Watercolor painting is a beautiful and unique art form that requires specific tools to achieve the desired effect. One of the essential tools for watercolor painting is a pen. A good pen can make all the difference when it comes to adding details and precision to your watercolor artwork.
When it comes to choosing the best pen to use with watercolor, there are a few critical things you should consider. The first thing to consider is the type of pen tip. The pen tip determines the thickness and type of line you can create. Watercolor pens are available in a variety of tip types, including brush tips, fine tips, and bullet tips.
Another important factor to consider is the ink quality. The ink should be water-based and blend well with watercolor paints. The ink should also be waterproof and fade-resistant to ensure your artwork lasts for years to come.
When choosing a watercolor pen, it's also important to consider the color range. Some pens come in a limited range of colors, while others offer a wide range of hues to choose from. The color range you choose will depend on your personal preferences and the type of artwork you plan to create.
In this article, we will explore the best pens to use with watercolor painting. We will review each pen's features, including tip type, ink quality, and color range, to help you choose the best pen for your watercolor artwork.
Best Pens for Watercolor Painting
When it comes to watercolor painting, finding the right pen can make all the difference. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned artist, having a pen that can create fine lines, blend well with water, and withstand the watercolor process is essential. In this article, we've compiled a list of the best pens for watercolor painting to help you find the perfect tool for your next masterpiece.
GOOHEE Watercolor Brush Pens Set
If you're looking for a versatile and easy-to-use watercolor brush pen set, the GOOHEE Watercolor Brush Pens Set is worth considering.
Pros
- The set includes 9 water pens with a variety of small, medium, and large brush tips, making it suitable for different painting techniques and styles.
- The upgraded barrel design makes it easy to fill and control the water flow, allowing you to create beautiful watercolor effects effortlessly.
- The pens are portable and won't leak, so you can take them anywhere and use them on-the-go.
Cons
- The pens may require frequent refilling if you use them frequently or for large projects.
- The larger flat brushes may require more water and can be harder to get started.
- The nylon brush tips may fray or wear out over time with heavy use.
The GOOHEE Watercolor Brush Pens Set is ideal for beginners, art students, and professional artists who want a convenient and affordable set of watercolor brushes. With its multi-purpose and multi-size design, you can use it for coloring, drawing, shading, and more. The set is also safe for kids, as it is made of non-toxic materials.
The pens are easy to use and clean, and the water flow can be easily controlled by squeezing the barrel. After painting, you can store the pens easily without worrying about leaks. The set is also lightweight and portable, so you can take it with you anywhere you go.
Overall, if you're looking for an affordable and versatile watercolor brush pen set, the GOOHEE Watercolor Brush Pens Set is a great choice.
ARTISTRO 12 Watercolor Markers
If you are looking for an affordable and versatile set of watercolor markers, the ARTISTRO 12 Watercolor Markers may be worth your consideration.
Pros
- The set comes with 12 different bright and unique colors that can be blended with water to create amazing effects.
- The nylon brushes on these watercolor brush pens have 0.05-5 mm tips that are self-moistening, self-cleaning, and won't fracture, making them easy to use and suitable for kids and adults, beginners and pros.
- Each watercolor pen meets all USA and EU safety requirements and comes with xylene-free opaque ink, making them non-toxic and environmentally-friendly.
Cons
- The tip of the brush end is not as precise as some users would like, so while it is nice for what it is, you really need to work with a wet wash on your paper to get a nice blend or even coverage.
- Some users find that the fineliner pen included in the set is not as useful as they expected.
- The watercolor markers are not as vibrant as some users would like, and they may require multiple layers to achieve the desired effect.
If you are a beginner looking for an affordable set of watercolor markers to experiment with, the ARTISTRO 12 Watercolor Markers may be a good choice for you. They are easy to use, non-toxic, and come with a water brush pen for blending, a fineliner pen for finishing touches, and a color chart to test the paints. However, if you are a professional artist or looking for more vibrant colors, you may want to consider other options.
Arteza Water Brush Pens for Watercolor Painting
If you're looking for a set of water brush pens that are portable and easy to use, the Arteza Water Brush Pens for Watercolor Painting might be a good option for you.
Pros
- Blend and paint with your favorite watercolor paints without the need for a water cup.
