When choosing gouache, opacity and consistency are critical. To explain why, let’s define what gouache is.
Gouache is often described as “opaque watercolor,” but it is much more than that. While both gouache and watercolor share a water-soluble binder, gouache typically has a higher pigment concentration. This pigment concentration, or “heavy pigment load,” is what gives gouache its rich opacity and vibrant finish.
In gouache, pigments are ground less finely than in watercolor, meaning the particles remain slightly larger, which contributes to the paint’s opacity. Quality gouache will have more pigment and fewer fillers, resulting in a smooth, vibrant finish. However, some pigments, such as phthalos and quinacridones, are naturally more transparent. Even in high-quality gouache, these colors may be slightly less opaque than others.
Gouache Brand Comparisons
Over the past several weeks, I’ve been testing several different gouache brands, including Winsor & Newton, ARTEZA, Caran d’Ache, Royal & Langnickel, and Holbein. Here’s what I found:
1. Winsor & Newton Designers’ Gouache Primary Color 6-Tube Paint Set
Opacity: Excellent
Consistency: Smooth and creamy
Review:
The Winsor & Newton Designers’ Gouache is one of the best gouache sets I’ve tested. The paint has a creamy consistency that spreads smoothly on both paper and fabric, making it perfect for artists who need high opacity and versatility in their paint. The color payoff is outstanding, especially for primary shades, which lay down evenly and dry with a velvety matte finish.
During my test, I found that the paint dries quickly, making layering easy. Even after multiple layers, the colors remain vibrant without becoming muddy. It performs beautifully when layering light colors over dark ones, thanks to the high pigment load.
The only downside is the price—while it’s higher than some other brands, the quality is well worth the investment, especially for professional use.
Pros:
- High opacity, great for layering
- Creamy, smooth consistency
- Excellent color payoff
Cons:
- Higher price compared to other brands
- Limited to primary colors in this set
2. ARTEZA Metallic Gouache Paint, Set of 12 Colors
Opacity: Good
Consistency: Smooth with a metallic sheen
Review:
The ARTEZA Metallic Gouache set is a fun and creative option, especially for those who want to add some sparkle to their artwork. The metallic finish is perfect for decorative projects on paper and fabric, but the opacity isn’t as high as other gouache paints, particularly for lighter metallic shades.
The paint consistency is slightly thicker, which makes it ideal for creating texture in your artwork. However, I found that achieving full opacity with these metallics often required additional layers. The shimmer is beautiful under different lighting, making it a unique choice for special projects.
Pros:
- Great for adding a metallic sheen
- Easy to apply and smooth finish
- Affordable for a metallic gouache set
Cons:
- Opacity could be higher for some shades
- Requires multiple layers for full coverage
3. Caran d’Ache Gouache Studio 15 Assorted Colors Set in Metal Tin
Opacity: Moderate
Consistency: Slightly gritty
Review:
Caran d’Ache Gouache Studio set is one of the more accessible options, especially for beginners. The 15 assorted colors provide a decent range, but the opacity is not as strong as professional-grade paints like Winsor & Newton. I noticed some grit in the paint, particularly when diluted with water, which can affect the overall finish.
For lighter washes or mixed media, this set performs well. However, for projects where you need strong, opaque layers, you might find the coverage lacking.
Pros:
- Wide color selection
- Affordable for the number of colors
- Suitable for beginners
Cons:
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- Grittier texture
- Lower opacity compared to other brands
4. Royal & Langnickel GOU24 Gouache Color Artist Tube Paint
Opacity: Low to moderate
Consistency: Thin, slightly watery
Review:
The Royal & Langnickel Gouache set was a disappointment in terms of opacity. The colors felt diluted, and achieving a solid, opaque finish required several layers. The consistency was watery compared to other gouache paints, making it harder to control, especially for intricate designs or precise details.
That being said, this set might be a good option for students or those who are just starting with gouache. It’s affordable, but the quality is noticeably lower compared to professional-grade brands.
Pros:
- Affordable for beginners
- Easy to find in stores
Cons:
- Low opacity
- Watery consistency
- Requires multiple layers for decent coverage
5. Holbein Artists Gouache Set of 12, 5ml tubes
Opacity: Excellent
Consistency: Very creamy
Review:
Holbein Artists Gouache stands out as one of the top choices for serious artists. The 12 color set offers vibrant, highly pigmented colors that deliver excellent coverage. The paint dries to a matte finish and performs well on both paper and canvas, with minimal color shift as it dries.
What sets Holbein apart is the smooth, creamy consistency that allows for precise brushwork and clean, vibrant layers. This is ideal for those who value detail and richness in their work. However, the price reflects the high quality, making this set a better option for professionals or those who prioritize quality over cost.
Pros:
- Excellent opacity and pigment quality
- Creamy consistency for smooth application
- Beautiful matte finish
Cons:
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- Higher price
- Tubes are smaller than some other sets
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best gouache paints in 2024, it’s essential to consider opacity, consistency, and price. If you’re looking for the best overall performance, the Winsor & Newton Designers’ Gouache is a standout choice, providing excellent opacity and creamy texture.
For those on a budget, ARTEZA’s Metallic Gouache offers a fun twist with metallic finishes that can add a unique touch to your projects. However, if you need professional-grade gouache with maximum pigment load and smooth consistency, the Holbein Artists Gouache is an exceptional choice.
In the end, the best gouache paint is the one that aligns with your project needs and artistic style. Whether you’re a beginner, a hobbyist, or a professional artist, there’s a gouache set that can help bring your creative visions to life.
