Why Watercolour Paint Sets Make the Perfect Gift for Aspiring Artists
Looking for a gift that sparks creativity and encourages a bit of artistic flair? A watercolour paint set could be the perfect solution! Whether the recipient is just starting out or already has a budding interest in art, this thoughtful gift offers the opportunity to explore a world of colour and expression.
Watercolour painting is not only a relaxing and mindful activity, but it’s also a creative outlet that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. The soft, translucent nature of watercolours allows for a wide range of artistic styles, from delicate washes to vibrant bursts of colour. It’s a medium that encourages experimentation, making it ideal for anyone from complete beginners to more experienced painters.
This versatile gift idea is about more than just the paints themselves – it’s the beginning of a journey. Imagine the joy of giving someone the tools to create their own unique works of art, whether they’re painting landscapes, animals, or just dabbling with abstract designs. Plus, watercolour sets often come with everything needed to get started, meaning your gift can be used straight away, which is always a bonus!
If you're after a present that’s both thoughtful and inspiring, a watercolour paint set offers the perfect blend of creativity and fun – a gift that keeps on giving with every brushstroke.
What to Look for in a Watercolour Paint Set: A Buyer’s Guide
Understanding Different Types of Watercolours
When buying a watercolour paint set, the first thing to consider is the type of watercolours it includes. There are several different forms, each with its own advantages:
- Pan sets: These are solid blocks of paint in a compact case. They're easy to carry around and perfect for painting on the go.
- Tube watercolours: These come in small tubes and offer a more concentrated, vibrant colour. Great for artists who want bold washes of colour or prefer to mix their own shades.
- Liquid watercolours: These provide intense, ready-to-use colours straight from the bottle. They're popular for large projects or for those who enjoy experimenting with more fluid painting techniques.
- Watercolour pencils: A fun, versatile option that lets the recipient sketch and colour, then add water for a painterly effect. Ideal for those who like to blend drawing and painting.
Choosing the right type depends on how and where the recipient is likely to use them. If they're often on the move, a portable pan set could be perfect. For someone who enjoys experimenting with intense colours and textures, tubes or liquid watercolours may be a better fit.
Artist Grade vs. Student Grade: What’s the Difference?
Watercolour paints generally come in two grades:
- Artist grade: High-quality pigments with more vibrancy and better lightfastness (how well they resist fading over time). These paints often have richer colours and more smoothness in application. They're perfect for serious hobbyists or aspiring artists who care about the longevity of their work.
- Student grade: More affordable and typically less pigmented. These paints are ideal for beginners who are just getting a feel for the medium and might not need professional-level supplies.
If you’re buying for someone new to watercolours, a student-grade set is likely sufficient, while a more advanced artist would appreciate the depth and quality of an artist-grade set.
Essential Accessories to Complete the Gift
A watercolour paint set on its own is fantastic, but adding a few key accessories can turn it into an all-in-one gift. Here’s what you might consider including:
- Brushes: A good set of brushes is essential for any watercolour artist. Look for a mix of sizes (small, medium, and large) to allow for detailed work as well as broader strokes.
- Watercolour paper: Regular paper won’t cut it! Watercolour paper is thicker and textured to handle the water without warping or tearing.
- Palettes: While some sets include palettes, others may not. A simple palette helps with mixing and blending colours.
- Storage case: Handy for keeping everything organised, especially for artists who like to paint outdoors or travel with their supplies.
These extras add a thoughtful touch to your gift and ensure the recipient has everything they need to start painting straight away.
Trusted Watercolour Brands to Consider
When choosing a watercolour paint set, it helps to pick a brand known for quality and reliability. Some trusted brands that can be found on Amazon UK include:
- Winsor & Newton: A renowned name in the world of watercolours, offering both artist-grade and student-grade options.
- Schmincke: Known for vibrant, professional-grade paints with excellent pigmentation.
- Daler Rowney: A popular choice for beginner and student sets, offering great value for money.
- Sennelier: A premium brand with a long history of producing artist-quality watercolours.
These brands provide various options to suit different skill levels, so you can find the perfect fit based on the recipient’s needs.
Gift Set or Build Your Own Kit?
When it comes to gifting a watercolour set, there are two main options: pre-made gift sets or custom-built kits. Both have their advantages:
- Gift sets: Pre-packaged sets are a convenient option that often includes paints, brushes, and even paper. They're beautifully presented and take the guesswork out of choosing separate items.
- Custom kits: For a more personal touch, consider building your own kit by selecting specific paints, brushes, and accessories. This allows you to tailor the gift to the recipient’s tastes, whether they prefer particular colours or enjoy using specific brands.
