My Favorite Watercolor Supplies: Tools I Trust for Every Painting

When it comes to watercolor painting, people often ask what materials I use—and the truth is, having the right supplies really does make a difference. After years of experimenting, I’ve found a few favorites that I return to again and again. These tools help me create vibrant, lasting artwork—whether it’s a soft pet portrait, a rich landscape, or a whimsical seasonal piece.

 Holbein Watercolor Paints

My go-to paints are Holbein liquid watercolor paints. These small tubes may come with a higher price tag, but they last a long time and are absolutely worth it. I love them because they’re vibrant, reliable, and lightfast—I’ve never had a watercolor painting fade using these.

The way Holbein paints layer and blend allows me to create rich, luminous colors. Whether I’m glazing soft fur on a pet or building up the subtle shades in a sky, these paints perform beautifully every time.

 Fabriano 300 lb Cold Press Paper

If I had to choose one essential, it wouldn’t be brushes or paint—it would be good paper. I use Fabriano 300 lb cold press watercolor paper, and I can’t recommend it enough. It’s very thick and textured, with many layers that refract light and make a painting glow from within.

The weight of the paper means I don’t have to stretch it, and it handles lots of layering and water without buckling. The surface has just the right amount of texture to hold pigment beautifully.

 My Brush Collection (The Good, the Frayed, and the Sentimental)

As for brushes… mine are a bit of a mixed bag! I use a variety of brands and sizes, and honestly, some of my old, frayed brushes are my favorites. They’re perfect for painting grasses, fur textures, or dotting in tiny leaves on a tree. A brush doesn’t have to be pristine to be useful—sometimes the worn-in ones are just right for adding character and detail.

At the end of the day, I believe good tools help elevate the creative process—but it’s also about knowing how to get the most out of what you have. These are the supplies I trust every time I sit down to paint, and I hope this glimpse into my studio helps you in your own creative journey.

Have a favorite creative outlet? I’d love to hear what it is!