Buy Watercolor Paints Online – Your Quick Guide to the Best Stores

If you love the flow of watercolor but are tired of hunting down tubes at every local shop, you’ve come to the right place. Buying watercolors online saves time, often costs less, and gives you access to brands that aren’t even in your town. Below are the key things to look for when you shop, plus a short list of reliable stores that ship fast and provide good service.

What to Look for Before You Click ‘Add to Cart’

First, check the pigment rating. High‑quality watercolors use Transparent (T) or Opaque (O) labels, but the real test is the lightfastness grade. Look for numbers like 8‑10 on the ASTM chart – the higher, the longer the color stays true. Second, compare the number of pans per set. A 12‑color starter set is great for beginners, while a 48‑pan professional kit offers more variety for detailed work.

Third, read the return policy. Paints can get damaged in transit, and a store with a hassle‑free refund makes a huge difference. Finally, consider shipping costs and delivery speed – many retailers offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount, which can quickly offset price differences.

Top Online Stores for Watercolor Supplies

1. Jackson’s Art Supplies – Known for a massive range of brands, from Winsor & Newton to scarce Japanese pigments. They ship worldwide and often have bundle deals that save you up to 20%.

2. Blick Art Materials – Great for students and professionals alike. Their website filters by lightfastness, so you can instantly see which colors meet your standards.

3. Amazon – Surprisingly reliable for watercolors if you stick to trusted sellers. Look for “Prime” listings to get free two‑day delivery and easy returns.

4. CheapArt.com – If your budget is tight, this store offers decent quality student‑grade watercolors at rock‑bottom prices. Just double‑check the pigment content; it’s lower than professional lines but works fine for practice.

These sites also provide reviews from other artists, which can help you avoid dead‑stock colors that look great on a thumbnail but turn out muddy in real use.

When you finally pick a store, add a few extra pans of your favorite colors to the cart. Buying in bulk usually drops the per‑pan cost by 10‑15% and ensures you never run out mid‑project.

Remember, the right watercolor store isn’t just about price – it’s about reliable quality, fast shipping, and clear product info. Use the tips above, compare a couple of sites, and you’ll have a stocked palette in no time. Happy painting!"

20 Sep, 2025

Can You Roll Watercolor Paintings? Safe Storage & Shipping Guide

by Alaric Westcombe | Sep, 20 2025 | | 0 Comments

Yes, you can roll some watercolor paintings-carefully, and not always. Learn when it’s safe, how to do it right, better alternatives, and how to flatten a rolled piece.