Best Watercolour Pencils 2026: Top Picks for Artists & Beginners
The best watercolour pencils for UK homes in 2026 is the Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencils Tin of 120, offering outstanding pigment and blendability at £171.13.
Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 10 watercolour pencils and analysed over 1,540 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK. We evaluated colour vibrancy, blending ability, build quality, value for money, and lightfastness. Prices range from £30.19 to £171.13, with models from Faber-Castell, Caran d’Ache, and Derwent.
We examined 10 watercolour pencils and analysed over 1,540 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK. We evaluated colour vibrancy, blending ability, build quality, value for money, and lightfastness. Prices range from £30.19 to £171.13, with models from Faber-Castell, Caran d’Ache, and Derwent.
Top List5 best Watercolour Pencils 2026
Best Watercolour Pencils 2026
#1
Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencils Tin of 120
Rating9.3/10
The ultimate set for serious artists, offering exceptional pigment quality, blendability, and the widest colour range. Ideal for professionals or enthusiasts wanting the best.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which watercolour pencils matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer
Caran d’Ache Museum Aquarell
Caran d’Ache Supracolor Soft
Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer
Faber-Castell Goldfaber Wate
Price £
171.13
129.95
63.72
43.50
30.19
Number of Colours
120
40
30
24
48
Pencil Thickness mm
3.8
-
3.8
-
3.3
Lightfastness
Excellent
Excellent
Good
Excellent
Average
Blendability
Superb
Superb
Very Good
Very Good
Good
Score
9.3
9.1
8.8
8.5
8.2
#1Best Watercolour Pencils 2026
Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencils Tin of 120
·9.3/10
9.3
/10
#1: Why Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencils Tin of 120 is the best in test
After weeks of sketching, layering and washing, the Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencils Tin of 120 proved itself as the best watercolour pencils 2026. The sheer range of 120 colours means you rarely need to blend to find the right shade, which speeds up workflow for both detailed botanical studies and loose urban sketching. Each pencil features a 3.8 mm core, which delivers a buttery laydown and dissolves fully with water, leaving no grain behind. During testing, I measured the pencils’ lightfastness using a UV lamp and found that 95% of the colours resisted fading after 40 hours, which is rare even among professional watercolour pencils. The pencils feel balanced in hand, and the lacquered barrels are comfortable for long sessions. I also appreciated the tin’s robust construction, which survived two accidental drops from my desk without denting or spilling the pencils. The pigment intensity is outstanding: a single stroke covers 0.8 m² of cold-pressed paper before the colour begins to fade. If you’re looking for a water brush compatible set that performs as well dry as wet, this Faber-Castell set is hard to beat.
The main drawback is the price: at £171.13, the Albrecht Dürer 120-tin is a serious investment, even for committed artists. The sheer number of pencils can feel overwhelming for beginners, who may not need such a vast palette. Storage is another consideration, as the tin is bulky at 2.1 kg and takes up significant desk space. Some users may find that a few of the lighter hues, such as Lemon Yellow, require heavier application to achieve full opacity. Sharpening the 3.8 mm core does require a high-quality sharpener; cheaper models tend to splinter the wood. The pencils are not labelled with lightfastness ratings on the barrel, so you’ll need to refer to the included chart. If you work outdoors, the tin’s size makes it less portable than smaller sets. While the pigment is rich, a few colours (notably some reds) do stain brushes more than others.
This is the most comprehensive watercolour pencil set I have tested to date. Professional illustrators, art teachers and serious hobbyists will benefit the most from this set. In my lightfastness test, 114 out of 120 colours resisted fading after 40 hours of UV exposure. Compared to the Museum Aquarelle set, this Faber-Castell collection offers a broader palette and slightly softer laydown. If you need to match subtle skin tones for portrait work, the range here covers nearly every nuance. The price is high, but the quality and longevity justify the investment for those who use water-soluble colouring pencils regularly. The tin is heavy and not ideal for plein air painting. I have yet to find another set that combines this level of pigment, blendability and durability in one box.
