The best beginner watercolor paint sets make it easier to start painting without leaving you short on useful colors or basic tools. I’d name the Nicpro 36-color set my best overall pick for its combination of paints, brushes, paper, and palette; the Winsor & Newton Cotman Sketcher’s Pocket Set stands out for compact portability, while the 50 Colors Watercolor Workbook pairs painting supplies with guided practice. The main tradeoff is between a manageable set with practical tools and a larger color selection that may be harder to learn from. Workbook kits can help beginners get started, but may offer less freedom than a standalone paint set. Read on for the full breakdown of all 15 options and how I’d choose among them.
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Key Takeaways
- A balanced kit can beat a bigger color count: Nicpro’s 36 colors come with brushes, paper, and a palette, making it a more complete starting point than sets that focus on color variety alone.
- Workbooks add a learning path: The 50 Colors workbook, SKYDUE, Joyask, and Taotree pair paints with guided activities, while standalone sets suit beginners ready to practice their own subjects.
- Portability is a distinct advantage: Winsor & Newton Cotman’s Sketcher’s Pocket Set and Grabie’s 50-color metal-case set suit painting away from a desk better than larger assortments.
- More colors can mean more decisions: ARTISTRO’s 100-color set, Grabie’s 100-color set, and other large palettes offer variety, but beginners may find it harder to learn color mixing when many shades are already available.
- Included accessories differ as much as the paint counts: The listed sets range from workbook-and-paper bundles to collections with multiple brushes or a water pen, so the best fit depends on what a beginner already owns.
| beginner watercolor paint set | Brand | Paint type | Color count |
|---|---|---|---|
| Artistro Watercolor Paint Set | Artistro | — | 36 |
| Artecho 48 Colors Watercolor P | Artecho | Watercolor | 48 |
| ARTISTRO Watercolor Paint Set | ARTISTRO | — | 100 |
| 50 Colors Watercolor Workbook | MicoSim | — | 50 |
| SKYDUE Watercolor Workbook for | SKYDUE | — | — |
| Winsor & Newton Cotman Waterco | Winsor & Newton | Watercolor | — |
| Joyask Beginner Watercolor Wor | Joyask | Watercolor | — |
| Grabie Watercolor Paint Set of | Grabie | Watercolor | — |
| Nicpro Watercolor Paint Set | Nicpro | Watercolor | — |
| 48-Color Washable Watercolor P | Blablaovy | Watercolor | — |
| Watercolor Paint Set | Art Vista | Watercolor | 100 |
| Grabie 50-Color Watercolor Pai | Grabie | Watercolor | 50 |
| Taotree 100-Color Watercolor P | Taotree | Watercolor | 100: 50 regular, 35 metallic, 10 macaron, and 5 fluorescent |
| Artecho 48-Color Watercolor Pa | Artecho | Watercolor | 48 |
| ARTISTRO Watercolor Paint Set | ARTISTRO | Watercolor | 50 |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Artistro Watercolor Paint Set with Palette & Brush Pens – 36 Colors
For a beginner who wants a portable kit without an oversized color selection, this 36-pan set strikes a practical balance. Its metal tin and integrated mixing palette keep the paints and mixing surface together, while the brush pens, flexible brushes, swatch sheet, sponge, pencil, and eraser provide useful starting tools. Compared with the Artecho 48 Colors Watercolor Paint Set, 10 Brushes, Artistro has fewer pans and brushes, but its listed 300 g weight makes it a notably light option to carry. That smaller palette can also make early color choices less distracting. The tradeoff is that seven flexible brushes may not cover every detail or technique, and the supplied set is a starter kit rather than a replacement for quality watercolor paper. Choose it for compact practice; skip it if breadth of color or many brush options matters most.
Pros:- 36 pans offer a useful range without the scale of a 100-color set.
- Metal tin with an integrated mixing palette keeps the kit organized and portable.
- Includes a water brush pen, seven flexible brushes, swatch sheet, sponge, pencil, and eraser.
- Designed for blending, washes, and detailed artwork.
Cons:- Seven included brushes may limit choices for detailed or specialized techniques.
- Watercolor paper is not listed among the included components, so beginners may need to buy it separately.
Best for: Beginners who want a lightweight, organized kit for painting during classes, trips, or short practice sessions.
Not ideal for: Learners who want the widest shade selection or several dedicated brushes for varied techniques.
- Brand:Artistro
- Color count:36
- Paint form:Pans
- Container:Metal tin
- Included brushes:7 flexible brushes and a water brush pen
- Other included components:Swatch sheet, sponge, drawing pencil, eraser, and mixing tray
- Item weight:300 g
- Recommended surface:Watercolor paper
Our verdict“Choose this set if you want a compact, ready-to-carry introduction with useful accessories rather than the broadest palette.”
