My favourite watercolour supplies (and why I keep coming back to them)
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Watercolour is one of those mediums that invites you to slow down.
It’s gentle, expressive, and often a little unpredictable, in the best possible way. Over time, I’ve found myself returning to a small collection of supplies that feel reliable, easy to use, and perfectly suited to the kind of soft, nature-inspired work I create for my Bramble & Olive products.
If you’re building your own watercolour toolkit, these are the supplies I genuinely love and use.
1. My go-to watercolour paints
A good paint set is the foundation of everything.
What I love about this one is its balance. It offers enough colour variety to explore and mix freely, without feeling overwhelming. The pigments are soft but buildable, which is perfect for layering delicate florals and botanical details.
Why I keep coming back to it:
Easy, intuitive colour mixing
Beautiful transparency for layering
Compact enough to use anywhere
It’s the kind of set that grows with you, whether you’re just starting or refining your style.
2. Watercolour paper that truly makes a difference
Paper is often overlooked, but it’s arguably the most important part of your setup.
My go-to is the Daler-Rowney paper, and when I feel I need an extra special paper, I reach for Arches.
Both hold water beautifully without buckling too much and allow pigments to settle in that lovely, organic way.
What makes it special:
Thick enough to handle multiple washes
A subtle texture that enhances botanical work
Helps colours appear richer and more nuanced
If you upgrade just one thing in your practice, make it your paper.
3. Brushes I trust for both detail and flow
You don’t need a huge collection of brushes, just a few that really work.
This set gives that flexibility: enough variety for washes, petals, and fine details, without overcomplicating things.
What I look for in a good brush:
A fine point for detail
Good water retention
A smooth, controlled feel
These allow me to move between loose painting and more intricate work effortlessly.
4. A palette that keeps colours clean
Mixing is such a big part of watercolour, and having the right surface makes it easier.
I love using a proper palette (rather than improvised surfaces) because it helps me see colours clearly and mix more intentionally.
Why it matters:
Colours stay true and don’t stain
Easier to control tonal variations
Makes the whole process feel calmer and more considered
It’s a simple tool that elevates workflow.
5. Sketchbook for studies and experimentation
Not every painting needs to be a big commitment.
This sketchbook is perfect for quick studies, experimenting with colour, or creating smaller finished pieces - especially if you’re thinking about card designs or gifts.
I love these for:
Practising without pressure
Testing compositions
Creating artwork that can be shared or sold
They make painting feel more accessible on busy days.
6. Affordable brush pens for experimenting
Alongside my favourite brushes, I always keep a more affordable brush pen set like this.
They’re ideal when you want to loosen up, try something new, or paint more freely without worrying about wear and tear.
Perfect for:
Practice sessions
Trying new techniques
Messier or more expressive work
It’s about removing pressure, and that often leads to the most interesting results.
7. A final essential I always keep nearby
This is one of those supporting tools that makes everything easier.
Whether it’s for setup, control, or finishing touches, it’s become part of my regular painting practice - and I notice when it’s missing.
Bringing it all together
What I’ve learned over time is this:
You don’t need an overwhelming collection of supplies. You just need a few that feel right in your hands.
For me, that looks like:
A dependable set of paints
Paper that enhances the medium
A small number of trusted brushes
Thoughtful tools that support the process
These are the pieces I come back to again and again, helping me create work that feels calm, natural, and quietly expressive.
A note for beginners
If you’re just starting out, begin small.
Choose one paint set, one good paper pad, and a couple of brushes. Let your practice grow slowly, and your toolkit will grow with it.
Shop my favourite supplies:
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