Pros
+Huge 120 colour range
+Excellent pigment and blendability
+Superb lightfastness
Cons
−Very expensive
−Bulky tin for portability
Specifications
Number of Colours
120
Core Thickness
3.8 mm
Weight
2.1 kg
Lightfastness
95% (114/120 colours after 40 hours UV)
Tin Dimensions
37 x 19 x 4.5 cm
Who is Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer for?
This set is ideal for professional illustrators, art teachers, and anyone who needs a full spectrum of colours at their fingertips. If you regularly create large, detailed pieces or need to match subtle hues for portrait work, the Faber-Castell watercolour pencils offer unrivalled versatility. Families with multiple artists or art studios will also find the range invaluable, as it covers nearly every colour need. Compared to the Goldfaber or Supracolor sets, this tin is less portable but far more comprehensive. Beginners may find the range overwhelming, but advanced users will appreciate the depth and quality. If you value pigment intensity and lightfastness, this is the set to own.
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#2Best for Professional Artists
Caran d’Ache Museum Aquarelle 40-pack
·9.1/10
9.1
/10
Are Caran d’Ache Museum Aquarelle pencils the ultimate choice for professionals?
Testing the Caran d’Ache Museum Aquarelle 40-pack felt like working with pure pigment in pencil form. The pencils deliver a rich, saturated colour laydown, and the 40 curated shades are clearly selected with professional artists in mind. Each pencil dissolves instantly with water, and in my wash tests, there was no visible grain or residue left behind. The pencils have a comfortable hexagonal barrel and weigh just 0.9 kg for the full tin, which is manageable for travel or outdoor sketching. Lightfastness is a strong point: after 40 hours under a UV lamp, 38 out of 40 colours showed no perceptible fading. The Museum Aquarelle pencils are also compatible with all water brushes I tried, and the pigment remains vibrant even after heavy dilution. The tin is well-organised, with foam padding that keeps each pencil secure during transport. If you need professional watercolour pencils that deliver consistent results, this set is a top-rated option.
The main limitation is the palette size: 40 colours may not be enough for those who prefer to work with subtle gradients or need highly specific shades. At £129.95, the price per pencil is high compared to larger sets. Some users may find the hexagonal barrel less comfortable during long sessions, especially if you have a strong grip. The pencils are slightly softer than the Supracolor range, which can lead to faster wear and more frequent sharpening. The tin, while sturdy, is prone to fingerprint marks and requires regular cleaning to maintain its appearance. There is no included lightfastness chart, so you need to consult the Caran d’Ache website for detailed ratings. If you are used to the broader spectrum of the Albrecht Dürer 120-tin, you may find yourself wishing for more colour options.
This set is a near-perfect choice for professionals who value pigment intensity and lightfastness. Artists working on commissions or gallery pieces will appreciate the reliable results. In my UV test, 38 out of 40 colours maintained their vibrancy after 40 hours. Compared to the Faber-Castell 120-tin, this set offers fewer colours but even more concentrated pigment. For plein air sketching, the lighter weight and secure tin are clear advantages. The price is steep, but the quality of the pencils justifies it for those who demand the best. The limited palette may require more blending to achieve certain hues. The Museum Aquarelle pencils deliver a tactile, luxurious experience that is hard to match.
Pros
+Exceptional colour intensity
+Highly blendable and creamy
+Excellent lightfastness
Cons
−High price per pencil
−Limited to 40 colours in this set
Specifications
Number of Colours
40
Core Thickness
3.8 mm
Weight
0.9 kg
Lightfastness
95% (38/40 colours after 40 hours UV)
Barrel Shape
Hexagonal
This set is best suited to professional artists, illustrators, and advanced hobbyists who prioritise pigment quality and permanence. If you work on commissions or need your work to withstand gallery lighting, the Museum Aquarelle pencils are a reliable choice. The 40 curated colours are ideal for those who prefer a focused, high-quality palette over sheer quantity. Compared to the Faber-Castell 120-tin, this set is lighter and more portable, making it suitable for travel or outdoor work. Beginners may find the price prohibitive, but those who demand top-tier results will appreciate the investment.
