Holbein Opaque Watercolor Gouache Set - 12-Color - 5ml

The Holbein Opaque Watercolor Gouache Set offers artists a professional-grade painting experience....

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eBayHolbein Artists' Gouache Paint Set 12 x 5ml Tubes For Illustration Design
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Product Information

Full details

The Holbein Opaque Watercolor Gouache Set is designed for professional illustrators and serious hobbyists who demand high-pigment saturation and a professional-grade matte finish. These 12 vibrant colors deliver exceptional opacity and smooth flow, making them ideal for detailed illustration and design work; however, users should be aware that the 5ml tube size is best suited for travel or small-to-medium scale projects rather than large-scale canvas covering.

All features

Model Part Number6345912
BrandHOLBEIN

Extended Product Information

FAQs

Is Holbein gouache permanent?

Holbein gouache is water-soluble even after it dries. It is not waterproof, which allows you to rework areas with a damp brush.

Can I mix these with watercolors?

Yes, you can mix them with watercolors to increase the opacity of your transparent washes, or use them alongside traditional watercolors in the same piece.

Are these paints toxic?

Holbein gouache is generally safe, but you should avoid ingestion and always wash your hands after use. Check individual tube labels for specific pigment safety warnings.

What kind of paper is best for this set?

Cold-press or hot-press watercolor paper with a weight of 300gsm (140lb) or higher is recommended for the best results.

How long will the 5ml tubes last?

Usage depends on your technique. If you use the paint for thin, detailed illustration, the tubes will last a long time. If you use it for large background washes, you will deplete them much faster.

Troubleshooting

Paint is cracking on the paper

You may be applying the paint too thick. Add a small amount of water to achieve a cream-like consistency and apply in thinner, multiple layers.

Paint feels chalky after drying

This is often a result of over-thinning the paint with too much water. Use less water on your brush to maintain the pigment-to-binder ratio.

Tube cap is stuck or difficult to open

Rinse the tube opening under warm water to dissolve any dried paint around the threads, then use a dry cloth to grip and twist the cap.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Excellent opacity and coverage in a single stroke
  • Dries quickly to a consistent, smooth matte finish
  • Highly pigmented colors require less paint for full saturation
  • Portable size perfect for plein air painting and travel
  • Professional-grade quality favored by illustrators

Cons

  • Small 5ml tube size may run out quickly for large backgrounds
  • More expensive than student-grade gouache sets
  • Requires careful water control to avoid cracking if applied too thick

Setup, Compatibility & Care

To get the best performance from your Holbein set, squeeze a small amount of paint onto a non-porous palette, such as plastic or ceramic. You can re-wet these paints once they have dried on the palette, though they perform best when freshly squeezed for maximum opacity.

Compatibility: These paints pair well with high-quality watercolor brushes—specifically synthetic rounds or flats that hold their shape well under the weight of the gouache. Use heavyweight paper (at least 300gsm) to prevent buckling, as the thick application of gouache can warp lighter-weight paper.

Care: Always clean brushes immediately after use to prevent the pigment from staining or hardening within the bristles. Store tubes with the caps tightened securely and keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve the integrity of the binder.

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