Discover the Best Oil Paints for Beginners

Welcome to our guide on discovering the best oil paints for beginners! Embarking on a journey into the world of oil painting is an exciting venture filled with boundless creativity and expression. However, choosing the right oil paints can be a daunting task, especially for those just starting out. In this comprehensive exploration, we’ll navigate through a spectrum of oil paints tailored specifically for beginners, providing insights, recommendations, and tips to help you kickstart your artistic endeavors with confidence. Whether you’re going into oil painting for the first time or seeking to enhance your skills, let’s embark together on this colorful journey of discovery.

Top Ten Best Oil Paints to Begin With

Here are ten top choices for oil paints suitable for beginners: These paints offer a balance of quality, affordability, and ease of use, making them ideal options for new painters looking to explore the versatile medium of oil painting.

Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Colour

Overview

Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Colour offers beginner and intermediate artists a gateway into the area of oil painting with a range that combine affordability with performance. Renowned for their quality art materials, Winsor & Newton provides a collection that’s accessible without compromising on the integrity of your artistic work.

Cost

Prices vary depending on the retailer and location but generally, a starter set of Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Colour can range from $25 to $50. Individual tubes are priced affordably, making it easier for artists to expand their palette without a significant financial burden.

Pros

• Affordability: Priced to accommodate artists who are just starting out or those on a budget.
• Pigment Quality: Offers a good pigment load for student-grade paint, ensuring vibrant and lasting colors.
• Consistency: The buttery texture of the paint is ideal for blending and layering, suitable for various techniques.
• Color Range: A wide selection of colors available, enabling artists to experiment freely.
• Brand Reputation: Winsor & Newton is a well-established brand known for its quality art supplies.

Cons

• Pigment Concentration: While the pigment quality is commendable for a student-grade paint, it may not match the intensity found in professional-grade oils.
• Drying Time: Some users have reported inconsistencies in drying times across different colors.
• Packaging: The design of the tubes can sometimes lead to wastage or difficulty in extracting the last bits of paint.

Conclusion

Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Colour represents a solid choice for beginners eager to dive into oil painting without the intimidation of professional-grade prices. With a commendable balance of cost, quality, and ease of use, this range allows new artists to explore and expand their creative horizons. While there are some trade-offs in pigment concentration and drying time, the overall performance of these paints makes them a worthy addition to any budding artist’s toolkit.

Gamblin 1980 Oil Colors

Overview

Gamblin 1980 Oil Colors provide an excellent entry point for those new to oil painting or artists seeking a balance between quality and affordability. Designed with the student and budget-conscious artist in mind, these paints from Gamblin offer a commendable alternative without sacrificing the essence of what makes oil painting special.

Cost

A set of Gamblin 1980 Oil Colors can be found within the range of $30 to $60, depending on the set size and retailer. Individual tubes are also priced accessibly, allowing artists to gradually build a diverse palette without significant financial pressure.

Pros

• Quality for Price: Gamblin has managed to provide a student-grade paint that closely mimics the feel and finish of professional oils.
• Color Saturation: Despite being more affordable, these paints boast rich colors thanks to their high pigment load.
• Consistency: The smooth consistency is ideal for a variety of techniques, from thin glazes to thick impasto, offering flexibility in application.
• Eco-Friendly: Gamblin takes pride in its commitment to artists’ health and environmental safety, using non-toxic formulas wherever possible.
• Brand Trust: Gamblin is a respected name in the art world, known for its dedication to quality and artist support.

Cons

• Limited Range: While the color selection is broad, it may not be as extensive as some other lines, potentially limiting very specific palette needs.
• Drying Time: Similar to many oil paints, there might be some inconsistency in drying times across different pigments, which could affect workflow.
• Color Shift: Some users report a slight shift in color as the paint dries, which is not uncommon in oil paints but worth noting for beginners unfamiliar with this trait.

Conclusion

Gamblin 1980 Oil Colors strike an impressive balance between affordability and quality, making them a stellar choice for beginners and those on a tight budget. Their formulation offers a robust introduction to the dynamics of oil painting, from mixing to application techniques. The slight limitations in color range and drying times are minor when considering the overall value and performance these paints provide. For those embarking on their artistic journey or looking to expand their toolkit without breaking the bank, Gamblin 1980 stands out as a reliable and rewarding option.

Grumbacher Pre-Tested Oil Paints

Overview

Grumbacher Pre-Tested Oil Paints are a cornerstone for both beginner and experienced artists seeking professional-grade quality without the intimidation. Known for their rigorous testing process, Grumbacher ensures that each tube of paint maintains a high standard of consistency, color quality, and performance, making them a preferred choice for artists aiming to elevate their work.

