You’ve probably wondered whether Michaels truly stocks the watercolor tubes that serious artists swear by. The truth is more nuanced than you’d expect. Your choice between budget-friendly options and professional-grade sets can make or break your artistic results. But which brands actually deliver on quality and performance? We’ll show you exactly what separates the merely adequate from the exceptional.
Quick Overview
- Professional-grade watercolor tubes feature ultra-pure pigments with exceptional transparency and strong tinting power for superior results.
- High-quality pigment concentration delivers vibrant, intense hues with creamy smooth texture and minimal fillers for better blending.
- Comprehensive color ranges from warm yellows to deep blues enable artists to mix virtually any hue needed.
- Lightweight, portable packaging in compact metal cases allows artists to work studio, travel, or classroom settings easily.
- Excellent lightfastness prevents fading over time while resisting muddiness during mixing, ensuring long-lasting artistic quality.
| Daniel Smith Extra Fine Watercolor Set of 10 |
| Professional Master Set | Color Count: 10 colors | Skill Level: Professional/Master Artist | Pigment Quality: Extra Fine | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Watercolor Paint Set with 100 Bright Colors |
| Most Colors | Color Count: 100 colors | Skill Level: Beginner to Professional | Pigment Quality: High-quality pigments | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Paul Rubens Watercolor Paint Set 24 Colors |
| Best For Artists | Color Count: 24 colors | Skill Level: Beginner to Professional | Pigment Quality: Ultra-pure pigments, professional-grade | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| ARTISTRO Watercolor Paint Set Portable Kit |
| Best Travel Kit | Color Count: 40 colors | Skill Level: Beginner to Professional | Pigment Quality: High-quality vibrant colors | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Artist’s Loft 36 Color Watercolor Paint Value Pack Necessities™ |
| Best Value Pack | Color Count: 36 colors | Skill Level: General Artist | Pigment Quality: High-quality pigmented colors | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Nicpro 36 Color Watercolor Paint Set with Brushes & Paper |
| Complete Beginner Bundle | Color Count: 36 colors | Skill Level: Beginner to Professional | Pigment Quality: Artist-grade, high pigment concentration | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Michael Harding Professional Watercolors – 15ml Tubes (Warm White) |
| Premium Pigmented Quality | Color Count: 1 color | Skill Level: Professional | Pigment Quality: Highly pigmented, finely milled | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Daniel Smith Extra Fine Watercolor Set of 10
If you’re a master artist seeking professional-grade pigments, the Daniel Smith Extra Fine Watercolor Set of 10 delivers exceptional quality in compact 5 ml tubes. You’ll access a carefully curated palette spanning warm yellows and golds through rich violets and deep blues. The set includes Indian Yellow, Quinacridone Deep Gold, Quinacridone Sienna, Alizarin Crimson, Perylene Violet, Moonglow, Cobalt Blue, Phthalo Blue (Green Shade), Phthalo Green (Blue Shade), and Indigo. This versatile range lets you mix virtually any hue you need. Weighing just 3.2 ounces with dimensions of 0.6 x 5.3 x 3.9 inches, you’ll appreciate the portable design that doesn’t compromise on pigment quality or color variety, making it ideal for studio work or plein air painting.
- Color Count:10 colors
- Skill Level:Professional/Master Artist
- Pigment Quality:Extra Fine
- Included Accessories:None listed
- Safety Standards:Not specified
- Packaging/Portability:Compact tubes (5ml)
- Additional Feature:Master artist curated palette
- Additional Feature:Extra fine 5ml tubes
- Additional Feature:Professional vibrant color selection
Watercolor Paint Set with 100 Bright Colors
Artists of all skill levels will appreciate this extensive 100-color watercolor set, which combines variety with quality that doesn’t compromise on performance. You’ll find 50 regular shades, 35 metallic colors, 5 fluorescent hues, and 10 candy tones that blend seamlessly together. The high-quality pigments guarantee excellent working properties, while the non-toxic formula meets ASTM D-4236 and EN71 safety standards. Your set includes three watercolor brush pens, two regular brushes, an art sponge, and a swatch card. The compact metal case measures 3.25x8x1.5cm, making it perfectly portable for studio work or painting on the go. You’ll appreciate the vibrant, easy-to-blend colors that deliver professional results.