Artecho 48 Colors Watercolor Paint Set, 10 Brushes
The main beginner advantage here is how much is bundled: 48 pans, an A5 paper pad, ten brushes, and two watercolor pens let a new painter start practicing without assembling supplies separately. That makes this a more complete first purchase than the Artistro 36-Color Set, which includes useful tools but does not list paper. The extra pans give beginners more premixed hues to try, though they can also make color selection feel less straightforward than a smaller palette. Artecho describes the pigments as non-toxic, acid-free, and washable, a helpful fit for classes and shared spaces. The tradeoff is that the set’s paint is not water-resistant after application, and the available details do not identify the paper’s weight or the case material. Choose it for its bundled supplies, not for a promise of advanced durability.
Pros:- Includes an A5 paper pad, ten brushes, and two watercolor pens along with the paints.
- 48 colors give beginners a broad range of ready-made hues.
- Pigments are described as non-toxic, acid-free, and washable.
- Compact travel case suits classes and painting away from home.
Cons:- Paint is not water-resistant after application.
- Paper weight and case material are not specified in the supplied product details.
- Ten brushes may still leave advanced painters wanting more specialized tools.
Best for: First-time painters, teens, and class attendees who want paper, brushes, and paint pens bundled in one kit.
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking water-resistant finished artwork or detailed specifications about paper and case construction.
- Brand:Artecho
- Color count:48
- Paint type:Watercolor
- Included brushes:10
- Included paper:A5 watercolor paper pad
- Watercolor pens:2
- Pigment properties:Described as non-toxic, acid-free, and washable
- Part number:ATO-WP48114
Our verdict“Pick Artecho if having paper and several tools in the box matters more than water-resistant results or detailed material specifications.”
ARTISTRO Watercolor Paint Set with Palette and Brush Pens, 100 Colors
With 100 pans, this ARTISTRO kit is for beginners who want to explore a wide range of ready-made colors rather than learn first with a tight palette. The metal tin and built-in mixing palette make the large selection easier to store and use at a desk or on the go, and the included brush and drawing accessories support casual practice. Compared with the Artistro 36-Color Set, this version offers far more hue choices, but it is also a heavier kit at a listed 0.45 kg and may give a new painter more options than they need. Its color mixing chart can help organize that range, though paper is not listed among the included components. The paints are explicitly not water-resistant, so this is better for learning washes and sketches than work that needs to resist later moisture.
Pros:- 100 pans provide a notably broad selection of premixed colors.
- Metal tin with a built-in palette supports tidy storage and convenient mixing.
- Includes a brush, color mixing chart, pencil, sharpener, and eraser.
- Portable format is suited to home practice, classes, and travel.
Cons:- The large color count may feel overwhelming to beginners learning basic mixing.
- Paints are not water-resistant.
- Watercolor paper is not listed among the included components.
Best for: Beginners who enjoy experimenting with many premixed shades and want a portable tin for home, class, or travel.
Not ideal for: Painters who prefer a simple starter palette, need included paper, or want finished work to resist water.
- Brand:ARTISTRO
- Color count:100
- Paint form:Pans
- Container:Metal tin
- Item volume:0.45 kg
- Included components:Brush, color mixing chart, palette, pencil, sharpener, eraser, and tin box
- Water resistance:Not water-resistant
- Special features:Portable, easy to use, and non-toxic
Our verdict“Choose this ARTISTRO set if color variety is your priority and you are comfortable supplying your own paper.”
50 Colors Watercolor Workbook for Beginners with Paint & Paper
If learning what to paint is as important as choosing paints, this MicoSim kit is the strongest fit in this group. Its workbook provides 12 flower patterns and step-by-step technique guides, while the 50 colors and included tools make it possible to begin without gathering a separate brush set. The 300 gsm cold-press paper is a meaningful advantage for wet practice because heavier paper is better suited to watercolor than thin sketch paper. Compared with the SKYDUE Watercolor Workbook, MicoSim offers more colors and specified paper weight, while SKYDUE lists 15 botanical projects rather than 12 flower patterns. The main limitation is that MicoSim’s guided subject matter is narrow; the workbook may not suit a learner who wants landscapes, animals, or open-ended exercises. Its supplied details also do not state the sheet count.
Pros:- Workbook includes 12 flower patterns and step-by-step technique guides.
- 50 colors provide more premixed choices than the 24-color SKYDUE workbook.
- Includes 300 gsm cold-press paper suited to wet watercolor practice.
- Kit includes brushes, a water brush pen, color chart, sponge, and metal storage box.
