In-Depth Review: Sennelier Petite Aquarelle Watercolor Half Pans

Sennelier's Petite Aquarelle watercolors are a compact, yet highly pigmented option for watercolor artists looking for a portable, high-quality set. Whether you’re an urban sketcher, plein air painter, or simply someone who enjoys painting on the go, the Petite Aquarelle range promises to deliver vibrant colors and excellent performance, all in a travel-friendly half pan format.

Brand Overview: Sennelier’s Legacy

Before diving into the specifics of the Petite Aquarelle range, it's important to understand the legacy of Sennelier. Founded in 1887 in Paris, Sennelier has been a staple of the art world for over a century. They are renowned for their rich history in producing high-quality pigments and crafting fine art materials. The brand has catered to some of the greatest artists of the 20th century, including Picasso, Cézanne, and Van Gogh.

Sennelier’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation is evident in their watercolors, which are made using traditional techniques, including the use of honey as a binder. Honey imparts a smooth texture and helps preserve the vibrancy and longevity of the paint, a characteristic of Sennelier’s paints across their product lines.

Packaging and Presentation

The Sennelier Petite Aquarelle watercolors come in small, convenient half pans. Each set is available in a variety of configurations, from individual pans to larger travel sets. The pans themselves are a standard size, but the packaging is what sets them apart: Sennelier offers both metal and plastic travel tins that are compact and easy to carry. The metal tins are sturdy and offer a little more aesthetic appeal, while the plastic options are lightweight and often come with additional space for mixing areas or brushes.

The sets feature a clean, minimalist design with the signature Sennelier logo and an intuitive layout that makes it easy for artists to find the colors they need. Whether you choose a curated set or build your own collection, the packaging makes it easy to transport your watercolors on the go.

Pigment and Performance

One of the standout features of Sennelier Petite Aquarelle is the use of high-quality pigments that offer exceptional lightfastness, intensity, and transparency. These watercolors are formulated using the same pigment formulations as Sennelier’s traditional professional watercolor line, which makes them stand out as an excellent option for both amateurs and professionals.

Each color in the Petite Aquarelle range is vibrant, highly pigmented, and provides strong coverage, even with just a small amount of paint. The honey-based binder used in these paints helps with smooth dispersion on the paper, ensuring even washes with minimal effort.

Transparency and Flow:

The flow of Sennelier Petite Aquarelle is often praised for its ability to create soft, delicate gradients. The colors tend to lift well from the palette and are easy to dilute with water, which makes them a good choice for washes and blending. Artists who appreciate watercolor's ability to create subtle transitions between light and dark tones will find that Petite Aquarelle watercolors excel in this area.

Transparency is also top-notch, with many of the colors being fully transparent or semi-transparent. This gives a lovely luminosity to paintings, allowing layers to build up without becoming opaque or dull.

Pigment Load and Intensity:

The pigment load in the Petite Aquarelle watercolors is impressive, meaning the colors are intense and vibrant. Even though the paint comes in smaller half pans, a little goes a long way. This allows you to work efficiently, making them an excellent option for artists looking for value and quality in a smaller, portable format. Some colors, such as Cadmium Red and Cobalt Blue, deliver exceptionally bright and strong hues that really make a painting pop.

Color Range

The color range of Sennelier Petite Aquarelle is extensive, offering a wide spectrum of hues. From rich earth tones like Burnt Sienna and Yellow Ochre to bright, primary shades like Alizarin Crimson and Cobalt Blue, there is a broad variety of colors to choose from. The sets are designed with versatility in mind, providing a selection of warm, cool, and neutral tones that cater to a wide range of artistic styles, from landscapes and still lifes to portraits.

Sennelier’s color mixing capabilities are well-balanced, meaning that combining colors results in clean, vibrant mixtures. This is important for artists who value the ability to mix colors without getting muddy tones, which is something that can happen with lower-quality watercolors.

Handling and Application

When it comes to application, Sennelier Petite Aquarelle is smooth and effortless. These watercolors are known for their buttery consistency and ease of handling, which is especially apparent when painting with a wet brush. The paints tend to spread easily across the paper and create vibrant washes without streaking or leaving harsh lines.