- Portable and self-moistening, making them perfect for on-the-go painting and art classes.
- Comes with a variety of tips, allowing you to make a variety of strokes.
Cons
- Bristles may not maintain their shape as well as other watercolor brushes.
- May take some time to get used to controlling the water flow.
- Some users may prefer traditional watercolor brushes.
These water brush pens are designed and created by artists, making them a great choice for anyone who loves to create. The wide, flat barrel acts as a reservoir for clean water, keeping the brush moist as you use it. The easy-to-squeeze transparent barrel allows you to control the water flow, making it easy to use these pens for a variety of techniques.
One of the best things about these water brush pens is that they are self-moistening and portable. This makes them perfect for on-the-go painting and art classes, as you don't need to worry about carrying around a separate water cup. The different size tips that come in this set allow you to make a variety of strokes, making it easy to create a wide range of effects.
While these water brush pens are a great choice for many artists, some users may find that the bristles don't maintain their shape as well as other watercolor brushes. Additionally, it may take some time to get used to controlling the water flow with the easy-to-squeeze barrel. However, if you're looking for a portable and easy-to-use set of water brush pens, the Arteza Water Brush Pens for Watercolor Painting are definitely worth considering.
DOODLE HOG Watercolor Brush Pens
If you're looking for an affordable set of watercolor brush pens that don't compromise on quality, the DOODLE HOG Watercolor Brush Pens are worth considering.
Pros
- Remarkable value: The DOODLE HOG Watercolor Brush Pens offer amazing quality for the price, making them an excellent budget-friendly option.
- Effortless control: These watercolor markers are easy to use and provide a smooth, streak-free experience. They're also great for creating beautiful watercolor effects without the mess.
- Provides fine and broad lines: The soft and flexible brushes allow for precise strokes, making these pens ideal for calligraphy and intricate graphic work.
Cons
- Limited color range: While the set includes 48 colors, some users may find the selection limited.
- Not ideal for large areas: The small brush tips may not be suitable for covering large areas.
- May not last as long as more expensive brands: Some users have reported issues with the pens drying out quickly or running out of ink faster than expected.
If you're a beginner or a professional artist looking for an affordable set of watercolor brush pens, the DOODLE HOG Watercolor Brush Pens are definitely worth considering. With their remarkable value, effortless control, and ability to provide fine and broad lines, these pens offer a great balance of quality and affordability.
The DOODLE HOG Watercolor Brush Pens are easy to use and provide a smooth, streak-free experience. They're also great for creating beautiful watercolor effects without the mess. However, some users may find the color range limited and the small brush tips may not be suitable for covering large areas. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the pens drying out quickly or running out of ink faster than expected.
Overall, if you're looking for a budget-friendly set of watercolor brush pens that offer great quality, the DOODLE HOG Watercolor Brush Pens are definitely worth checking out.
Watercolor Brush Pens Set
If you are looking for a versatile watercolor brush pen set, the Watercolor Brush Pens Set by MAIKEDEPOT is worth considering.
Pros
- The set includes 48 watercolor brush pens and 2 water blending pens, providing you with a wide range of colors to choose from and allowing you to create unique color blends and ombre effects.
- The nylon tip of the pens is flexible and soft, making it easy to create thin or thick lines and control the flow of ink.
- The package box is compact and easy to carry, making it convenient for artists and beginners to use at home or on the go.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the markers tend to be dry, even when water is added, and not all colors work equally well for watercolor blending.
- The online tutorial video provided by the manufacturer may not be comprehensive enough for some users who are new to using watercolor brush pens.
- The snap closure of the package box may not be very secure, and some users have reported that the pens fall out easily if the box is not handled carefully.
The Watercolor Brush Pens Set by MAIKEDEPOT is a good option for artists and beginners who want to experiment with watercolor painting and calligraphy. The set includes a wide range of colors and the flexible nylon tip of the pens allows for precise control of the ink flow. However, some users have reported issues with dry markers and the snap closure of the package box.
AROIC Watercolor Paint Set
If you're looking for a watercolor paint set that's safe and non-toxic, AROIC Watercolor Paint Set is an excellent choice for beginners, children, and art lovers.
Pros
- With 48 different bright and beautiful colors, this watercolor paint set meets your strong demand for color.
- The high-quality brushes included in this set allow you to describe the details of your paintings.
