10 Best Watercolor Pencils 2025 in the United States

The Derwent Inktense Color Pencils set is a strong contender in the watercolor pencil category, particularly appealing to artists who enjoy vibrant colors and versatility. With a 4mm soft lead core, these pencils deliver bold, expressive drawings thanks to their high pigment quality. Users appreciate the rich color payoff and the ability to blend and layer colors without worrying about bleeding, as the pigments dry quickly and permanently once activated with water.

The Winsor & Newton Studio Collection Artist Watercolor Pencils are a fantastic choice for artists looking to explore the versatility of watercolor effects. One of the standout features is their high pigment quality, which ensures vibrant hues that can easily be blended, whether used dry or with water. Lightfastness is another strong point; these pencils resist fading over time, making them suitable for works that will be displayed or sold. The range of colors in this set of 24 is impressive, providing a good variety to help artists achieve the desired shades for their projects.

The KALOUR 72-Color Professional Watercolor Pencils Set offers a rich and versatile collection of vibrant hues, making it suitable for both experienced artists and beginners. The pigment quality is high, ensuring vivid and smooth color application, which can be used both dry and wet to achieve beautiful watercolor effects. The comprehensive color range of 72 shades allows for extensive blending and layering, catering to diverse artistic needs.