Is it WORTH it? Kuretake Japanese Watercolour Paints Review | Kuretake gansai tambi review

[@karenneill9109]

I’ve just recently started looking into different watercolours. A few bits I’ve also noticed- traditional Japanese painters don’t use palettes. They don’t mix the paint, they layer colours, and blend them in more or less depending on what effect they’re going for. They also use washi-kozo paper mounted on wooden panels. It can be wet, re wet, scrubbed a bit, re-painted, accents lifted, and it doesn’t disintegrate. They use the painting as a palette- because their materials allow it. You can almost rinse it off when the paints are fresh. Because washikozo is so thin, it doesn’t absorb much paint or binder, allowing the colour mixing on the spot. Cotton rag absorbs all of the guar from western watercolours- so some of the pigment is absorbed into the paper, adheres to it much better. I’m not an artist, I’m a dabbler, I can’t say which type of water colour is ‘better’. I do think that if you’re going to try these- use the technique that they go with, because you will fight the mediums otherwise. And that never turns out well.

[@karenneill9109]

@@SketchesnScrubs Great! It’s amazing how easy it is to learn about arts and crafts online. I’m not even that old, and I had to learn everything from a book or a real live person! Now, there are almost too many options...

[@kerrysmith7598]

​@karenneill9109 I so appreciate your comment. I purchased some Japanese prints on rice paper from temu, and then researched the paints required to colour them, rather than follow the hype of a product, but not educate myself as to the purpose they are intended. So many you tubers have " reviewed" these, but not on the paper recommended. I have not seen one video where these are used on the medium they have been created for. Of course the results will not be as beautiful as they should be. Like you, I am a dabbler. Not even a colourist, definitely will never be a artist, so I need to give myself as much of an advantage as possible

[@oaktharas]

No shit. When you have 48 colors, you don’t need to mix 😂 I have the 48 set. It’s $40. So of course it’s worth it

[@Babyjohn8170]

This is one of my favorite paint set to use. The flowers you painted are beautiful.

[@SketchesnScrubs]

Thank you so much!

[@Aniracia]

Such a well thought out video. Actually one of the best videos on this set I have ever seen. I bought this set a few years ago at the beginning of my watercolour journey because I off all the postive videos on youtube. And I was so dissapointed and it just did not work for me at that time. Because not one of those youtubers really knew what they were talking about, they themselfes did not know enough about watercolours to give advice on them... Now I know how they work and what I can do with them and what not, and I really like to use them from time to time. For me, it helps very much to make the paints wet before using them, when I do this I don't have the same problem with the reds as you are having. I am sure I am using a bit more paint than you, but... I still have this paints (like 5 years later or so) and did still not run out of any of the colours, so I don't think that it's a big deal. Anyway, thanks for the video. Good job! And I can't wait to see your channel grow ♥ Greetings from germany :)

[@Menakapadma]

Gorgeous flower painting at the end! For some reason it's so therapeutic to watch you paint 😍

[@sayerc455]

Your artwork is stunning.

[@SketchesnScrubs]

Thank you so much ! ❤️

[@margaretf667]

A tin that 12 coloured pencils came in makes a good pallet, adhere with blue tack.

[@sandymanning-b5o]

Thanks so much for the explanation and demos that was great as I have just ordered some. You are a great painter too and know your stuff well. Take care 🙌

[@SketchesnScrubs]

Thank you so much Samdy! I’m glad! I hope you enjoy your new paints and have a happy new year x

[@sandymanning-b5o]

@ I will do excited to try them have a blessed new year

[@alicecilepin9370]

Thanks you that was very clear and informative 👍👌

[@DeeFay-fl1hs]

I bought these lovely colours for mixed media work and as a beginner. I love them. Your video has been most enjoyable, useful and informative.

[@CreatingCuteArt]

I’ve successfully resisted the nearly gravitational force of these paints for a year, the space requirement is the only thing stopping me because it’s so gorgeous. And I do like a mixing space, so you nailed the cons. Awesome painting as usual!

[@deannascott8050]

I've been debating whether or not to splurge on this set so I really enjoyed all of the information. Your artwork is lovely!

[@golden1789]

Brilliant review. Thank you

[@lindyashford7744]

I got this set for my birthday plus the additional set of 12. I swatched them and then as some work is needed on my house all my art supplies went into plastic tubs for safety and summer intervened! I am really looking forward to getting them all out again, especially this set and a lovely set of japonesque acrylic gouache paints I have. Loved watching you paint, lovely florals. I am always very drawn to eastern art supplies, maybe because I like a lot about the eastern art aesthetic. Thanks for this video, I have not seen any others that go further than a bare bones review.