Cost

Depending on the retailer, the price for Grumbacher Pre-Tested Oil Paints can range from mid to high in comparison to other brands, with sets and individual tubes varying. A single tube can cost between $5 to $15, reflecting its position as a professional-grade option that remains accessible to those on a budget.

Pros

• Professional Quality: Each color is richly pigmented, offering artists vibrant hues and excellent coverage.
• Consistency: The paints have a smooth, buttery consistency, ensuring ease of application and blending.
• Permanence: High ratings in lightfastness and pigment purity guarantee artwork that stands the test of time.
• Extensive Palette: A wide array of colors is available, catering to diverse artistic needs and preferences.
• Brand Reputation: Grumbacher’s commitment to quality and its heritage in the art world lend trust and reliability to their products.

Cons

• Price: While offering significant value, the price point may be slightly higher than beginner artists are willing to invest.
• Packaging: Some users have reported issues with tube seals and caps, which can affect paint longevity.
• Learning Curve: The richness and professional-grade formulation may require a period of adjustment for those accustomed to student-grade paints.

Conclusion

Grumbacher Pre-Tested Oil Paints stand out as a premium choice for artists who prioritize quality and durability in their work. The blend of professional-grade ingredients and an extensive color palette makes these paints a worthy investment for serious beginners ready to step up their game or for experienced artists seeking reliable consistency and performance. Despite the slightly higher price point, the value derived from their superior pigment load, color fidelity, and archival qualities more than justifies the investment, making Grumbacher Pre-Tested a top-tier option for those looking to bring their artistic visions to life with uncompromising quality.

Holbein Duo Aqua Oil Colors

Overview

Holbein Duo Aqua Oil Colors break the traditional boundaries of oil painting by offering a water-miscible formula that retains the cherished characteristics of conventional oil paint. Designed for artists seeking the richness of oil paints without the hassle of solvents, Holbein Duo provides an innovative, versatile, and user-friendly option, making it especially appealing for beginners and those in shared or sensitive environments.

Cost

The price range for Holbein Duo Aqua Oil Colors is on the higher side, reflecting their unique formulation and quality. Individual tubes typically range from $8 to $20, with sets varying based on size and selection. This price point positions them as a premium choice within the water-miscible oil paint category.

Pros

• Water-Miscibility: Easy cleanup and thinning with water, eliminating the need for harsh solvents.
• Pigment Quality: Offers a wide range of vibrant, highly pigmented colors with excellent lightfastness.
• Versatility: Compatible with traditional oil paints, mediums, and techniques, yet offers the unique ability to thin and clean up with water.
• Consistency: Smooth and buttery consistency akin to traditional oils, allowing for easy blending and application.
• Eco-Friendly: Safer for the artist and the environment, reducing exposure to volatile organic compounds.

Cons

• Price Point: The innovative formulation and quality come at a premium, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious artists.
• Drying Time: Some artists find the drying time to be slightly longer than traditional oils, which could impact workflow.
• Learning Curve: Adapting to the unique properties of water-miscible oils may require a period of experimentation for those accustomed to conventional oil paints.

Conclusion

Holbein Duo Aqua Oil Colors offer a fine blend of traditional oil paint qualities with the added convenience and safety of water solubility. This unique combination makes them an excellent choice for beginners, educators, and any artist seeking a high-quality, versatile, and eco-friendly painting medium. While the price may be higher than some other options, the benefits of ease of use, vibrant pigments, and environmental consideration provide substantial value. For those looking to explore the richness of oil painting without the complexities of solvent-based mediums, Holbein Duo Aqua Oil Colors present a compelling, high-quality option.

Royal Talens Van Gogh Oil Colors

Overview

Royal Talens Van Gogh Oil Colors serve as an excellent midpoint between student and professional-grade paints, offering high quality at an accessible price point. Named after the legendary Dutch painter, these oils are crafted to inspire and support artists at every stage of their journey, combining ease of use with performance. They are particularly suited for beginners and intermediate artists who seek to advance their skills without the financial strain associated with premium brands.

Cost

Royal Talens Van Gogh Oil Colors are competitively priced, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious artists. Individual tubes typically range from $6 to $12, with various sets available that provide a broader palette at a value-oriented price point. This affordability ensures that artists can explore and expand their color range without significant investment.

Pros

• Pigment Quality: These paints offer strong pigmentation, ensuring vivid colors that bring life to artworks without the premium price tag of professional-grade oils.
• Color Selection: A wide array of colors is available, encouraging creative experimentation and versatility in painting projects.
• Ease of Use: The consistency of the paint is buttery and manageable, ideal for those learning the nuances of oil painting techniques.
• Durability: High levels of lightfastness across the range mean artworks will stand the test of time without fading.
• Accessibility: The brand’s commitment to affordability makes it easier for artists to maintain a well-stocked palette.

