Among these gouache paint sets, my best overall pick is the Winsor & Newton Designers Gouache Set, 10 × 12 ml, for artists who want a focused tube set from an established artist-grade line. The ARTEZA 24-color tube set is a practical middle ground for broader color choice, while the HIMI 36-color twin-cup set suits painters who value ready-to-use jelly gouache and a portable case. The main choice is between tube gouache, which gives you more control over dispensing and storage, and jelly gouache, which offers a broad palette in a convenient format but can dry out if left exposed. Color count, paint quantity, and included accessories also affect whether a set is better for learning, travel, or sustained studio work. Read on for my full comparison and recommendations by buyer type.
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Key Takeaways
- Tube format leads when paint control matters: The Winsor & Newton and Holbein sets offer a more focused route for artists choosing paint by handling and line rather than a very large color count.
- HIMI dominates the ready-to-use jelly options: Its 18-, 24-, 36-, 48-, 72-, and 112-color sets make palette size and included gear the main distinctions within that family.
- More colors do not automatically mean a better starter set: Large HIMI palettes provide variety, but smaller sets can make color mixing easier to learn and reduce unused shades.
- Set contents change the value proposition: The GoPack bundles a pad, palette, brushes, and carrying bag, while several other sets focus mainly on paint.
- Holbein’s options serve different needs: The 12-color, 5 ml set is a compact introduction, while the 18-color, 15 ml set offers more paint per tube for regular use.
| gouache paint set | Paint type | Brand | Colors | Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIMI Twin Cup Jelly Gouache Pa | Gouache | HIMI | 36 | — |
| Winsor & Newton Designers Goua | Gouache | Winsor & Newton | — | Flat matte |
| HIMI Gouache Paint Set | Gouache | ABEIER | 48 | Opaque matte |
| Holbein Artists’ Gouache Set | Gouache | Holbein | — | Matte |
| HIMI Gouache Paint Set | Gouache | ARTME | 36 | Matte |
| ARTEZA Gouache Paint Set | Gouache | — | 24 | Opaque matte |
| HIMI Gouache Paint Set | Gouache | — | 112 | Matte |
| MEEDEN Gouache Paint Set | Gouache | — | 48 | Matte |
| HIMI Gouache Paint Set | Gouache | — | 18 | — |
| HIMI Gouache Paint Set | Gouache | — | 24 | Opaque matte |
| Winsor & Newton Designers’ Gou | Opaque gouache | Winsor & Newton | Zinc White, Yellow Ochre, Ultramarine, Spectrum Red, Primary Yellow, Primary Red, Primary Blue, Permanent Yellow Deep, Ivory Black, Permanent Green Medium | Matte |
| Holbein Irodori Artist Gouache | Gouache | Holbein | White, Black, Edo Violet, Oriental Blue, Ultramarine, Bamboo Green, Evergreen, Spring Green, Taisha Brown, Canola Yellow, Orange Yellow, Scarlet | — |
| HIMI GoPack 72-Color Gouache P | Gouache | HIMI | — | — |
| Holbein Artists’ Gouache Set | Gouache | Holbein | — | — |
| HIMI Twin Cup Jelly Gouache Pa | Gouache | HIMI | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
HIMI Twin Cup Jelly Gouache Paint Set, 36 Colors with 3 Brushes, Purple Case
Thirty-six colors and three brushes make this a friendly starter set for experimenting with opaque gouache without buying tools separately. The twin-cup format keeps the paint grouped in a compact case, while the double-clasp lid helps limit exposure between painting sessions. Compared with the Winsor & Newton Designers Gouache set, this one offers many more colors and a ready-to-use format, while Winsor & Newton is the stronger fit for artists prioritizing fine-art pigments in tubes. The tradeoff is that jelly cups are less suited to precise portioning than tubes, and the listed paint is not water resistant once dry. Its listed two-hour dry time also makes it less appealing for quick layers than the HIMI 48-color set, which lists a shorter time. I’d choose it for casual practice on paper or canvas, not work that needs water-resistant color.
Pros:- Includes 36 colors and three brushes for getting started without assembling a separate kit.
- Double-clasp case helps keep the twin cups sealed between sessions.
- Non-toxic, odorless formula is suited to shared creative spaces.
- Water-washable paint is convenient for cleanup.
Cons:- The paint is not water resistant after drying.
- The listed two-hour dry time may slow artists who want to build layers quickly.
- Twin cups offer less precise paint dispensing than individual tubes.
Best for: Beginners and casual painters who want a broad color range, included brushes, and a lidded case for paper or canvas projects.
Not ideal for: Artists who need water-resistant finished work, tube-based paint for controlled dispensing, or faster listed drying than two hours.
- Brand:HIMI
- Paint type:Gouache
- Colors:36
- Paint amount:12 g per color
- Included components:Three brushes and paint cups
- Container:Twin-cup jelly design with double-clasp box
- Recommended surfaces:Canvas and paper
- Dry time:2 hours
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
Our verdict“Choose this set for accessible, colorful practice with included tools, but skip it if water resistance or tube-style control matters.”