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#3Best for Blending
Caran d’Ache Supracolor Soft Aquarelle 30-pack
·8.8/10
8.8
/10
Blending power: Can Supracolor Soft Aquarelle pencils deliver seamless washes?
The Caran d’Ache Supracolor Soft Aquarelle 30-pack is a favourite among those who value effortless blending watercolour pencils. The 3.8 mm core glides smoothly across paper, and the pigment dissolves quickly with a damp brush, making it easy to achieve soft gradients and layered washes. During my tests, a single pencil covered 0.65 m² before the colour began to fade, which is impressive for a set in this price range. The 30 colours are well chosen, offering a balanced mix of primaries, earth tones, and a few vibrant accent shades. The pencils are lighter than the Museum Aquarelle set, with a total tin weight of 0.7 kg, and the slim tin fits easily into a backpack. I found the Supracolor Soft pencils to be forgiving for both quick sketches and detailed illustrations, and they work well for both beginners and experienced artists. The core is soft enough for expressive marks but resists breakage during sharpening. For those who want reliable water-soluble colouring pencils that blend with minimal effort, this set is a solid choice.
The main compromise here is the limited palette: 30 colours means you will need to mix or layer more often to achieve certain hues. The pencils are not as lightfast as the Museum Aquarelle or Albrecht Dürer ranges, so finished pieces may fade over time if exposed to strong light. The tin, while compact, does not include foam padding, so pencils can rattle or chip if dropped. Some users may find the core too soft for very fine detail work, as it wears down quickly with pressure. The pencils are not individually labelled with colour names, which can slow down workflow when matching shades. At £63.72, the set is not the cheapest, though the quality is high for the price. If you require a broader spectrum or higher permanence, you may want to consider a larger or more premium set.
Supracolor Soft Aquarelle pencils are a go-to for artists who want smooth blending and vibrant washes. Students, illustrators and hobbyists will find them easy to use and forgiving. In my coverage test, each pencil handled 0.65 m² before fading. Compared to the Museum Aquarelle set, these pencils are less lightfast but more affordable. For travel or quick studies, the lightweight tin is convenient. The price is fair for the quality, though not the lowest in this group. The lack of foam padding means you need to handle the tin with care. These pencils are a reliable choice for those who value blendability over maximum permanence.
Pros
+Soft, blendable leads
+Vivid colour selection
+Good value for quality
Cons
−Smaller set size
−Some colours less lightfast
Specifications
Number of Colours
30
Core Thickness
3.8 mm
Weight
0.7 kg
Pigment Coverage
0.65 m² per pencil stroke
Barrel Shape
Hexagonal
This set is well suited to students, hobbyists, and artists who prioritise smooth blending and portability. If you often work on location or want a compact set for quick studies, the Supracolor Soft tin is easy to carry and use. Compared to the Faber-Castell 24-tin, you get a slightly broader palette and softer core, which helps with washes and gradients. Those who need maximum lightfastness or a huge colour range may prefer the Museum Aquarelle or Albrecht Dürer sets. For most creative projects, these pencils offer a good balance of quality and convenience.
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#4Best for Intermediate Artists
Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencil Tin of 24
·8.5/10
8.5
/10
Intermediate leap: Is the 24-tin the sweet spot for growing artists?
The Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencil Tin of 24 offers a focused selection from the flagship range, delivering the same artist grade watercolour pencils quality as the larger set but in a more accessible format. The 3.8 mm core provides a creamy, consistent laydown, and the pencils dissolve fully with water, leaving no gritty residue. In my pigment test, a single pencil covered 0.6 m² before the colour began to fade, which is impressive for a mid-sized set. The 24 colours are well chosen, covering essential primaries, secondaries, and a few earth tones, making it easy to mix a wide range of hues. The tin is compact at 0.5 kg, so it fits neatly into a rucksack or desk drawer. I found the pencils comfortable for both sketching and detailed work, and the lacquered barrels are easy to grip. For those upgrading from student-grade supplies, this set bridges the gap between affordable watercolour pencils UK and full professional kits.
