Finding the best watercolor pencils is a challenge, regardless if you’re a beginner or a professional. With so many different brands to choose from, how do you know which is the right choice for you?
We’ve collected a list of the 5 best watercolor pencils for artists down below so that you find the perfect match for all your artistic needs!
1. Amazrock
Amazrock makes the best watercolor pencils for beginners and students. The soft cores give a smooth laydown of color that melts into a vibrant wash. You’ll get a nice variety of colors to work with that all blend together beautifully.
One of the best things about this brand is that they provide you with a carrying case so that your pencils are easy to transport and stay safe from damage.
If you’re looking for the best budget watercolor pencils, then these are the perfect match for you!
2. Derwent
Derwent’s Inktense pencils are unique because, once dry, the wash doesn’t budge. This makes it the best brand of watercolor pencils for anyone who hates accidentally lifting the layers underneath.
These pencils live up to their name and create some of the most vivid pops of color that make any artwork look stunning.
3. Arteza
A newer brand on the market, Arteza doesn’t hold back from providing artists with great products for a reasonable price. These pencils work well as a dry medium and become even more vibrant when you add water. They’re sturdy pencils that are resistant to breakage, giving you a lot of longevity.
With a range that goes up to 120 colors, you’ll never worry about finding that one particular color you need.
4. Prismacolor
Prismacolor has a reputation for creating pencils with the softest cores. It’s a delight to put down the color with that buttery-smooth texture.
The softer lead also makes it easier to melt down the pencil to get a perfect watercolor wash but tends to need a lot of sharpening when dealing with details.
5. Faber-Castell
Faber-Castell’s Albrecht Dürer watercolor pencils are of the highest quality. Their thicker cores are full of strong pigments that look beautiful on the paper. The pigments melt completely under the water and allow you to manipulate the color much like regular watercolors.
Their price point matches their luxurious quality. Although these are the best lightfast watercolor pencils, it takes a bit of an investment to get their whole collection.
Choose the Best Watercolor Pencils That Suit Your Art Style
When it comes to finding the best watercolor pencils, it all depends on what you need out of the product. If you’re a beginner who wants to see what watercolor pencils are all about, it’s good to stick to a budget-friendly variety until you get a feel for the medium. Once you get some more experience, it’ll be easier to decide if you want to splurge for the more professional-grade brands.
Regardless of anything else, make sure to have fun with this versatile medium!
Don’t forget to check out the rest of our Hobbies section for more tips and tricks for your next creative project!