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10 Best Watercolor Pencils 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Winsor & Newton Studio Collection Artist Pencils, Watercolor Pencils, Set of 24

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,251
Color Range
Brand Reputation

Most important from
5690 reviews

Color Range
The range of shades is so refined that it elevates the quality of any drawing, making even mistakes look artful.
Brand Reputation
These pencils are much less expensive than high-end brands but are completely adequate for non-professionals and kids.

The Winsor & Newton Studio Collection Artist Watercolor Pencils are a fantastic choice for artists looking to explore the versatility of watercolor effects. One of the standout features is their high pigment quality, which ensures vibrant hues that can easily be blended, whether used dry or with water. Lightfastness is another strong point; these pencils resist fading over time, making them suitable for works that will be displayed or sold. The range of colors in this set of 24 is impressive, providing a good variety to help artists achieve the desired shades for their projects.

The pencils are designed with an easy-to-hold round cedar wood barrel and feature a 3.7mm core that is break-resistant. This means they can withstand the rigors of regular use, and they sharpen cleanly, which is a bonus for maintaining point precision. Additionally, they are ACMI Certified non-toxic, which is an important consideration for users concerned about safety, especially if children are involved in the art-making process.

These watercolor pencils are particularly well-suited for adults and more experienced crafters aiming to create beautiful art with a range of techniques. They offer a strong blend of quality and versatility, making them a great addition to any artist's toolkit.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,251
Color Range
Brand Reputation

Most important from
5690 reviews

Color Range
The range of shades is so refined that it elevates the quality of any drawing, making even mistakes look artful.
Brand Reputation
These pencils are much less expensive than high-end brands but are completely adequate for non-professionals and kids.
#2

Derwent Inktense Color Pencils, 36-Piece Tin Set, 4mm Round Core, Watercolor Drawing

Rating
9.8
Pigment Quality
Solubility
Color Range

Most important from
8719 reviews

Pigment Quality
These pencils are truly like drawing with watercolor pigments, and when brushed with water, the colors take on an incredible illumination.
Solubility
These pencils are truly like drawing with watercolor pigments, and when brushed with water, the colors take on an incredible illumination.
Color Range
Derwent Inktense pencils outperform other brands in blending, showing up vividly, and providing fuller, more vibrant colors.
Pencil Hardness
Inktense pencils are creamy and smooth, yet not too soft, providing vibrant colors that immediately stain the surface.
Brand Reputation
Derwent Inktense pencils outperform other brands in blending, showing up vividly, and providing fuller, more vibrant colors.

The Derwent Inktense Color Pencils set is a strong contender in the watercolor pencil category, particularly appealing to artists who enjoy vibrant colors and versatility. With a 4mm soft lead core, these pencils deliver bold, expressive drawings thanks to their high pigment quality. Users appreciate the rich color payoff and the ability to blend and layer colors without worrying about bleeding, as the pigments dry quickly and permanently once activated with water.

One of the standout features is their water solubility, which allows for both dry and wet applications. Artists can create beautiful ink-like washes or keep the colors intense and crisp when used dry. The ability to mix colors adds further flexibility for those looking to customize their palette.

They can be used on various surfaces, including fabric and paper, which enhances their usability for mixed media projects. This is particularly beneficial for creative individuals who like to experiment with different materials. The set of 36 colors provides a diverse range to work with, making it a well-rounded choice for both beginner and seasoned artists. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. While the pencils are designed for permanent application, some users may find that achieving the desired colors can depend heavily on their technique and the amount of water used. Additionally, the round core may not be as precise for detailed work compared to harder pencils, which could be a concern for artists focused on fine details. The Derwent Inktense Color Pencils are a solid choice for artists looking for vibrant, versatile watercolor pencils that can be used in various creative projects.