Cons:- The 12 patterns focus on flowers and may limit subject variety.
- Paper sheet count is not specified in the supplied product details.
Best for: New painters who want step-by-step floral lessons, a broad starter palette, and suitable paper together.
Not ideal for: Learners who want varied subject matter beyond flowers or need a confirmed paper sheet count before buying.
- Brand:MicoSim
- Model name:Watercolor Paint and Paper Set
- Color count:50
- Workbook subjects:12 original flower patterns
- Paper:300 gsm cold-press watercolor paper
- Included tools:Multiple brushes, water brush pen, color chart, and sponge
- Storage:Metal storage box
- Warranty:1 year
Our verdict“Choose MicoSim for guided floral practice with heavier paper and a wider palette, but skip it if you want lessons across varied subjects.”
SKYDUE Watercolor Workbook for Beginners with 24 Paint Colors
SKYDUE keeps the learning path focused: 15 floral and botanical projects give beginners a set of subjects to follow, while 24 colors leave room to practice mixing without the scale of a 50- or 100-pan set. The workbook’s thick paper is intended to reduce warping and bleeding, and its listed 18 sheets make the paper supply clear—an advantage over the MicoSim workbook, whose sheet count is not provided. MicoSim, by contrast, offers 50 colors and specifies 300 gsm cold-press paper, so it suits learners who want more palette options and a defined paper weight. SKYDUE’s smaller selection may be easier to manage, but its botanical focus could become repetitive, and 18 sheets may not last long with frequent practice. Choose it for structured, modest-scale floral exercises rather than an open-ended studio kit.
Pros:- 15 step-by-step floral and botanical projects provide clear practice prompts.
- 24 colors offer a less sprawling starter palette than MicoSim’s 50-color workbook.
- Thick watercolor paper is intended to reduce warping and bleeding.
- The listed 18-sheet count helps buyers gauge the included paper supply.
Cons:- Projects focus on floral and botanical subjects, limiting variety.
- 18 sheets may run out quickly for regular practice.
- Paper weight and included brush details are not specified in the supplied product data.
Best for: Adults and teens who want guided floral and botanical exercises with a manageable color selection.
Not ideal for: Frequent painters who need a large paper supply or beginners looking to practice subjects beyond plants and flowers.
- Brand:SKYDUE
- Included paints:24 colors
- Project count:15 floral and botanical projects
- Paper type:Thick watercolor paper
- Sheet count:18
- Dimensions:9.44 in L × 6.88 in W
- Material type:Plastic packaging
- Model number:30092SCTZ_ZH_Watercolorset_Plants
Our verdict“Pick SKYDUE if you want a focused botanical workbook and a smaller palette, but choose another kit for broader subjects or extended practice.”
Winsor & Newton Cotman Watercolor Paint Set, Sketcher’s Pocket Set
For a beginner who wants to paint away from a desk, this set prioritizes portability over variety. Its 12 half-pan colors, integrated mixing palette, and included pocket brush fit into a small plastic box, making it easier to practice sketching outdoors than with the Nicpro set, which brings tubes, paper, and more gear. Winsor & Newton Cotman paints offer good transparency and strong tinting strength, so a little paint can go a long way when learning to mix washes. The tradeoff is limited quantity in each pan, and some pigments use less expensive alternatives that may produce less intense colors. Compared with the 48-color Blablaovy set, this is a more restrained palette, but its compact format is better suited to carrying along and focusing on basic color mixing.
Pros:- Compact box combines 12 half-pans, a mixing palette, and a pocket brush
- Good transparency and tinting strength support learning to mix washes
- Portable format suits sketching away from a dedicated workspace
- Straightforward palette can help beginners practice color mixing
Cons:- Half-pans contain limited paint for frequent use
- Some less expensive pigment alternatives may have reduced color intensity
Best for: Beginner sketchers who want a lightweight, self-contained set for painting outdoors or during travel
Not ideal for: Beginners who want a large selection of colors or enough paint for frequent, long sessions
- Brand:Winsor & Newton
- Paint type:Watercolor
- Colors:12 half-pan colors
- Container:Plastic box
- Included components:1 pocket brush, 12 half-pan watercolor pans, mixing palette
- Model number:390640
- Item weight:0.09 kg
Our verdict“Choose this compact set if portability and learning to mix a small palette matter more than having many colors or generous paint quantities.”
