13 Best Gouache Paints In 2023: Reviews & Buying Guide

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Are you looking to buy gouache paint but don't know what to look for? There are many choices available in the market today, making it difficult to find the best. However, don't fret, as we've got you covered. In this article, we'll give you a rundown of the best gouache paints in the market today, so you can find the best for your needs and make an informed decision.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:  Royal & Langnickel GOU240 READ REVIEW Runner Up: HMI Gouache Paint Set 24 READ REVIEW Most Versatile Set: Winsor & Newton Designers' Gouache READ REVIEW Best Professional Grade Set: Miya Gouache Paint Set READ REVIEW Best Budget Option: Magicfly 24 Colors Gouache Paint Set READ REVIEW Best for Artists: Graham Tube 5 Color Gouache READ REVIEW Best for DIYers: Tmol Gouache Paint Set READ REVIEW Best For All Ages: Chalkola Gouache Paint Sets READ REVIEW Best for Crafters: GenCrafts Gouache Paint READ REVIEW Best for Students: Arteza Metallic Gouache Paint READ REVIEW Best for Painters: U.S. Art Supply Professional READ REVIEW Best for Hobbyists: Zenacolor 24 Gouache Paint READ REVIEW Best for Enthusiasts: Art Accelerators Gouache Paint Set READ REVIEW

1. Best Overall: Royal & Langnickel GOU240

Why We Think It's Great

• 24 VIBRANT COLORS: Makes your paintings glow on dark surfaces even when applied thinly. 
• SMOOTH CONSISTENCY: These paints are not watery but not too creamy making them flow perfectly from the brush.
• VERSATILE: Allow you to easily mix to form new shades.
• AFFORDABLE: You can get this set of gouache paints for less than 15$.

What We Don't Like

• Some colors are not very pigmented.
• Not ideal for professionals

What Our Editors Say

“We love the Royal & Langnickel GOU24 because it comes with a wide variety of colors, making it perfect for those who work with different projects and designs. In addition, these gouache paints are easy to blend and can be revived when dries out.”

2. Runner Up: HIMI Gouache Paint Set 24

Why We Think It's Great

• WORKS FOR VARIOUS MEDIUMS: You can use it for painting on watercolor paper and canvas.
• REWORKABLE: You can rewet them with water when it dries. 
• RICH PIGMENTS: Allow you to produce smooth and vibrant results.
• LIGHTFAST & DURABLE: They are easy to dry and are resistant to dust and ultraviolet light.

What We Don't Like

• Some colors may be less pigmented than others
• The case is not travel-friendly

What Our Editors Say

“When choosing the perfect gouache paint set for your artwork, we want something that can be used for various techniques. The HIMI Gouache Paint Set fits that description perfectly! Featuring vibrant and opaque colors that offer excellent color coverage, this paint set is perfect for artists.

We also like this gouache paint set because it is extremely lightfast and durable, making it ideal for long-lasting pieces that require precision and stability. We also recommend this to both kids and adults because this paint set is completely non-toxic and safe to use.”

3. Most Versatile: Winsor & Newton Designers' Gouache

Why We Think It's Great

• BRILLIANT COLORS: It comes with six brilliant tubes with matte finish colors.
• MIXABLE COLORS: You can mix and use these paints' colors altogether. 
• IDEAL FOR SKILL OF ALL LEVELS: Whether you are a beginner or a professional artist, you can use this paint set perfectly without any problem.
• BLENDS WELL: You can achieve a wide range of colors by simply mixing one color and blending it with another.

What We Don't Like

• Limited color selection
• Isn't good for fabric

What Our Experts Say

Tom Kelly 3D painting artist and CTO of LifePart 2 said, “For pro artists, the best gouache paints are those that are high-quality and versatile. They need to be able to produce a wide range of colors and be able to withstand multiple layers without cracking. And for these characteristics, I recommend the Winsor & Newton brand.”

4. Best Professional Grade Set: Miya Gouache Paint Set

Why We Think It's Great

• EXCELLENT CONSISTENCY: Dilute the paints with water without worrying about them cracking when they dry.
• VIBRANT COLORS: The set comes with 56 vibrant colors making your paintings stand out from the crowd. 
• HANDY CARRYING CASE: Allow you to carry it to travel easier. 
• WIDE COLOR SELECTION: You can use it for different projects. 
• LIGHTFAST: Allow your paints to dry quickly. 

What We Don't Like

• Not suitable for rock painting
• Does not comes with brushes

What Our Editors Say

“One of the best things we like about the Miya Gouache Paint Set is that it comes with a handy carrying case. This makes it easy to bring with you wherever you go, whether to class or on vacation.

