Watercolour pans & watercolour tubes

Watercolour paint is a popular medium for many artists as it is easy and convenient to work with. The paints usually come in either hard pans or tubes of liquid paint – both types have their pros and cons.

Pans or half-pans of watercolour paint are dried “cakes” of paint that sit in small plastic or metal containers. Generally they come in a set which can be refilled with individual pan colours. Half-pans are half the size of full pans. Because the pans are generally quite small, and sit together in a neat little box, they are a great companion for those who like to paint on the go or have limited space available. To get paint from a pan, use a damp brush to pick up the colour and then add it do your palette. Special care must be taken in order to prevent the different colours from getting contaminated so cleaning your brush between picking up colours is a good idea. Colours can then be mixed on your palette to create various tones and hues. You should also be careful to not damage the bristles of your brush by picking up colour too vigorously from the pans.

 

 

Watercolour tubes contain a more liquid version of the paint. One of the perks of having liquid paint available is that is makes it easier to create washes over large areas as the paint dissolves in water more easily. The paint can be mixed in large quantities in a higher concentration which is great for bigger artworks. Dried out tube paint can be rehydrated over and over without it affecting the brilliance of the colour too much. Tube paints are less likely to get contaminated than the pans as the colours remain safe inside the tube.

You can fill up your empty half pan containers with liquid watercolour paint and leave it to dry creating your own version of a pan watercolour!

 

Top tips on how to choose the best watercolour paint

When choosing the best watercolour paint, there are several essential factors to consider to ensure you get the most suitable and high-quality product. Here are some top tips to guide you:

1. Pigment Quality: Look for paints with high-quality pigments. Professional or artist-grade paints often use pure pigments, resulting in vibrant and long-lasting colors.
2. Lightfastness: Check the lightfastness rating of the paint. Watercolours with excellent lightfastness will retain their original color and not fade over time, ensuring your artwork remains vibrant for years to come.
3. Transparency and Opacity: Consider the transparency or opacity of the paint. Transparent colours are ideal for layering and creating luminous effects, while opaque colours are useful for adding highlights and covering mistakes.
4. Binder: Pay attention to the binder used in the paint. Gum arabic is a common binder, and high-quality paints usually contain a higher ratio of pigment to binder.
5. Color Range: Choose a watercolour set with a diverse range of colors that suits your artistic style and preferences. Having a variety of hues allows you to create a wider range of artworks.
6. Granulation: Some watercolours granulate, creating textured effects on the paper. If you enjoy this texture, look for paints that offer granulating properties.
7. Permanence: Ensure the paint you choose is stable and won’t deteriorate or change color over time. Check for the ASTM rating, which indicates the permanence level.
8. Brand Reputation: Consider reputable brands known for producing high-quality watercolours. They are more likely to adhere to strict quality control standards.
9. Test Before Buying: If possible, test the paint before purchasing. Many art stores offer sample swatches or tester sets for you to experiment with.
10. Price vs. Quality: While it’s tempting to opt for budget-friendly options, investing in better quality watercolours can significantly enhance your artistic experience and the final result of your paintings.

Remember, the best watercolour paint for you ultimately depends on your personal preferences, artistic style, and budget. Don’t hesitate to try out different brands and colours until you find the perfect fit for your creative journey. Happy painting! 🎨✨