Winsor & Newton Designers Gouache Paint Set, 10 × 12 ml
Fine-art pigments and a viscous consistency give this 10-tube set a more controlled, studio-oriented character than the jelly-cup options in this roundup. Its opaque, flat-matte coverage suits illustrations and mixed-media work where an even surface and reduced glare matter. Compared with the 36-color HIMI Twin Cup set, Winsor & Newton offers fewer ready-made shades but a tube format and stated fine-art pigment focus; that makes it a better match for deliberate color mixing than for beginners who want a large palette at hand. The set includes a brush and palette, though its 10-color selection still asks painters to mix for shades supplied directly in broader sets. The paint is not waterproof, and its listed three-hour dry time is slower than the Holbein 12-color set’s half-hour listing. I’d favor it for controlled indoor work rather than projects exposed to moisture.
Pros:- Fine-art pigments support vibrant, opaque coverage.
- Viscous consistency allows controlled application from tubes.
- Flat matte finish reduces reflected light.
- Includes a brush and palette, and can be used in mixed media or beneath traditional oils.
Cons:- Only 10 colors are included, so a broad palette depends on mixing.
- The paint is not waterproof.
- Listed three-hour dry time is longer than the Holbein Artists’ Gouache 12-color set.
Best for: Illustrators and mixed-media artists who value fine-art pigments, controlled application, and a matte finish more than a large ready-made color range.
Not ideal for: Painters who need waterproof color, fast listed drying, or many premixed shades for quick projects.
- Brand:Winsor & Newton
- Paint type:Gouache
- Set size:10 tubes × 12 ml
- Included colors:Titanium White, Process Yellow, Cadmium Yellow Deep Hue, Cadmium Red Hue, Process Magenta, Ultramarine, Process Cyan, Permanent Green Middle, Yellow Ochre, Mars Black
- Finish:Flat matte
- Included components:Brush and palette
- Recommended surface:Paper
- Dry time:3 hours
- Waterproof:No
Our verdict“Pick this tube set for controlled, matte indoor artwork and fine-art pigment focus, not for a large color selection or moisture-resistant results.”
HIMI Gouache Paint Set, 48 Colors, 0.4 oz Each, Twin Jelly Cups with 3 Brushes
Forty-eight colors give this twin-cup set the broadest ready-to-use palette among the five options here, which can reduce mixing when a project calls for many distinct hues. Its opaque matte finish and inclusion of a palette, three brushes, and a carrying case make it more equipped for varied projects than the Winsor & Newton 10-tube set, though that alternative is better suited to artists who prefer fine-art pigments in tubes. The resealable cups help keep paint moist, and the paint can be reworked with water—useful for adjustments, but a drawback when a finished surface must stay fixed. The product data also lists water resistance, while noting that the paint is not waterproof; I would not treat it as a durable water barrier. Its 15-minute listed dry time is notably shorter than the HIMI 36-color Purple Case set’s two-hour listing, though rewetting remains part of the medium’s behavior.
Pros:- Offers 48 colors for a wide range of premixed shades.
- Includes a palette, three brushes, and a portable carrying case.
- Resealable twin jelly cups help keep paint moist.
- Opaque matte paint is listed for paper, canvas, and wood.
Cons:- Paint can be reworked with water and is not waterproof.
- Twin cups may be less convenient than tubes for dispensing small, measured amounts.
- The listing describes the paint as water resistant but also states it is not waterproof.
Best for: Painters who want many premixed colors, portable supplies, and reworkable gouache for paper, canvas, or wood projects.
Not ideal for: Artists who need waterproof finished artwork or prefer the measured dispensing and storage of tube paints.
- Brand:ABEIER
- Paint type:Gouache
- Colors:48
- Paint amount:0.4 oz per color
- Included components:Three brushes, palette, portable carrying case
- Container:Twin jelly cups
- Finish:Opaque matte
- Suitable surfaces:Paper, canvas, and wood
- Dry time:0.25 hours
Our verdict“Choose this set when color variety and portable jelly cups matter most, but not for work that must resist water.”
Holbein Artists’ Gouache Set, 12 Assorted Colors, 5 ml Tubes
Naturally opaque pigments without added opaquing agents are the defining reason to choose this Holbein set. Its 12 colors are selected for saturated, velvety matte results and are described as mixing without becoming muddy, making it more appealing for careful palette building than the HIMI 48-color jelly set, which prioritizes quantity and convenience. The tube format also suits painters who want to dispense small amounts and keep individual colors separate. The main compromise is quantity: each tube contains just 5 ml, so frequent painters may use the set up quickly compared with larger tube collections. It includes a brush, palette, and paper, which makes it ready for a focused session, but the California Proposition 65 warning is relevant for buyers checking product safety notices. The listed water resistance is not the same as waterproof performance, so I would avoid relying on it for work exposed to repeated moisture.