Another best thing we love about these paints is that they are lightfast and opaque, preventing your artwork from fading over time, and the colors will remain true to what you see in the paint. This also comes in various colors, so you can find the perfect shade for your needs. And best of all, it provides thickness and consistency in every brushstroke.”

5. Best Budget Option: Magicfly 24 Colors Gouache Paint Set

Why We Think It's Great

• HIGH QUALITY & NON-TOXIC: You can have them used by your kids. 
• WELL-LABELED COLORS: Allow you to recognize the colors easily. 
• WIDE COLOR SELECTION: Prevent you from using the color on your project repeatedly.
• REACTIVATABLE: If your paint dries in your palette, you can reactivate it again with a drop or two of water.
• NOT TOO STICKY: Unlike other similar products, these paints are creamy and densely opaque, which can create a matte-finished surface, smooth and not sticky. 

What We Don't Like

• The colors may crack when applied too thin.
• It might dry up in the pan when not used for a long time.

What Buyers Say

“I honestly couldn’t be happier with this set. I was looking for something to supplement my himi jelly gouache with and found this for $8 on a prime day. Just got it & swatched as well as did a quick floral painting, and it works so well.

Creamy consistency, good coverage, and great color selection. Would highly recommend it, even at full price. The brushes are nothing special but could certainly work in a pinch or for complete beginners. Really pleased with this purchase!”

6. Best for Artist: Graham Tube 5 Color Gouache

Why We Think It's Great

• VIBRANT AND OPAQUE COLORS: This makes them durable and resistant to light. 
• WORKS FOR BEGINNERS: Comes in five primary colors with tubes of black and white perfect for a starter pack. 
• INTERMIXABLE: You can create any color you need from this set by mixing the colors all together. 
• MADE WITH HONEY: Make the paints stay wet on your palette longer, so you waste less paint too. 
• NO CHALK: They won't leave chalky-like marks on the paper allowing you to create a smooth paint surface. 

What We Don't Like

• Needs to be shaken before using
• Might be sticky

What Buyers Say

“This set is a significant upgrade from reeves. The colors dry more evenly, more opaquely, and more vibrantly. This paint also rewets incredibly easily on the palette. The paint mixes well without muddying up and has a lovely creamy consistency.

Its ability to be rewetted can be dangerous when painting over other layers, but for the most part, I haven't had too much of a problem, and it makes the paint much less frustrating, as the dried puddles of color from 10 minutes ago can just be rewet like new.”

7. Best for DIYers: Tmol Gouache Paint Set

Why We Think It's Great

• WITH FREE BRUSHES AND CASE: Allow you to save money and use the set right out of the box. 
• MORE COLOR CHOICES: You can choose different colors for your painting projects because this set comes in a wide variety of color selections of 56 colors. 
• DURABLE: It can last longer without fading over time.
• WATER-BASED: Allow your painting to dry quickly and blend easily. 
• SAFE TO USE: You can let it be used by your kids because these paints' formulation is non-toxic.

What We Don't Like

• Some users find it chalky.
• This may not work for those who don't want paint that dries out fast.

What Our Editors Say

“We love this set because it has all the basics to get started with gouache painting, such as a wide variety of colors, free brushes, and a case to keep your paints organized.

In addition to those advantages, we also like it because it won't fade over time, making it last longer. Moreover, the paints are water-based and non-toxic, making them suitable for adults and kids.”

8. Best For All Ages: Chalkola Gouache Paint Sets

Why We Think It's Great

• RICH PIGMENT COLORS: Allow your paintings to have a thick & creamy texture when it dries.
• BLENDABLE: You can easily mix and blend the colors to form new shades.
• NON-TOXIC MATERIALS: Made of safe and non-toxic materials, making them suitable for kids and adults.
• 36 GOUACHE TUBES: You don't have to use the same colors repeatedly. 
• FREE PAINTING TOOLS: It comes with brushes, a knife, a sponge, and a pallet, which adds another dimension to the painting experience.

What We Don't Like

• Some users found the paint to be watery.
• The colors may appear differently when it dries.

What Buyers Say

“All the colors are vibrant, and it came with 1 paint tray and a bunch of different types of brushes. We used it for our Easter party, and the kids had a lot of fun drawing and painting boiled eggs.

They all made a huge mess on their hands, faces, and clothes, but since there were all water-based, it was super easy to wash off afterward. It was one of the hit items at our Easter party.”