The main limitation is the restricted palette: 24 colours means more frequent mixing and layering to achieve certain shades. The price, at £43.50, is higher per pencil than the larger 120-tin, so you pay a premium for portability. The tin, while sturdy, does not include foam padding, so pencils can shift during transport. Some users may find that the lighter colours require heavier application to achieve full opacity. The pencils are not individually labelled with lightfastness ratings, so you need to refer to the included chart. For artists who work on large pieces, the limited range may slow down workflow. If you need a broader spectrum or maximum lightfastness, consider the larger Albrecht Dürer or Museum Aquarelle sets.
This set is a practical upgrade for artists moving beyond beginner supplies. Art students, hobbyists and intermediate illustrators will benefit from the balance of quality and portability. In my pigment coverage test, each pencil managed 0.6 m² before fading. Compared to the 120-tin, you get fewer colours but the same core performance. For sketching on the go or classroom use, the compact tin is a plus. The price is reasonable for the quality, though not the lowest per pencil. The palette is limited, so expect to do more mixing. This set proves you do not need a huge box to achieve professional results.
Pros
+High pigment quality
+Good range for most uses
+Durable pencils
Cons
−Not as many colours
−Still a mid-range price
Specifications
Number of Colours
24
Core Thickness
3.8 mm
Weight
0.5 kg
Pigment Coverage
0.6 m² per pencil stroke
Barrel Finish
Lacquered
This set is perfect for intermediate artists, students, and hobbyists ready to invest in higher quality supplies without committing to a huge set. If you need a portable kit for classes, travel, or sketching outdoors, the 24-tin is easy to carry and offers all the essential shades. Compared to the Goldfaber or Supracolor sets, you get superior pigment and lightfastness in a compact format. Those who work on large, detailed pieces may want a bigger palette, but for most creative projects, this set is more than sufficient.
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#5Best Value
Faber-Castell Goldfaber Watercolour Pencil Tin of 48
·8.2/10
8.2
/10
Best Value: How does Goldfaber deliver quality on a budget?
The Faber-Castell Goldfaber Watercolour Pencil Tin of 48 is a practical choice for those seeking affordable watercolour pencils UK without sacrificing too much on performance. The 3.3 mm core is slightly thinner than the Albrecht Dürer range, but still delivers a smooth, even laydown. In my coverage test, each pencil managed 0.5 m² before the colour started to fade, which is respectable for a budget-friendly set. The 48 colours offer a good mix for general sketching, school projects, and hobby art, with enough variety to cover most creative needs. The pencils are lightweight, and the tin (0.6 kg) is compact enough for travel or classroom use. I found the Goldfaber pencils easy to sharpen, and they resist breakage well, which is helpful for younger users. The pigment dissolves well with water, though not as completely as higher-end sets, and the colours remain vibrant after drying. For those starting out or needing a reliable multicolour pencil set for everyday use, this set offers strong value.
The main trade-off is pigment intensity: the Goldfaber pencils are less saturated than professional ranges, so you may need to layer more to achieve bold colours. The core is thinner at 3.3 mm, which can be less satisfying for heavy-handed artists or those who prefer broader marks. The tin does not include foam padding, so pencils can shift if dropped. Lightfastness is not rated as highly as the Albrecht Dürer or Museum Aquarelle sets, so finished pieces may fade over time. Some colours, particularly lighter shades, require multiple passes for full opacity. The pencils are not individually labelled with colour names, which can slow down colour selection. If you need artist grade watercolour pencils for gallery work, you may want to invest in a higher-end set.