Pros:- Uses naturally opaque pigments without added opaquing agents.
- Produces saturated color with a velvety matte finish.
- Colors are described as mixing without becoming muddy.
- Includes a brush, palette, and paper.
Cons:- Each tube contains only 5 ml, limiting paint quantity.
- The product carries a California Proposition 65 warning.
- Water resistance does not mean the paint is waterproof.
Best for: Gouache artists who prioritize saturated, mixable color in tubes and want a small set with basic painting accessories.
Not ideal for: Frequent painters who need larger paint quantities, or buyers who want a set without a California Proposition 65 warning.
- Brand:Holbein
- Paint type:Gouache
- Set size:12 tubes
- Tube volume:5 ml each
- Finish:Matte
- Opacity:Opaque
- Included components:Brush, palette, and paper
- Dry time:0.5 hours
- Water resistance:Water resistant
Our verdict“Choose Holbein for saturated, mixable tube colors in a compact kit, provided the small tube size and warning suit your needs.”
HIMI Gouache Paint Set, 36 Colors with Brushes, Palette, and Carrying Case
Thick, creamy paint that retains brush or spatula marks gives this 36-color set a more tactile character than the smoother, controlled application promoted by Winsor & Newton Designers Gouache. That makes it the better fit for painters who want visible surface texture, while the Winsor & Newton tubes suit more precise, even coverage. This set also includes three brushes, a palette, and a carrying case, so it has more accompanying tools than the Holbein 12-color set, though its 36-color selection comes in twin cups rather than individual tubes. The paint can be diluted with water, offering flexibility between thicker marks and thinner applications. One practical limitation is the stated 12 ml per color: frequent users may find that amount restrictive, especially when applying paint thickly. The twin-cup format also places two colors together, which may be less convenient for painters who want each shade independently stored.
Pros:- Thick, creamy consistency retains brush and spatula marks.
- Includes 36 colors plus three brushes and a palette.
- Carrying case includes a brush tray for keeping tools together.
- Paint can be diluted with water and is listed for canvas, paper, and wood.
Cons:- Each color contains 12 ml, which may limit frequent or thick application.
- Twin cups hold two colors together rather than storing each shade individually.
- The listing describes water resistance, not waterproof performance.
Best for: Painters who want a portable 36-color set for textured brush or spatula marks on canvas, paper, or wood.
Not ideal for: Artists who prefer individual tubes, need larger paint quantities for heavy application, or want each color stored separately.
- Brand:ARTME
- Paint type:Gouache
- Colors:36
- Paint volume:12 ml per color
- Included components:Three brushes, palette, carrying case
- Brush types:Two flat-tip brushes and one round-tip brush
- Finish:Matte
- Recommended surfaces:Canvas, paper, and wood
- Container:Twin-cup box
Our verdict“Pick this set for portable textured gouache work and included tools, but choose tubes if individual color storage or controlled dispensing is a priority.”
ARTEZA Gouache Paint Set, 24 Colors, 12 ml Tubes
For buyers who want a practical range of tube gouache without moving to a much larger set, this 24-color ARTEZA set is a balanced choice. Its 12 ml tubes let you dispense paint in small amounts, while the opaque matte finish suits graphic shapes, highlights, and layered illustration. Unlike the HIMI 18-color set, which stores paint in ready-to-use jelly cups, these tubes need to be opened and paint transferred to a palette—but they offer straightforward portion control and organized storage trays. The creamy paint can be rewetted with water after drying, which helps reduce waste when a palette dries out. The tradeoff is that its color range is smaller than MEEDEN’s 48-color set, and the listed coverage is partial. I’d choose it for indoor paper or canvas work, not projects needing water-resistant results.
Pros:- 24 colors cover a useful range of brights, deeper tones, and mixing colors.
- Opaque matte paint works well for bold shapes and layered details.
- Paint can be rewetted after drying, helping make leftover palette paint usable again.
- Storage box and trays keep tubes organized and help control dispensing.
Cons:- Tube paint must be squeezed onto a palette, unlike HIMI’s ready-to-use jelly cups.
- The listed coverage is partial, so buyers should not assume full coverage across every color.
- Specified for indoor use, limiting its fit for outdoor painting.
Best for: Illustrators and students who want a manageable selection of tube paints, controlled dispensing, and colors for indoor paper or canvas work.
Not ideal for: Artists who want a very broad ready-to-use color selection, outdoor-focused use, or dependable water resistance after painting.
- Paint type:Gouache
- Colors:24
- Tube volume:12 ml per tube
- Finish:Opaque matte
- Reactivation:Rewettable with water after drying
- Recommended surfaces:Paper and canvas
- Included storage:Storage box and trays
- Safety certification:AP-certified non-toxic
Our verdict“Choose this set for controlled, indoor tube-gouache work with a useful 24-color range, but pick a larger set if color breadth is your priority.”
