13 Best Watercolor Pencil Sets For 2024

Here is our guide to the best watercolor pencils, catering to both beginners and seasoned professionals.

We understand that choosing the right tools is pivotal, and our list get’s right to the point for the best sellers. Watercolor pencils are very popular because they are so easy to use, you can use them on all kinds of paper from regular printer paper to watercolor papers.

For beginners, these watercolor pencils offer a user-friendly introduction to the world of watercolor techniques.

Their ease of use, smooth blending capabilities, and vibrant color output make them ideal for honing your skills and exploring the endless possibilities of watercolor art and to add embellishments to your scrapbooking digital downloads.

Professionals, on the other hand, will appreciate the precision and pigment quality of the brand on this list. If you are looking for pencils for coloring, you might want to check out our list of best colored pencils for artists.

Whether you’re working on intricate details or broad strokes, these pencils offer the control and intensity required for advanced artistic expression.

Best watercolor pencil sets

1. ARTEZA 72 Beginner Watercolor Pencils

2. ARTEZA 120 Professional Watercolor pencils

3. CASTLE Hobby Watercolor Pencil Set

4. CASTLE Pro Watercolor Pencil Kit

5. COOL BANK Budget Watercolor Pencil Kit

6. ARTRISTRO Premium Watercolor Pencil Kit

7. DERWENT Watercolour Pencils

8. ARTPOP 48 Watercolor Pencil Kit

9. FABER CASTEL Watercolor Pencils

10. WINSOR & NEWTON Studio Watercolor Pencils

11. FABER CASTEL Albrecht Dura Watercolor Pencil Kit

12. CASTLE Mixed Media Metallic Set

13. STAEDTLER Ergosoft Watercolor Pencils

Tips

1. Pigment Quality

Just like regular watercolor kits, look for watercolor pencils with high-quality pigments. Vibrant and lightfast pigments ensure that your artwork remains vivid and does not fade over time.

Professional-grade pencils often offer superior pigment quality.

2. Color Range

Consider the color range provided in the set. A diverse selection of colors, including primary, secondary, and neutral tones, offers versatility in your artwork.

Look for sets that provide a wide spectrum to enhance your creative possibilities.

3. Blendability

Check the blendability of the watercolor pencils. Pencils that blend smoothly allow for seamless transitions between colors and enable you to achieve a watercolor-like effect.

Test the pencils on paper to ensure they can be easily blended with water or a blending tool.

4. Water Solubility

Ensure that the watercolor pencils are water-soluble, allowing you to transform your drawings into watercolor paintings.

Experiment with adding water to the pencil marks to see how easily the pigments dissolve and spread.

5. Build Quality and Core Size

Consider the build quality of the pencils, including the thickness of the core. Thicker cores often provide more pigment, allowing for richer colors and longer-lasting use.

Additionally, pencils with durable casings are less prone to breakage, ensuring a longer lifespan for your set.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can make an informed decision when selecting a watercolor pencil set that aligns with your artistic preferences and requirements.

FAQ

1. Are watercolor pencils suitable for beginners?

Yes, watercolor pencils are beginner-friendly, offering a smooth transition from traditional colored pencils to watercolor techniques.

Look for sets with easy blendability and a range of colors for a versatile introduction to watercolor art.

2. Can watercolor pencils be used without water?

Absolutely! Watercolor pencils can be used dry for traditional pencil shading techniques.

However, the water-soluble feature allows you to enhance your artwork by adding water, transforming your drawings into vibrant watercolor paintings.

3. How do I choose the right color range for my needs?

Consider your artistic preferences and the type of projects you undertake. A broad color range is versatile for various subjects, while specialized sets may cater to specific themes.

Choose a set that complements your style and the subjects you enjoy illustrating.

4. Do all watercolor pencil sets have the same level of lightfastness?

No, lightfastness can vary between different watercolor pencil sets. Higher-quality sets often feature pigments with better lightfastness, ensuring that your artwork maintains its vibrancy over time.

Check product specifications or reviews for information on lightfastness.

5. Can watercolor pencils be used with other art mediums?

Yes, watercolor pencils can be combined with various art mediums. Experiment with combining them with traditional colored pencils, markers, or even ink for mixed-media projects. The versatility of watercolor pencils allows for creative exploration.

In Closing: Thank you for immersing yourself in the world of watercolor pencils with us. We trust our guide has illuminated the path to choosing the perfect set for your artistic endeavors.

As you embark on your creative journey, may these watercolor pencils be the companions that bring your visions to life.

Happy creating, and thank you for exploring the artistry of color with us!