture.
Pros:- 100 colors cover classic, metallic, fluorescent, macaron, and candy shades
- Includes a water brush pen, nylon brush, and sketching tools
- Two watercolor paper sheets and a natural sponge are included
- Washable, acid-free, non-toxic formula conforms to ASTM D-4236
Cons:- Only two sheets of watercolor paper are included
- The 650 g kit is heavier than a minimal travel palette
- Paint is not waterproof
Best for: Mixed-media hobbyists and gift buyers who want specialty watercolor shades, sketching tools, and a small paper supply in one kit.
Not ideal for: Painters who need substantial paper, a lightweight minimal kit, or water-resistant finished artwork.
- Brand:Artecho
- Colors:100
- Color breakdown:51 classic, 35 metallic, 4 fluorescent, 10 macaron and candy
- Included components:Water brush pen, nylon brush, sketching pencil, sharpener, color chart, 2 sheets of watercolor paper, natural sponge, tin case, and velvet bag
- Item weight:650 g
- Formula:Acid-free, washable, non-toxic
- Safety standard:ASTM D-4236
- Waterproof:No
Our verdict“Choose this Artecho kit if specialty colors and included tools matter more than a larger paper supply or a lightweight carry load.”
Kuretake Gansai Tambi Starry Colors Watercolor Set, 6 Colors
Six pearlescent colors make this a specialty add-on rather than an all-purpose watercolor set. The golden sheen and opaque coverage help accents show clearly on dark paper, while the creamy texture supports smooth blending. Compared with Kuretake’s 24-color Art Nouveau set, this one gives up broad color choice for a distinct metallic effect; it also has larger pans that can accommodate both fine and wider brushes. That makes it useful for lettering, highlights, and decorative details, but less suited to building a full painting palette. The solid paints are not water resistant, so finished work may reactivate if it gets wet. Its ACMI AP mark is a useful safety detail, though the six-color selection limits its role to accent work.
Pros:- Opaque pearlescent colors remain visible on dark paper
- Creamy texture blends smoothly
- Large pans accommodate detail and wider brushes
- ACMI AP mark and ASTM D4236 safety information
Cons:- Six colors offer limited range for complete paintings
- Paint is not water resistant after application
- Pearlescent finish is specialized and may not suit traditional watercolor work
Best for: Watercolor artists who already own a broad palette and want pearlescent highlights that stand out on dark paper.
Not ideal for: Beginners seeking one complete set for varied subjects, or artists who need water-resistant finished work.
- Brand:Kuretake
- Paint type:Watercolor
- Color count:6 pearlescent colors
- Finish:Golden sheen
- Form:Solid
- Container:Box
- Safety:ASTM D4236; ACMI AP mark
- Origin:Nara, Japan
Our verdict“Choose this as a focused accent set for pearlescent details, not as your main watercolor palette.”
Kuretake Gansai Tambi Watercolor Paint Set, 24 Colors, Art Nouveau
This is the more versatile Kuretake choice for artists who want a ready-to-use palette of 24 vivid, opaque colors. Its large, replaceable pans can be worked with small or wide brushes, and the water-based paints blend easily or dilute into softer washes. Compared with the six-color Starry Colors set, it covers more subjects and everyday palette needs, but it lacks that set’s pearlescent finish for luminous accents. The slight sheen and opaque coverage suit bold illustrations and graphic work better than paintings built around delicate transparency. Pans can be replaced, which helps keep a favored color selection usable over time. The main limitation is shared with many watercolor sets: the paint is not water resistant, and the product data lists a four-hour dry time.
Pros:- 24 vivid colors support a wider range of subjects than the six-color Starry Colors set
- Large, replaceable pans accommodate different brush sizes
- Smooth paints can be used opaque or diluted for softer washes
- Slight sheen adds a distinct finish to illustrations
Cons:- Opaque coverage may obscure the paper and reduce transparent layering
- Paint is not water resistant
- A four-hour listed dry time may not suit fast-turnaround work
Best for: Illustrators and hobby painters who want a broad Japanese watercolor palette with opaque color and pans that can be replaced.
Not ideal for: Artists focused on transparent, traditional watercolor washes or anyone who needs water-resistant paint.
- Brand:Kuretake
- Color count:24
- Paint form:Solid
- Coverage:Opaque
- Special feature:Water-based pigment
- Pan type:Large, replaceable pans
- Dry time:4 hours
- Country of manufacture:Japan
Our verdict“Pick this for a broad, opaque watercolor palette; choose the Starry Colors set instead when pearlescent accents matter more than color range.”
