Watercolor painting is a versatile and refined artistic expression which can be appreciated and practiced by novices as well as professionals. Fundamental to this creative medium are watercolor pens, crafted to effortlessly generate striking and attractive watercolor influences. These pens are excellently suited for highlighting complex details, giving texture, and merging colors.
When it comes to purchasing watercolor pens, there are several critical factors to consider. The first thing to consider is the type of tip. Watercolor pens come with a variety of tips, including brush tips, fine tips, and chisel tips. Each type of tip provides a different effect, so it’s essential to choose the right one for your needs.
Another critical factor to consider when purchasing watercolor pens is the quality of the ink. High-quality ink will produce vibrant colors that blend well and do not fade over time. It’s also important to consider the type of paper you will be using with your watercolor pens. The paper should be thick enough to handle the water without bleeding or warping.
At our company, we spent countless hours researching and testing ten different watercolor pens to identify the best ones on the market. We tested each pen for its color vibrancy, blending ability, and ease of use. After careful consideration, we have identified the top watercolor pens that will help you create beautiful and vibrant watercolor paintings with ease.
Best Watercolor Pens
We’ve compiled a list of the best watercolor pens available on Amazon. Whether you’re a professional artist or a beginner, these pens are sure to elevate your artwork. Watercolor pens are a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of projects, from sketching and coloring to calligraphy and lettering. Our team has thoroughly researched and tested each product on this list to ensure that they meet our high standards for quality and performance. So without further ado, here are the best watercolor pens you can find on Amazon.
1. Junreox Watercolor Brush Pens
If you’re looking for a set of watercolor brush pens that are safe for kids, easy to use, and versatile, the Junreox Watercolor Brush Pens are a great choice.
Pros
- The set comes with 12 pens, including six fine point tip and six flat tip brush pens, in three different sizes, making it easy to create a variety of effects.
- The pens are made with high-quality plastic and nylon hair brush bristles that are safe for children and ensure that the watercolor stays intact and doesn’t smear or spread while in use.
- The pens are easy to use and control, with a simple mechanism for filling them with water and a soft barrel that can be gently squeezed to control the flow of water.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the pens can be difficult to control, with water and paint coming out in blobs rather than a steady flow.
- The caps don’t fit on the ends of the pens when not in use, which can be inconvenient.
- The pens may not be as durable as some other brands.
Overall, we think that the Junreox Watercolor Brush Pens are a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile and easy-to-use set of watercolor brush pens. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, these pens are a great way to experiment with different techniques and create beautiful watercolor art.
2. ELENTGE Watercolor Brushes
We highly recommend the ELENTGE Watercolor Brushes for anyone who wants to experiment with watercolor painting.
Pros
- The set includes six versatile watercolor brushes of different sizes that are made of high-quality plastic pen body and nylon hair bristles. The nylon hair brush tips ensure that the watercolor brush pen stays intact and does not spray, spread, or smear while in use.
- The watercolor brushes are easy to use and clean. Simply unscrew the watercolor pens’ barrel to add water or ink. You can control the ink or water flow by squeezing the barrel. After use, just clean it with water.
- The multi-purpose watercolor brush set is great for solid colors or powdered pigment. You can use a sharp-tipped water brush to draw outline thin lines or a flat-tipped water brush to draw thick lines or fill in colors, blend colors, and create new shades.
Cons
- The water should be less than 2/3 of the pen’s volume when filling water into the pen, or it may leak.
- Some users have had difficulty unscrewing the water container. But if you follow the instructions carefully, you should be able to avoid this problem.
- The brushes are not suitable for professional artists who require more advanced tools.
The ELENTGE Watercolor Brushes are perfect for beginners and as a gift for children in the painting classroom or back-to-school gift. The portable watercolor brush is great for sketching on the go, and you can even put it in your pocket, just like a pocket brush pen. If you’re looking for an affordable and high-quality watercolor brush set, the ELENTGE Watercolor Brushes are an excellent choice.
3. Alycoco Watercolor Brush Pens Set
If you’re looking for a versatile and easy-to-use watercolor brush pen set, the Alycoco Watercolor Brush Pens Set may be just what you need.
Pros
- The set comes with 20 vibrant colors that can be mixed and matched to create professional-looking artworks.
- The markers are made of premium quality materials and are non-toxic, odorless, and easy to wash off skin and clothing.
- The soft brush tips allow for both broad and fine strokes, providing precision and enhancing the drawing experience.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the brush tip can become too dry, requiring extra maintenance.
- The colors may run out quickly, especially if used frequently.
- The set may not be suitable for professional artists looking for higher quality materials.
We found that the Alycoco Watercolor Brush Pens Set is a great choice for beginners and casual artists looking to experiment with watercolor techniques. The ergonomic design and soft brush tips make it easy to use and provide a pleasant drawing experience.
The set is versatile and can be used for sketching, illustration, journaling, rubber stamping, architectural drawings, manga, comic, and calligraphy. The vibrant colors provide a wide range of possibilities for creativity and experimentation.
