What are the characteristics of high-quality watercolor paint

High-quality watercolor paints have several characteristics that distinguish them from lower-quality paints. Here are some of the most important characteristics of high-quality watercolor paints:

Pigment quality: The quality of the pigments used in watercolor paints is crucial. High-quality paints use high-quality pigments that are lightfast, which means that they do not fade over time when exposed to light. They also have excellent color intensity and vibrancy.

Transparency: High-quality watercolor paints are transparent, allowing the white of the paper to show through the paint to create luminosity and depth.

Consistency: The consistency of the paint is important. High-quality watercolor paints have a smooth, even consistency that is easy to apply and mix with water.

Flow: The flow of the paint is important for creating smooth, even washes. High-quality watercolor paints have a consistent flow, which allows for easy blending and layering of colors.

Lightfastness: High-quality watercolor paints are also lightfast, which means that they do not fade or change color when exposed to light over time.

Permanence: High-quality watercolor paints are also permanent, which means that they do not lift or dissolve when additional water is applied over the dried paint.

Packaging: High-quality watercolor paints are usually packaged in tubes, which keep the paint fresh and prevent it from drying out. Tubes also allow for easy dispensing of the paint and easy mixing with water.

Overall, high-quality watercolor paints should have excellent pigments, transparency, consistency, flow, lightfastness, permanence, and packaging.