- Color Count:100 colors
- Skill Level:Beginner to Professional
- Pigment Quality:High-quality pigments
- Included Accessories:3 brush pens, 2 brushes, sponge, swatch card
- Safety Standards:ASTM D-4236, EN71 compliant
- Packaging/Portability:Compact lightweight metal case
- Additional Feature:100 colors in one set
- Additional Feature:Metallic and fluorescent included
- Additional Feature:Multiple brush pen accessories
Paul Rubens Watercolor Paint Set 24 Colors
Whether you’re pursuing your first watercolor painting or refining your technique, the Paul Rubens 24-color set delivers professional-grade quality that won’t compromise your vision. You’ll appreciate the ultra-pure pigments that resist muddiness during mixing, paired with exceptional transparency and strong tinting power. Each color maintains excellent lightfastness, ensuring your work won’t fade over time. The floral-focused palette gives you 24 distinct shades spanning subtle nuances to striking contrasts, perfect for capturing botanical compositions. You can remove and replace individual pans as needed, while the lightweight pink tin travels easily. Whether you’re an artist, beginner, hobbyist, or student, this set’s smooth performance and consistent quality make it an excellent choice for serious watercolor work.
- Color Count:24 colors
- Skill Level:Beginner to Professional
- Pigment Quality:Ultra-pure pigments, professional-grade
- Included Accessories:None listed
- Safety Standards:Not specified
- Packaging/Portability:Lightweight pink tin with removable pans
- Additional Feature:Removable/replaceable individual pans
- Additional Feature:Floral-focused color palette
- Additional Feature:Every batch tested/analyzed
ARTISTRO Watercolor Paint Set Portable Kit
The ARTISTRO Watercolor Paint Set Portable Kit stands out as the ideal choice for creatives who need versatility and convenience in a single package. You’ll appreciate the 48 total colors, including fluorescent and metallic options, packed into a lightweight tin box designed for easy transport. The set includes essential accessories: a water brush pen, sponge, black marker, swatch sheet, and flexible brush—everything you need for sketching, lettering, or bullet journaling anywhere. Safety certifications and non-toxic formulation make it perfect for children over three, while professional-grade pigments satisfy experienced artists. The elegant tin box design doubles as an impressive gift for beginners through professionals. You get substantial quality and functionality without sacrificing portability.
- Color Count:40 colors
- Skill Level:Beginner to Professional
- Pigment Quality:High-quality vibrant colors
- Included Accessories:Water brush pen, sponge, marker, swatch sheet, brush
- Safety Standards:ASTM D-4236, EN71 compliant
- Packaging/Portability:Lightweight tin box
- Additional Feature:40 paints with fluorescent
- Additional Feature:Water brush pen included
- Additional Feature:Gift-ready elegant tin box
Artist’s Loft 36 Color Watercolor Paint Value Pack Necessities™
If you’re seeking a versatile watercolor set that won’t break your budget, the Artist’s Loft 36 Color Watercolor Paint Value Pack Necessities™ delivers impressive value with its extensive color range and quality pigmentation. You’ll get 36 assorted colors in 0.4 fl. oz. tubes, each featuring smooth consistency and excellent coverage. The palette spans vibrant hues from Chinese White and multiple yellows to deep blues, greens, and earth tones, giving you everything you need for diverse artistic projects. You can apply these paints on glass, ceramic, wood, paper, and other surfaces, making them incredibly flexible. Conforming to ASTM D-4236 safety standards, they’re perfect whether you’re a seasoned artist or exploring watercolor painting for the first time.
- Color Count:36 colors
- Skill Level:General Artist
- Pigment Quality:High-quality pigmented colors
- Included Accessories:None listed
- Safety Standards:ASTM D-4236 compliant
- Packaging/Portability:Individual tubes (12ml each)
- Additional Feature:Multi-surface compatible (glass/ceramic/wood)
- Additional Feature:0.4 fl oz generous sizes
- Additional Feature:36 traditional color range
Nicpro 36 Color Watercolor Paint Set with Brushes & Paper
You’ll find everything you need to start painting immediately with Nicpro’s extensive 36-color watercolor set—making it an exceptional choice for beginners and hobbyists who don’t want to shop for supplies separately. The tubes deliver high-pigment, vibrant hues with excellent transparency and blendability. You’re getting ten versatile brushes in various shapes for precise control and smooth application, plus a 140lb cold-pressed watercolor pad that absorbs beautifully. The included palette, color wheel guide, and swatch sheet round out your starter arsenal. Non-toxic and safety-certified, this set’s portable design makes it perfect for travel, classrooms, or home studios—all packaged in an attractive gift box.
- Color Count:36 colors
- Skill Level:Beginner to Professional
- Pigment Quality:Artist-grade, high pigment concentration
- Included Accessories:10 brushes, palette, 25-sheet pad, color wheel, swatch sheet
- Safety Standards:ASTM D4236, EN71 compliant, acid-free
- Packaging/Portability:Gift box with carrying design
- Additional Feature:25-sheet watercolor paper pad
- Additional Feature:10 versatile assorted brushes
- Additional Feature:Color wheel guide included
Michael Harding Professional Watercolors – 15ml Tubes (Warm White)
Michael Harding Professional Watercolors in Warm White represent an exceptional choice for artists who demand superior pigmentation and color intensity in their work. You’ll appreciate the finely milled formula that delivers ink-like vibrancy without fillers. These 15ml tubes pack impressive color strength and longevity, making them ideal for serious painters. The matte finish suits ceramic palettes perfectly, enhancing your mixing experience. With a perfect 5.0-star rating, you’re investing in paints crafted with meticulous care. Though not waterproof, their professional-grade quality justifies the investment for artists prioritizing pigment quality and artistic excellence over budget alternatives.