However, the brush tip may require extra maintenance to avoid drying out, and the colors may run out quickly, especially if used frequently. Additionally, the set may not be suitable for professional artists looking for higher quality materials.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and fun watercolor brush pen set, the Alycoco Watercolor Brush Pens Set is definitely worth considering.
4. Watercolor Brush Pen 24 Colors by Positive Art
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly watercolor pen set, the Watercolor Brush Pen 24 Colors by Positive Art may be worth considering.
Pros
- The set includes 24 vibrant colors that can be blended together to create a wide range of shades.
- The flexible tip of the water brush allows for precise control and can be used for a variety of techniques, including calligraphy and manga.
- The pens are odorless and non-toxic, making them safe for use by adults and children.
Cons
- Some users have reported that certain pens in the set arrived dried out and unusable.
- The pens may not work as well on certain types of paper, such as coloring books.
- The quality of the pens may not be as high as more expensive watercolor pen sets.
We found that the Watercolor Brush Pen 24 Colors by Positive Art is a decent option for beginners or those on a tight budget. While the quality may not be as high as more expensive sets, the range of colors and flexibility of the water brush make it a versatile tool for a variety of projects. However, be aware that some pens may arrive dried out and not all paper types may work well with these pens.
5. HIPPIE CRAFTER 50 Pk Watercolor Pens
If you’re looking for a versatile set of watercolor pens that can be used for a variety of artistic techniques, the HIPPIE CRAFTER 50 Pk Watercolor Pens could be a great choice for you.
Pros
- The dual-tip design of these pens allows for a wide range of effects, from fine lines to thick gradients.
- The included water brush pen makes it easy to blend colors and create delicate watercolor effects.
- With 50 ultra-pigmented colors to choose from, you’ll have plenty of options to create bright, airy artwork or super saturated effects.
Cons
- While these pens are easy to use, some users have reported issues with the quality of the watercolor paint itself.
- The pens may not be as durable as some other options on the market.
- The color selection may not be as comprehensive as some other watercolor pen sets.
We’ve found that the HIPPIE CRAFTER 50 Pk Watercolor Pens are a great choice for artists of all levels who want a versatile set of watercolor pens that can be used for a variety of techniques. The dual-tip design allows for fine details and thick gradients, while the included water brush pen makes it easy to blend colors and create delicate watercolor effects.
One potential downside to these pens is that some users have reported issues with the quality of the watercolor paint itself, but we didn’t experience any issues during our testing. Additionally, while the color selection is extensive, it may not be as comprehensive as some other watercolor pen sets on the market.
Overall, we would recommend the HIPPIE CRAFTER 50 Pk Watercolor Pens to anyone looking for a versatile set of watercolor pens that can be used for a variety of artistic techniques.
6. Watercolor Brush Pens by GenCrafts
We highly recommend the Watercolor Brush Pens by GenCrafts for anyone looking to purchase a high-quality set of watercolor pens.
Pros
- With 100 vibrant colors, these pens are perfect for blending, coloring, and all watercolor techniques.
- The flexible nylon paint brush tips allow for broad and fine strokes, making it easy to create a variety of effects.
- The pens are high quality, durable, and suitable for all skill levels.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the pens can be a bit difficult to clean.
- The pens may bleed through thinner paper, so it’s best to use thicker paper or a watercolor pad.
- The storage case can be a bit flimsy and may not hold up well over time.
These watercolor pens are a joy to use, and we love the range of colors and the coverage they provide. They are easy to use, and the real brush tips make it easy to create beautiful watercolor effects.
The only downside is that they can be a bit difficult to clean, but this is a minor issue compared to the overall quality of the pens. Additionally, the pens may bleed through thinner paper, so it’s best to use thicker paper or a watercolor pad.
Overall, we highly recommend the Watercolor Brush Pens by GenCrafts for anyone looking to purchase a high-quality set of watercolor pens. They are an amazing value and will provide hours of creative fun.
7. Tomaxis Watercolor Brush Pens Art Markers
If you’re looking for a versatile and portable watercolor brush pen set, the Tomaxis Watercolor Brush Pens Art Markers are a great choice.
Pros
- The non-toxic water-based ink is safe and easy to use, and won’t bleed through paper.
- The flexible nylon brush tip allows for smooth and precise lines, from thin details to broad strokes.
- The colors are vibrant and long-lasting, producing beautiful artwork that stays bright even after drying.
Cons
- The pigment strength is slightly weaker than some other brands, so adding water quickly dilutes the color.
- The watercolor effect is not as strong as traditional watercolors.
- The set is lacking in some colors that may be useful for certain art projects.
We’ve found the Tomaxis Watercolor Brush Pens Art Markers to be a great addition to our art supplies. The non-toxic water-based ink meets ASTM standards and is odorless, making it safe and easy to use. We appreciate that it won’t bleed through paper, so we can create beautiful artwork without any mess or fuss.
The flexible nylon brush tip is a standout feature, allowing us to easily draw thin lines or fine, medium, and broad strokes. It springs back to its original shape even after heavy use, providing smooth and precise lines whether we’re drawing fine details or broad strokes. The vibrant and long-lasting colors produce rich and beautiful artwork that stays bright even after drying.
