Buying Guide for the Best Watercolor Pencils
Watercolor pencils are a versatile art tool that combines the precision of colored pencils with the fluidity of watercolors. They are perfect for artists who want to create detailed drawings with the option to add watercolor effects. When choosing watercolor pencils, it's important to consider factors such as color range, pigment quality, and ease of blending. Understanding these key specifications will help you select the best watercolor pencils for your artistic needs.Color RangeThe color range refers to the number of different colors available in a set of watercolor pencils. This is important because a wider color range allows for more creativity and flexibility in your artwork. Sets can range from a basic 12 colors to over 100. If you're a beginner or working on simple projects, a smaller set might suffice. However, if you enjoy experimenting with colors or working on complex pieces, a larger set with a broader spectrum of colors would be beneficial.
Pigment QualityPigment quality determines the vibrancy and longevity of the colors. High-quality pigments result in more vibrant and long-lasting colors, which is crucial for creating impactful artwork. Pigment quality can vary significantly between brands. If you are a professional artist or someone who values high-quality results, look for pencils that are labeled as artist-grade. For casual use or practice, student-grade pencils might be adequate.
Ease of BlendingEase of blending refers to how well the colors mix with water and with each other. This is important for achieving smooth transitions and gradients in your artwork. Some pencils blend more easily than others, which can affect the final look of your piece. If you plan to use your watercolor pencils primarily for blending and creating watercolor effects, look for pencils that are known for their excellent blending capabilities. If blending is not a priority, this may be less of a concern.
Pencil HardnessPencil hardness affects how the pencil feels when drawing and how easily it can be sharpened. Softer pencils lay down more pigment and are easier to blend, but they may wear down faster. Harder pencils are more durable and better for detailed work. If you prefer detailed, precise lines, opt for harder pencils. For more expressive, painterly effects, softer pencils might be more suitable.
Water SolubilityWater solubility refers to how easily the pencil marks dissolve in water to create a watercolor effect. This is crucial for achieving the desired watercolor look. Some pencils dissolve completely, leaving no trace of the original pencil line, while others retain some of the pencil texture. If you want a true watercolor effect, choose pencils with high water solubility. If you prefer to maintain some of the pencil's texture, look for pencils with moderate solubility.