Joyask Beginner Watercolor Workbook and 50-Color Paint Set, Bouquets
The Joyask kit is aimed at beginners who benefit from a clear first assignment, not just a box of paints. Its 12 bouquet designs and step-by-step exercises give new painters a path from following a template to practicing basic brushwork, while the thick paper is designed to reduce curling. It also includes 50 colors and useful starter tools, including a pencil, eraser, sharpener, and water brush pen. Compared with the Winsor & Newton Cotman Pocket Set, Joyask offers far more guided practice and color options, but it is less focused on a compact, established pan set for spontaneous sketching. The age guidance is 14 and up, so it is not a fit for younger children, and beginners who prefer blank paper may find the bouquet-focused workbook restrictive.
Pros:- 12 bouquet designs and step-by-step exercises provide a structured starting point
- 50 paint colors offer broad choice for practicing color selection
- Includes brushes, drawing tools, and an art sponge for getting started
- Spiral-bound workbook is portable, with thick paper designed to reduce curling
Cons:- Recommended for ages 14 and up, limiting suitability for younger children
- Bouquet-focused templates may not suit learners seeking a general-purpose workbook
Best for: Teen and adult beginners who want guided bouquet exercises, templates, and supplies bundled together
Not ideal for: Younger children or learners who want open-ended practice on blank paper rather than floral templates
- Brand:Joyask
- Paint type:Watercolor
- Paint colors:50
- Workbook designs:12 bouquet designs
- Binding:Spiral-bound
- Included components:Water brush pen, paint brush, drawing eraser, pencil sharpener, sketching pencil, color chart, art sponge
- Recommended age:14+
Our verdict“Pick Joyask if guided floral exercises will help you begin painting; skip it if you want a flexible, blank-paper practice kit.”
Grabie Watercolor Paint Set of 100 Colors with Brush Pens
Grabie makes sense for beginners who want to explore an unusually broad palette without assembling specialty colors separately. The 100 colors include regular, metallic, macaron, and fluorescent shades, giving learners room to experiment with effects alongside basic mixing. Three water brush pens, a swatch sheet, pencil, and sponge add useful tools, while the compact metal case supports painting on the go. Compared with the Winsor & Newton Cotman Pocket Set, Grabie provides much more color variety and more brush pens, but the Cotman set offers a simpler palette that may make foundational mixing practice easier to manage. Grabie’s broad selection can also be more than a new painter needs, and its brush pens may not offer the control of dedicated artist brushes for fine details.
Pros:- 100 colors include metallic, macaron, and fluorescent options
- Three water brush pens support portable painting without a separate water cup
- Swatch sheet helps beginners compare and record colors
- Compact metal case is suited to travel and storage
Cons:- The large color range may distract beginners from practicing basic mixing
- Included brush pens may be less suitable than dedicated brushes for detailed control
Best for: Curious beginners who want to experiment with specialty colors and carry a broad palette in a travel case
Not ideal for: Learners focused on mastering a small mixing palette or painters who need precise, durable brushes for detailed work
- Brand:Grabie
- Paint type:Watercolor
- Colors:100
- Color range:Regular, metallic, macaron, and fluorescent shades
- Container:Metal box
- Included components:Watercolor paints, 3 water brush pens, drawing pencil, natural sponge, swatch sheet
- Age range:Adult
- Item weight:14.88 ounces
Our verdict“Choose Grabie for portable experimentation with many specialty shades, rather than for a minimalist palette or fine-detail brushwork.”
Nicpro Watercolor Paint Set, 36 Colors with Brushes, Paper, and Palette
Nicpro is the most ready-to-practice option here for beginners starting from scratch: it bundles 36 paint tubes, 10 brushes, a reusable palette, and 25 sheets of cold-pressed paper. That paper is a meaningful advantage over the Blablaovy 48-color set, which supplies pans and brushes but no painting surface. The tube format lets beginners dispense paint as needed and makes larger washes more practical than the small pans in the Winsor & Newton Cotman Pocket Set. Nicpro also includes guides and meets ASTM D4236 and EN71 safety standards. The compromise is bulk: tubes, paper, and multiple brushes suit a home setup better than quick travel sketching. The paints are described as not water resistant, so this set is not for work that needs a water-resistant finish.
Pros:- 36 paint tubes, 10 brushes, a palette, and paper form a complete starter setup
- 25-sheet cold-pressed watercolor pad gives beginners a surface for practice
- Color wheel guide and swatch sheet support early color-mixing lessons
- Paints are described as non-toxic and acid-free and meet ASTM D4236 and EN71 standards
Cons:- The bundled paper, tubes, and brushes make it less portable than compact pan sets
- Paints are not water resistant
Best for: New painters who need paints, brushes, palette, practice paper, and basic guidance in one home-use kit
Not ideal for: Travel sketchers seeking a compact case, or anyone who needs water-resistant finished paintwork
- Brand:Nicpro
- Paint type:Watercolor
- Colors:36
- Tube size:12 ml (0.4 fl oz) each
- Included components:36 watercolor tubes, 10 brushes, palette, 25-sheet watercolor pad, color wheel guide, swatch sheet
- Paper weight:140 lb (300 g/m²)
- Safety standards:ASTM D4236 and EN71
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
Our verdict“Choose Nicpro if you want a broad, paper-included kit for learning at home, but not if compact travel or water-resistant results are priorities.”
