Joybuy Insights

Watercolour set: how to choose a kit that suits your artistic practice

A watercolour set might seem simple to choose: a few colours, a brush and a compact box appear to do the job. In reality, the format, the quality of the pigments and the accessories included all have a direct impact on how comfortable it is to use. Whether you're looking for watercolour paint for beginners, a set for children or materials for illustration, there are several details worth checking before you place your order.

The pitfalls to avoid when buying a watercolour set

1. Don't confuse the number of colours with versatility

A watercolour palette packed with pans isn't automatically suited to the way you paint. An assortment of 12 well-chosen colours is often enough to learn how to mix your own shades. On the other hand, a 24-colour set saves you from having to recreate certain hues every time you paint.

So take a close look at the composition: the colours included, the size of the pans or tubes, and whether there are metallic, fluorescent or iridescent shades. These effects can add an interesting touch to decorative creations, but they don't replace a classic colour palette.

2. Underestimating the size and storage

A large set will easily find its place in a studio, but it will be far less practical in a bag for classes, travel or a sketchbook. Conversely, a portable watercolour paint set usually offers less space for mixing and sometimes requires a bit more organisation.

Check the quality of the closure, the sturdiness of the box, whether it has a built-in mixing palette and how easy it is to clean. A set that stays damp after use can leave marks, cause unwanted colour mixing or speed up the deterioration of the accessories.

3. Discovering too late that the kit is incomplete

Some sets only include the colours. Others add a brush, a water brush, paper or even a guide. For a first purchase, the lack of a brush or suitable paper can quickly lead to extra expense.

Watercolour pencils and watercolour markers are designed for a different use than traditional paint. They are particularly handy for detailed drawing, lettering or creative journals, but they don't exactly replicate the effects you get with pans or tubes.

The technical criteria to check before you choose

The type of paint and its packaging

  • Pans or half-pans: easy to carry, they reactivate quickly with a little water and are suitable for short sessions as well as working outdoors.
  • Tubes: practical for preparing large amounts of mixed colour and working on bigger formats, especially in the studio.
  • Watercolour pencils: used dry for details, then worked with a wet brush to create washes.
  • Watercolour markers: ideal for lettering, controlled flat washes and quick illustrations.

A set of 12 Talens Art Creation tubes offers basic colours in 12 ml format. The 24-tube version expands the palette and is aimed at those who want to limit repetitive mixing.

The number of colours and mixing possibilities

To start with, 10 to 12 well-distributed colours are generally enough to discover mixing. More experienced artists can opt for a wider range, for example 24 colours or 72 pencils, depending on their technique.

Water-soluble pigments require suitable paper. If it's too thin, it may buckle under the effect of moisture. For washes, choose a paper weight designed for watercolour and wait for each layer to dry before applying the next.

The accessories and usage precautions

A synthetic brush, a mixing area and a metal or rigid case make the set more enjoyable to use day to day. After each session, rinse the brush, remove excess water and let the different elements dry before closing the box.

For products containing small parts, always follow the age recommendations. Several of the items shown here are not suitable for children under 3 years old. Paints and pencils must not be ingested, and a child should use them under adult supervision.

Our selection based on your profile

Recommended for: Beginners on a budget
M&G So Many Cats 12-Color Watercolor Paint Set

M&G So Many Cats Watercolour Paint Set, 12 colours

Why this choice suits this profile: This compact set brings together 12 solid colours and a water brush. It's perfect for getting started, keeping busy at home or quickly tidying away your materials after a session.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The contents are clearly stated: 12 colours, a brush and a solid format that reactivates with water. No need to buy extra items to get started.

Key benefit and highlights

Lightweight format, 12 colours, brush included and simple storage for beginners.

Recommended for: Premium enthusiasts
Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencil Set 72 Colours

Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencil Set, 72 colours

Why this choice suits this profile: The 72 watercolour pencils offer a wide variety of shades for detailed drawings, layering and water effects. Their wooden case is ideal for regular studio use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The number of shades is clearly stated and the case protects the pencils. A suitable solution for those who don't want to have to top up their palette too quickly.

Key benefit and highlights

72 colours, pigments described as lightfast and a wooden case.

Recommended for: Specific uses and heavy users
SAKURA Koi Water Colours Pocket Field Sketch Box 24 Half Pans

SAKURA Koi Water Colours Pocket Field Sketch Box – 24 half-pans + iridescent medium

Why this choice suits this profile: Its pocket-sized format, 24 half-pans and iridescent medium are ideal for travel journals, outdoor sketching and artists who want to expand their creative possibilities.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The box combines the colours and a mixing area in an easy-to-carry format. The product page lets you check that the special medium is included.

Key benefit and highlights

24 half-pans, compact case, built-in mixing area and iridescent medium.

Recommended for: Children and family creative activities
STABILO Woody 3-in-1 Coloring Set 18 Pack

STABILO Woody 3-in-1 Colouring Set – 18 pieces

Why this choice suits this profile: With their short body and 10 mm lead, these pencils are designed for small hands. They can be used as colouring pencils, wax crayons or watercolour pencils.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The set includes 18 pencils, a sharpener and a brush. Their versatility means you don't need to stock up on lots of different supplies.

Key benefit and highlights

18 pencils, six pastel shades, sharpener and brush included.

Looking for other options?

We've put together a comprehensive, real-time selection of products that meet these demanding criteria and comply with European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about watercolour sets

Which watercolour set should I choose to start with?

A set of 12 colours with a brush is generally suitable for your first experiments. Above all, check that it includes a guide, a mixing palette and packaging that's easy to store. A set of watercolour pencils can also be a good starting point if you prefer to begin with drawing before moving on to watercolour painting.

How long does watercolour paint keep?

The shelf life depends on the format, humidity and storage conditions. Close the pans and tubes after each use, clean the brushes and let the box dry before putting it away. Avoid heat, direct sunlight and strong fluctuations in humidity.

What paper should I use with a watercolour palette?

Choose paper specifically designed for watercolour. For washes and very wet layers, a higher paper weight helps prevent warping. Watercolour pencils can be used on thick drawing paper, but watercolour paper generally offers better absorption.