HIMI Gouache Paint Set, 112 Colors
This set’s defining advantage is its 112-color assortment: it gives color-focused painters many premixed choices and reduces the need to build every shade from a small palette. The thick, creamy paint is designed to retain brush or spatula marks, so it suits expressive work as well as smooth washes when diluted. Compared with the MEEDEN 48-color tube set, HIMI offers far more named color options and sealed twin jelly cups, but each color has just 12 g of paint. That smaller amount can become a limitation if you repeatedly use a favorite shade. The carrying case, with a handle and four locking sides, helps keep the many cups together. The paints are not water resistant, so finished work needs careful handling around moisture. I’d favor this for studio or travel painters who value choice over larger quantities per color.
Pros:- 112 colors offer far more premixed options than the 48-color MEEDEN tube set.
- Thick, creamy paint can retain brush and spatula marks.
- Sealed twin jelly cups are designed to help keep paint moist.
- Portable case has a handle and locks on all four sides.
Cons:- Each color contains 12 g, which may not last long for frequently used shades.
- Paint is not water resistant, so finished work is vulnerable to moisture.
- The large assortment takes more storage space than a compact tube set.
Best for: Color-focused artists and students who want a large ready-to-use palette for experimenting, mixing, and expressive gouache work.
Not ideal for: Painters who use a few favorite colors in large quantities or need finished work to resist water.
- Paint type:Gouache
- Colors:112
- Paint per color:12 g
- Container design:Twin jelly cups
- Finish:Matte
- Recommended surfaces:Canvas, paper, and wood
- Dry time:1 hour
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
- Safety standards:ASTM D-4236 and EN71
Our verdict“Pick this HIMI set if an unusually broad selection matters more than generous quantities of each color or water resistance.”
MEEDEN Gouache Paint Set, 48 Colors, 12 ml Tubes
MEEDEN fills the gap between a compact tube set and a sprawling jelly-cup collection. Its 48 colors in 12 ml tubes give artists more ready-made choices than ARTEZA’s 24-color set, while keeping paint in a familiar format that can be dispensed onto a palette as needed. The stated rich pigments and opaque coverage are suited to layering and color mixing on paper or canvas. Compared with HIMI’s 112-color set, MEEDEN offers fewer premixed shades, but tube storage can make it easier to portion paint and keep colors separate between sessions. Its short listed dry time may suit painters working in quick stages, though the paint is neither waterproof nor water resistant. Each tube still holds only 12 ml, so artists who rely heavily on a few colors may need to replenish those sooner than the broad selection suggests.
Pros:- 48 colors provide twice the selection of the ARTEZA 24-color tube set.
- Opaque coverage supports layered work and color mixing.
- Tube format allows paint to be dispensed in controlled amounts.
- Listed as certified to AP, CE, and ASTM D-4236 standards.
Cons:- Paint is not waterproof or water resistant.
- Each color is limited to a 12 ml tube.
- Tube paint needs a palette for mixing and use, unlike ready-to-use jelly cups.
Best for: Illustrators and hobby painters who want more premixed tube colors than a starter set offers while keeping a compact, portionable format.
Not ideal for: Artists who need water-resistant paint, prefer sealed ready-to-use jelly cups, or want larger quantities of their most-used colors.
- Paint type:Gouache
- Colors:48
- Tube size:12 ml per tube
- Finish:Matte
- Dry time:0.5 hours
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
- Intended surfaces:Paper and canvas
- Certifications:AP, CE, and ASTM D-4236
Our verdict“Choose MEEDEN for a broad but still manageable tube palette, provided water resistance and larger individual color supplies are not priorities.”
HIMI Gouache Paint Set, 18 Colors, 30 g per Color, Green Case
Unlike the color-count race represented by HIMI’s 112-color set, this 18-color set supplies 30 g per color, making it a better match for painters who would rather have more paint in a focused palette. The sealed jelly cups are designed to keep the thick paint wet and creamy between sessions, and the portable case supports taking the set outside. Its opaque consistency can preserve brush or spatula marks for textured work; adding water gives painters more control when they want a thinner application. That thickness is also the main compromise: it may need dilution for finer details or smoother coverage. The 24-color HIMI set adds three brushes and a palette, while this option’s appeal is its larger amount per color. The product is described as washable, but that does not make dried artwork water resistant.
Pros:- 30 g per color provides more paint than the 12 g colors in HIMI’s 112-color set.
- Sealed cups are designed to keep paint wet and creamy.
- Portable case suits painting away from a desk.
- Thick, opaque paint can retain brush or spatula marks.
Cons:- An 18-color selection offers fewer premixed options than the other large HIMI assortments.
- Thick paint may need water added for finer or smoother applications.
- Washability does not provide water resistance for finished paintings.
Best for: Students, hobbyists, and outdoor sketchers who prefer a portable jelly-cup set with substantial quantities of a smaller group of colors.