Cons

• Consistency Variation: Some artists note variations in the consistency of the paint from one tube to another, which can affect the application.
• Drying Time: As with many oil paints, drying times can vary widely across the color spectrum, requiring some planning in the painting process.
• Pigment Concentration: While the pigment quality is high for its class, some colors may require additional layers for full opacity compared to more expensive, professional-grade options.

Conclusion

Royal Talens Van Gogh Oil Colors strike an impressive balance between cost and quality, making them an outstanding choice for beginners and intermediate painters alike. The brand successfully democratizes art, ensuring that more people have the opportunity to express themselves through painting without compromising on the quality of their materials. While there are some minor inconsistencies in the product line, the overall performance, combined with the brand’s reputation for durability and color variety, positions Royal Talens Van Gogh Oil Colors as a smart choice for artists who value both quality and affordability in their pursuit of oil painting.

Arteza Oil Paint Set

Overview

The Arteza Oil Paint Set is designed with the budget-conscious beginner in mind, offering a broad spectrum of colors at a price point that encourages experimentation without the worry of high costs. Arteza has rapidly gained a reputation for providing affordable art supplies that don’t skimp on quality, making this set an appealing option for newcomers to oil painting as well as seasoned artists looking for a cost-effective solution for practice or large projects.

Cost

Arteza’s sets are known for their exceptional value, with a set of 24 tubes often priced under $30. This affordability makes it accessible for beginners to start with a comprehensive palette and for experienced artists to expand their range without significant financial investment.

Pros

• Value: Perhaps the most striking feature is the cost-effectiveness of this set, offering a wide range of colors at a low price.
• Versatility: The variety of colors included allows for extensive exploration of color mixing and technique without needing to purchase additional paints.
• Quality: For a budget-friendly option, the paints have a surprisingly good pigment load, offering vibrant colors that can produce pleasing results for various projects.
• Packaging: The paint comes in easy-to-use tubes that make it simple to dispense the right amount of paint without waste.
• Accessibility: Arteza makes it easy for artists everywhere to access their products through widespread availability online and in stores.

Cons

• Consistency: Some users have reported variability in the consistency of the paint across different tubes, with some colors being thicker or more fluid than others.
• Pigment Strength: While the colors are vibrant, they may not offer the same pigment saturation as higher-end professional paints, potentially requiring more layers to achieve desired opacity.
• Longevity: There are some concerns about the long-term durability and lightfastness of these paints compared to more expensive options, which could be a consideration for artists creating work intended for sale or exhibition.

Conclusion

The Arteza Oil Paint Set stands out as an excellent entry point for beginners and a practical choice for experienced artists needing a cost-effective option for practice or bulk use. It offers a commendable balance between affordability and quality, with a generous palette that encourages creative exploration. While there may be some trade-offs in terms of pigment concentration and consistency, these are often considered acceptable given the set’s overall value and performance. For those new to oil painting or looking to experiment without a hefty price tag, Arteza provides a compelling option that supports artistic growth and exploration.

Daler-Rowney Georgian Oil Colors

Overview

Daler-Rowney Georgian Oil Colors offer a blend of tradition and quality that’s accessible to artists at all levels, especially beginners and intermediate painters. Known for their consistent performance and excellent color range, these oil paints strike a balance between student and professional grades, making them a go-to choice for those who seek quality without the steep price tag of high-end oils.

Cost

Georgian Oil Colors are priced to accommodate artists who are mindful of their budget, with individual tubes typically available in the range of $4 to $10. This pricing strategy makes it feasible for artists to explore a wider palette without significant financial constraints.

Pros

• Pigment Quality: Offers a rich pigment load that results in vibrant, long-lasting colors.
• Color Selection: With an extensive range of colors, artists have the freedom to experiment with a broad spectrum of hues.
• Consistency: The paints boast a smooth, buttery consistency, facilitating easy application and blending.
• Affordability: Provides an excellent price-to-quality ratio, making it an attractive option for artists who are cost-conscious but unwilling to compromise on quality.
• Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of techniques, from glazing to impasto, catering to diverse artistic styles.

Cons

• Variability: Some artists may find slight variations in consistency and drying times among different colors.
• Opacity: Certain lighter colors might require multiple layers for complete opacity, which is a common issue among oils at this price point.
• Packaging: There have been occasional reports of tubes not being fully filled or issues with the packaging, though these are relatively infrequent.

