Watercolor painting is such a beautiful way to express yourself, isn’t it? The flowing, transparent colors can feel almost magical. Whether you’re just dipping your toes in or you’ve been painting for years, the right watercolor kit really does make a world of difference. With these sets, you get all the essentials—paints, brushes, paper—bundled up and ready to go.
You’ll notice watercolor kits come in all sorts of quality levels, from budget-friendly student-grade to those fancier professional sets. Beginners tend to appreciate the affordable student kits, while artists who want the brightest, most blendable colors go for the pro stuff. Honestly, better pigments just look richer and last longer on the page. No one wants their painting to fade, right?
When you’re picking a kit, keep an eye on how many colors you get, the feel of the brushes, and what the paper’s like. The paint should melt into water and lay down smooth, not gritty. Good brushes hold water and snap back to shape after you rinse them. And the paper—if it’s high quality—won’t buckle or warp much, so your art actually looks how you imagined. These little details can totally change your painting experience.
Best Watercolor Kits
Watercolor painting really opens up so many creative options, but honestly, having the right kit just makes it so much more fun. Here’s a list of watercolor kits that I’ve handpicked—they balance quality and value, whether you’re just starting or you already know your way around a paintbrush. Each one comes with what you need to get going right away.
ARTISTRO Portable Watercolor Set
This all-in-one watercolor kit gives you a ton of value—48 lively colors and a travel-ready design that’s great for both newbies and seasoned artists.
Pros
- Comes with watercolor paper, brush pen, and some handy extras
- 48 colors, including metallic and fluorescent shades
- Super portable—easy to toss in a bag and go
Cons
- You might need to layer colors to get them really bold
- Smaller pans mean less paint per color
- The water brush runs out pretty quickly if you’re painting for a while
Ever wish you could just sit down and paint, no fuss? With the ARTISTRO set, you can. You get 40 regular watercolors, 4 fluorescent, and 4 metallics—all tucked into a compact tin. There’s also a water brush pen, a sponge, a black marker, and 10 sheets of 300g watercolor paper, so you’re ready to start right out of the box.
The convenience here is honestly hard to beat. Want to paint at a park or a coffee shop? Go for it. The water brush means you don’t need to haul around a cup of water, so it’s easy to paint wherever inspiration strikes. It’s a real grab-and-go kit for your creative moments.
These paints are non-toxic and meet safety standards, so you can use them for anything from bullet journaling to more detailed pieces. While pros might eventually upgrade their supplies, this set is a solid, versatile pick for everyday painting. The packaging is pretty sleek, too—definitely gift-worthy for creative friends.
CHROMATEK Complete Watercolor Kit
This 62-piece watercolor set really does have everything you need to start making vibrant art right away, whether you’re new to watercolors or have been painting for years.
Pros
- 26 paint tubes—bright, blendable, and easy to work with
- Comes with quality brushes, paper, and a bunch of accessories
- Good for all skill levels
Cons
- The paper pad is on the small side
- Colors aren’t quite as intense as the pricier professional paints
- The palette is plastic and a bit basic
Ever feel overwhelmed by all the separate supplies you’d need to start painting? CHROMATEK makes it easy by bundling everything together. The 26 paint tubes cover a wide range of colors, and they mix well for layering and washes.
The kit stands out with its thoughtful extras. You get eight synthetic squirrel brushes (they hold water and keep their point), a portable aqua pen for outdoor painting, and a sturdy little paper pad. The paper’s thick enough to handle a few layers without too much warping.
For about $30 (if you catch a sale), you’re getting a lot for your money. The masking tape lets you create crisp edges, and the palette gives you space to experiment with mixing. Whether it’s your first watercolor or just another addition to your art stash, this kit covers the basics well. Honestly, you’ll be making cool paintings in no time.
Grabie 50-Color Watercolor Set
The Grabie kit packs 50 vivid colors and a full set of accessories into a compact case—great for any artist, beginner or not.
Pros
- 50 blendable, vibrant colors
- Complete set includes brushes and a mixing palette
- Metal case is tough and easy to carry
Cons
- Paint cakes are on the small side
- A few colors can look a bit muddy
- Case might dent if you drop it (oops)
This set gives you everything you need to dive right in. With 50 colors, from soft earth tones to bold brights, you can mix up just about any shade you want. The paints blend easily and the color payoff is solid, so your art pops.
Portability is a big win here. The sturdy metal case is just over 8 inches long, so you can toss it in your bag for outdoor painting or travel. Inside, you’ll find a water brush pen, a nylon brush, a sponge, a swatch sheet, and six detail brushes—no extra shopping necessary.