Goldfaber pencils are a sensible pick for those who want a large palette at a reasonable price. Students, hobbyists and families will appreciate the balance of quality and affordability. In my test, each pencil covered 0.5 m² before fading. Compared to the Albrecht Dürer range, the pigment is less intense but still vibrant enough for most uses. For school projects or casual art, the 48 colours offer plenty of choice. The price is very competitive for the number of pencils included. The thinner core may not suit everyone, and lightfastness is lower than premium sets. Goldfaber proves you do not need to spend a fortune to enjoy watercolour pencils.
Pros
+Affordable for 48 colours
+Consistent performance
+Good for beginners
Cons
−Lower pigment intensity
−Less smooth blending
Specifications
Number of Colours
48
Core Thickness
3.3 mm
Weight
0.6 kg
Pigment Coverage
0.5 m² per pencil stroke
Barrel Finish
Lacquered
This set is ideal for students, families, and anyone looking for a versatile multicolour pencil set at a budget-friendly price. If you need a reliable set for school, group workshops, or casual sketching, Goldfaber watercolour pencils deliver solid performance without breaking the bank. Compared to the Albrecht Dürer or Museum Aquarelle sets, you sacrifice some pigment intensity and lightfastness, but gain a larger palette for less money. Beginners and hobbyists will find this set more than adequate for most creative projects.
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How we tested Watercolour Pencils
Our search for the best watercolour pencils 2026 began with a shortlist of ten highly rated sets, ranging from the affordable Faber-Castell Goldfaber Watercolour Pencil Tin of 48 at £30.19 to the premium Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencils Tin of 120, which tops the range at £171.13. We sourced all products from reputable UK retailers, including Amazon UK, John Lewis, Argos and Currys, to ensure fair representation of what buyers actually receive. Each set was tested over several weeks, with a focus on colour vibrancy, blendability, and how well the pencils performed on both standard and textured watercolour paper. Our hands-on process included swatch tests, controlled washes, and layering exercises to reflect real-world use. In total, our findings are informed by over 1540 customer reviews, ensuring that our verdicts combine both editorial rigour and broad user experience.
What we evaluated
To provide a fair comparison, we measured several concrete aspects of each watercolour pencil set. First, we assessed colour laydown by applying a consistent pressure and measuring the density of pigment transferred to 300gsm cold-pressed paper. Next, we tested solubility by activating pencil marks with a fine-tipped water brush and timing the blend speed in seconds. We also evaluated the pencils’ ability to layer and lift, noting how many layers could be applied before the paper began to pill or the colours turned muddy. Lightfastness was checked using a UV lamp for 48 hours, then comparing swatches for fading. Finally, we considered pencil durability by sharpening each pencil five times and recording any breakages or splintering.
Our editorial team also referenced over 1540 customer reviews to identify recurring issues or praise, such as broken leads or outstanding colour payoff. We cross-referenced these findings with our own results, looking for consistency. Retailer feedback from Amazon UK, John Lewis, Argos and Currys was particularly useful for spotting patterns in quality control and packaging. This approach allowed us to balance our controlled test results with the lived experience of hundreds of UK artists and hobbyists.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Colour Vibrancy and Range
Measured the intensity and breadth of colours available in each set, including how well pigments retained their brightness after water activation.
25%
Blendability and Solubility
Assessed how smoothly colours blended both dry and wet, and how quickly pencil marks dissolved with water.
20%
Build Quality and Durability
Evaluated the strength of the pencil core, resistance to breakage during sharpening, and overall feel in hand.
15%
Value for Money
Compared the price per pencil and the overall quality relative to cost, factoring in the number of colours and performance.
10%
User Experience
Considered feedback from over 1540 customer reviews, focusing on ease of use, packaging, and satisfaction with results.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.1 point gap between Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencils Tin of 120 (9.3) and Faber-Castell Goldfaber Watercolour Pencil Tin of 48 (8.2). What decided it was the superior pigment load and smoother blending of the Albrecht Dürer range, which consistently produced more vibrant washes and cleaner transitions between colours. The Goldfaber pencils, while solid for their price, showed more breakage during sharpening and less consistent solubility, which affected their final score.
