best watercolor brush pens

Best Watercolor Brush Pens for Artists: Top Picks and Reviews 2024

Watercolor brush pens offer a versatile and convenient way to create stunning watercolor paintings on the go. Whether you're a professional artist or a beginner, these pens are perfect for adding color to your sketches, illustrations, and lettering projects. The best watercolor brush pens are designed to deliver vibrant colors, smooth strokes, and excellent control, making them an essential tool for any artist.

When choosing the best watercolor brush pens, there are several critical factors to consider. The first is the quality of the ink. High-quality ink is essential for producing bright, vibrant colors that won't fade over time. The second factor is the brush tip. A good brush tip should be soft, flexible, and able to hold a lot of ink, allowing you to create a variety of strokes and effects. Finally, you should consider the pen's overall design and construction, including its size, weight, and durability.

In this article, we'll be taking a closer look at the best watercolor brush pens on the market today. We've tested and reviewed dozens of pens to find the ones that offer the best combination of quality, performance, and value. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting, we're confident that you'll find the perfect watercolor brush pen for your needs.

Best Watercolor Brush Pens

If you are a watercolor artist or just starting out, you know how important it is to have the right tools to create beautiful artwork. Watercolor brush pens are a versatile and convenient tool that can help you achieve stunning results. In this article, we have compiled a list of the best watercolor brush pens available on Amazon. Whether you are looking for a set with a wide range of colors or a more affordable option, we have got you covered. Read on to find the perfect watercolor brush pens for your next masterpiece.

Arteza Real Brush Pens, 48 Watercolor Pens for Dynamic Watercolor Effects and Calligraphy, Flexible Nylon Brush Tips, Paint Markers Perfect for Drawing, Journaling, Artistic Projects, and Gift 49

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If you are looking for a versatile set of watercolor brush pens, Arteza Real Brush Pens are worth considering.

Pros

  • Incredible Color Selection: With 48 diverse and vibrant colors, it is easy to achieve the perfect tone for your creative projects, whether you are working on art projects, journaling, or practicing calligraphy.
  • Exceptional Versatility: Ideal for both beginners and seasoned artists, these drawing pens provide versatility in your work. Use these watercolor markers dry for detailed sketches and bold lines, or add water to create delicate watercolor effects.
  • Quality You Can Trust: Designed to deliver rich, continuous color without bleeding or fading, these paint pens have a flexible nylon brush tip that allows for both sweeping strokes and fine details, ensuring a smooth and controlled ink flow.

Cons

  • Limited Durability: While these pens are great for light use, they may not hold up as well under heavy use or extended periods of time.
  • Brush Tip Fraying: Some users have reported issues with the brush tip fraying over time, which can impact the quality of your artwork.
  • Learning Curve: If you are new to watercolor brush pens, there may be a learning curve to using these pens effectively.

Arteza Real Brush Pens are a great option for anyone looking for a versatile set of watercolor brush pens. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, these pens provide a wide range of colors and flexibility to create beautiful artwork. However, they may not be the most durable option for heavy use or extended periods of time. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the brush tip fraying over time, and there may be a learning curve to using these pens effectively.

Mr. Pen Watercolor Brush Pens

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If you're looking for a versatile and portable watercolor brush pen set, Mr. Pen Watercolor Brush Pens might be the right choice for you.

Pros

  • The package includes both point tip and flat tip brush pens, making it suitable for various art styles and techniques.
  • Quality nylon hair brush tips prevent the brush pen from spreading or smearing while in use, ensuring a smooth and consistent flow of ink or water.
  • The barrel is easy to disassemble and refill with water or ink, and you can control the flow of ink or water with a simple squeeze of the barrel.

Cons

  • Some users reported difficulty in getting water to come out of the handle into the brush itself, which requires more strength than other water brushes.
  • The plastic body of the brush pen is quite thin, and the lids may not fit well on larger brushes.
  • The price of the product is higher compared to other brands.

Mr. Pen Watercolor Brush Pens are great for art students, amateur and professional artists who want to draw fine lines, color large areas, blend colors, and create new shades. You can use them with watercolor crayons, water-soluble pencils, water-soluble pigments, or your favorite ink to make your own portable brush. Cleaning the brush is easy, just rinse it with water after use.

The brush pen set comes with three point tip brush pens and three flat tip brush pens, allowing you to experiment with different brush strokes and techniques. The quality nylon hair brush tips ensure that the brush pen stays intact and does not spray, spread, or smear while in use. The barrel is easy to disassemble, refill, and control the flow of ink or water with just a squeeze of the barrel.