9. Best for Crafters: GenCrafts Gouache Paint

Why We Think It's Great

• MIXABLE COLORS: You can mix each color to form a new one. 
• SAFE FOR ALL AGES: You and your kids can paint together without worrying about harmful formulations.
• NO DUPLICATE COLORS: Allow you to use different colors on your project. 
• UNIQUE OPAQUE COLORS: This makes it perfect for blending, layering, and mixing to create an infinite number of shades.
• BUDGET-FRIENDLY: You can get this set of gouache paints for less than $20.

What We Don't Like

• The consistency is not as thick as other brands.
• The tubes could be larger.

What Our Editors Say 

“We believe you can achieve the best artwork with the GenCrafts Gouache Paint. The fact that we can mix and blend with 50 different colors to create new colors is great! What we also love about these paints is the low price tag making them one of the high-rated products on the market today.

We recommend this set of paints to those who want to give Gouache a go without spending too much money. They're also great for younger painters as the colors can be easily washed away – perfect for avoiding any tantrums!”

10. Best for Students: Arteza Metallic Gouache Paint

Why We Think It's Great

• IDEAL FOR SKILLS OF ALL LEVELS: These paints are not just for professional artists but also for students and beginners.
• RICH COLOR PIGMENT: Provide rich and opaque colors to your paintings. 
• WATER SOLUBLE: You can thin it out according to your desired texture and thickness. 
• BLENDABLE: Allow you to blend and form new colors.

 What We Don't Like

• Not all colors have good pigment.
• Lacks pure white color

What Buyers Say

“As an artist, I didn't have HIGH expectations, but I wanted to check these out anyway. I am so impressed! They're lightfast, and the pigment in these...wow. Well done! I would definitely purchase these again. I use professional-grade paints, but these are still great in my book!”

11. Best for Painters: U.S. Art Supply Professional

Why We Think It's Great

• MORE COLOR SELECTION:  This set comes with 36 tubes with high-intensity colors. 
• WORKS FOR MANY ART MEDIA: You can use it for crafts, portrait paintings, abstracts, and other artistic creations.
• EASY TO MIX WITH WATER: You can easily dissolve the colors with water for color mixing and blending.
• WATER-BASED & NON-TOXIC: This is safe to use by kids and adults as the paints are acid-free.

What We Don't Like

• The white color is needed to be thickened to achieve opaque coverage.

What Our Editors Say

“Aside from its high ratings from its customers, we also like the U.S. Art Supply Professional Gouache Paint set as it comes with 36 tubes. It has a great variety of colors, making it perfect for beginners who are still exploring and professionals who need more opaque coverage.

When it comes to its color characteristics, it has a smooth and creamy consistency that makes it easy to apply to different surfaces. And like other gouache paints, the colors dissolve easily in water, and the materials are safe for adults and kids.”

12. Best for Hobbyists: Zenacolor 24 Gouache Paint

Why We Think It's Great

• VIBRANT COLORS: Providing deep and vibrant gouache colors allow you to create amazing artwork. 
• LIGHT RESISTANT: You don't have to worry about your artwork fading over time. 
• SUITED FOR VARIOUS PROJECTS: You can use these paints for various artworks, including sketching and illustration to mixed media. 
• MIXABLE: You can mix each color to produce new shades according to your project needs. 
• EASY TO CLEAN: You can easily clean the paints using soap and water.

What We Don't Like

• The tubes could be bigger so they could last longer.
• The color labels are Inaccurate.

What Buyers Say

“I have never bought nor really used Gouache before, and I have to say that I am very pleased with the outcome of using them for my (amateur) art/painting. I love the tubes, the rich paint, and the packaging, making it easy to store. I will buy this again when the time comes, and from the same seller as prompt delivery and no issues at all.”

13. Best for Enthusiasts: Art Accelerators Gouache Paint Set

Why We Think It's Great

• WORKS ON VARIOUS MEDIUMS: You can use these paints on wood, canvas, or paper.
• REMAINS OPAQUE: Makes it better on dark surfaces. 
• IDEAL FOR BEGINNERS: This set comes with a free tray for blending and brushes perfect for beginners. 
• WASHABLE: You can let your kids use this paint without worrying about their hands getting stained. 
• GOOD COLOR ASSORTMENT: The set comes with 36 vivid assorted colors, perfect for those who want to experiment with different hues.

What We Don't Like

• The white color is too transparent
• The colors may be a bit similar

What Our Editors Say

“We like the Art Accelerators Gouache Paint Set because it works in most mediums like wood, canvas, paper, and even on rocks. Another thing that we like about this is its affordable price making it suitable for those who are just starting to paint.

We also like this set of paints because it comes with different colors, so we don't have to repeatedly use the same colors on our artwork. And best of all, what also makes this product stand out to us is the ability to provide a smooth and consistent finish which makes your masterpiece clean looking.”