While the pigment strength is slightly weaker than some other brands, we’ve found that adding water quickly dilutes the color. The watercolor effect is not as strong as traditional watercolors, but it still produces beautiful results. The set is lacking in some colors that may be useful for certain art projects, but overall we’ve found it to be a great value for the price.
Overall, we highly recommend the Tomaxis Watercolor Brush Pens Art Markers for anyone looking for a versatile and portable watercolor brush pen set. It’s great for beginners and professionals alike, and is sure to inspire creativity and imagination.
8. MAIYUE Water Color Brush Pen Set
If you’re looking for an affordable set of watercolor pens, the MAIYUE Water Color Brush Pen Set might be worth considering.
Pros
- The set comes with 12 pieces of brushes, including 3 flat brushes and 9 sharp brushes, in 3 sizes (small, medium, large), suitable for art students, amateur and professional artists.
- The high-quality nylon hair brush tips ensure that the watercolor brush pen stays intact and does not spray, spread, or smear while in use.
- The pens are easy to use. Simply unscrew (the opposite way from usual), fill 2 thirds with tap water and you’re ready to go. They’re also easy to clean, just clean them with water after use.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the pens have a greasy coating on the brushes, and when you squeeze them to release water, it leaks out of the screw area.
- The pens are not as durable as some other watercolor pens on the market.
- The water flow control could be improved, as some users have reported difficulty controlling the ink or water flow.
Overall, we think the MAIYUE Water Color Brush Pen Set is a decent choice for beginners or those on a budget. While they may not be the most durable or highest quality watercolor pens out there, they do the job and are easy to use and clean.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best watercolor pens, there are several factors to consider. Here are some features that you should look at before making a purchase:
Tip Type
The tip type of a watercolor pen is an important factor to consider. There are two types of tip: brush and bullet. A brush tip is flexible and can be used to create a range of strokes, from fine lines to broad strokes. A bullet tip is more rigid and is best for creating precise lines and details. Consider your personal preference and the type of artwork you will be creating when choosing a tip type.
Pigment Quality
The quality of the pigment used in watercolor pens can vary greatly. Look for pens that use high-quality, lightfast pigments that will not fade over time. It is also important to consider the transparency of the pigment. Transparent pigments are ideal for layering and creating depth in your artwork.
Color Range
The color range of a watercolor pen set is another important factor to consider. Look for sets that offer a wide range of colors, including primary and secondary colors, as well as earth tones and pastels. This will give you more options when creating your artwork.
Water Solubility
Watercolor pens are designed to be used with water, so it is important to consider their water solubility. Look for pens that dissolve easily in water and can be blended to create a range of colors and effects. Pens that are too water-resistant may be difficult to blend and create a less desirable effect.
Packaging
Finally, consider the packaging of the watercolor pens. Look for sets that come in a durable case or container that will protect the pens and keep them organized. Some sets also come with additional accessories, such as water brushes or blending tools, which can be helpful for creating a variety of effects in your artwork.
By considering these features, you can choose the best watercolor pens for your needs and create beautiful artwork with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best pen to draw over watercolor?
When it comes to drawing over watercolor, it’s important to use a pen that won’t smudge or bleed into the paint. We recommend using a waterproof, pigment-based pen, such as Micron or Sakura Pigma pens. These pens have a fine tip and come in various sizes, making them perfect for adding details and outlines to your watercolor paintings.
What is the difference between watercolor and watercolor pens?
Watercolor paints are traditional paints that come in tubes or pans and require water to dilute and mix the colors. Watercolor pens, on the other hand, are markers or pens that contain watercolor ink and can be used directly on paper without the need for a separate water source. Watercolor pens are convenient for on-the-go painting and offer more control and precision than traditional watercolor paints.
Are water color pens good?
Yes, watercolor pens are a great tool for artists of all levels. They offer the convenience of a marker with the beautiful, translucent quality of watercolor paint. Watercolor pens are perfect for creating quick sketches, adding details to paintings, and experimenting with new techniques.
What ink doesn’t bleed with watercolor?
When using watercolor paints, it’s important to use an ink that won’t bleed or smudge when wet. Pigment-based inks, such as those found in Micron or Sakura Pigma pens, are waterproof and won’t bleed into the paint. It’s also important to use a high-quality paper that can handle the water and won’t buckle or warp.
Which brand makes the best watercolor brush pens?
There are many great brands of watercolor brush pens on the market, each with their own unique features and qualities. Some of our favorites include Tombow Dual Brush Pens, Arteza Real Brush Pens, and Winsor & Newton Watercolor Markers. It’s important to choose a brand that suits your needs and preferences, such as brush size, color range, and ink quality.
Where can I find reviews on watercolor markers?
There are many online resources for finding reviews and recommendations on watercolor markers. Some popular websites include Amazon, Blick Art Materials, and JetPens. You can also check out art blogs and social media accounts for artist reviews and recommendations.