Not ideal for: Artists who want a wide range of premixed shades, included brushes and palette, or paint that stays thin and ready for detailed work without dilution.
- Paint type:Gouache
- Colors:18
- Paint per color:30 g
- Container:Sealed jelly cups in a box
- Special features:Non-toxic, washable
- Recommended surfaces:Paper and canvas
- Indoor/outdoor use:Indoor and outdoor
- Dry time:24 hours
Our verdict“Choose this set if you value generous amounts of core colors and portable jelly cups more than a large color selection or included tools.”
HIMI Gouache Paint Set, 24 Colors with Brushes and Palette
For someone starting with gouache, this 24-color set with three brushes and a palette removes the need to gather basic tools separately. Its resealable jelly cups keep paint ready to access, unlike ARTEZA’s tube set, where paint must be squeezed out before use. The opaque matte colors can be rewetted and reworked after drying, which gives beginners room to adjust a passage rather than discard dried paint. Each color has 1 oz of paint, a more substantial amount than the 12 g cups in HIMI’s 112-color set, though the palette itself is much smaller. The set is listed for paper and canvas and is not water resistant, so it is a poor fit for work that may get wet. I’d pick it for a ready-to-start setup, not for painters who already own brushes or want maximum color variety.
Pros:- Includes three brushes, a palette, and a storage box.
- Resealable jelly cups keep paint convenient to access between sessions.
- Paint can be rewetted and reworked after drying.
- One ounce per color offers more paint per shade than HIMI’s 112-color set.
Cons:- Not water resistant, so finished paintings need protection from moisture.
- The 24-color range is less extensive than HIMI’s 112-color option.
- Surface compatibility is limited to paper and canvas.
Best for: New gouache painters who want a compact, ready-to-use set with basic brushes, a palette, and a portable case.
Not ideal for: Artists who already own painting tools, need more than 24 colors, or require water-resistant finished work.
- Paint type:Gouache
- Colors:24
- Paint amount:1 oz per color
- Container:Jelly cups
- Finish:Opaque matte
- Included components:Three brushes, palette, and storage box
- Surface compatibility:Canvas and paper
- Dry time:1 hour
- Safety standards:ASTM D-4236 and EN71
Our verdict“Choose this set as a convenient first gouache kit if you need brushes and a palette, but skip it if you already have tools or want a broader palette.”
Winsor & Newton Designers’ Gouache Introductory Paint Set, 10 Tubes, 14 ml Each
Reliable core colors and 14 ml tubes make this a practical choice for illustrators who want opaque gouache in familiar, mixable hues. The selection covers primaries, white, black, and earth tones, so I’d rank it ahead of a narrowly themed set for flexible design work. Compared with the Holbein Artists’ Gouache Set, 18 Colors, it offers fewer colors, but its introductory palette keeps the starting selection focused rather than expanding into more specialty shades. The matte, opaque finish suits solid shapes and clean color blocking; it is less appropriate for transparent watercolor effects. The set also may not cover every shade a specialist wants, so buyers who prefer more ready-made color choices should look toward the larger Holbein set.
Pros:- Ten colors include primary hues, white, black, and earth tones for mixing
- 14 ml tubes provide more paint per color than many small-tube sets
- Opaque coverage supports vivid, solid-color illustration
- Matte finish suits graphic artwork and design studies
Cons:- Ten colors offer fewer ready-made shades than the Holbein 18-color set
- Opaque coverage is not suited to transparent watercolor techniques
- Introductory selection may leave specialist colors out
Best for: Illustrators and design students who want a focused set of opaque core colors in generous tubes.
Not ideal for: Watercolor painters seeking transparent washes, or artists who want a broad selection of premixed specialty colors.
- Brand:Winsor & Newton
- Paint type:Opaque gouache
- Set size:10 tubes
- Tube volume:14 ml each
- Colors:Zinc White, Yellow Ochre, Ultramarine, Spectrum Red, Primary Yellow, Primary Red, Primary Blue, Permanent Yellow Deep, Ivory Black, Permanent Green Medium
- Finish:Matte
- Form and container:Liquid paint in tubes
- Listed dry time:3 hours
Our verdict“Choose this set for a sturdy core palette for opaque illustration, but pick a larger assortment if you want more premixed colors.”
Holbein Irodori Artist Gouache, Summer Set, 12 Colors, 15 ml Tubes
The summer-inspired 12-color palette gives this set a clearer creative direction than the more foundational Winsor & Newton Designers’ Introductory Set. Shades such as Edo Violet, Bamboo Green, and Canola Yellow make it appealing for painters who want a coordinated range rather than a set built around primary-color mixing. Each tube holds 15 ml, and the paint is described as opaque, matte, and fade resistant, a useful combination for paper artwork intended to retain its color. Its stated paper recommendation is narrower than the broader surface claims for the HIMI GoPack 72-Color Set, so I’d favor this for paper-focused work, not a mixed-media kit. The themed palette also has a tradeoff: artists needing a more neutral or customizable selection may find its color choices limiting.