- Color Count:1 color
- Skill Level:Professional
- Pigment Quality:Highly pigmented, finely milled
- Included Accessories:None listed
- Safety Standards:Not specified
- Packaging/Portability:Single 15ml tube
- Additional Feature:Ink-like color intensity
- Additional Feature:Highly pigmented single tubes
- Additional Feature:Premium ceramic palette compatible
Factors to Consider When Choosing Michaels Watercolor Paint
When you’re selecting Michaels watercolor paints, you’ll want to evaluate the quality and pigment concentration to guarantee you’re getting professional-grade colors that won’t fade. You should also consider the color range and variety available, the set size and value for your budget, and how the portability and packaging fit your painting style. Finally, assess the surface compatibility and versatility of each option so you can work across different mediums and projects.
Quality and Pigment Concentration
The pigment concentration in watercolor paints fundamentally determines their performance and longevity. You’ll want to examine how vibrant and intense the hues appear when applied—these characteristics indicate higher pigment loads. Professional-grade watercolors contain concentrated pigments that deliver superior transparency, tinting strength, and vivid colors compared to student-grade alternatives.
Check the paint’s consistency too. A creamy, smooth texture signals higher gum arabic content, which enhances your control and working properties. Conversely, you should avoid paints with excessive fillers and binders, as they dilute the pure pigment’s effectiveness.
Pigment quality directly impacts lightfastness, meaning your artwork resists fading over time when exposed to light. By prioritizing paints with quality pigments and minimal fillers, you’re investing in artwork that maintains its brilliance and integrity for years.
Color Range and Variety
As you’re building your watercolor collection, you’ll rapidly encounter that color range considerably affects your creative flexibility. Michaels watercolor tubes offer extensive palettes spanning basic primaries to specialized hues, enabling you to explore diverse artistic styles without constantly mixing.
When you select sets with comprehensive color spectrums—including opaque, transparent, and metallic options—you access superior blending capabilities. You can seamlessly match colors, layer hues, and create nuanced variations that expand your artistic expression.
The number of unique pigments directly impacts your creative possibilities. You’ll realize that sets with thoughtfully curated color combinations let you tackle various subjects, from landscapes to portraits, without limitation. This versatility means you’re investing in tools that grow with your artistic ambitions.
Set Size and Value
Balancing your budget against your actual needs is crucial when selecting Michaels watercolor tube sets. You’ll find options ranging from small starter kits to extensive collections with 24+ colors. Consider what you’re actually going to use rather than chasing quantity. A smaller set with quality pigments often outperforms a bloated collection gathering dust. Examine the price per tube—larger sets typically offer better value, but only if you’ll utilize most colors. Think about your skill level too. Beginners don’t need premium professional sets, while experienced artists justify investing in expanded palettes. Michaels frequently runs sales, so timing your purchase strategically stretches your budget further. Focus on getting genuine value rather than just the lowest sticker price.
Portability and Packaging
Portability matters when you’re choosing a Michaels watercolor set, especially if you plan to paint beyond your studio walls. Lightweight metal tins and plastic cases make transportation effortless during travel or outdoor sessions. You’ll appreciate how compact packaging lets you slip your supplies into a backpack without adding bulk.
Beyond weight, consider the set’s dimensions carefully. A well-proportioned design fits comfortably in studio storage while remaining accessible for plein air work. Included accessories like brush pens, sponges, and swatch cards boost versatility without compromising portability.
Equally important is protective packaging that shields your paints from drying out or spilling. Quality construction preserves paint integrity during transport, ensuring your colors remain vibrant and usable whenever inspiration strikes.
Surface Compatibility and Versatility
Most watercolor artists don’t realize how much their choice of paint affects which surfaces they can work on. Michaels watercolor paint tubes offer impressive versatility across various mediums. You’ll find these paints work beautifully on traditional watercolor paper, but they’re also compatible with cotton rag papers, textured surfaces, and mixed-media substrates. The pigment quality determines how well the paint adheres and performs on different materials. Higher-quality formulations provide better flow on challenging surfaces like cold-pressed paper or board. You can also layer these paints effectively without compromising adhesion or causing unwanted lifting. This compatibility range means you’re not limited to conventional applications—you can experiment with unconventional surfaces while maintaining professional results. Understanding your paint’s surface compatibility empowers you to explore diverse artistic techniques.