- The packing box is packed in a strong plastic box, which is convenient for storage and carrying. You can use this watercolor paint set to paint anywhere you want.
Cons
- Some users reported that the brushes are a little harder to clean.
- The watercolor pad could be bigger.
- The set may not be suitable for professional artists.
AROIC Watercolor Paint Set is a safe and non-toxic watercolor paint set that's perfect for beginners, children, and art lovers. The set comes with 48 different bright and beautiful colors, a high-quality refillable water brush, and a high-quality oil painting brush. The packing box is packed in a strong plastic box, which is convenient for storage and carrying. You can use this watercolor paint set to paint anywhere you want.
The high-quality brushes included in this set allow you to describe the details of your paintings. However, some users reported that the brushes are a little harder to clean. Additionally, the watercolor pad could be bigger.
Overall, AROIC Watercolor Paint Set is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a safe and non-toxic watercolor paint set for beginners, children, and art lovers. However, the set may not be suitable for professional artists.
ARTISTRO 24 Watercolor Markers with Flexible Brush Pens for Pros & Beginners - Consistent, Smooth, Washable, Non-Toxic, Ideal for Coloring, Calligraphy, & Manga 24 Brush Tip
If you're looking for a set of watercolor markers that are versatile and easy to use, the ARTISTRO 24 Watercolor Markers with Flexible Brush Pens might be the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- The set comes with 24 bright and unique colors that can be blended with water to create amazing effects.
- The nylon brushes on the watercolor brush pens are self-moistening, self-cleaning, and won't fracture, making them easy to work with.
- The set includes a water brush pen for blending, a fineliner pen for finishing touches, a color chart to test the paints, and 5 fun postcards.
Cons
- Some colors might be too light or dry.
- The set only comes with one water brush pen.
- The fineliner pen might not be suitable for all types of projects.
These watercolor markers are perfect for both beginners and pros, and can be used for coloring books, painting, sketching, comic illustration, manga, and more. Plus, they are non-toxic, acid-free, and environmentally-friendly, making them safe for kids too.
In summary, if you're looking for a versatile and easy-to-use set of watercolor markers, the ARTISTRO 24 Watercolor Markers with Flexible Brush Pens might be the perfect choice for you.
KOUSICOO Micro Pen
If you're looking for a versatile set of pens for creating watercolor art, the KOUSICOO Micro Pen is a great option.
Pros
- The set includes 8 pens with various tip sizes, including a brush tip, allowing for a range of line widths and styles.
- The waterproof archival pigment ink ensures your artwork won't bleed or smudge, and is fade-resistant and quick-drying.
- The smooth and skip-free nylon nibs make writing and drawing a breeze on any paper, including watercolor paper.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the pens can dry out quickly if not used frequently.
- The plastic packaging doubles as a storage case, but may not be as durable as a separate case.
- While the pens are compatible with various art supplies, some users have found that they don't work well with alcohol markers.
If you're an artist or beginner looking for a reliable set of pens to use with watercolor, the KOUSICOO Micro Pen set is a great choice. With its range of tip sizes, waterproof ink, and smooth nibs, you'll be able to create a variety of styles and effects in your artwork. However, be aware that the pens may dry out quickly if not used frequently and that the plastic packaging may not be as durable as a separate case.
Mr. Pen Watercolor Brush Pens
If you're looking for a versatile and portable set of watercolor brush pens, the Mr. Pen Watercolor Brush Pens are a solid choice.
Pros
- The set includes both point tip and flat tip brush pens, making it suitable for a variety of art styles and techniques.
- The quality nylon hair brush tips ensure that the watercolor brush pens stay intact and do not spray, spread, or smear while in use.
- You can control the ink or water flow with just a squeeze of the barrel, making it easy to create fine lines or color large areas.
Cons
- Some users have reported difficulty getting water to come out of the handle and into the brush itself.
- The price is higher than some other brands of watercolor brush pens.
- The plastic body of the pens is thin and the lids do not fit well, which can lead to leaking.
If you're willing to pay a bit more for a set of watercolor brush pens with quality brush tips and versatile tips, the Mr. Pen Watercolor Brush Pens are a good choice. However, be aware that some users have reported issues with water flow and leaking.