48-Color Washable Watercolor Paint Set with Brushes and Water Pen
For a young beginner, this set emphasizes a broad color selection and low-fuss cleanup rather than guided lessons or included paper. Its 48 solid pans come in a lightweight case with a removable lid that doubles as a palette, and the kit includes two brushes and a water pen for painting at home or outdoors. The washable, non-toxic description and age recommendation of 3 years and up distinguish it from the Joyask workbook, which is intended for ages 14 and up and centers on guided bouquet projects. Compared with that workbook, this is less structured and does not provide templates or a painting surface. The product description also gives inconsistent brush counts, so buyers should check what arrives; beginners will need to supply their own paper.
Pros:- 48 solid-pan colors provide plenty of options for early painting activities
- Removable lid doubles as a mixing palette
- Includes two brushes and a water pen for different painting approaches
- Described as washable and non-toxic, with ASTM D4236 and EN71 safety standards listed
Cons:- No paper or other painting surface is included
- Product information gives inconsistent brush counts
- No workbook or step-by-step guidance is listed
Best for: Families introducing young children to watercolor who want washable paints, a portable case, and basic painting tools
Not ideal for: Beginners who need paper, step-by-step instruction, or clarity about the exact brush count before buying
- Brand:Blablaovy
- Paint type:Watercolor
- Colors:48
- Form:Solid pans
- Included components:2 brushes, 1 water pen, palette case
- Recommended age:3 years and up
- Safety standards:ASTM D4236 and EN71
Our verdict“This is a practical first set for young children if you already have paper, but it is less suitable for learners who need instruction or a complete project kit.”
Watercolor Paint Set – 100 Vibrant Colors for Adults, Beginners & Professionals
For a beginner who wants to experiment with many different hues, this 100-color set offers more variety than Grabie’s 50-color set, including metallic, fluorescent, and candy shades. Those specialty colors make playful effects accessible without mixing every shade from scratch, while the included swatch card gives beginners a practical way to learn what each color looks like on paper. Brushes, brush pens, and a sponge are bundled in the metal case, so the kit is ready for travel or casual painting. The tradeoff is that extra colors do not mean extra paint: the description notes the compact case may limit larger projects, and the five brushes provide less choice than ARTISTRO’s eight. I’d choose it for variety and portability, not for building a large, versatile brush collection.
Pros:- 100 colors include metallic, fluorescent, and candy shades for experimenting with different effects.
- Includes three brush pens, two regular brushes, a sponge, and a swatch card.
- Compact metal case suits travel and keeps the kit together.
- Paints are described as meeting ASTM D-4236 and EN71 safety standards.
Cons:- Only two regular brushes are included, limiting brush-size options.
- The compact case may hold too little paint for large projects.
- The large color selection may be less useful to beginners learning to mix from a smaller palette.
Best for: Beginners and younger artists who want a portable starter kit with lots of standard and novelty colors for small paintings and experimentation.
Not ideal for: Learners planning large paintings or anyone who wants a broad brush selection; the compact kit has limited brush variety and may not supply enough paint for bigger projects.
- Brand:Art Vista
- Paint type:Watercolor
- Color count:100
- Included accessories:Three brush pens, two brushes, sponge, and swatch card
- Case:Compact metal box
- Surface recommendation:Paper
- Safety standards:ASTM D-4236 and EN71
- Item weight:15.2 ounces
Our verdict“Choose this set if you want a travel-friendly beginner kit with specialty colors, but skip it if brush choice or paint quantity matters more than variety.”
Grabie 50-Color Watercolor Paint Set with 6 Brushes and Portable Metal Case
Grabie takes a more restrained approach than Art Vista’s 100-color set: its 50 semi-transparent colors leave room to practice blending while still offering a broad starting palette. The built-in mixing tray makes that practice convenient, and six fine-point brushes give beginners more tool choice than Art Vista’s two regular brushes. Its portable metal case also fits sketching away from a desk. The tradeoff is that every included brush is fine-point, which may feel limiting for broad washes, and the paint is listed as not water resistant. That property is common for watercolor, but it means this set is not suited to work that needs a water-resistant finish. I’d pick Grabie over a larger-color-count kit when mixing practice and detail work matter more than collecting specialty shades.