[@devinerootz]

I love the vibrant colours. So beautiful

[@lauraholland5315]

Love these watercolors my favorite.

[@SketchesnScrubs]

Thank you for sharing Laura! Xx

[@Deankut]

This is a wonderfully thorough review! Thank you!!

[@artandtravelbyrose4884]

These colours are brilliant; your video presentation is very informative and interesting my friend. 🌹

[@catherinebrown9119]

I was just gifted these for Christmas. Thank you for this video! It is very informative and helped me understand the differences in these paints. I was feeling a bit unsure about them, but they are so beautiful in the pan I don’t want to mess them up. Beautiful paintings ❤

[@reeree05]

Your swatch florals are the most beautiful I have ever seen 👏👏👏💕💕💕 best kuretake review on youtube .I mite be bias thou as I adore them like you

[@nataliearena2241]

Thank you !!! This was so helpful

[@rz9305]

Your artwork is beautiful

[@kathyoh9713]

What a wonderful way to swatch the colors! 🌸🌺

[@eileenvalachovic9435]

Thank you for a well rounded review of these paints. I have been tempted by them for a long time. Have the small set on my wish list in there is a good sale on them. I live in the US. In my possession, I have a bunch of clear but frosted file folders. I've found they work well for makeshift mixing surfaces. I've cut up a few of them to put in various things. They would work in the box top of your paints.

[@goat8477]

Great idea! Thank you!

[@samliphied]

You need to be reconized more. YOU'RE VIDEOS ARE AMAZING...KEEP GOING QUEEN!!!👑👸❤❤

[@CreatingCuteArt]

@samliphied Agreed!!🤩

[@samliphied]

@@SketchesnScrubs yup back to school had me crying but art came to rescue 😤👍

[@priscillawarren9979]

I have this set and I thank you for showing me how best to use it. Your bouquets are beautifully done.

[@priscillawarren9979]

I have beginner drawing skills so I paint cards with very simple leaves and flowers.

[@nectarandice]

Sooo helpful. Thank you!

[@SketchesnScrubs]

You’re welcome! I’m glad it was helpful x

[@nectarandice]

@@SketchesnScrubs Very! Saw a special price for a palette but after seeing your review, quickly realized I'd rather just piece together one from pans of some blues, purples, yellows and ochres. Best watercolor review I've seen :)

[@mridulascreatives]

Beautiful❤ love it.. New subscriber💕

[@fayehobbs2948]

Good review. Pretty flowers.

[@SketchesnScrubs]

Thank you Faye x

[@PursuingHeaven]

I got a special on these a while ago buy one get one half off and yes it was worth it. I like them but they are not traditional, they are in a category all their own. I enjoy them for the opposite reason people like watercolor. They are closer to gouache and play very nice in a mixed media style on a good paper. They take very little water and are amazing but the texture is very different-almost sticky but it makes a good texture to work on with other media. I don't do traditional techniques with them, but use them with mixed media, Amazing for base layers, especially pages prepped with glazing or gesso, and if you are into coloring or journal pages these are definitely work putting in your supply collection. I use them with other media like color pencil and pastel. LOVE doing anime with them.

[@SketchesnScrubs]

Thank you so much for sharing your insights ❤️

[@supme7558]

Exaclty its gouche

[@klau5667]

These are definitely my favorite watercolors! That was a gift so I was terrified because I can't use them at all, I was told in the beginning that they are little bit different than others. Finally I learnd how to use that sweeties and I'm so proud!✨ Anyway, you are doing good job, keep going🤩

[@klau5667]

@@SketchesnScrubs I'm definitely into painting plants so I find your content so much inspiring :) I'll stay for longer

[@leticiacampos1044]

I have this set, but haven't really had a chance to explore beyond swatching. I love how they are shiny and some of the colours are so pretty I wamt to eat them.

[@ritawilbur7343]

I do love these paints! I think because of the different binder, they tint out quickly, they are prone to blooms and lifting depending on how you use them, and if you paint really thickly to make them dark, they tend to be glossy. I get why people find them confusing to use, and I have had no success in finding any youtube videos on how they are "traditionally" supposed to be used - maybe those channels are all in Japanese, so they don't show up for me? But as it is, I'm not skilled enough with watercolor for the differences to be a problem, and I actually enjoy the quirkiness and the colors of the gansai paints. The set with those giant pans also just such a pleasure to look at!

