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10 Best Gouache Paint
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Buying Guide for the Best Gouache Paint
Choosing the right gouache paint can make a big difference in your art experience. Gouache is a water-based paint known for its vibrant colors and matte finish, making it a favorite among illustrators and designers. When picking gouache, you'll want to think about factors like opacity, color range, creaminess, and permanence to ensure you get the best fit for the style of art you want to create. It’s important to consider what and how you plan to paint, as different types of gouache serve different creative needs.OpacityOpacity refers to how much a paint will cover the layer beneath it. Gouache is generally more opaque than watercolor, but brands and specific colors can vary widely. Some paints allow the paper or underpainting to show through, while others cover completely. If you like bold, flat areas of color or need to paint over previous mistakes, higher opacity is helpful. Those who prefer layering or subtle blends might choose less opaque options.
Color RangeColor range is the selection of colors available in a set or line of gouache paints. Some offer just a basic palette, while others feature dozens of shades, including specialty colors. If you enjoy mixing your own colors, a small set with primaries may be enough. Artists who want convenience or work with complex images might prefer a larger range for easy access to specific tones.
CreaminessCreaminess describes the consistency of gouache out of the tube and how smoothly it spreads on paper. Creamy paints apply more evenly and are easier to control, which helps in creating flat washes or details. If you like detailed work or smooth surfaces, look for creamier options. If you enjoy more textured, varied application, a firmer consistency might suit you better.
Permanence/LightfastnessPermanence, often called lightfastness, measures how well a color resists fading when exposed to light. Gouache is usually not as permanent as some other paints, but higher grades and certain pigments can last a long time. If you plan to display your work, look for paints labeled as lightfast or permanent. For practice or sketchbook use, this may be less important.
Re-wettabilityRe-wettability is how well gouache can be reactivated and worked again with water after it has dried on your palette. Some gouache dries to a hard, cake-like state and can be reused, similar to watercolor, while others become cracked or less workable. Artists who paint in sessions or like saving leftover paint will prefer more re-wettable formulas.
Binder QualityBinder quality refers to the material that holds pigment in the paint, which affects how smoothly it applies and how well it adheres to paper. Good binder quality ensures colors remain vibrant and layers adhere well without cracking. If you want your paint to look consistent and not flake with handling, seek out paints noted for high binder quality.