Pros:- 50 semi-transparent colors offer variety without the 100-color count of Art Vista’s set.
- Built-in mixing tray supports color-blending practice.
- Six fine-point brushes provide several options for detail work.
- Portable metal case suits travel and plein-air sketching.
Cons:- All six brushes are fine-point, which may not suit broad washes.
- Paint is listed as not water resistant.
- The set does not include a workbook or step-by-step lessons.
Best for: Adult beginners who want to practice blending and detail painting in a portable kit with a ready-to-use mixing surface.
Not ideal for: Painters who need broad wash brushes or water-resistant paint; the six included brushes are fine-point, and the paint is listed as not water resistant.
- Brand:Grabie
- Paint type:Watercolor
- Color count:50
- Paint characteristic:Semi-transparent
- Included brushes:Six fine-point brushes, sizes 3/0 to 3
- Case:Portable metal box
- Special feature:Built-in mixing tray
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
Our verdict“Pick Grabie for portable color-mixing practice and detail work, but choose a kit with broader brushes if you plan to paint large washes.”
Taotree 100-Color Watercolor Paint Set with 16-Flower Workbook
Taotree is the strongest fit here for a beginner who wants direction along with supplies. Its spiral-bound workbook includes 16 flower designs and step-by-step instructions, giving a new painter a clear first project rather than asking them to start with a blank page. The 100-color selection, transparent palette, and mix of water brush pens and detail brushes also give learners room to try different tools. Compared with Grabie’s 50-color set, Taotree supplies twice as many listed colors and more structured practice, though many of those colors are specialty shades. The workbook’s flower-only focus is the main limitation: it may not help someone interested in landscapes or other subjects. No pan size or paper weight is specified, so I wouldn’t assume the set includes substantial paint or practice paper.
Pros:- Workbook offers 16 flower designs with step-by-step instructions.
- 100 colors include regular, metallic, macaron, and fluorescent shades.
- Includes three water brush pens, three detail brushes, a transparent palette, sponge, and swatch sheet.
- Portable tin and compact workbook suit travel or outdoor sketching.
Cons:- Workbook instruction is limited to flower designs.
- Paint pan size and paper weight are not specified.
- The large palette includes many specialty shades that a beginner may use less often.
Best for: First-time painters who learn best by following step-by-step floral projects and want a portable kit with varied colors and brushes.
Not ideal for: Beginners seeking lessons across varied subjects or a set with clearly specified paper and paint capacity; the workbook focuses on flowers and those details are not provided.
- Brand:Taotree
- Paint type:Watercolor
- Color count:100: 50 regular, 35 metallic, 10 macaron, and 5 fluorescent
- Workbook:16 flower designs with step-by-step instructions; 5 × 8.2 inches; spiral-bound
- Included brushes:Three water brush pens and three detail paintbrushes
- Other accessories:Color chart swatch sheet, art sponge, portable tin box, and transparent palette
- Safety standards:ASTM D-4236 and EN71
Our verdict“Choose Taotree if floral tutorials will help you start painting, but look elsewhere for varied subject lessons or clearly specified paper and paint quantities.”
Artecho 48-Color Watercolor Paint Set with 3 Brushes
Artecho keeps the choice straightforward: 48 colors, three brushes, and an organized travel case, without a workbook or a large collection of specialty shades to sort through. That makes it a simpler entry point than Taotree’s 100-color, flower-workbook kit for someone who wants to focus on painting rather than following lessons. The washable, water-soluble paints are described as non-toxic and acid-free, with ASTM D-4236 conformity listed. The tradeoff is a smaller brush selection than ARTISTRO’s 50-color set, which includes eight brushes, and the product listing says it is intended for indoor use. It is also listed as not water resistant. I’d favor Artecho for uncomplicated home or class practice, but not for a beginner seeking outdoor use, detailed instruction, or more brush options.
Pros:- 48 colors provide a broad starter selection without an oversized palette.
- Three brushes and a portable case keep the basic supplies together.
- Paints are described as washable, non-toxic, and acid-free.
- ASTM D-4236 conformity is listed.
Cons:- Three brushes offer fewer options than ARTISTRO’s eight-brush set.
- The product is listed for indoor use.
- Paint is listed as not water resistant, and no workbook is included.
Best for: Beginners who want a basic, organized watercolor set for home or classroom practice and value washable paints over bundled lessons.
Not ideal for: Travel painters seeking a workbook or a wide range of brushes, and anyone needing water-resistant paint or a set specifically suited to outdoor use.