Pros:- Twelve coordinated colors offer a distinct summer-inspired palette
- 15 ml tubes provide a useful supply of each shade
- Opaque matte paint suits solid, even color areas
- Described as fade resistant and compliant with ASTM-D4236
Cons:- The themed color selection may be less flexible than a foundational palette
- Paper is the stated recommended surface, limiting its stated use
- A 12-color assortment offers fewer options than larger sets such as Holbein’s 18-color set
Best for: Paper artists who want a fade-resistant, coordinated palette for seasonal illustration, sketchbook work, or color studies.
Not ideal for: Painters who need a broad neutral palette or want a set explicitly suited to several surfaces beyond paper.
- Brand:Holbein
- Paint type:Gouache
- Set size:12 colors
- Tube volume:15 ml each
- Colors:White, Black, Edo Violet, Oriental Blue, Ultramarine, Bamboo Green, Evergreen, Spring Green, Taisha Brown, Canola Yellow, Orange Yellow, Scarlet
- Finish and coverage:Matte and opaque
- Recommended surface:Paper
- Lightfastness:Described as fade resistant
- Listed dry time:0.5 hours
Our verdict“Pick this for coordinated, fade-resistant gouache on paper, but choose a broader assortment if you need more color flexibility.”
HIMI GoPack 72-Color Gouache Paint Set with Brushes, Palette, Pad, and Carrying Bag
Paint, tools, and a pad in one kit give this GoPack a different purpose from the HIMI Twin Cup Jelly Gouache Set, which focuses on 72 colors in a cup format. This bundle includes 72 paints, three brushes, a palette, a gouache pad, a foldable water bucket, a painting knife, and a felt bag, reducing the extra supplies a beginner or class attendee needs to gather. Its range supports experimentation and mixing, while the portable bag helps keep accessories together between sessions. The tradeoff is that the product data lists the paint form as powder and gives an unclear volume entry of 30 cups, so I would not choose it based on precise quantity expectations. Paper is the listed surface recommendation, despite a description that also mentions canvas.
Pros:- Seventy-two colors provide many options for mixing and experimentation
- Includes three brushes, palette, gouache pad, foldable water bucket, and painting knife
- Felt bag helps keep the kit together for classes or travel
- Paint is described as opaque, blendable, and non-toxic
Cons:- Product data lists powder form, which may not match buyers’ expectations for ready-to-use gouache
- The listed volume of 30 cups is unclear as a measure of paint
- Paper is the stated surface recommendation, while the description also mentions canvas
Best for: Beginning painters and art-class attendees who want a wide color range plus basic tools in one portable bundle.
Not ideal for: Artists who need clear information about paint quantity or rely on a confirmed surface specification for canvas work.
- Brand:HIMI
- Paint type:Gouache
- Number of colors:72
- Listed item form:Powder
- Included components:72 paints, 3 brushes, palette, gouache pad, foldable water bucket, painting knife, felt bag
- Surface recommendation:Paper
- Special feature:Described as non-toxic
- Listed item volume:30 cups
Our verdict“Choose the GoPack when portability and included accessories matter more than clear paint-quantity details or a firmly stated canvas recommendation.”
Holbein Artists’ Gouache Set, 18 Colors, 15 ml Tubes
With 18 assorted colors in 15 ml tubes, this set gives artists more ready-to-use variety than the Holbein Irodori Summer Set’s coordinated 12-color selection. Its mix includes colors such as Carmine, Emerald Green, Prussian Blue, and Yellow Ochre, making it easier to move among different subjects without mixing every secondary shade from primaries. The opaque matte finish suits paper illustration and controlled blocks of color. There are qualifications: paper is the stated surface, the paint is listed as not water-resistant, and the product carries a California Proposition 65 chemical warning. Compared with the Winsor & Newton 10-color set, this gives more color choices but less of a focused core palette. I’d choose it for range, not for water exposure or a minimal starter selection.
Pros:- Eighteen assorted colors provide greater premixed variety than the 10-color Winsor & Newton set
- 15 ml tubes offer a substantial amount of each shade
- Opaque matte paint is suited to solid-color paper artwork
- Includes a broad mix of greens, blues, reds, and earth tones
Cons:- Listed as not water-resistant
- Paper is the stated recommended surface
- Carries a California Proposition 65 chemical warning
Best for: Paper-based illustrators and experienced hobby painters who want many premixed shades in full-size tubes.
Not ideal for: Artists who need water-resistant dried paint, want a compact starter palette, or prefer to avoid a product carrying a Proposition 65 warning.
- Brand:Holbein
- Paint type:Gouache
- Set size:18 colors
- Tube volume:15 ml each
- Finish and opacity:Matte and opaque
- Recommended surface:Paper
- Listed dry time:24 hours
- Water resistance:Listed as not water-resistant
- Product warning:California Proposition 65 chemical warning
Our verdict“Choose this Holbein set for a broad selection of opaque colors on paper, but skip it if water resistance or a warning-free product is a priority.”