The level of pigment saturation is also worth noting. Even with lighter washes, the colors maintain a significant level of intensity, and it’s easy to layer washes without losing vibrancy. When dry, the paint retains its vibrancy and depth, which makes the watercolor stand out even more.

Durability and Lightfastness

Sennelier is known for its commitment to high lightfastness, and the Petite Aquarelle series is no exception. Most of the colors in this line boast a high lightfast rating, ensuring that your paintings will retain their vibrancy over time without fading. This makes these paints ideal for works that will be displayed in galleries, sold, or kept for archival purposes.

That said, as with all watercolors, it’s still important to take care when displaying your artwork—keeping it out of direct sunlight is recommended to preserve the longevity of the colors.

Price and Value

While Sennelier’s Petite Aquarelle is positioned as a more affordable option compared to their full-size professional watercolors, they are still on the higher end of the price spectrum for student-grade watercolors. However, considering the high quality of the pigments, the excellent handling, and the vibrancy of the colors, the price is generally justified. Artists are getting a product that performs at a professional level but in a convenient, more accessible format.

The half-pan sizes also add to the value proposition, as they allow artists to try a variety of colors without committing to full tubes, which can be costly. For travel artists and hobbyists, the convenience of the half-pan sets makes them an excellent investment.

You can find this palette on Amazon at the link below:

Buy on Amazon

Conclusion: Who Are Sennelier Petite Aquarelle Watercolors For?

Sennelier Petite Aquarelle watercolors are an excellent choice for a range of artists. Beginners will appreciate the ease of use, vibrant colors, and high-quality pigments without the steep learning curve that sometimes accompanies more professional lines. At the same time, experienced artists will find that these watercolors offer a performance level comparable to Sennelier's higher-end products, especially for plein air and travel painting.

Whether you're looking for a portable set for sketching in the park, want to explore watercolors without committing to a full set, or simply enjoy the ease of working with quality watercolors in a compact format, the Petite Aquarelle series will likely meet or exceed your expectations.

In sum, Sennelier’s Petite Aquarelle watercolors combine the rich legacy of the brand with the convenience of portability, making them a top choice for watercolor artists of all levels. Their vibrant hues, smooth texture, and versatility ensure that this range can meet a wide array of artistic needs—whether you’re capturing the soft hues of a sunset, creating detailed botanical studies, or experimenting with abstract washes.

How to Monetize Your Work as a Freelance Artist

How to Monetize Your Work as a Freelance Artist

Here're my two cents on how to get a bit of money from your art!

In the ever-evolving landscape of art and creativity, freelance artists have unique opportunities to turn their passion into profit. Whether you're a painter, illustrator, graphic designer, or any other type of artist, monetizing your work can be both rewarding and sustainable. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the various avenues for generating income from your art.

1. Build Your Portfolio

Before diving into monetization, ensure you have a strong portfolio that showcases your best work. This is your visual resume, and it should highlight your skills, style, and versatility. Consider creating a professional website or using platforms like Behance or ArtStation to display your portfolio. Make sure it’s easy to navigate and includes contact information.

2. Utilize Social Media

Social media platforms are powerful tools for artists. Use Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok to share your artwork and connect with potential clients. Engage with your audience through stories, behind-the-scenes content, and live sessions. Consistent posting and interaction can help build a loyal following, which can lead to commissions and sales.

3. Offer Commissions

Commissions are a direct way to earn money from your art. Promote your commission services on your social media and website, clearly outlining your process, pricing, and turnaround times. Consider creating a tiered pricing structure based on complexity and size. Be transparent about your terms, including payment policies and revisions.

4. Sell Original Artwork and Prints

Selling original pieces and prints can provide a substantial income stream. Set up an online shop through platforms like Etsy, Shopify, or even your website. Offer a variety of products, such as prints, merchandise (like T-shirts or mugs), and digital downloads. Consider using print-on-demand services to minimize upfront costs.