However, some users reported difficulty in getting water to come out of the handle into the brush itself, which requires more strength than other water brushes. The plastic body of the brush pen is quite thin, and the lids may not fit well on larger brushes. Additionally, the price of the product is higher compared to other brands.

Overall, if you're looking for a versatile and portable watercolor brush pen set, Mr. Pen Watercolor Brush Pens might be a good choice for you.

Arteza Real Brush Pens

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If you're looking for affordable watercolor brush pens with a wide range of colors, the Arteza Real Brush Pens are a great option.

Pros

  • The pack of 24 diverse colors provides richer shades and more flexible nylon tips than many higher-priced brands.
  • The pens are versatile and allow for endless creative possibilities, making them ideal for various artistic and journaling needs.
  • The pens ensure precision control for creating light pastel washes, subtle shading, and gradients.

Cons

  • Some of the pens produce splotchy and dry colors, which can be difficult to control.
  • The pens can be difficult to blend once the pigment dries into the paper.
  • The pens may not work well on thicker papers.

The Arteza Real Brush Pens are a fun and affordable tool for artists of all levels. Whether you're looking to create delicate watercolor effects or engage in dry-brush painting, these pens provide excellent quality for your artistic endeavors. Keep in mind that some of the pens may produce splotchy and dry colors, so it may take some practice to achieve the desired results. Overall, these pens are a great option for anyone looking to unleash their creativity.

ARTISTRO 24 Watercolor Markers with Flexible Brush Pens for Pros & Beginners - Consistent, Smooth, Washable, Non-Toxic, Ideal for Coloring, Calligraphy, & Manga 24 Brush Tip

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If you're looking for a versatile set of watercolor brush pens, the ARTISTRO 24 Watercolor Markers might be just what you need. These pens are suitable for both beginners and pros, and they come with a water brush pen for blending, a fineliner pen for finishing touches, a color chart to test the paints, and 5 fun postcards.

Pros

  • The 24 unique colors allow for a wide range of creativity and blending options.
  • The nylon brushes have 0.05-5 mm tips that are self-moistening, self-cleaning, and won't fracture.
  • The pens are non-toxic, acid-free, and environmentally-friendly, making them safe for kids and adults.

Cons

  • Some of the colors may be dry or difficult to blend.
  • The fineliner pen may not be as useful as the water brush pen for some users.
  • The price point may be higher than some other watercolor brush pen sets on the market.

These watercolor brush pens are easy to use and can be used for a variety of artistic projects, including coloring books, painting, sketching, comic illustration, manga, and more. The nylon brushes are high-quality and produce consistent, smooth lines.

The non-toxic and acid-free ink is safe for kids and adults, and the environmentally-friendly materials used in the pens make them a great choice for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

Overall, if you're looking for a versatile and high-quality set of watercolor brush pens, the ARTISTRO 24 Watercolor Markers are definitely worth considering.

Primrosia 60 Dual Tip Marker Pens

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If you're looking for a versatile set of watercolor brush pens, the Primrosia 60 Dual Tip Marker Pens are worth considering.

Pros

  • The dual tips allow for both watercolor brush strokes and fine detailing.
  • With 60 colors to choose from, you'll have plenty of options for shading, coloring, and blending.
  • The pens are non-toxic, fast-drying, and safe to use.

Cons

  • To achieve a watercolor effect, you'll need to use heavy watercolor paper, which may limit your options.
  • The pens are on the pricier side compared to some other sets.
  • Some users have reported issues with the brush tips fraying or becoming damaged over time.

If you're an artist who enjoys experimenting with different techniques and colors, the Primrosia 60 Dual Tip Marker Pens could be a great addition to your toolkit. The dual tips make it easy to switch between brush strokes and fine detailing, while the range of colors gives you plenty of options for creating shading, blending, and ombre effects. Plus, the pens are non-toxic and fast-drying, making them safe and easy to use.

That being said, it's worth noting that achieving a watercolor effect with these pens requires specific paper, which may limit your options somewhat. Additionally, the pens are on the pricier side compared to some other sets, so they may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget. Finally, some users have reported issues with the brush tips fraying or becoming damaged over time, so it's important to handle them carefully to ensure they last as long as possible.

UPINS Watercolor Brush Pen Set

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If you're looking for a versatile and affordable set of watercolor brush pens, the UPINS Watercolor Brush Pen Set is a great option.

Pros

  • The set includes 12 brushes in a variety of sizes and shapes, making them suitable for a range of projects and skill levels.
  • The nylon brush tips are high quality and durable, ensuring that they won't fray or smear while in use.
  • The pens are easy to control and use, with a simple barrel design that allows you to add water or ink as needed.