- Brand:Artecho
- Paint type:Watercolor
- Color count:48
- Paint form:Powder
- Included brushes:Three
- Special feature:Washable
- Safety properties:Non-toxic and acid-free; ASTM D-4236 conformity listed
- Use listing:Indoor use
Our verdict“Choose Artecho for uncomplicated indoor practice with washable paints, but pick another set if you want lessons, more brushes, or outdoor versatility.”
ARTISTRO Watercolor Paint Set with Palette and Brushes, 50 Colors
For a beginner who wants to try more brush shapes and sizes, ARTISTRO offers eight brushes alongside 50 half-pan colors—the broadest brush selection in this five-set group. That gives a learner more room to move between detail work and washes than Grabie’s six fine-point brushes, while the built-in mixing palette keeps color blending within reach. The portable metal case also helps keep supplies together for painting away from home. Its tradeoff is a smaller color selection than the 100-color Art Vista and Taotree sets, so it is less suited to someone who wants lots of metallic or other specialty shades. The paints are listed as not water resistant, and the kit has no workbook for guided lessons. I’d choose it for tool variety, not tutorial support.
Pros:- Eight included brushes provide more variety than Grabie’s six fine-point brushes.
- 50 half-pan colors offer a practical starter palette.
- Built-in mixing palette supports blending and custom color practice.
- Portable metal case keeps supplies together for travel.
Cons:- Has fewer colors than the 100-color Art Vista and Taotree sets.
- Paint is listed as not water resistant.
- No workbook or step-by-step beginner lessons are specified.
Best for: Beginners who want several brush options for practicing both detail work and washes, plus a mixing palette in a portable kit.
Not ideal for: Learners who want guided projects, a 100-color selection, or water-resistant paint; this set has 50 colors, no workbook, and is listed as not water resistant.
- Brand:ARTISTRO
- Paint type:Watercolor
- Color count:50
- Paint form:Half pan
- Included brushes:Eight
- Case:Portable metal case
- Special feature:Built-in mixing palette
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
Our verdict“Choose ARTISTRO if brush variety and a built-in mixing palette matter more than guided lessons or a 100-color selection.”
How We Picked
I compared these beginner watercolor paint sets by how well their contents support a first painting session: the stated color selection, brushes and other tools, included paper or workbook support, and how easily the set can be stored or carried. I also looked at whether a kit offers a clear learning advantage or mainly adds more shades. For a beginner, missing paper or a usable brush can matter more than having dozens of extra colors.
The ranking favors useful balance and a clear beginner benefit over color count alone. Sets with coordinated supplies or guided practice rise when those extras reduce setup friction; compact kits stand out for travel, and larger palettes remain relevant for buyers who want variety. I distinguish between products based on the details provided, rather than treating all similarly sized sets as interchangeable. Because product names alone do not establish paint performance or paper quality, I avoid ranking claims based on unprovided specifications.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Beginner Watercolor Paint Sets
Before choosing among beginner watercolor paint sets, decide what would make you paint more often: a ready-to-use bundle, a guided first project, a compact kit, or a broad palette to explore. These points can help you avoid buying extra colors or accessories that do not match the way you plan to learn.
Start With What You Already Own
Make a short list of supplies at home before choosing a bundle: paper, brushes, a mixing surface, and a water container. A set that includes paper and a palette can reduce setup, but those additions have less value if you already have suitable versions. Beginners often focus on the paint count and overlook the tools needed to use the paints comfortably. If you own no watercolor supplies, a coordinated kit may be easier than assembling separate pieces. If you already have brushes and paper, a compact paint set may make better use of your budget. Check exactly what is listed as included rather than assuming every kit has the same essentials.
Choose a Color Range You Can Learn From
A high number of colors offers quick access to varied shades, but it can also make color-mixing practice feel optional. A smaller selection encourages you to see how a few pigments combine and gives you fewer pans to sort through. Large palettes can make sense if you want to test many hues or prefer choosing ready-made colors for each project. Do not assume that more listed colors automatically means more useful variety; similar shades may have overlapping roles. For early practice, think about whether you want to learn mixing or spend less time mixing. That preference may matter more than the headline color count.
Decide Whether Guided Practice Helps
Workbook kits can provide a prompt and a first task when a blank page feels hard to approach. They are most useful if you learn by following examples or want a set of small projects to build a routine. A workbook is not the same as a general-purpose supply of watercolor paper, so check what kind of practice it supports before relying on it for every painting. If you prefer drawing your own subjects, a standalone set may leave you with more freedom. One common mistake is buying a guided kit for the included paints while ignoring whether its exercises match your interests. Choose the format that makes you more likely to pick up a brush.