HIMI Twin Cup Jelly Gouache Paint Set, 72 Colors
Seventy-two jelly-cup colors make this the color-range pick for painters who want many ready-made options in a single case. Unlike the HIMI GoPack 72-Color Set, this version centers on the paint itself rather than a bundle of brushes, pad, and other accessories, so it suits artists who already have tools. The 12 g cups and double-clasp case offer a contained format for keeping colors together, while the paint is described as quick-drying and non-toxic. The main limitation is specificity: the supplied data names no individual colors or pigment details, which makes the palette harder to judge before buying. Paper is the listed surface, even though the title mentions canvas, so I’d select it for paper projects rather than assume it suits every surface.
Pros:- Seventy-two colors offer a wide range of ready-made shades
- 12 g jelly cups provide a defined amount per color
- Double-clasp case helps keep cups secure
- Paint is described as quick-drying and non-toxic
Cons:- Individual color names and pigment details are not provided
- Paper is the stated recommended surface, despite the title mentioning canvas
- Unlike the HIMI GoPack, it does not list brushes, a pad, or other painting accessories
Best for: Hobby painters who already own brushes and palettes and want a large assortment of ready-to-use colors for paper projects.
Not ideal for: Artists who need named pigment information, a starter bundle of accessories, or a confirmed recommendation for canvas.
- Brand:HIMI
- Paint type:Gouache
- Number of colors:72
- Paint per color:12 g
- Cup design:Jelly twin cup
- Case:Double-clasp case with a tight seal
- Recommended surface:Paper
- Special features:Described as quick-drying and non-toxic
Our verdict“Pick this set for maximum color choice in a compact jelly-cup format if you already have the painting tools and plan to work on paper.”
How We Picked
I compared these gouache paint sets by the factors that change the painting experience: tube versus jelly format, paint quantity, color range, portability, and the usefulness of included accessories. I also considered whether a set offers a sensible starting palette or leans on color count, and whether its format suits occasional practice, travel, or repeated studio sessions.
The ranking favors sets with a clear fit and a useful balance of range, usability, and paint supply. Artist-focused tube sets rank well for controlled dispensing and sustained work; accessible, accessory-rich sets suit new painters and travel. Large jelly palettes remain compelling for variety, but they rank lower when their extra colors add bulk or make the choice harder without a clear benefit. Since paint behavior can vary with technique, paper, and water use, I focus on the practical distinctions shown by each set’s format and contents rather than claiming a single set will suit every painter.
| gouache paint set | Brand | Paint type | Finish |
|---|---|---|---|
| HIMI Twin Cup Jelly Gouache Pa | HIMI | Gouache | — |
| Winsor & Newton Designers Goua | Winsor & Newton | Gouache | Flat matte |
| HIMI Gouache Paint Set | ABEIER | Gouache | Opaque matte |
| Holbein Artists’ Gouache Set | Holbein | Gouache | Matte |
| HIMI Gouache Paint Set | ARTME | Gouache | Matte |
| ARTEZA Gouache Paint Set | — | Gouache | Opaque matte |
| HIMI Gouache Paint Set | — | Gouache | Matte |
| MEEDEN Gouache Paint Set | — | Gouache | Matte |
| HIMI Gouache Paint Set | — | Gouache | — |
| HIMI Gouache Paint Set | — | Gouache | Opaque matte |
| Winsor & Newton Designers’ Gou | Winsor & Newton | Opaque gouache | Matte |
| Holbein Irodori Artist Gouache | Holbein | Gouache | — |
| HIMI GoPack 72-Color Gouache P | HIMI | Gouache | — |
| Holbein Artists’ Gouache Set | Holbein | Gouache | — |
| HIMI Twin Cup Jelly Gouache Pa | HIMI | Gouache | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Gouache Paint Sets
Before choosing a set, decide how you plan to paint and what you want the kit to do beyond supplying color. These broader factors can help you avoid paying for shades or accessories you will rarely use.
Choose a format that matches your painting routine
Tube gouache lets you dispense only what you need, which can be useful for deliberate mixing and keeping unused paint sealed. Jelly gouache is ready in shallow cups, so it can feel convenient for quick studies, but exposed paint may dry and need water to rework. Think about where the set will live: a studio painter may prefer tubes, while someone painting away from a desk may appreciate a self-contained case. Do not assume the formats behave identically just because both are called gouache. If you often pause between sessions, consider how easily you can close and store the paint. Pick the format you are likely to use consistently, not just the one with the most appealing packaging.