5. Leverage Online Marketplaces

In addition to your own shop, consider selling your art on established marketplaces like Redbubble, Society6, or Saatchi Art. These platforms handle printing, shipping, and customer service, allowing you to focus on creating. While they take a commission, they provide access to a broader audience.

6. Teach Your Skills

If you have a talent for teaching, consider offering online workshops or courses. Platforms like Skillshare, Udemy, or even your own website can be great venues for this. You can also host live tutorials on platforms like YouTube or Twitch. Teaching not only generates income but also positions you as an expert in your field.

check my Skillshare classes

7. Collaborate with Brands

Partnering with brands can be an excellent way to monetize your art. Look for opportunities to collaborate on product designs, marketing campaigns, or social media content. Networking with businesses in your niche can lead to paid projects and exposure to new audiences.

8. Participate in Art Shows and Exhibitions

Local art shows and exhibitions can help you gain visibility and sell your work. Many communities have galleries or art fairs that showcase local talent. This not only provides a platform to sell your art but also helps you network with other artists and potential clients.

9. Create Passive Income Streams

Consider creating passive income through your art. This can include licensing your work for use in products, print media, or online platforms. Websites like ArtLicensing.com can connect you with companies looking for art. Additionally, creating digital products like e-books or templates can provide ongoing revenue.

10. Network and Build Relationships

Finally, networking is crucial in the freelance art world. Attend industry events, join artist collectives, and connect with other creatives. Building relationships can lead to referrals, collaborations, and new opportunities. Don’t hesitate to reach out to fellow artists and professionals for advice and support.

Conclusion

Monetizing your work as a freelance artist requires a mix of creativity, marketing savvy, and persistence. By diversifying your income streams and actively engaging with your audience, you can turn your artistic passion into a thriving career. Embrace the journey, stay true to your style, and watch as your hard work pays off!

Schmincke Watercolors Review: The Gold Standard in Artist-Grade Paints

schmincke

When it comes to watercolor paints, few brands have earned the same level of respect and admiration as Schmincke. Known for its exceptional quality and vibrant color range, Schmincke has been a trusted name among professional artists and hobbyists alike for decades. In this review, we’ll dive into the characteristics that set Schmincke watercolors apart, exploring their pigmentation, texture, lightfastness, and overall value.

A Brief Introduction to Schmincke

Schmincke was founded in 1881 in Germany and has been producing high-quality artist materials ever since. The company is particularly renowned for its watercolor paints, which are produced with a keen focus on preserving tradition while incorporating modern advancements in materials and pigment science. Schmincke offers two primary lines of watercolors: Horadam Aquarell and

Academy Aquarell.

• Horadam Aquarell is the premium line, considered to be the gold standard in professional-grade watercolors. It boasts an impressive range of highly pigmented colors, many of which are handmade and bound with honey to enhance smoothness and flow.

• Academy Aquarell is a student-grade line, which retains much of the quality of the professional range but at a more affordable price.

In this review, we will focus primarily on Horadam Aquarell since it represents Schmincke's top-tier offering and is the most popular among serious artists.

You can buy Schmincke Watercolor on Amazon:

Amazon Link

Key Features of Schmincke Horadam Aquarell Watercolors

1. Pigmentation

One of the standout features of Schmincke watercolors is their extraordinary pigmentation. Each color is formulated with high-quality, lightfast pigments that deliver intense, pure hues. The pigments used are often the same or of a higher grade than those found in many other professional watercolor brands. This results in highly saturated colors that are vivid and vibrant on the paper. The pigments are also carefully selected for their transparency or opacity, allowing artists to create a range of effects from delicate washes to rich, dense layers of color.

2. Consistency and Texture

Schmincke Horadam watercolors are known for their smooth, buttery texture that reactivates easily with water, making them a joy to work with. They don't have the clumpy or chalky feel that some other paints might have, which means the paint flows effortlessly on the paper, allowing for seamless blending and layering. The paint behaves predictably across different types of watercolor paper, and artists report a high degree of consistency across batches, making it easier to replicate techniques and results.

The formulation of these watercolors also includes honey as a binding agent, which improves the paint’s flow and provides a subtle gloss finish to the dried paint. This unique feature makes the paint easier to lift from the palette and ensures that the colors are vibrant even after drying.