If the recipient has a favourite brand or is working on a specific type of project, a custom kit could show that extra bit of thought and care.
Fun Ways to Personalise Your Watercolour Gift
Customising the Presentation
Presentation matters! Elevate the gifting experience by thinking creatively about how you package the watercolour set. A few ideas:
- Decorative box: Present the set in a beautiful wooden or patterned box that can be reused for storing art supplies.
- Personalised note: Include a handwritten message or an inspirational art quote to add a heartfelt touch.
- Art-themed wrapping: Wrap the gift in paper with watercolour designs or patterns, setting the tone for the creative fun ahead.
Adding a Theme to Your Gift
If you know the recipient’s interests, you could theme the gift to make it even more special. For example:
- Nature lover: Include painting prompts that encourage them to paint landscapes or flowers, paired with a sketchbook filled with nature scenes.
- Fantasy enthusiast: Add a set of fantasy-themed brushes or stencils for drawing mythical creatures, inspiring them to create magical works of art.
A themed approach adds a thoughtful layer to your gift, showing that you’ve put extra care into selecting something meaningful.
Frequently Asked Questions: Everything You Need to Know Before Buying
What’s the Best Type of Watercolour Set for Beginners?
For beginners, a student-grade pan set is often the best option. It’s easy to use, portable, and provides a good introduction to watercolour without being overwhelming. Many beginner sets come with brushes and a palette, making them ideal for someone just starting out.
How Many Colours Should a Watercolour Set Have?
It depends on the recipient’s experience level. A basic set with 12–24 colours is usually plenty for beginners, offering a good range of hues to experiment with. For more experienced artists, sets with 36 or more colours provide a wider variety of shades and the ability to mix more nuanced tones.
Do Watercolour Paints Expire?
Watercolours don’t really “expire,” but they can dry out over time, particularly tube paints. Fortunately, even dried-out watercolours can often be rehydrated with water, so they remain usable. Pan sets tend to last longer since they’re already in solid form and can be reactivated with a damp brush.
Are Watercolours Safe for Children?
Yes, most watercolour sets are non-toxic and safe for children to use. If you’re buying for a younger child, just make sure to check that the paints are labelled as non-toxic. Some sets are specifically designed for kids and come with easy-to-handle brushes and washable paints.
Can Watercolours Be Used on Surfaces Other Than Paper?
Absolutely! While watercolour paper is the most common surface, watercolours can also be used on:
- Canvas: Special watercolour canvas is available for artists who want to create lasting works.
- Fabric: Watercolour techniques can be applied to fabric with the right preparations.
- Wood: For a rustic touch, watercolours can be painted on untreated wood, often with beautiful effects.
These alternative surfaces can give the recipient more room to experiment and create something unique.
Inspiring Ideas for Using a Watercolour Paint Set
Creative Projects for Beginners
Help the recipient get started with a few simple project ideas:
- Paint a sunset: Easy to execute but stunning in its result, painting a sunset is a great way to explore blending colours.
- Floral illustrations: Watercolours work beautifully for delicate flower designs, perfect for greeting cards or framed art.
- Abstract art: For those who aren’t sure where to begin, experimenting with abstract shapes and colours is a fun, pressure-free way to play with watercolours.
Watercolour Tutorials and Resources
If the recipient is new to watercolour painting, they might appreciate a few extra resources to help them along. Some options include:
- YouTube tutorials: There are countless free watercolour tutorials available, ranging from beginner basics to more advanced techniques.
- Books: Consider adding a watercolour guidebook to your gift, such as Everyday Watercolor by Jenna Rainey or Watercolor for the Soul by Emma Block.
Family-Friendly Watercolour Projects
Watercolour sets aren’t just for solo painting sessions – they can be a great way for families to bond over creative projects. Some ideas include:
- Collaborative murals: Everyone in the family can contribute to a large, shared mural, each adding their own unique touches.
- Holiday cards: Create personalised, handmade cards for birthdays, Christmas, or other special occasions.
Incorporating Watercolour into Everyday Life
Finally, watercolours can be more than just a hobby – they can add beauty and creativity to everyday items:
- Journals: Watercolours are perfect for adding illustrations to personal journals or planners.
- Home décor: Paint a simple watercolour print and frame it for an easy, personalised piece of art to brighten up a space.
Final Thoughts: A Gift That Inspires Creativity and Relaxation
Giving a watercolour paint set isn’t just about the paints – it’s about offering the recipient a chance to relax, explore their creativity, and maybe even discover a new passion. Whether they’re just starting out or rediscovering their love of painting, this thoughtful, artistic gift is sure to be appreciated for the joy it brings.