Pelikan Opaque Watercolor Paint Set, 12 Colors with Chinese White Tube
Pelikan’s set suits painters who value fast color pickup and built-in mixing space over a large palette. The hollowed tablets dissolve quickly, while the push-button box has a removable lid with large mixing pans—practical for mixing without reaching for a separate palette. It includes 12 opaque colors and a tube of Chinese White, giving users a dedicated white for tinting or highlights. Compared with Kuretake’s 24-color Art Nouveau set, Pelikan offers fewer pans but adds the tube and mixing-focused case; it is also described as fade resistant and non-toxic. Its opaque coverage is the key tradeoff: it can work against transparent washes and layered effects that many watercolor painters prefer. The paints are listed for paper, with a three-hour dry time.
Pros:- Includes 12 colors plus a tube of Chinese White
- Hollowed tablets dissolve quickly for easy color pickup
- Removable lid provides large mixing pans
- Fade resistant and non-toxic
Cons:- Opaque coverage is less suited to transparent watercolor techniques
- 12 colors provide less palette breadth than Kuretake’s 24-color Art Nouveau set
- The set weighs 0.27 kg, which may be less convenient for a lightweight kit
Best for: Students and hobby painters who want quickly dissolving, opaque colors, a tube of Chinese White, and an integrated mixing lid.
Not ideal for: Watercolorists who rely on transparent washes, or artists who want more than 12 colors in the included palette.
- Brand:Pelikan
- Color count:12
- Included component:Tube of Chinese White
- Paint form:Hollowed tablets
- Special features:Fade resistant; non-toxic
- Container:Push-button box with removable lid
- Dry time:3 hours
- Made in:Germany
Our verdict“Choose Pelikan if quick-dissolving opaque paint and a useful mixing lid matter more than transparent washes or a larger color range.”
How We Picked
I compared these watercolor painting sets by how well their contents support real painting tasks, not by color count alone. The main criteria were paint format and palette range, usefulness of included brushes and paper, portability and storage, and how clearly each set fits a particular skill level or style. I also weighed whether a kit offers a coherent painting setup or simply adds accessories that a buyer may soon replace.
The ranking gives the most weight to versatility and practical usability, then recognizes kits that solve a specific need unusually well. That puts the Cotman studio set ahead for a focused, established palette, while beginner bundles and high-color-count sets rank for convenience and breadth rather than presumed paint quality. Specialty options sit lower as general recommendations, but may be the better choice for a painter seeking shimmer, opaque effects, or a portable painting station.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Watercolor Painting Sets
Before choosing a set, decide what you want it to make easier: learning color mixing, painting away from a desk, exploring a wide palette, or achieving a particular finish. These buying factors can help you avoid paying for extras that do not match your practice.
Choose a Set by Painting Format, Not Just Color Count
A high number of pans can feel generous, but a smaller palette can be easier to learn because it encourages deliberate mixing. If you already know the colors you use, check whether the set gives you a useful spread of warm and cool versions rather than many near-duplicates. Beginners may prefer a moderate selection that leaves room to learn how colors interact. A broad set makes more sense for decorative work or quick color choices where convenience matters more than mastering a limited palette. Avoid treating the number on the box as a direct measure of paint performance.
Check Whether Included Supplies Match Your Starting Point
Bundled brushes, paper, and palettes can make a first purchase simpler, but their value depends on what you already own. Paper affects how water behaves and how much lifting or layering it can tolerate, so an included pad may be a starter supply rather than a long-term painting surface. A brush bundle is useful if you have none; it matters less if you already have tools you prefer. Make a list of the items you would otherwise need before choosing an all-in-one kit. This helps distinguish a genuinely convenient starter set from a paint set padded with accessories you will not use.
Match Portability to the Way You Paint
A metal or compact case is useful when you paint in a bag, but it does not automatically make a set comfortable for outdoor work. Check whether the format leaves room for water, a surface, and a way to hold or wet your brush. A tabletop easel kit supports a small, organized workspace but is less convenient to carry than a slim tin. Water brushes can reduce the need to transport a separate water container, though they may not feel like a standard brush. Choose around your actual painting location, not the word portable on a package.