Rating
9.8
Pigment Quality
Solubility
Color Range

Most important from
8719 reviews

Pigment Quality
These pencils are truly like drawing with watercolor pigments, and when brushed with water, the colors take on an incredible illumination.
Solubility
These pencils are truly like drawing with watercolor pigments, and when brushed with water, the colors take on an incredible illumination.
Color Range
Derwent Inktense pencils outperform other brands in blending, showing up vividly, and providing fuller, more vibrant colors.
Pencil Hardness
Inktense pencils are creamy and smooth, yet not too soft, providing vibrant colors that immediately stain the surface.
Brand Reputation
Derwent Inktense pencils outperform other brands in blending, showing up vividly, and providing fuller, more vibrant colors.
#3

KALOUR 72-Color Professional Watercolor Pencils Set with Brush and Water Brush Pen, Hexagonal Shape, Blendable Wet or Dry, Water-Soluble Colored Pencils for Artists and Beginners

Rating
9.7
Solubility
Color Range

Most important from
277 reviews

Solubility
These pencils are fabulous fun and work well with water brushes to create nice and juicy designs across the page.
Color Range
Great quality and feel good to use with a decent color variety and smooth application.

The KALOUR 72-Color Professional Watercolor Pencils Set offers a rich and versatile collection of vibrant hues, making it suitable for both experienced artists and beginners. The pigment quality is high, ensuring vivid and smooth color application, which can be used both dry and wet to achieve beautiful watercolor effects. The comprehensive color range of 72 shades allows for extensive blending and layering, catering to diverse artistic needs.

Each pencil is crafted with a durable core to withstand frequent use, making them reliable for detailed work and larger pieces. Additionally, the hexagonal shape of the pencils provides a comfortable and secure grip during long sessions of artwork. The included watercolor brush and water brush pen enhance the set's versatility, allowing artists to experiment with different techniques easily.

For organization and portability, the set comes in a sturdy cylindrical case where each pencil is conveniently labeled for quick identification. With a strong brand reputation and positive customer ratings, the KALOUR set emerges as a commendable choice for those in need of high-quality, water-soluble colored pencils. This set also makes for an excellent gift for art enthusiasts, students, and professionals.

Rating
9.7
Solubility
Color Range

Most important from
277 reviews

Solubility
These pencils are fabulous fun and work well with water brushes to create nice and juicy designs across the page.
Color Range
Great quality and feel good to use with a decent color variety and smooth application.

Buying Guide for the Best Watercolor Pencils

Choosing the right watercolor pencils can significantly enhance your artistic experience and the quality of your artwork. Watercolor pencils are versatile tools that combine the precision of colored pencils with the fluidity of watercolors. When selecting watercolor pencils, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your artistic needs and preferences.
Pigment QualityPigment quality refers to the richness and vibrancy of the colors produced by the pencils. High-quality pigments result in more vivid and long-lasting colors. Artists who require professional-grade results should look for pencils with high pigment concentration. For beginners or hobbyists, student-grade pencils with decent pigment quality can be a good starting point.
LightfastnessLightfastness is the ability of the pencil's color to resist fading when exposed to light over time. This is important for artists who want their work to remain vibrant and unchanged for years. Lightfastness is usually rated on a scale, with higher ratings indicating better resistance to fading. If you plan to display your artwork or sell it, opt for pencils with high lightfastness ratings.
SolubilitySolubility refers to how well the pencil's pigment dissolves in water. Good solubility allows for smooth blending and a more watercolor-like effect. Pencils with high solubility are ideal for creating washes and gradients. If you prefer more control and less blending, pencils with moderate solubility might be more suitable.
Color RangeThe color range is the variety of colors available in a set of watercolor pencils. A larger color range provides more options for creating detailed and nuanced artwork. Artists who work on complex pieces or enjoy experimenting with colors should consider sets with a wide range of hues. For simpler projects or beginners, a basic set with essential colors may suffice.
Pencil HardnessPencil hardness affects the ease of application and the type of marks you can make. Softer pencils lay down more pigment and blend easily, making them great for rich, bold strokes. Harder pencils are better for fine details and precise lines. Consider your drawing style and the type of artwork you create when choosing the hardness of your pencils.
Brand ReputationBrand reputation can be an indicator of quality and reliability. Established brands often have a history of producing high-quality art supplies and may offer better customer support. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations from other artists can help you choose a reputable brand that meets your needs.

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