Cons

  • Some users have reported issues with leaking or clogging, particularly if the pens are not cleaned regularly.
  • The pens may not be suitable for more advanced or professional-level work, as they lack some of the features and precision of more expensive options.
  • The set only includes 12 colors, which may not be enough for some users.

Overall, the UPINS Watercolor Brush Pen Set is a great choice for beginners or anyone looking for an affordable and versatile set of watercolor brush pens. With their high-quality nylon tips and easy-to-use design, they're a great way to get started with watercolor painting. Just be sure to clean them regularly to avoid any issues with clogging or leaking.

MAIKEDEPOT Watercolor Brush Pens

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If you're looking for an affordable and beginner-friendly set of watercolor brush pens, the MAIKEDEPOT Watercolor Brush Pens might be worth considering.

Pros

  • The set includes 48 vibrant water-based colors and two water blending pens, allowing for a wide range of color options and techniques.
  • The flexible and soft nylon tips allow for both thin and thick lines, making it easy to create a variety of brush strokes and effects.
  • The set comes with an online tutorial video, which can be accessed by scanning the QR code on the package or through the Amazon listing, making it a great option for beginners.

Cons

  • Some users have reported that the markers tend to dry out quickly or have inconsistent ink flow, especially with certain colors.
  • The water brush pens included in the set may not be as durable or high-quality as other options on the market.
  • While the set is advertised as suitable for artists of all levels, some experienced artists may find the quality of the markers to be lacking compared to more expensive options.

In terms of performance and quality, the MAIKEDEPOT Watercolor Brush Pens may not be the best option for professional artists or those looking for top-of-the-line materials. However, for beginners or those on a budget, the set offers a decent range of colors and tools for exploring watercolor techniques.

Creativepeak Watercolor Brush Pens

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If you're looking for a versatile set of watercolor brush pens, the Creativepeak Watercolor Brush Pens are definitely worth considering.

Pros

  • These pens provide more control than a paintbrush, thanks to their soft and durable tips that allow for complete control over each stroke.
  • The premium color palette of these pens includes rich, vibrant pigments that can be enjoyed by all, whether you're a beginner, a student, a hobbyist, or a professional artist.
  • These pens are versatile by design and can be used for a variety of purposes, including adult coloring, painting, drawing, sketching, lettering, comics, manga, illustrations, bullet journaling, and scrapbooking.

Cons

  • While these pens contain a non-toxic, water-based ink that blends exceptionally well together, they may not be as blendable as some other watercolor brush pens on the market.
  • Some users may find that the tips of these pens wear down quickly, especially with frequent use.
  • The lack of names for each individual color may make it difficult to keep track of which colors you're using, especially if you're working on a complex project.

Overall, the Creativepeak Watercolor Brush Pens are a solid choice for anyone looking for a set of versatile and high-quality watercolor brush pens. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting out, these pens offer plenty of creative potential and are backed by a 60-day money-back guarantee from the manufacturer.

Tombow Water Brush Pens

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If you're looking for a versatile set of water brush pens to use with your Tombow Dual Brush Pens or any other water-based markers, watercolor paints, pencils or crayons, the Tombow Water Brush Pens are a great choice.

Pros

  • Easily blend water-based markers, watercolor paint, pencils or crayons with the soft, flexible brush tip
  • Fill with water to blend or add ink or dye
  • Gently squeeze barrel to apply; fills up to 5.5ml

Cons

  • The round brush tip may be too dry compared to the other tips
  • The smallest brush may leak water through the brush and make it hard to load paint
  • The brushes may not be suitable for professional artists who require more precise control

These water brush pens are easy to use and provide a great way to blend colors and create watercolor effects. The soft, flexible brush tips make it easy to control the flow of water and ink, and the ability to fill the barrel with water or ink makes it convenient to use on the go.

The Tombow Water Brush Pens come in a pack of three, with small, medium, and flat brush tips. The small and medium brushes are perfect for fine details, while the flat brush is great for broader coverage.

Overall, these water brush pens are a great addition to any artist's toolkit, whether you're a beginner or a more experienced artist. They're easy to use, versatile, and provide a great way to create beautiful watercolor effects.

Junreox Watercolor Brush Pens

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If you're looking for a watercolor brush pen set that's safe for kids and easy to use, the Junreox Watercolor Brush Pens might be a great choice for you.