Conclusion

Daler-Rowney Georgian Oil Colors are an exemplary choice for artists who desire the vibrancy and malleability of quality oil paints without the financial strain typically associated with professional-grade materials. By offering a wide color selection, consistent quality, and user-friendly properties, Georgian Oils stand out as a preferred option for beginners and seasoned artists alike. The minor drawbacks, such as variability in consistency and coverage, are easily outweighed by the benefits, making this range a smart investment for those looking to enhance their painting experience without breaking the bank. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your palette, Daler-Rowney Georgian Oil Colors promise to deliver both satisfaction and value.

Sennelier Artist Oil Colors

Overview

Sennelier Artist Oil Colors stand as a testament to the brand’s legacy of producing top-tier art materials since 1887. Revered by professional artists worldwide, these oil paints offer unparalleled quality, depth of color, and buttery consistency. While positioned at a higher price point, they represent an investment in the pursuit of artistic mastery and the creation of enduring, museum-quality artworks.

Cost

Sennelier Artist Oil Colors are considered premium-grade paints and are priced accordingly. Individual tubes typically range from $10 to $20, with sets and larger sizes available at higher prices. While they may be cost-prohibitive for some beginners, they offer exceptional value for professional artists seeking uncompromising quality.

Pros

• Pigment Quality: Renowned for their rich, vibrant pigments sourced from around the world, ensuring exceptional color purity and intensity.
• Buttery Consistency: The paints boast a luxurious, smooth consistency that allows for effortless application and blending, resulting in a luscious finish.
• Lightfastness: Sennelier maintains strict standards for lightfastness, ensuring that artworks retain their brilliance and integrity over time.
• Color Range: With a comprehensive selection of colors, including unique shades and historical pigments, artists have access to an extensive palette for creative expression.
• Brand Prestige: Sennelier’s longstanding reputation for excellence and innovation instills confidence in artists seeking the best materials for their craft.

Cons

• Price: The premium quality of Sennelier Artist Oil Colors comes with a corresponding price tag, which may be prohibitive for artists on a tight budget.
• Drying Time: Some artists may find that these paints have a longer drying time compared to other brands, requiring patience and planning in the painting process.
• Availability: While widely respected, Sennelier products may not be as readily available in all regions or art supply stores compared to more mainstream brands.

Conclusion

Sennelier Artist Oil Colors represent the pinnacle of oil painting materials, offering uncompromising quality, unmatched vibrancy, and a legacy of artistic excellence. While they may require a greater investment upfront, the superior pigmentation, luxurious texture, and enduring lightfastness make them a worthwhile choice for serious artists committed to their craft. Whether creating masterpieces for exhibition or personal enjoyment, Sennelier Artist Oil Colors elevate the painting experience, allowing artists to unleash their creativity with confidence and finesse.

Blick Studio Oil Colors

Overview

Blick Studio Oil Colors represent a harmonious blend of quality, affordability, and versatility, making them an excellent choice for artists at all skill levels. Produced by Blick Art Materials, a trusted name in the art supply industry, these paints offer consistent performance, vibrant colors, and a user-friendly experience, empowering artists to bring their creative visions to life with confidence.

Cost

Blick Studio Oil Colors are competitively priced, providing exceptional value for the quality they offer. Individual tubes typically range from $5 to $15, with sets available at varying price points. This affordability makes them accessible to both beginners and experienced artists who seek professional-grade performance without the premium price tag.

Pros

• Pigment Quality: These paints boast a high pigment load, resulting in rich, vivid colors with excellent coverage and intensity.
• Consistency: The paints have a smooth, buttery consistency that facilitates easy application, blending, and layering, regardless of the painting technique.
• Color Selection: With a diverse range of colors available, including essential primaries and specialty shades, artists have ample opportunities for creative expression and experimentation.
• Lightfastness: Blick Studio Oil Colors are formulated to meet high standards of lightfastness, ensuring that artworks retain their vibrancy and integrity over time.
• Brand Reputation: Blick Art Materials is known for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, instilling trust and confidence in artists who rely on their products.

Cons

• Drying Time: Some artists may find that these paints have a slightly longer drying time compared to other brands, requiring patience and careful handling during the painting process.
• Tube Packaging: Occasional reports of inconsistencies in tube packaging, such as difficulty in squeezing out the paint or issues with tube seals, though these are relatively minor and infrequent.

Conclusion

Blick Studio Oil Colors offer an exceptional balance of quality, affordability, and performance, making them a preferred choice for artists seeking professional-grade materials without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a beginner exploring the world of oil painting or an experienced artist honing your craft, these paints provide a reliable and versatile foundation for creative expression. With their vibrant colors, smooth consistency, and dependable lightfastness, Blick Studio Oil Colors empower artists to unleash their imagination and create artwork that inspires and captivates viewers.

M. Graham Oil Paints