Watercolour painting is a timeless and versatile art form that appeals to both beginners and professionals alike. For newcomers, selecting the right watercolour set can be an overwhelming process with so many choices on the market. In this blog, we will guide you through the essential factors to consider when choosing the perfect watercolour set, helping you make the best decision for your artistic journey.
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Understanding Watercolour Sets
When starting out, it’s important to understand the variety of watercolour sets available. Generally, they come in two forms: pans and tubes. Pans are small blocks of dry paint that are activated with water, while tubes contain more concentrated liquid paint. Both types have their advantages for beginners, but your choice will depend on your preferences and painting style.
Pans are ideal for beginners due to their portability and ease of use. They allow you to build up layers gradually and are excellent for those who paint outdoors or on the go. Watercolour sets with pans offer a wide range of colours without the need to mix paints extensively.
On the other hand, tubes are great for achieving more vibrant colours and are perfect for larger works or more expressive styles. Tubes provide greater control over pigment strength and are ideal for artists who want flexibility in mixing their colours.
What to Look for in a Beginner’s Watercolour Set
Choosing a beginner’s watercolour set requires consideration of several key factors, including pigment quality, range of colours, and ease of use. Let’s explore each of these in detail:
1. Quality of Pigments
The quality of the pigments in watercolour sets directly affects the intensity and longevity of the colours. As a beginner, you don’t need to invest in the most expensive set, but it’s worth choosing one with good-quality pigments. Cheaper sets may lack vibrancy and fade over time. Opt for student-grade watercolour sets, which are designed for beginners but still provide strong, lasting colours. Brands like Winsor & Newton, Daler-Rowney, and others offer great beginner sets that are both affordable and reliable.
2. Range of Colours
A good beginner’s watercolour set should include a basic range of colours that can be easily mixed to create a broader palette. A set with 12 colours is usually sufficient for starting out, but some may prefer sets with up to 24 colours for greater variety. Focus on primary colours (red, blue, yellow), secondary colours (green, orange, purple), and a few neutrals like black, white, and brown. The ability to mix colours is crucial for mastering watercolour painting, so having a balanced set is essential.
3. Ease of Use
For beginners, it’s important to choose a watercolour set that’s easy to use and maintain. Pans are often simpler for beginners because they involve less mess and are easier to transport. Look for watercolour sets that come in sturdy, portable cases with mixing palettes included. This will make your painting experience more enjoyable and convenient.
Beginner Techniques with Watercolour Sets
Now that you have an idea of what to look for in a watercolour set, it’s time to explore a few beginner techniques that will help you get the most out of your paints:
1. Washes
A wash is a foundational technique in watercolour painting. It involves applying a thin layer of paint diluted with water over a large area. Washes are perfect for creating soft backgrounds or smooth transitions between colours. To achieve a good wash, ensure that your watercolour set has high-quality pigments that spread evenly across the paper.
2. Wet-on-Wet
The wet-on-wet technique involves applying wet paint onto wet paper. This creates beautiful blending effects as the colours flow together naturally. Beginners should choose a watercolour set with vibrant pigments, as this technique can dilute colours quickly.
3. Dry Brush
Dry brush technique is used to create texture. By using a minimal amount of water and a mostly dry brush, you can achieve detailed, textured strokes. Make sure your watercolour set offers a range of colour depths, as this technique works best with strong pigments.
Budget Considerations for Beginners
One of the most important aspects of selecting the right watercolour set as a beginner is balancing quality with affordability. You don’t need to invest in professional-grade supplies right away, but it’s important not to sacrifice too much on quality. Many brands offer starter watercolour sets that provide excellent value for money. Look for student-grade sets from reputable manufacturers such as Winsor & Newton, Reeves, and Daler-Rowney. These sets offer a great balance of pigment quality and affordability.
Additionally, buying a set that includes extras such as brushes, a mixing palette, and a water container can help you save money and get started quickly.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect watercolour set as a beginner is about finding the right balance between quality, ease of use, and budget. Pans and tubes each have their merits, and understanding your needs will help you make an informed decision. With the right watercolour set, you can explore a range of techniques, from washes to dry brushes, and begin to develop your own unique style.