MARTCOLOR 12 Size Micro-Pen Fineliner ink Pens
If you're looking for a versatile set of watercolor pens, the MARTCOLOR 12 Size Micro-Pen Fineliner ink Pens may be just what you need.
Pros
- With 12 unique nib sizes to choose from, you'll be able to create a wide range of line widths and styles.
- The waterproof pigment ink is non-toxic, odorless, and archival quality, ensuring your artwork will last.
- These pens are compatible with various mediums, including watercolor paint, making them a great choice for artists, designers, and calligraphers.
Cons
- Some users have reported slight bleeding when using watercolor over the ink.
- The labeling on the pens may come off easily.
- They may not work well on rough or textured surfaces.
These pens are perfect for those who want to experiment with different line widths and styles. The waterproof ink ensures that your artwork won't fade or smear, and the versatile compatibility with various mediums makes them a great choice for artists of all levels. If you're looking for a set of pens that can handle a variety of tasks, the MARTCOLOR 12 Size Micro-Pen Fineliner ink Pens are worth considering.
Mr. Pen Airtight Watercolor Palette
If you're an artist who loves to paint with watercolors, the Mr. Pen Airtight Watercolor Palette is a must-have.
Pros
- This palette comes in a pack of four, giving you plenty of options to organize your colors and mixes.
- The airtight closure ensures that your paints remain fresh and do not dry out, even when not in use for extended periods.
- With 18 wells in each palette, artists have plenty of room to sort their colors, plus the additional mixing areas allow for blending and creating custom shades.
Cons
- The palette is not oven safe, so it cannot be used for baking or heating.
- The palettes are made of plastic and may not be as durable as other materials.
- The palettes are small and may not be suitable for artists who require larger mixing areas.
The Mr. Pen Airtight Watercolor Palette is lightweight and designed for portability, making it perfect for artists who enjoy painting outdoors, in the studio, or while traveling. Crafted from quality materials, these watercolor palettes are built to withstand the demands of daily use, ensuring longevity and consistent performance for artists of all levels.
The 18 wells in each palette provide plenty of room for sorting colors, while the additional mixing areas allow for blending and creating custom shades. The airtight closure ensures that your paints remain fresh and do not dry out, even when not in use for extended periods.
While the palette is not oven safe, it is dishwasher safe, making it easy to clean and maintain. The palettes are small and lightweight, which may not be suitable for artists who require larger mixing areas. However, for artists who need a portable and convenient watercolor palette, the Mr. Pen Airtight Watercolor Palette is an excellent choice.
Brusarth Watercolor Brush Pens Set
If you are looking for a versatile watercolor brush pen set, the Brusarth Watercolor Brush Pens Set is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The set includes four different brush sizes suitable for art students, amateur and professional artists.
- The brush pens are easy to use and control, allowing you to easily control the ink or water flow.
- The quality nylon hair brush tips ensure that the watercolor brush pens stay intact and do not spray, spread, or smear while in use.
Cons
- The watercolor brush pens may not be suitable for more advanced or professional artists who require a wider range of brush sizes.
- The pens may not hold as much water as some other watercolor brush pens on the market.
- The brush pens may not be as durable as some other high-end watercolor brush pens.
These watercolor brush pens are perfect for those who want to experiment with watercolors without investing in expensive equipment. They can be used with powdered pigment, water-soluble pencils, watercolor crayons, water-soluble pigments, inks, and more. The Brusarth Watercolor Brush Pens Set is also easy to clean - just clean it with water after use.
The brush pens are suitable for adults and teens and recommended for painting and coloring. The set includes four brush sizes (2mm, 3mm, 4mm, and 7mm) and comes with a satisfaction guarantee. If you are not satisfied with the product, you can contact the seller for a replacement or an immediate refund.
Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality watercolor brush pen set that is easy to use and control, the Brusarth Watercolor Brush Pens Set is definitely worth checking out.
UPINS Watercolor Brush Pen Set
If you are looking for an affordable watercolor brush pen set that is easy to use and control, then UPINS Watercolor Brush Pen Set is the right choice for you.
Pros
- Easy to use and control
- Quality nylon brush
- Multi-purpose watercolor brush
Cons
- May not be durable
- Some users reported difficulty in cleaning
- Not suitable for professional artists
These watercolor brush pens are perfect for kids, students, amateurs, and artists. The set includes 6 pieces of brushes with 3 flat and 3 sharp brush tips in 3 different sizes. The nylon brush tips ensure that the brush pen stays intact and does not smear while in use. You can easily control the ink or water flow by squeezing the barrel.