Decide Whether Specialty Effects Belong in Your Main Set
Metallic or starry colors add visual effects that ordinary pigments do not, but they are usually supplements rather than replacements for a balanced everyday palette. Opaque watercolor and Chinese White can support more covered, graphic marks, while transparent watercolor is commonly chosen for layered washes. If you are still learning basic washes and color mixing, a specialty set may leave gaps in your main palette. Painters making cards, illustrations, or decorative accents may get more from those distinctive finishes. Consider buying specialty colors as a companion set if you need them only occasionally.
Think About Replenishment and Long-Term Use
A set that works well at first can become inconvenient if its format is hard to refill or organize once colors run low. Half pans and compact palettes can make individual color replacement more straightforward than a collection of small, nonstandard cakes, but check the product’s refill options before buying. Also consider whether the case protects the paint and whether the palette layout leaves space for mixing. A beginner who is still experimenting may value a low-commitment bundle, while a regular painter may prefer a set that can grow with a familiar palette. Long-term usability can matter more than the number of colors included on day one.
Spend More for a Clear Benefit, Not a Bigger Bundle
Paying more makes sense when it gets you a better-matched paint format, a useful palette, reliable storage, or supplies you would otherwise buy separately. It is harder to justify a larger bundle if its added tools duplicate what you own or if its extra colors are outside your style. A focused studio set may serve a committed painter better than a kit with many accessories, while a first-time buyer may prefer an all-in-one option that lowers setup friction. Compare what is included against your actual gaps. The best value is the set that supports the most painting you plan to do, not the one with the longest contents list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I choose a set with more colors or a smaller palette?
Choose based on how you want to work. A smaller, balanced palette gives you practice mixing colors and can be easier to understand, especially when you are learning. A larger selection is handy when you want quick access to many hues or make decorative work that benefits from variety. This roundup includes both approaches, from Cotman’s 45 half pans to sets with 100 colors. If you are unsure, prioritize a useful range of colors and a mixing area over the largest number printed on the package.
Is an all-in-one watercolor set a good choice for a complete beginner?
It can be, particularly if the bundle includes supplies you do not already have, such as brushes, paper, and a palette. The Nicpro 36-color set is the clearest starter-oriented option here because it combines several basic components. Still, check what kind of paper and brushes are included rather than assuming every bundled item will suit you for years. A starter kit lowers the effort of assembling supplies, but it may not offer the same focused palette as a studio set. If you already own decent tools, buying paint alone may be a better fit.
Are metallic watercolor sets suitable as my only watercolor paints?
Usually, a metallic-focused set is better treated as an addition than as a complete everyday palette. Metallics and starry effects can add shine to accents, lettering, or decorative details, but they do not replace the range of ordinary colors used for common washes and mixtures. The Kuretake Starry Colors set and Artecho’s metallic option serve different specialty needs within this roundup. If you want one set for general painting, start with a standard palette and add specialty colors when a project calls for them. That approach avoids leaving basic color needs unmet.
What should I prioritize in a watercolor set for painting outside?
Look for a case that closes securely, a compact palette layout, and a way to manage water and brushes without carrying a full desk setup. A portable tin can reduce bulk, while a water brush may simplify water handling if its feel suits your technique. The tabletop easel set offers a more organized work surface, but its format is a different kind of portability than a small paint case. You will still need suitable paper and a place to rest supplies. Choose the lightest setup that supports how you actually paint outdoors.
Does opaque watercolor work the same way as transparent watercolor?
No. Opaque watercolor is intended to create more covered, solid marks, while transparent watercolor is commonly used for luminous washes and layered color. The Pelikan set’s opaque paints and Chinese White make it a distinct choice for illustrative effects, but it may not match the handling a buyer expects from a traditional transparent palette. Neither format is automatically better; the right one depends on the finish you want. If you are buying your first set for standard watercolor techniques, check the paint description carefully before choosing an opaque option.
Conclusion
For most painters seeking one dependable set for varied work, I recommend the Winsor & Newton Cotman 45 Half Pan Studio Set as best overall. For beginners who want supplies gathered in one package, choose the Nicpro 36-Color Set; for value through broad color choice, compare the ARTISTRO Sunrise and standard ARTISTRO 50-color kits based on which included tools suit your setup. The Grabie 100-Color Set is the better fit for someone who wants many colors and brush pens, while the Artecho 100-Color Metallic Set suits decorative work and portable storage. Pick Kuretake Starry Colors for shimmer, the easel set for a small tabletop station, or Pelikan for opaque effects. If you want a focused palette rather than specialty features or a large bundle, Cotman remains my clearest starting point.