[@ritawilbur7343]

@@SketchesnScrubs Is that two hour long one ? :P I'll check it out!

[@supme7558]

For calligraphy and lettering writing thats wjat there for think quil and paint lettering

[@jekalambert9412]

I have the 48 color set. I find the dark colors very deep and highly pigmented. The pastels are lovely too. Nice to have the pastels as it's unusual to see these colors in typical western sets. I've only had my paints a few days. The biggest surprise was how they lift and reactivate. This has been a challenge for me because I'm used to layering. When I layer these, they reactivate the previous layer and I get unexpected blends. I find that these paints have a tendency to drying streaky or having "cauliflower" blooms after drying. Having said all that, I find these paints really fun to work with because they don't behave like the watercolors or gouache paints I usually use. I'm sure I'll use these in the future.

[@sylviabailey831]

I found the 24 pan set fits well in the smallest Masterson Stay wet palette.

[@SketchesnScrubs]

Thank you for sharing Sylvia x

[@INCWorks]

A very thorough and informative review. Makes me want to pull out my second-hand set of 24 because you've reminded me of how lovely these paints are. BTW, your demonstration painting is stunning! As are the others you showed.

[@melanie990]

I purchased these as well and to be honest I wasn't impressed. The colors are beautiful but, for me, the paint itself didn't cover as evenly as I typically expect from a decent watercolor paint. The flowers you painted look amazing tho, especially after you added in all the black line work! You made them look so easy to create yet it would take me forever to try and make something that looked barely half as good. You are hands down talented for sure 😃 Thanks for sharing your video and your art with us. I really enjoy your positive energy and your beautiful contagious smile!

[@supme7558]

Oh i saw that clearly when she was painting it looked patchy and lack of pigments

[@vanessacastagnoli1126]

Love this!!

[@SketchesnScrubs]

Thank you Vanessa! Xx

[@LaraCroft2169]

I have zero experience with watercolor, but these look amazing to me.

[@mariiris1403]

What a beautiful painting to show all the colours! Personally, I haven't tried them, the badly filled large pans, have stopped me. The lack of palet is also a con. I think I would have liked painting with them, though.

[@mariiris1403]

@@SketchesnScrubs Thank you, I'm well. 🌸 Your question is difficult to answer, because I often change paint and drawing materials. I like acrylics, watercolour, pastels, oil pastels and coloured pencils ... 😄 And today I was scetching with plain pencils. Gouache is lovely too. 🤩

[@ArtBrain]

They're pretty. Mine seemed sort of sticky unless they're very wet. I bought them from a reputable art supply so they aren't counterfeit or anything.. According to Kimberly Crick, the reds, pinks, yellows aren't light fast at all. So be careful. Your flowers are amazing. Thanks for sharing.

[@christinedennison7770]

Thank you, very good and consise review, one of the best I've seen on these paints. Lovely oration and diction a bonus. Thank you

[@christinedennison7770]

@@SketchesnScrubs I intend to get some in April for my birthday as a treat. Thanks again

[@katiebechtel9320]

What printers do you use to print on watercolor paper? I real like these and have the gold shimmer set. They are so creamy and just got a few more from Choosing Keeping. I love your kuretaki yellow rose print!

[@katiebechtel9320]

@@SketchesnScrubs Thank you so much! I’ve heard good things about Epson brand.

[@SimonaCZK]

There are some cadmium and cobalt colors. Do you think its real cadmium and cobalt? Because I dont use those…

[@SimonaCZK]

@@SketchesnScrubs yeah, me neither, I tried. Thank you for the answer ❤️

[@deborahhobbs8941]

I do love mind but I don’t believe they are very lightfast, so only using them for journaling

[@MissCarol-gb3]

Thankyou

[@tma4446]

Question- do these paints effect you paint brushes differently because of the binder they use? Thank you for the video review. I enjoyed the fact you showed artwork using the paints. It really helped see the paints in a practical way. Your lighting was excellent as well as being able to see you paint. 🥇 This was very helpful. You have a new follower 🤩

[@tma4446]

Thank you for replying. Look forward to marathoning your videos. Have a great day.

[@marielouiseweeksb33attitud33]

I love them but I was disappointed with the orange. Also they can dry with a sheen if used like a gouache.