3. Lightfastness

Lightfastness is an essential consideration for any professional watercolor artist, especially for works that are intended for sale or long-term display. Schmincke Horadam Aquarell paints are renowned for their excellent lightfastness ratings. Most colors in the range are rated with a ASTM I rating, meaning they have exceptional resistance to fading when exposed to light.

The lightfastness of Schmincke watercolors ensures that artworks retain their brilliance over time, a crucial factor for collectors and professional artists working on commissions, exhibitions, or galleries.

4. Range of Colors

Schmincke offers a stunning array of 140 colors in the Horadam Aquarell range, which includes classic pigments as well as unique options like Schmincke’s Special Colors (including colors like Lapis Lazuli Genuine and Mummy Brown). The selection spans a diverse spectrum of hues, from vibrant reds and yellows to deep blues and earthy tones. Schmincke also produces various single-pigment colors, making it easier for artists to mix clean, transparent washes without the muddiness that can sometimes occur with multi-pigment colors.

For artists who are looking for subtle color variations, Schmincke provides multiple options for each color family, allowing for a more nuanced palette to suit different styles, from hyper-realistic to expressive washes.

5. Reactivity and Ease of Mixing

One of the most enjoyable aspects of Schmincke watercolors is their ability to mix and blend effortlessly. The paints have excellent reactivity, meaning they lift easily from the palette and mix beautifully with water. They maintain their vibrancy when diluted and can be layered in glazes to achieve complex color relationships. This ease of mixing allows artists to experiment with gradients, washes, and color transitions with ease.

Artists also appreciate that the watercolors maintain their clarity and brilliance even when diluted extensively, which is not always the case with lower-quality paints. This quality makes Schmincke ideal for delicate, transparent layers, as well as for wet-on-wet techniques.

6. Packaging and Usability

Schmincke Horadam Aquarell watercolors are available in both half-pan and full-pan sizes, making them convenient for both studio use and plein air painting. The pans themselves are durable and easy to handle, and the colors come in tightly packed form, ensuring that they don’t crumble or lose pigment when being re-wetted.

The packaging is practical and elegant, with each pan securely placed in a metal tin or individual plastic case. The company has also thoughtfully included an innovative safety-lock system on the lids of some of the watercolors, which helps prevent leaks during transport.

Comparisons: Schmincke vs. Other Professional Brands

When comparing Schmincke to other top-tier watercolor brands like Winsor & Newton, Sennelier, and Daniel Smith, it’s clear that Schmincke stands out for its outstanding color saturation and smooth texture.

• Winsor & Newton is a close contender, but Schmincke's paint tends to be smoother and more buttery. The high-quality pigments in Schmincke also tend to be more vibrant than some of Winsor & Newton’s formulations.

• Sennelier (my favourite brands) offers a rich, honey-based watercolor formula similar to Schmincke, but some artists find Sennelier to be a bit more unpredictable in terms of mixing and reactivity, especially when used with different papers.

  
  

  

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• Daniel Smith is famous for its unique, granulating colors and wide range of specialty pigments, but Schmincke's Horadam range is more consistent across the board in terms of performance and usability.

In the end, choosing between these brands is often a matter of personal preference. Schmincke’s emphasis on smoothness, vibrancy, and lightfastness makes it ideal for those who prioritize high-quality, predictable results.

Final Thoughts: Is Schmincke Worth It?

For serious artists who demand professional-grade performance, Schmincke Horadam Aquarell watercolors are undoubtedly worth the investment. Their rich pigment load, smooth application, and exceptional lightfastness make them a top choice for a wide range of techniques, from delicate washes to bold, vibrant strokes.

While they are on the pricier side, the quality you receive justifies the cost, especially for those who work with watercolors regularly. Whether you’re a seasoned watercolorist or a beginner looking to upgrade, Schmincke offers a truly premium painting experience that lives up to its reputation.

If you're seeking a watercolor paint that offers precision, beauty, and a professional finish, Schmincke Horadam Aquarell is certainly worth considering for your palette.