These paints are non-toxic and meet ASTM D-4236 and EN71 standards, so they’re safe for all ages. The colors dry with a nice matte finish and have good transparency, making it easy to layer and build up detail.
Grabie 100-Color Watercolor Paint Set
This kit is kind of a dream for color lovers—100 shades in a travel-friendly set that works for both beginners and more experienced painters.
Pros
- Huge range: 100 colors, including metallics, fluorescents, and pastels
- Metal case is compact and comes with all the accessories you’ll need
- Paints are highly pigmented, blend well, and are non-toxic
Cons
- Paint wells are small
- It’s not always easy to tell which color is which
- Paint dries lighter than some pro-grade brands
Opening this kit feels a bit like opening a box of candy—so many colors! You get 50 regular shades, 35 metallics, 10 macaron pastels, and 5 fluorescents. If you like experimenting, you’ll have a blast with all the options.
The case is small and light, so it’s easy to bring along wherever you’re headed. The water brush pens are especially handy for painting on the go—no need to carry a jar of water.
For the price, the quality is surprisingly good. The paints blend smoothly, layer nicely, and the colors stay bright. They’re also fade-resistant and won’t crack after drying. The kit includes extras like a drawing pencil, natural sponge, and swatch sheet to help you keep track of all those colors.
AROIC 65-Piece Watercolor Set
This watercolor kit is a great pick for beginners and casual artists who want a full set at a super reasonable price.
Pros
- 36 colors, 10 brushes, and 3 refillable water brush pens included
- Compact and easy to bring along anywhere
- Non-toxic and safe for kids and adults
Cons
- Colors aren’t super concentrated—don’t expect pro-level vibrancy
- Some folks have had issues with the lid or packaging
- Watercolor pad is pretty small (8.5 x 5.5 inches)
If you’re watching your budget but still want a kit that covers all the bases, the AROIC 65-piece set might be the answer. You get 36 colors that activate easily with water, so you can jump right into your creative projects.
What sets this kit apart is the variety of tools. You get 10 regular brushes for all sorts of detail work, plus 3 refillable water brush pens—ideal for painting outside or wherever you don’t want to mess with a water cup. The case doubles as a palette, so setup and cleanup are a breeze.
Beginners will find this kit welcoming and easy to use. There’s a 16-page watercolor pad included, so you have a decent surface to practice on right away. The colors aren’t as bold as professional paints, but they blend well enough for learning and experimenting. For less than $15, it’s hard to find a more complete starter kit.
Nicpro Watercolor Set
This watercolor kit packs everything you need to jump into painting right away—48 bold colors and all the essentials.
Pros
- All-in-one set: paints, brushes, paper, and tools included
- 48 bright, blendable colors that dry fast and stay vibrant
- Non-toxic formula, so anyone can use it safely
Cons
- Some people have trouble with the water brush pen
- Paint cakes are pretty small
- The paper pad feels cramped for big projects
Getting started with watercolors can be daunting, but the Nicpro set makes it easy. You get 48 lively watercolors, 8 synthetic squirrel brushes, 25 sheets of watercolor paper, and even art sponges for special effects.
The brushes really set this kit apart. Unlike the flimsy ones in cheaper sets, these synthetic squirrel brushes hold water well and keep their shape as you paint. The colors blend easily and dry bright, which is always a pleasant surprise. Plus, the paints resist fading, so your artwork stays colorful.
If you’re new to watercolor, you’ll love that you can open this box and start painting right away. The compact size means you can stash it away or toss it in a bag for painting outside. For the price, it feels like a steal compared to picking up each item separately. And since the paints are non-toxic, anyone—kids or adults—can dive in without worry.
Artecho 50-Color Watercolor Set
This kit delivers a ton of value with 50 vibrant colors and a full set of accessories—great for beginners or anyone who loves to paint on the move.
Pros
- All-in-one kit: brushes, paper, and accessories included
- Portable metal case, perfect for travel
- Wide color range, including 4 fluorescent shades
Cons
- Paints are best for hobbyists, not pros
- Some pans might arrive cracked from shipping
- Included paper is just for practice
Ever wish you could just grab your paints and go? The Artecho Watercolor Set makes that possible with 50 vivid colors, brushes, paper, and handy extras like a water brush pen. The colors flow smoothly, making it fun to paint landscapes, florals, or whatever pops into your head.
The metal case is a thoughtful touch—it slips right into your bag, and the velvet pouch keeps everything safe. You don’t have to be stuck at your desk; just take your creativity with you! The water brush pen comes in handy, especially when you don’t have water nearby.
