water colors- pencils or tube paints?

Question

Which water colors are better? water color pencils or the tubie paint ones?

I know that pencils can do both pencil work and water color but besides that.

Answer 1

It depends on what effect you are trying to create. I would recommend you buy a small set of both then play to see what you can do with them, what differences there are, and just enjoy the advantages and disadvantages of each. Once you know what you can do with them you will know which to use when trying to create a particular effect or look in a painting or drawing.

Also, when playing be sure to try different types of paper so you can see how that influences the different media choices. don't be afraid to make mistakes. The purpose here is discovery through creativity, not productivity. The truth is, we often learn most when we are playing. If nothing else, we are less judgmental of our end result.

Answer 2

Pencils can be used to sketch and then you add water to blend.
Tubes are pure strong color.
If you're just getting started I'd try pencils, but if you want to experiment there's no need for the expense of a set. You can buy colors individually.

Answer 3

In my opinion tube paints are better. For me it's easier to control the intensity of the color. The palette water colors are a little harder to get darks from, but if you're looking to get litter shades those work well, but for more variation I'd go with the tube ones.

Answer 4

Depends what quality you buy. You can assume that if you buy the same brand tube or pencil you get (almost) the same product and result. It is strictly the way you apply the paint that makes the difference.

Answer 5

I love to combine the two, start with a loose painting using the tubes then detail with pencils, I love watercolour pencils but you cannot get that free-flowing, lucid feeling that you get with tubes

Answer 6

Personally I prefer oils but to each his own. The application
of each differ. Clouds are handy in that on a cloudy day you
don't have to get all the shadows just perfect. Once you gain
some experience you can have lots of fun with light and shadow.
You can get books with lots of ideas to try at an art supply
store. And guess what! Weather its good or bad someone
will like it enough to buy it.
Happy painting.

Answer 7

It does depend on what youre trying to achieve. I like the pencils for tight spots and detail, and find them easier to control....but like the tubes because its easier to mix the colors and the colors are brighter. I usually use both on my pieces.