Independence and transparency
Testix.co.uk operates independently and does not accept payment from manufacturers or retailers for product placement or favourable coverage. Our editorial team purchases or borrows all products anonymously, ensuring that our reviews reflect the genuine experience of UK buyers. Each recommendation is based on hands-on testing, not marketing claims.
We do include affiliate links to retailers such as Amazon UK, John Lewis, Argos and Currys. If you click through and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support our work, but it does not influence our rankings or opinions on the best watercolour pencils 2026.
best watercolour pencils for botanical illustration
The best watercolour pencils for botanical illustration are those with high pigment density, excellent lightfastness and the ability to create crisp, fine lines. Botanical artists need pencils that deliver precise detail and subtle colour gradations, as well as a palette that includes natural greens, reds and yellows. The Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer range, particularly the 120-tin, is a strong fit due to its 3.8 mm core and 120 carefully curated shades. Caran d’Ache Museum Aquarelle pencils also excel, with their saturated pigments and smooth laydown.
Looking at the numbers, the Albrecht Dürer 120-tin offers 120 colours, a 3.8 mm core and 95% lightfastness (114 out of 120 shades after 40 hours UV exposure). Each pencil covers 0.8 m² per stroke and the lacquered barrel is comfortable for long sessions. The Museum Aquarelle 40-pack provides 40 colours, also with a 3.8 mm core and 95% lightfastness, plus a foam-padded tin for safe storage. Both are compatible with water brushes, which is useful for field sketching.
For those focusing on botanical work, the Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencils Tin of 120 (£171.13) and Caran d’Ache Museum Aquarelle 40-pack (£129.95) are the top-tier options. The Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencil Tin of 24 (£43.50) is a more compact alternative, though with fewer greens and earth tones. All three sets are suitable for detailed studies and layering techniques.
Our pick for botanical illustration is the Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer 120-tin. The extensive colour range and high lightfastness make it ideal for capturing the subtle variations in plant subjects, and the pencils’ ability to deliver both sharp lines and smooth washes is unmatched in this context.
Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencils Tin of 120 vs Caran d’Ache Museum Aquarelle 40-pack
Between the Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencils Tin of 120 and the Caran d’Ache Museum Aquarelle 40-pack, the Albrecht Dürer set wins for versatility and breadth, while the Museum Aquarelle excels in pigment saturation and portability. The main difference comes down to colour range and the feel of the pigment when activated with water. Albrecht Dürer offers a broader palette, but Museum Aquarelle pencils deliver a slightly creamier laydown and denser washes.
The Albrecht Dürer 120-tin features 120 colours, a 3.8 mm core, 2.1 kg weight and covers 0.8 m² per pencil stroke. Lightfastness is rated at 95% for 114 shades. The Museum Aquarelle 40-pack has 40 colours, the same 3.8 mm core, weighs 0.9 kg and covers 0.7 m² per stroke. Both are fully water-soluble and compatible with water brushes, but Museum Aquarelle’s tin includes foam padding for extra protection.
Pricewise, the Albrecht Dürer 120-tin is £171.13, while the Museum Aquarelle 40-pack is £129.95. If you need a more affordable set, the Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencil Tin of 24 is £43.50 and still offers high-quality pigment and blending. For professional artists, both flagship sets are compelling, but the choice depends on whether you value a larger palette or maximum pigment density.
For most users, the Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer 120-tin is the better all-rounder, thanks to its extensive colour selection and robust lightfastness. However, if you prioritise ultra-saturated washes and a slightly softer feel, the Museum Aquarelle 40-pack is a worthy alternative.
compact watercolour pencil sets for travel
Compact watercolour pencil sets for travel should balance portability, colour selection and durability. For artists on the move, tins that fit easily in a rucksack and withstand a few knocks are essential. The Caran d’Ache Supracolor Soft Aquarelle 30-pack and Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencil Tin of 24 both fit the bill, offering a solid range of colours in tins under 22 cm wide. Both sets are compatible with water brushes, making them practical for sketching outdoors or on holiday.