Final Verdict

This roundup review winner is the Royal & Langnickel GOU240, which got the best overall title. You can almost have what you are looking for in this set. Aside from its very affordable price, it also comes in a wider variety of bright colors. The paints are also easy to mix with other colors while providing smooth consistency in every application.

Gouache Paints Buying Guide

Gouache paints are one of the best paints an artist could have. That is why it is important to consider some factors before purchasing one. Here are some of the things you should be considering:

• Pigment Quality

When choosing a Gouache paint, pigment quality is one of the most important factors to consider. After all, the pigment determines the color of the paint, and subpar pigment quality can lead to paint that isn't vibrant in color. Needless to say, this can greatly impact your ability to create artwork that truly captures your vision.

• Drying Time

Drying time is an important consideration when choosing a gouache paint. This is because the longer it takes paint to dry, the more likely it is to smudge or become dirty. For example, one of the most common concerns with oil paint is that it takes a long time to dry, making it difficult to work in layers or achieve clean edges.

Therefore, when choosing a Gouache paint, you should take Drying Time into account to help you achieve your desired results and produce professional-quality artwork.

• Color Selection

When choosing a Gouache paint, selecting colors can be one of the most important factors to consider. It will help to determine how your final painting will look. The right shades and tones can create a feeling of depth and emotion, while the wrong ones can leave your work looking flat and dull. When selecting gouache paint, it is, therefore, crucial to give careful consideration to colors.

• Price

Gouache paint can range from a few dollars per tube or jar to well over $100 for higher quality, professional-grade paints. Of course, the price you pay will be reflective of several different things, including the type and brand of paint and its quality and pigment concentrations.

If you're a beginner painter and just looking to try out gouache paints for the first time, a lower-cost option may be a good choice. On the other hand, if you have some experience with this medium and are looking for high-quality paints that will give you bright and vibrant results, investing in pricier paints may be worth it.

• Reviews from Real Users

When choosing a Gouache paint, it's important to consider reviews from people who have used it. After all, they're the ones who know firsthand how the paint performs. Reviews from real users can tell you whether the paint is easy to work with, how well it covers, and how long it lasts. This information can be invaluable when making your decision.

it's also important to read reviews with a critical eye. Not every reviewer will have the same standards as you, and some may be more forgiving of imperfections than others. Nonetheless, reviews from real users can give you a good sense of what to expect from a particular brand or product.

Gouache Paints FAQ

1. How does Gouache's paint differ from other paints?

Gouache paints are similar to watercolor paints in that they are both water-based and can be diluted with water. However, gouache paints have a higher pigment concentration than watercolor paints, which gives them a more opaque appearance.

Gouache paints are thicker than watercolor paints, giving them a heavier body. Because of these differences, gouache paints can be used to create various effects, from highly detailed illustrations to broad washes of color.

2. Why do some artists prefer Gouache paints over other types of paint?

 Many artists widely favor gouache paints due to their unique set of characteristics. First, Gouache paint is extremely versatile and can be used on various surfaces and styles. In addition, Gouache paint tends to create vibrant colors that are richer and more saturated than other types of paint.

Furthermore, Gouache paint retains its vibrancy over time, unlike some other paints that can quickly fade or become dull with age. For these reasons and many others, Gouache paints continue to be a favorite among artists today. 

3. How do you use Gouache paints?

When using Gouache paints, it is important to work quickly and layer the colors carefully. In addition, Gouache paints often require some degree of air drying to achieve the desired finish.

They can also be applied directly to a surface like any other paint, making them ideal for creative projects such as painting portraits or landscapes. Additionally, because some Gouache paints dry to a matte finish, they can also be combined with other types of art materials like markers or pens to create vivid works of art.

4. Are there any special techniques you need to know when working with Gouache paints?

When working with Gouache paints, it is important to keep the following tips in mind:

• Gouache can be thinned with water, but it will dry more quickly than other types of watercolor paint. As a result, it is important to work quickly when painting with Gouache. 
• Gouache can be rewetted and worked over, even after it has dried. However, it is important to note that Gouache will darken as it dries. As a result, it is best to plan when painting with Gouache and allow this color change. 
• Gouache can be mixed with other media, such as Tempera or Flecto varnish, to create different effects. Experimenting with different media is one of the best ways to learn to use Gouache effectively. 

5. How much does a gouache paints set cost?

Gouache paint sets can range in price, depending on the quality of the paint and the brand. However, it is possible to find affordable gouache paint sets perfect for beginners or those on a budget. You can expect to pay 10 to 100 dollars depending on its brand and quality.

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