The brushes are multi-purpose, allowing you to draw fine lines or color large areas, blend colors, and create new shades. They work great with solid colors or powdered pigment and can be used with watercolor crayons, water-soluble pencils, water-soluble pigments, and inks. The brush pens are also easy to clean; simply rinse them with water after use.
However, some users reported that the brushes may not be very durable and may not last long. Additionally, some users found it difficult to clean the brushes thoroughly. The set is also not suitable for professional artists who require high-quality and durable brushes.
Overall, if you are looking for an affordable and easy-to-use watercolor brush pen set for your art projects, then UPINS Watercolor Brush Pen Set is a great option to consider.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best pen to use with watercolor, there are a few important factors to consider. By taking these factors into account, you can find a pen that will work well with your watercolor paintings and help you achieve the desired results.
Here are some key features to look for when choosing a pen for watercolor:
Tip Size and Shape
The tip size and shape of a pen can have a big impact on the type of lines and marks it creates. For watercolor, you'll want a pen with a fine tip that can create precise lines and details. A pointed tip is also helpful for creating thin lines and adding texture to your paintings.
Ink Type
The type of ink used in a pen can also affect how it works with watercolor. You'll want to look for a pen that uses water-resistant ink, so that the lines you create won't smudge or bleed when you add watercolor on top. Pigment-based inks are a good option for watercolor, as they are more resistant to water than dye-based inks.
Ink Color
While black is a common color for pens used with watercolor, you may also want to consider pens with other colors. A pen with a light color, such as white or light gray, can be useful for adding highlights to your paintings. You may also want to consider pens with a range of colors, so that you can add details and accents in different shades.
Comfort and Grip
Finally, it's important to choose a pen that feels comfortable in your hand and has a good grip. This will help you maintain control and create precise lines. Look for a pen with a comfortable grip and a balanced weight distribution, so that it's easy to use for extended periods of time.
By considering these key features, you can find a pen that will work well with your watercolor paintings and help you achieve the desired results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best pens for creating outlines in watercolor paintings?
When it comes to creating outlines in watercolor paintings, it's important to choose a pen that won't bleed or smudge when used with watercolor. Some of the best pens for this purpose include fine-tipped waterproof pens, such as Micron pens, Staedtler pigment liners, and Sakura Pigma Micron pens. These pens offer precision and control, making them ideal for creating fine details and outlines in watercolor paintings.
Which waterproof pens won't smudge when used with watercolors?
Waterproof pens that won't smudge when used with watercolors include Sakura Pigma Micron pens, Staedtler pigment liners, and Faber-Castell Pitt Artist pens. These pens are designed to be water-resistant and won't smudge or bleed when used with watercolors.
What pens are recommended for beginners working with watercolor?
For beginners working with watercolor, it's recommended to use pens with a medium tip, such as the Tombow Dual Brush pens or the Kuretake Zig Clean Color Real Brush pens. These pens are easy to use and offer a wide range of colors, making them ideal for beginners who are just starting to experiment with watercolor.
How do you choose a pen that works well with watercolor and acrylics?
When choosing a pen that works well with watercolor and acrylics, it's important to look for pens that are water-resistant and won't bleed or smudge when used with these mediums. Some of the best pens for this purpose include Sakura Pigma Micron pens, Staedtler pigment liners, and Faber-Castell Pitt Artist pens.
What are the ideal pens for the line and wash watercolor technique?
For the line and wash watercolor technique, it's recommended to use a waterproof pen with a fine tip, such as the Micron pens or the Staedtler pigment liners. These pens offer precision and control, making them ideal for creating fine details and outlines in watercolor paintings.
Which stamping inks are compatible with watercolor paints?
When it comes to stamping inks that are compatible with watercolor paints, it's important to choose inks that are water-resistant and won't bleed or smudge when used with watercolors. Some of the best stamping inks for this purpose include Ranger Archival Ink, VersaFine Clair ink, and StazOn ink. These inks offer crisp and clear impressions, making them ideal for stamping images that will be colored with watercolor paints.