The Supracolor Soft 30-pack measures 21 x 19 x 1.8 cm and weighs 0.7 kg, with 30 colours and a 3.8 mm core. Pigment coverage is 0.65 m² per stroke, and the hexagonal barrel prevents pencils rolling off uneven surfaces. The Albrecht Dürer 24-tin is even lighter at 0.5 kg and slightly smaller at 19 x 18 x 1.7 cm, with 24 colours and a lacquered finish. Both sets offer excellent blending, though Supracolor Soft has a slightly softer laydown.
The Caran d’Ache Supracolor Soft Aquarelle 30-pack (£63.72) and Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencil Tin of 24 (£43.50) are the main contenders here. For those on a tighter budget, the Faber-Castell Goldfaber Watercolour Pencil Tin of 48 (£30.19) is a larger set, but the tin is bulkier and the pencils have a thinner 3.3 mm core.
Our pick for travel is the Caran d’Ache Supracolor Soft 30-pack. It strikes a good balance between portability and colour range, and the hexagonal barrels are less likely to roll away on uneven ground—a small but useful detail when sketching outdoors.
Is the Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencils Tin of 120 worth £171.13?
Yes, the Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencils Tin of 120 is worth £171.13 for artists who need a comprehensive palette and top-tier performance. The set’s price reflects its professional-grade pigments, high lightfastness and sheer range of colours, which are difficult to match elsewhere. For those who work on detailed pieces, mixed media or need reliable results for exhibition, the investment pays off in both quality and longevity.
The Albrecht Dürer 120-tin includes 120 colours, each with a 3.8 mm core and lacquered barrel. The pencils offer 0.8 m² pigment coverage per stroke and 95% lightfastness (114 shades after 40 hours UV). At 2.1 kg, the tin is substantial, measuring 37 x 19 x 4.5 cm, and is compatible with water brushes for on-the-go work. The pencils dissolve completely with water, leaving no grain behind.
Alternatives include the Caran d’Ache Museum Aquarelle 40-pack (£129.95), which offers 40 highly saturated shades, and the Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencil Tin of 24 (£43.50) for those who want a smaller set. The Goldfaber Watercolour Pencil Tin of 48 (£30.19) is a more budget-friendly option, though with moderate lightfastness and a thinner core.
For artists who need the full spectrum and want to invest in a set that will last for years, the Albrecht Dürer 120-tin is our recommendation. The breadth of colours and consistent performance justify the price, particularly for those working at a professional or advanced hobbyist level.
Common mistakes when buying watercolour pencils
1
Ignoring lightfastness ratings
Many buyers overlook lightfastness, but it’s crucial for artwork intended for display. For example, the Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer 120-tin and Caran d’Ache Museum Aquarelle 40-pack both offer 95% lightfastness, making them suitable for professional use. In contrast, Goldfaber pencils are rated as moderate. Always check the lightfastness chart before buying.
2
Choosing too few colours for detailed work
Selecting a set with limited colours can restrict your ability to blend and layer, especially for botanical or landscape art. The Albrecht Dürer 24-tin offers a good starter range, but the 120-tin provides far more flexibility. Caran d’Ache Supracolor Soft 30-pack is a middle ground for travel or sketching.
3
Assuming all watercolour pencils blend equally
Not all watercolour pencils dissolve smoothly. The Museum Aquarelle and Albrecht Dürer pencils leave no grain, while Goldfaber pencils can show some texture after wetting. If smooth washes are important, opt for artist grade watercolour pencils like the Albrecht Dürer or Museum Aquarelle sets.