Pros

  • Comes with 12 pens, including 6 fine point tip and 6 flat tip brush pens
  • Safe for kids, made of high-quality plastic and non-toxic nylon hair brush bristles
  • Easy to use and control with a soft barrel and valve design to avoid leakage

Cons

  • Some users reported that the pens leaked or were difficult to fill with water
  • The brush tips may fray or wear out over time with heavy use
  • The set only comes in one color (white)

If you're looking for a portable and convenient watercolor brush pen set that's safe for kids and beginners, the Junreox Watercolor Brush Pens might be a good choice for you. With 3 sizes of point and flat brush pens, you can draw the finest line or color large areas, blend colors, and create new shades. These pens are perfect for watercolor, aquarelle, powdered pigment, peerless watercolors, crayons, water-soluble pencils, acrylic, gouache, inks, and more.

The pens are easy to use and control - just unscrew or screw the water pen barrel to fill in water (not more than 2/3 of the pen tube), and gently squeeze the soft barrel to control the water flow. The solid watercolor paint brush is designed with a valve to avoid leakage while drawing, and is featured with leakproof, self-moistening, light weight, and water proof. After use, just wipe off excess color or ink and rinse with flow water.

However, some users reported that the pens leaked or were difficult to fill with water, and the brush tips may fray or wear out over time with heavy use. The set only comes in one color (white), so if you're looking for a more colorful set, you might want to consider other options. Overall, the Junreox Watercolor Brush Pens are a good value set for beginners and kids who want to experiment with watercolor painting.

ParKoo Watercolor Brush Pens

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If you're looking for an affordable set of watercolor brush pens, the ParKoo Watercolor Brush Pens might be a good option for you.

Pros

  • The set includes 24 brilliant and vivid colors, allowing you to create a variety of effects like coloring, illustrating, painting, sketching, blending, and doodling.
  • The premium soft supple bristles offer richer colors and finer, more flexible tips than you'd get with costlier brands. The tapered point allows a variety of thick and thin strokes with precision control.
  • These brush pens are reliable, non-toxic, and quick to dry, offering a smudge and streak-free painting experience.

Cons

  • Some users have reported that the brush pens dried too quickly, making it difficult to achieve the desired color palette and blend.
  • The set includes only one blending brush pen, which might not be enough for some users.
  • While the brush pens are suitable for beginners, they might not meet the needs of more experienced artists.

Overall, the ParKoo Watercolor Brush Pens are a great option for beginners or those on a budget who want to experiment with watercolor brush pens. However, if you're looking for a more professional set with a wider range of colors and more blending options, you might want to consider a more expensive brand.

GenCrafts Watercolor Brush Pens Set of 20 Premium Colors - Real Brush Tips - No Mess Storage Case - Washable Nontoxic Markers - Portable Painting 1 Count (Pack of 20)

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If you're looking for high-quality watercolor brush pens that offer great value for your money, the GenCrafts Watercolor Brush Pens Set is an excellent choice.

Pros

  • With 20 vibrant colors to choose from, these watercolor brush pens offer exceptional blending capabilities and stunning visual effects for all your painting and coloring needs.
  • The set includes a bonus refillable brush pen, making it a cost-effective choice for both beginners and seasoned artists.
  • Equipped with real nylon brush tips, these pens offer the flexibility to produce everything from fine details to broad strokes. Experience the feel of traditional brushes with the convenience of a pen.

Cons

  • Some of the lighter colors may require several layers to achieve good coloring.
  • The longevity of the pens is uncertain, as some users have reported issues with the pens drying out quickly.
  • The pens may not be suitable for professional artists who require higher-quality materials.

If you're a hobbyist or a beginner looking for a fun and affordable way to explore watercolor painting, the GenCrafts Watercolor Brush Pens Set is an excellent choice. These pens are easy to use and offer excellent blending capabilities, making them ideal for a wide range of painting and coloring projects.

The set comes with a convenient storage case that keeps your pens organized and ready for spontaneous creativity, whether you're at home, in the studio, or on the move. The pens are also washable and non-toxic, making them safe for children to use.

Overall, the GenCrafts Watercolor Brush Pens Set is a great value for your money, and it's an excellent choice for anyone looking to explore watercolor painting without breaking the bank.

Castle Art Supplies Watercolor Brush Pens Set

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If you're looking for high-quality watercolor brush pens, the Castle Art Supplies set is worth considering.

Pros

  • The set includes 24 exciting colors that can be used to achieve gorgeous watercolor effects, including washes, gradients, layering, shading, and more.
  • The water-based inks can be used directly, mixed on the palette, or with water on paper.
  • The continuous flow through flexible brush tips gives freedom to use thin precise strokes for details or lettering, or cover space with thick strokes.

