Basically, there are two types of watercolor paints featured in this buying guide. One type comes in small metal tubes that must be opened and closed individually. Each one contains one of the colors in the set. These paints can be used as they are without mixing in any water for a thick and rich texture, or they can be combined with a bit of water to use in a wash or thinner base. The other type is the one that comes in a flat box or tin container that is filled with round, square, oval, or rectangle cakes or tablets. These can range from semi-moist to hard when you receive them, as they need to be mixed with a little water to get them pliable and creamy for painting.
Children will enjoy this latter kind better because it is easier to use and see the many colors all at once. The tubes of paint are marked for the color but are not as pleasing to the young artist just learning to appreciate painting. It is the more serious artist that prefers the tubes of paint for the ready to use textures and rich colors. Both types are great and suitable for beginners, artists, kids, and adults.