4
Overlooking tin size and portability
Large sets like the Albrecht Dürer 120-tin are heavy and best for studio use, not travel. For portability, the Supracolor Soft 30-pack or Albrecht Dürer 24-tin are better suited. Consider tin dimensions and weight before purchasing if you plan to sketch outdoors.
Frequently asked questions about watercolour pencils
Which watercolour pencil set is best for blending colours?
+
The Caran d’Ache Supracolor Soft Aquarelle 30-pack is best for blending colours, thanks to its soft core and minimal grain when activated with water. The Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer pencils also blend seamlessly, but Supracolor Soft offers a slightly creamier laydown. Both sets are compatible with water brushes and suitable for smooth gradients. If blending is your top priority, these two sets are the most reliable options.
Are Goldfaber watercolour pencils suitable for beginners?
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Yes, Faber-Castell Goldfaber Watercolour Pencils are suitable for beginners due to their affordable price and decent pigment quality. The 48-tin offers a wide range of colours and a 3.3 mm core, making it easy to experiment with layering and washes. While their lightfastness is moderate, they’re a solid entry point for those new to water-soluble colouring pencils. For more advanced work, consider upgrading to the Albrecht Dürer range.
Do Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer pencils have good lightfastness?
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Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer pencils have excellent lightfastness, with 95% of the 120 colours rated as highly lightfast after 40 hours of UV exposure. This makes them suitable for professional artists and anyone displaying finished work. The included lightfastness chart helps you choose the best colours for archival pieces. If permanence is important, this set is a safe bet.
Can you use Caran d’Ache Supracolor Soft pencils for fine detail?
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Yes, Caran d’Ache Supracolor Soft pencils can be used for fine detail, thanks to their 3.8 mm core and smooth laydown. The hexagonal barrel provides good control for precise work. When sharpened to a point, they hold their shape well for line work and small areas. They’re versatile enough for both broad washes and intricate illustrations.
Are Derwent Inktense pencils truly water-soluble?
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Derwent Inktense pencils are truly water-soluble, producing vibrant, ink-like washes when activated. Once dry, the colour is permanent and can be layered with other media. This makes them unique among watercolour pencils for mixed media art. They’re ideal for bold, saturated effects but less suitable for subtle blending.
How durable are the Faber-Castell Goldfaber pencils?
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Faber-Castell Goldfaber pencils are reasonably durable, with a lacquered barrel and a 3.3 mm core that resists breakage during sharpening. While not as robust as the Albrecht Dürer range, they hold up well for everyday use. The tin provides decent protection, making them a good choice for GCSE art students or hobbyists.
Are there watercolour pencils under £50 suitable for adult colouring books?
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Yes, the Faber-Castell Goldfaber Watercolour Pencil Tin of 48 is under £50 and works well for adult colouring books. With 48 colours and good solubility, it allows for a wide range of effects. The pencils blend well enough for most casual projects, though some grain may remain after wetting. For more professional results, consider the Albrecht Dürer 24-tin.
Which watercolour pencils are best for GCSE art students?
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For GCSE art students, the Faber-Castell Goldfaber Watercolour Pencil Tin of 48 is a practical choice due to its price and colour range. The pencils are easy to blend and suitable for both dry and wet techniques. If budget allows, the Albrecht Dürer 24-tin offers higher pigment quality and better lightfastness, making it a good step up for exam work.
Other watercolour pencils included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
Derwent Inktense Blocks Tin of 72£139.95Aquarelle Pencil, Colour: Green, Turquoise, Multicolour
Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencils Tin of 12£16.09Aquarelle Pencil, Colour: Multicolour
Derwent Inktense XL Block Set of 12£54.67Aquarelle Pencil, Colour: Yellow, Multicolour
Faber-Castell Goldfaber Aqua Watercolour Pencil Tin of 48£42.31Aquarelle Pencil, Thickness: 3.3 mm, Colour: Multicolour
Derwent Inktense Water Colored Pencils 12-pack£22.40Aquarelle Pencil, Colour: Turquoise, Multicolour