Cons

  • The water pen twists the opposite direction than you expect to open and fill with water, which can be messy.
  • Some of the colors don't exactly match the indication color on the pen itself, but a color cheat sheet can help.
  • The water brush pen is not as durable as the brush pens themselves.

If you're an artist or beginner looking for watercolor brush pens that are convenient, mess-free, and versatile, the Castle Art Supplies set is a great option. The set comes with a 8-page guide to get you started, plus a fold-out tutorial to help you get to know the watercolor brush pens by re-creating the dramatic jousting knights box illustration on the case sleeve in five easy-to-follow steps. The set is also tested by studio experts to beat competitors and trusted by 2.5 million customers worldwide, backed by a unique money-back-PLUS guarantee.

In terms of the cons, the water pen can be messy when filling with water, but this is a minor inconvenience. The color discrepancy can be easily solved with a color cheat sheet, and the water brush pen is not as durable as the brush pens themselves, but this is a common issue with water brush pens in general. Overall, the Castle Art Supplies Watercolor Brush Pens Set is a great investment for artists and beginners alike.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best watercolor brush pens for your needs, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:

Tip Shape and Size

The tip shape and size of the brush pen is an important factor to consider when choosing the right one for your needs. Different shapes and sizes will produce different effects, so it's important to choose the one that best suits your artistic style and the type of work you plan to create.

Ink Quality

The quality of the ink used in the brush pen is another important consideration. Look for pens that use high-quality, pigmented ink that is fade-resistant and produces vibrant colors.

Water Solubility

Some watercolor brush pens are water-soluble, which means you can blend and mix colors by adding water to your artwork. If this is an important feature for you, look for pens that are labeled as water-soluble.

Brush Material

The material used to make the brush tip can also affect the quality of your artwork. Look for brush pens that use high-quality synthetic or natural fibers that are durable and produce a smooth, even stroke.

Price

Finally, consider the price of the brush pens you are considering. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option, investing in a high-quality set of brush pens can make a big difference in the quality of your artwork. Look for pens that are within your budget but still offer the features and quality you need.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best watercolor brush pens for your needs and create beautiful, vibrant artwork.

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors should you consider when choosing watercolor brush pens for beginners?

When choosing watercolor brush pens for beginners, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, consider the size and shape of the brush tip. A smaller tip will be easier to control, while a larger tip will cover more surface area. Secondly, consider the type of ink used in the pen. Water-based ink is ideal for beginners as it is easy to work with and can be blended easily. Lastly, consider the price point. It is advisable to start with a budget-friendly option until you become more experienced.

How do refillable watercolor brush pens compare to disposable ones in terms of quality and value?

Refillable watercolor brush pens are generally higher quality and offer better value for money compared to disposable ones. Refillable pens allow you to replace the ink when it runs out, which is more cost-effective over time. Additionally, refillable pens are often made with higher-quality materials, such as nylon brush tips, which offer better control and precision.

Can professional artists benefit from using watercolor brush pens, and if so, which brands are recommended?

Yes, professional artists can benefit from using watercolor brush pens. They are versatile tools that can be used for sketching, detailing, and creating watercolor paintings. Some recommended brands for professional artists include Winsor & Newton, Tombow, and Pentel.

What are the distinguishing features of high-quality watercolor brush pens for detailed painting?

High-quality watercolor brush pens for detailed painting have a few distinguishing features. Firstly, they have a small brush tip that allows for precise control when painting. Secondly, they have high-quality ink that is easy to blend and layer. Lastly, they are made with durable materials that can withstand frequent use without losing their shape or quality.

How do Arteza watercolor brush pens perform against other leading brands in the market?

Arteza watercolor brush pens are a popular option in the market and are known for their affordability and quality. They perform well against other leading brands in terms of color vibrancy, ink flow, and brush tip quality. However, some artists may prefer other brands for specific features or personal preference.

What are the advantages of using Reaeon watercolor brush pens for blending and layering colors?

Reaeon watercolor brush pens are a great option for blending and layering colors due to their high-quality ink and brush tip. The ink is easy to blend and layer, allowing for smooth transitions between colors. Additionally, the brush tip is soft and flexible, allowing for easy control over the amount of ink applied.

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Mantas, DRIPCRIME Designer

Mantas is a professional merch graphic designer with years of expierence in alternative, y2k, goth grunge, punk industry. The passion for the industry has lead Mantas to become one of main designers and writers at DRIPCRIME store.