[@groooah]

Admittedly, I have kind of misused the Kuretake paints and used them like gouache for small landscapes. It kind of looks interesting, because it dries down like ink. Anyway, I really liked the flower paintings.

[@lindasilverstone1451]

Ĺò

[@supme7558]

It is gouache

[@BrichaJulbry]

I use both Kissho (100 colors) and Kuretake (Anniversary 100 colors) Gansai. They complement each other, being that Kissho has more vibrant colors and Kuretake has more natural-based colors. Both of them can be as opaque or as translucent as I want, which is why I love them so much. If you are not intending to mix colors directly on the pans (like what Japanese artists do in their studios), this type of paints is probably not for you.

[@SketchesnScrubs]

Great points! Thank you for sharing. I’ve had my or eye on the 20 set kissho paints but they are hard to find in the uk xx

[@goat8477]

What I noticed - due to the non-granulation and dye based formula, i get almost NO backruns or cowliflowers! As a beginner I can work with a little more peace of mind when it comes to the dreaded cauliflower issue... sometimes I want paints with character and big ol' chunky pigments - but for relaxation I use my beloved Kuretakes. Great review!

[@SketchesnScrubs]

Thank you so much for watching and your lovely comment! Sorry for the late reply, KZbin has deleted almost all my replies lol so I am going back and replying again. Just wanted to say thank you in case you missed the first comment x

[@SimonaCZK]

Why do you have only 6 thousand followers, you are the best. ❤️

[@SimonaCZK]

@@SketchesnScrubs ❤️

[@bunnybgood411]

But are they lightfast?

[@SketchesnScrubs]

I’m not sure x

[@bentheben1145]

Firstl of all I appreciate the blunt information. Secondly I think that if I had them I’d probably put them on a porcelain plate with 3-4 of them and use them like that :)

[@claireleblancfoster8010]

Superbe! I would buy it and not use it - it's too beautiful - should be displayed on the wall. Thanks for this video, and gorgeous painting you made!

[@SketchesnScrubs]

Thank you so much for watching and your kind encouragement Claire!

[@goat8477]

Oh, and re the visual appearance... I believe, collecting beautiful art supplies is a hobby in itself... When I am down I open my palette collection and just look at them. Makes me all warm and fuzzy inside :-) And for portability I repurpose old eyeshadow boxes. Especially the beautiful ones. I have also bought cheap ones that were on sale because the eyeshadow had pulverized due to rough handling. Perfect travel box for 2 bucks... Of course the grease and the powder needs to be removed completely, otherwise some paints fall out after they have dried.... (don't fill the miniwells with honey based paints that hardly ever dry.... bad idea.)

[@supme7558]

Thats just holding

[@BRIO01]

My favourite watercolor of all time , i have 48 set one

[@maritzamachuca4251]

nice

[@rotzfrosch0970]

For me the watercolors from Winsor and Newton worked best. I was sneaking around these japanese watercolors for months and I can't find a decision. Buy, don't buy? They are very brillant and vibrant, but the size of the single pots isn't good. I'll see and sneak again....

[@karendirmish2696]

I have been using this for 6/7months now. I love the paint, the creaminess of the colors and also the, using them requires a light hand. Japanese painters give us airy, beautiful, images and stories! I hope I become a better creator and love all the learnings! Karen Dirmish, learner 12:01

[@GrumpetteJV]

They are lightfast.

[@ardentabacistx5360]

Super review! Thank so much! I tend to agree with you ! ~

[@SketchesnScrubs]

Thanks for that! Glad you enjoyed it and agree x

[@supme7558]

These are for calligraphy and lettering not painting picks ..more like guoache or ink then watercolor paint

[@SketchesnScrubs]

Thanks for sharing

[@supme7558]

Is this sponsored?

[@SketchesnScrubs]

No

[@veystone2580]

It is a common mistake to refer to Gansai paints as Japenese watercolor. However, Gansai is a distinct type of paint. Calling Gansai "watercolor" is as incorrect as calling acrylic paint "watercolor." Each of these is a different medium: Acrylic is its own medium. Watercolor is its own medium. Gouache is its own medium. Oil paint is its own medium. And Gansai is its own medium. Until people understand that Gansai is not watercolor, they will likely continue to feel frustrated when using it.

[@supme7558]

No these are not more pignented then say daniel smith or newton

[@SketchesnScrubs]

Thanks for sharing

[@supme7558]

Seems so over hyped like mist things from Japan

[@SketchesnScrubs]

Thanks for sharing