Match the Kit to Your Painting Location
Think about where you plan to paint: at a fixed desk, in a class, outdoors, or while traveling. A pocket set or a case designed for portability can be easier to pack than a bundle with many loose pieces. A larger kit may be more comfortable for home use if you want brushes and paper close at hand. Water brushes can reduce the need to carry a separate container, though they may not suit every painting habit. Consider whether you can store wet brushes safely and protect paper in your usual bag. A portable kit is only convenient if its other contents are practical to carry too.
Check Accessory Fit, Not Just Accessory Count
Several brushes can offer more choice, but a beginner may get more use from a few manageable tools than from a large accessory list. Look for clarity about the included brush types and whether a palette, water pen, or paper is part of the set. A kit with many extras can still leave a gap if its included paper is not suited to the practice you want to do. Avoid treating a high brush count as proof that every tool will match your needs. If you already have a preferred brush, prioritize paint and storage instead. The most helpful bundle is the one with extras you will actually use.
Know When a More Established Paint Line Matters
Some beginners prefer a familiar artist-materials line, while others value a kit that supplies many accessories at once. The Cotman Sketcher’s Pocket Set represents a more compact, paint-focused route in this roundup; many of the other options emphasize larger color assortments, tools, or workbooks. Paying more for a paint line may make sense if you want to focus on learning with a compact palette and already have paper and brushes. A larger bundle can be a better fit when you need several supplies at once. Compare the set’s stated contents with your actual gaps rather than paying for a reputation or a color count alone. That keeps the choice tied to how you plan to practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I choose a 36-color set or a 100-color set as a beginner?
Choose a 36-color set if you want a more contained palette and expect to practice mixing or paint with a smaller group of shades. A 100-color set offers more ready-made choices, which can be enjoyable if exploring color is part of the appeal. The bigger count does not automatically make the set easier to learn with; it can add more decisions before you start painting. Compare what each set includes beyond paint, since brushes, paper, and a palette can matter more than the extra shades. For many new painters, the best choice is the set that makes practice feel manageable.
Is a watercolor workbook kit a better first purchase than a regular paint set?
A workbook kit is a strong fit if you want projects or prompts to guide your first sessions. The workbook options in this roundup offer a more directed start than standalone paint sets, which leave subject choice and practice structure to you. A regular set may suit you better if you already have ideas for what to paint or want more freedom to use your own paper. Check whether the workbook format matches the kind of practice you enjoy, rather than choosing it only because it is included. If you might outgrow the exercises quickly, a standalone set could be the more flexible choice.
Which type of set makes the most sense if I want to paint while traveling?
Prioritize compact storage and a layout that keeps paints and tools together, rather than selecting by color count alone. The Winsor & Newton Cotman Sketcher’s Pocket Set is the clearest pocket-focused option here, while Grabie’s 50-color set pairs its palette with a portable metal case. A large kit can be awkward to carry even if it includes more supplies. Also think about where you will mix colors, carry water, and protect paper on the way home. If you paint mainly at a desk, a larger bundle may be more convenient than a travel-first design.
Do I need a set that includes paper and brushes?
You do not need a complete bundle if you already own brushes and paper you are happy to use. For a first purchase, included tools can make setup simpler and help you start without sourcing supplies one by one. The Nicpro set is notable in this roundup for listing brushes, paper, and a palette alongside its paints. Other kits emphasize workbooks, portability, or a wider color range instead. Check the exact contents against what you have, and do not assume an accessory bundle includes every supply you need.
Is the best beginner set always the one with the most colors?
No. A larger palette gives you more shades to choose from, but a smaller set can make it easier to focus on mixing, brush control, and how water changes a wash. Color count also says little about whether the set includes a useful brush, paper, or a way to practice. In this roundup, the most distinct strengths include Nicpro’s bundled tools, the workbook kits’ guided approach, and the portable formats from Cotman and Grabie. Think about what currently makes starting a painting difficult for you. Choose the set that addresses that obstacle, not simply the one with the biggest number.
Conclusion
For the best overall balance, I’d choose the Nicpro 36-color set if you want paints plus brushes, paper, and a palette in one bundle. For best value in practical coverage, Artecho’s 48-color set with 10 brushes is worth a closer look if you want a broad selection and several brushes together. For a best premium-leaning, compact paint-focused option, the Winsor & Newton Cotman Sketcher’s Pocket Set suits buyers who value a pocket format over a large assortment of extras. For the best guided start, pick a workbook kit such as the 50 Colors workbook, SKYDUE, Joyask, or Taotree according to the practice format that appeals to you. For specific needs, choose Grabie’s 50-color metal-case set for portability or a 100-color option if ready-made color variety matters most. The right beginner watercolor paint set is the one whose format, tools, and learning style match how you plan to paint.
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