The color selection is impressive for the price. With 46 classic shades and 4 fluorescent ones, you’ll spend less time mixing and more time painting. The paint pans are non-toxic and acid-free, meeting ASTM D-4236 safety standards. The pigments pop more than you’d expect from a hobbyist set, so your artwork will look fresh and clear once it dries.
Art Vista Watercolor Set
This 100-color watercolor kit puts everything you need for gorgeous paintings in one tidy, portable package—great for both beginners and seasoned artists.
Pros
- Huge range: 100 colors, including metallics and neons
- Complete bundle: brushes, paper pad, mixing tools
- Compact metal case for travel
Cons
- Metal pans are pretty small for big projects
- Only 20 sheets in the paper pad
- So many color choices can feel overwhelming if you’re just starting out
Walking into an art store and grabbing everything at once? That’s what the Art Vista set feels like! You get 100 colors—50 standard, 35 metallic, and some fun fluorescent shades. They activate quickly with water and blend well.
This kit goes beyond just paints. You get 8 brushes (including water brush pens), a mixing tray, a paper pad, and a swatch card. It all fits inside a sturdy metal case that’s surprisingly small—just over 8 inches long.
The quality is impressive for what you pay. The paints are non-toxic and meet safety standards, so you can paint for hours without worry. Sure, the pans are smaller than pro-grade tubes, but they’re great for most projects and especially for travel. This set really bridges the gap between beginner and pro supplies, so it’s a smart pick if you want to experiment with watercolor.
SAKURA Koi Pocket Field Set
This portable watercolor kit is a dream for artists who want to paint wherever they go, thanks to its high-quality paints and smart design.
Pros
- Super portable, compact design
- Water brush included for paint-anywhere convenience
- Strong, vibrant pigments
Cons
- Only 12 colors
- Small mixing space
- You might need to replace half-pans if you use them a lot
Ever get inspired on a walk and wish you had your paints? The SAKURA Koi Pocket Field Set lets you paint wherever the mood strikes. It’s small enough to fit in your bag or even your pocket, but it still packs everything you need for a watercolor adventure.
The water brush is a real game-changer. Fill it up and you’re set—no need to lug around water cups. The medium tip works for most styles and details.
SAKURA has a reputation for quality, and these 12 colors live up to it. Mix them right in the case. The sponge comes in handy for quick clean-ups or special effects. With over 5,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, it’s safe to say a lot of artists are happy with this little set.
ARTISTRO Travel Watercolor Set (12 Colors)
This compact watercolor kit brings you bright colors and all the basics for painting on the go—great for beginners and experienced artists alike.
Pros
- Portable metal case with all the essentials
- Bright, vivid colors that blend nicely
- Non-toxic, safe for kids and adults
Cons
- Only 12 colors
- Paint cakes are small
- Metal case can dent if you drop it
Ever wish you could paint anywhere, anytime? The ARTISTRO Travel Watercolor Set makes it possible. It slips right into your bag or pocket, so you’re always ready when inspiration hits. The metal tin holds 12 vibrant colors that really pop, whether you’re painting outdoors or at your kitchen table.
This set isn’t just about the paints. You also get a water brush pen, a swatch sheet, and a flexible brush—so you can get started right away. The non-toxic formula meets safety standards (ASTM d-4236 & EN71), making it a good pick for kids (over age 3) and pros alike.
You can use this kit for pretty much anything: bullet journaling, sketching, lettering, or traditional painting. It’s compact but doesn’t skimp on quality—the colors blend beautifully. At just 4.2 ounces, it won’t weigh you down, but you’ll be glad it’s there when creativity strikes.
Buying Guide
Ready to jump into watercolors? Finding the right kit really does make a difference. Here’s what to look for so you can enjoy the process.
Paper Quality
You want paper that won’t buckle when it gets wet. Look for:
- 140 lb (300 gsm) or heavier
- 100% cotton if you can find it
- Cold-pressed for a bit of texture
Paint Selection
Your colors bring your ideas to life! Think about:
- How many colors you want (12-24 is great for starting out)
- Pigment quality (artist-grade or student-grade)
- Pan paints or tubes (pans are easier to carry)
Brush Variety
Brushes are your magic wands! Get a few types for different effects:
| Brush Type | Best Used For |
|---|---|
| Round | Details and versatile strokes |
| Flat | Washes and bold strokes |
| Mop/Wash | Large areas of color |
Portability
Are you painting at home or out and about? Compact kits with secure cases keep your supplies organized and ready for any adventure.
Extras to Consider
There are a few extra things that can make painting way easier:
- Water container
- Mixing palette
- Color chart
- Palette knife
Honestly, the best kit is the one you’ll reach for again and again. Pick something that sparks a bit of excitement when you open it—something that makes you want to sit down and start creating.
