Guide to Choosing Watercolor Pencils

Choosing the right art supplies can be a challenge, given the vast array of options on the market. This is especially true for watercolor pencils, which combine the precision of drawing pencils with the fluidity of watercolor paints, and where differences in quality can be substantial. This guide provides objective criteria and a curated selection to help you make an informed decision for your creative projects.

What to Look for When Buying Watercolor Pencils

Before you decide on a set, several technical specifications should be considered. These features play a crucial role in determining the painting experience and the final result of your work.

1. Pigment Quality and Lightfastness

The quality of the pigments is decisive for the color vibrancy and longevity of your artwork. High-quality artist-grade colored pencils are characterized by a high pigment density, which results in rich, brilliant colors. Another important factor is lightfastness. This indicates how resistant the colors are to fading from light exposure. Especially for pencils used professionally, high lightfastness is essential to ensure that artworks retain their original color intensity for years. Manufacturers often indicate lightfastness ratings on the packaging using a star or plus system.

2. Water Solubility and Lead Quality

The core feature of water-soluble colored pencils is their ability to dissolve when they come into contact with water. The quality of this process depends on the composition of the lead. A good lead dissolves evenly and without clumping, allowing for smooth transitions and uniform color washes. The lead diameter, often between 3.3 mm and 4.0 mm, also affects handling. A thicker lead is more durable, break-resistant, and lays down more color, while a thinner lead allows for finer details.

3. Set Size and Accessories

Colored pencil sets for adults are available in various sizes, from small starter sets with 12 colors to comprehensive collections with over 100 shades. For beginners or for specific projects, a smaller set may be sufficient. Experienced artists or illustrators, on the other hand, benefit from a broader color palette that allows for more complex shading and blending without constant mixing. Some sets include useful accessories such as brushes, sharpeners, or practical storage solutions like metal tins or roll-up cases.

Pencils for Watercolor Painting

Based on the criteria mentioned above, we have compiled a selection of products that cater to different needs and applications.

M&G Colored Pencils, 48-Pack Set with Soft Core

M&G Colored Pencils, 48-Pack Set with Soft Core

Why it stands out: With 48 different colors, this set offers an extensive palette for beginners and hobby artists. The pencils are made from natural wood, which makes them easier to sharpen.

Advantages:

• Large Color Selection: The 48 shades provide broad coverage for shading and detailed work.
• Hexagonal Barrel: The hexagonal shape of the pencil prevents it from rolling off your workspace and ensures a stable grip.
• Excellent Value for Money: A wide range of colors at an accessible price point.

Who is it for? This set is a great choice for beginners, students, and hobby artists looking for a broad color palette for coloring, sketching, and initial illustration attempts without immediately investing in professional-grade materials.

Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencils, Set of 12

Faber-Castell 117512 Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencils, Set of 12

Why it stands out: The Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer series is renowned among artists for its high quality. This set offers an entry into the world of professional artist's drawing pencils with fully water-soluble pigments.

Advantages:

• Excellent Water Solubility: The pigments dissolve completely, enabling effects similar to those of classic watercolor paints.
• Thick, Break-Resistant Lead: The 3.8 mm thick lead is robust and ensures a rich color laydown.
• High Lightfastness: According to the manufacturer Faber-Castell, the pencils offer high lightfastness, which qualifies them for professional work.
• Practical Metal Tin: The sturdy tin protects the pencils and is well-suited for transport.

Who is it for? Ideal for art students and ambitious hobby artists who want to experience the quality of professional watercolor pencils. Also suitable for professional illustrators who need a compact set for working on the go.

Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencils, Set of 30 in a Roll-Up Case

Faber-Castell 117530 Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencils, Set of 30 in a Roll-Up Case

Why it stands out: This set combines an expanded color selection from the Albrecht Dürer series with a practical roll-up case and a water brush. It is tailored to the needs of artists on the go.

Advantages:

• Expanded Color Palette: With 30 colors, the set provides a solid foundation for sophisticated color compositions.
• Accessories Included: The set includes a roll-up case for secure storage and a water brush, which simplifies painting on the move.
• Professional Quality: Like all pencils in the Albrecht Dürer series, this set is distinguished by its high pigmentation, lightfastness, and complete water solubility.
• B Hardness Grade: The softer lead with a B hardness grade allows for an exceptionally smooth and rich color application.

Who is it for? This set is aimed at advanced artists and professional illustrators who value high-quality equipment, a good color selection, and portability.

Looking for More Options?

The selection presented here covers specific use cases. If you are looking for a different set size, a particular brand, or other types of drawing pencils, you can find more products in our comprehensive category.

Discover a wider selection of wooden pencils here

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the difference between watercolor pencils and regular colored pencils? The main difference lies in the binder used in the lead. In watercolor pencils, this binder is water-soluble. While regular colored pencils are made on a wax or oil basis and are water-resistant, the pigments of watercolor pencils can be activated with water and painted like traditional watercolor paint.

2. What paper is suitable for water-soluble colored pencils? Since water is involved, a thicker, more absorbent paper is required. The best choice is special watercolor paper with a weight of at least 200 g/m?. Thinner drawing paper would buckle or warp and would not absorb the pigments optimally.

3. How do you use watercolor pencils correctly? There are several techniques. You can draw dry first and then activate the color with a wet brush. Alternatively, you can lift pigment from the pencil onto a separate palette, activate it with water, and paint as if from a paint pan. Another method is to lift the color directly from the pencil tip with a wet brush.