Art Paints Buying Guide | Top Picks & Tips Last Updated - May 31, 2025 - Advertising Disclosure

Art Paints Buyers Guide: Choose the Best

Choosing the right art paints can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. With so many options available, it's hard to know where to start. In this guide, we'll walk you through the different types of art paints, what to look for when buying, and our top picks for each type. Whether you're a professional artist or just starting out, this guide will help you find the perfect art paints for your needs. Consider the VISWIN - All-in-One Art Painting Set VISWIN All-in-One Art Painting Set, which offers a comprehensive set of art supplies, including 96 acrylic, watercolor, and oil paints, as well as brushes, canvases, and more.

What to Consider Before Buying

Before buying art paints, consider the type of painting you want to do. Acrylic paint is great for beginners and works well on a variety of surfaces, including canvas, wood, and paper. Oil paint is better suited for more experienced artists and requires a primer and a specific surface. Watercolor paint is perfect for those who want to create delicate, transparent washes. Think about the ZenART - Oil Paint Set Professional Oil Paint Set, which offers 8 large tubes of highly pigmented oil paint, ideal for artists who want to create rich, vibrant colors.

Key Features Explained

When buying art paints, look for key features such as pigment load, lightfastness, and durability. Pigment load refers to the amount of actual pigment in the paint, while lightfastness refers to how well the paint resists fading over time. Durability refers to how well the paint adheres to the surface and resists chipping or cracking. Consider the Shuttle Art - Acrylic Paint Set Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set, which offers 24 colors of rich, pigmented acrylic paint, perfect for artists who want to create bold, vibrant works.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

One common pitfall to avoid when buying art paints is buying cheap, low-quality paints that may not have good lightfastness or durability. Another pitfall is not reading the labels and understanding what you're getting. Make sure to read the ingredient list and look for certifications such as ASTM or EN71. The HIMI - Gouache Paint Set HIMI Gouache Paint Set is a great example of a high-quality paint set that is non-toxic and safe for artists of all ages.

Price Range Expectations

The price range for art paints can vary greatly, from under £20 for a basic set of acrylics to over £100 for a high-end set of oils. Generally, you get what you pay for, and higher-quality paints will cost more. However, it's possible to find good-quality paints at a lower price point if you're willing to do some research. Consider the Shuttle Art - Deluxe Art Set Shuttle Art 186 Piece Deluxe Art Set, which offers a comprehensive set of art supplies, including paints, brushes, and canvases, at an affordable price.

Maintenance and Care Tips

To keep your art paints in good condition, make sure to store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Clean your brushes regularly and allow them to air dry. For oil paints, use a solvent such as turpentine to clean your brushes. Consider the Shuttle Art - Acrylic Paint Set Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set, which offers a set of 25 vintage colors of acrylic paint, perfect for artists who want to create unique, one-of-a-kind works.

Best Buying Factors

Pigment Load
Pigment load refers to the amount of actual pigment in the paint. A higher pigment load generally means more vibrant colors and better lightfastness. Consider the MONT MARTE - Titanium White Acrylic Paint MONT MARTE Signature Titanium White Acrylic Paint, which offers a high-pigment load and excellent lightfastness.
Lightfastness
Lightfastness refers to how well the paint resists fading over time. Look for paints with high lightfastness ratings, such as I or II, to ensure your artwork remains vibrant for years to come. The Shuttle Art - Acrylic Paint Set Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set offers a set of 18 colors of acrylic paint with high lightfastness ratings.
Durability
Durability refers to how well the paint adheres to the surface and resists chipping or cracking. Look for paints with good durability ratings, such as those that are specifically designed for use on canvas or wood. Consider the Shuttle Art - 72 Pack Acrylic Paint Set Shuttle Art 72 Pack Acrylic Paints Set, which offers a set of 60 colors of acrylic paint with excellent durability.
Choosing the right art paints can seem overwhelming, but by considering the type of painting you want to do, key features such as pigment load and lightfastness, and price range expectations, you can find the perfect paints for your needs. Remember to also consider maintenance and care tips to keep your paints in good condition. With so many great options available, including the Castle Art Supplies - 48 Acrylic Paint Set Castle Art Supplies 48 x 22ml Acrylic Paint Set, you're sure to find the perfect art paints to help you create your next masterpiece.
Elena Blackwood on May 01 2025