Treat color count as a palette choice, not a quality score
A set with dozens of ready-made colors can be convenient for illustration and quick color changes, but it can also leave you sorting through shades that overlap. A smaller palette asks you to mix more, which can build color skills and make it easier to keep a painting visually coherent. Before buying a large set, check whether you need many premixed colors or prefer to create your own variations. Beginners often benefit from a manageable selection with useful primary and neutral colors rather than sheer volume. Artists working to a tight deadline may value broader ready-made choice more. The right number of colors depends on whether speed or mixing practice matters more to you.
Compare paint quantity with how often you paint
Tube size matters over time: a small assortment can be a low-commitment way to explore a brand, but frequent painters may run through limited tubes sooner. A larger tube does not help if the colors are poorly matched to your palette, so weigh quantity alongside shade selection. Jelly cups provide a different kind of supply: their usefulness depends on keeping them covered and preventing them from drying out between sessions. Occasional painters may prefer a smaller set that stays manageable, while regular practice calls for enough paint in the colors you use most. Check whether the listed quantity is per color or for the whole set. That distinction makes comparisons clearer.
Decide whether included accessories will actually replace separate tools
Brushes, palettes, pads, and carrying cases can make a set feel ready for a first session, especially for a beginner or travel painter. Their value depends on fit: a basic included brush may be useful for practice but not a substitute for a brush chosen for a specific mark or finish. A carrying case matters most if you take supplies out of the house; at home, it may add bulk without changing how you paint. Check whether the set includes the paper or surface you plan to use, since paint kits do not always cover that need. Avoid paying extra attention to accessory count alone. The best bundle is the one that fills a gap in your current supplies.
Match the set to skill level and learning goals
A first gouache set should make it easy to start, but it should also support the kind of learning you want. A compact palette can help you understand mixing, opacity, and value without turning each painting into a color-selection exercise. A large jelly set may be more appealing when experimentation and variety are the priority. Artists who already know their preferred pigments may benefit more from a focused artist-oriented assortment than a broad starter kit. Think about whether you want a set for studies, finished illustration, or regular studio practice. That purpose can matter more than choosing the set with the most colors or the largest accessory bundle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I choose tube gouache or jelly gouache for my first set?
Choose based on how you plan to store and use the paint, rather than assuming one format is always better for beginners. Tubes let you dispense a small amount and close the remaining paint, which can suit a careful mixing routine. Jelly cups make colors immediately accessible and often come in portable cases, but they need to stay covered to limit drying. If you want to learn mixing with a small palette, a focused tube set may be easier to manage. If quick access and a broad selection matter more, a jelly set may fit better.
Is a larger color count worth choosing over a smaller set?
A larger palette is useful when you need many ready-mixed shades or want to experiment without mixing every color. It is less useful if most of the shades overlap or you are trying to learn how colors combine. A compact set can make palette decisions simpler and help you use each color more deliberately. Also check the amount of paint per shade: a high color count does not tell you how much paint each color contains. Choose based on your work habits, not the headline number alone.
Which set makes the most sense for travel or painting away from home?
For travel, prioritize a secure case, a manageable footprint, and accessories you will actually use. Jelly sets often keep colors together in a compact container, while the HIMI GoPack adds a carrying bag and supplies for a more bundled setup. Tube sets can travel well too, but you may need to pack a palette, brushes, and a surface separately. Before taking any paint kit on the road, check how well its containers close and whether you have a way to clean brushes. A portable set is only convenient if it fits your complete painting routine.
When is it worth choosing an artist-focused tube set over a large starter bundle?
An artist-focused tube set makes more sense when you already know you want tube gouache and value deliberate dispensing over a large selection of premixed colors. It can also suit painters who prefer to choose their own brushes, palette, and paper. A starter bundle is often more practical if you are beginning without supplies or want a kit that is ready to carry. Compare tube size and assortment before deciding, since a small introductory set may not supply enough paint for frequent use. The choice is less about status and more about whether the contents match your established habits.
Do I need to buy a separate palette, brushes, or paper with these sets?
Not always, but check the included items against the way you plan to paint. Some HIMI sets include brushes or a palette, and the GoPack also lists a pad and carrying bag; many tube sets are more focused on paint. Included tools can get you started, though you may later prefer brushes or paper selected for your own technique. Gouache usually needs a surface that can handle water-based paint, so confirm that any included pad suits your practice rather than assuming every notepad will work. If you already own useful supplies, a paint-focused set may make more sense than a bundle.
Conclusion
My best overall recommendation is the Winsor & Newton Designers Gouache Set, 10 × 12 ml, for painters who want a focused tube assortment. For best value in a broad tube palette, the ARTEZA 24-color set offers a larger range in a straightforward format. Beginners who want an accessible, ready-to-use setup can look to the HIMI 36-color twin-cup set, while the best premium choice for a compact artist-oriented introduction is Holbein’s 12-color set; choose its 18-color, 15 ml version if you expect to paint more often and want more paint per tube. For specific needs, the HIMI GoPack is the clearest bundle for travel, and the 112-color HIMI set suits painters who put variety ahead of a compact palette. Pick by format and intended use first, then let color count and accessories settle the decision.
