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10 Best Water Mixable Oil Paints That Every Artist Should Try

When choosing water mixable oil paints, consider the Winsor & Newton Artisan set, which offers 10 colors in 12ml tubes, or Mont Marte’s 8-color set for vibrant hues. The Cobra Artist mixing set provides 5 tubes of 20ml for versatile projects, while the Lukas Berlin set includes 6 non-toxic colors. Look for options based on consistency, texture, and safety standards. These factors can greatly enhance your painting experience, and understanding them is key to making the right choice.

Key Takeaways

  • Winsor & Newton Artisan paints mix easily with water, eliminating hazardous solvents and offering a safe painting experience.
  • Mont Marte Water-Soluble Oil Paint Set provides a vibrant range of 36 colors, perfect for both beginners and professionals.
  • Cobra Artist Oil Colour offers high lightfastness and a glossy finish, suitable for various creative surfaces and techniques.
  • Lukas Berlin Water Mixable Oil Paint Set includes non-toxic formulations for safe indoor use, ensuring health and environmental safety.
  • All featured water mixable oils conform to safety standards, promoting a healthier, solvent-free painting environment for artists.

Our Top Water Mixable Oil Paint Picks

Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Paint SetWinsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Paint SetBest For BeginnersBrand: Winsor & NewtonVolume per Tube: 12mlWater Mixable: YesVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Paint SetWinsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Paint SetHigh-Gloss FinishBrand: Winsor & NewtonVolume per Tube: 37mlWater Mixable: YesVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Mont Marte Oil Paint Set (Water Mixable 8 Colors)Mont Marte Oil Paint Set (Water Mixable 8 Colors)Budget-Friendly OptionBrand: Mont MarteVolume per Tube: 18mlWater Mixable: YesVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Cobra Artist oil colour mixing set | 5 x 20 mlCobra Artist oil colour mixing set | 5 x 20 mlPremium QualityBrand: CobraVolume per Tube: 20mlWater Mixable: YesVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Paint SetWinsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Paint SetComplete Color RangeBrand: Winsor & NewtonVolume per Tube: 12mlWater Mixable: YesVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Colour – Ivory BlackWinsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Colour - Ivory BlackClassic ChoiceBrand: Winsor & NewtonVolume per Tube: 37mlWater Mixable: YesVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Mont Marte Water-Soluble Oil Paint Set (36 Colors)Mont Marte Water-Soluble Oil Paint Set (36 Colors)Versatile UseBrand: Mont MarteVolume per Tube: 18mlWater Mixable: YesVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Colour – Titanium WhiteWinsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Colour - Titanium WhiteArtist’s FavoriteBrand: Winsor & NewtonVolume per Tube: 200mlWater Mixable: YesVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Cobra Artist Value Pack 10 X 40 ml (21820510)Cobra Artist Value Pack 10 X 40 ml (21820510)Exceptional LightfastnessBrand: CobraVolume per Tube: 40mlWater Mixable: YesVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Lukas Berlin Water Mixable Oil Paint Set of 6Lukas Berlin Water Mixable Oil Paint Set of 6Professional GradeBrand: LukasVolume per Tube: 20mlWater Mixable: YesVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis

More Details on Our Top Picks

  1. Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Paint Set

    Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Paint Set

    Best For Beginners

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    The Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Paint Set is perfect for artists who need a safe, user-friendly option for their creative needs. This set includes 10 essential colors, like Titanium White and French Ultramarine, each with a satin finish. You’ll find that the formulation uses modified linseed and safflower oils, so you can mix and clean up with water instead of harmful solvents. Each 12-milliliter tube provides ample coverage, approximately 20 square meters per liter. Enjoy a buttery consistency that retains your brush strokes, making it a solid choice for beginners and experienced artists alike.

    • Brand:Winsor & Newton
    • Volume per Tube:12ml
    • Water Mixable:Yes
    • Finish Type:Satin
    • Non-toxic:Yes
    • Suitable for Indoor Use:Yes
    • Additional Feature:Buttery consistency
    • Additional Feature:10 essential colors
    • Additional Feature:Requires no solvents
  2. Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Paint Set

    Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Paint Set

    High-Gloss Finish

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    Looking for an oil paint set that won’t require harsh solvents? The Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Paint Set has you covered. This set includes ten colors in 37ml tubes, designed to mimic traditional oil paints while allowing easy cleanup with water. You’ll find shades like Lemon Yellow Hue, Cadmium Red Deep Hue, and Titanium White, perfect for vibrant artwork. Because Artisan paints don’t require hazardous solvents, they’re safe for schools or shared spaces. Their high-gloss finish enhances your art, so grab this user-friendly set and start creating stunning pieces without the mess of traditional oils.

    • Brand:Winsor & Newton
    • Volume per Tube:37ml
    • Water Mixable:Yes
    • Finish Type:High-Gloss
    • Non-toxic:Yes
    • Suitable for Indoor Use:Yes
    • Additional Feature:High-gloss finish
    • Additional Feature:Safe for education
    • Additional Feature:Suitable for paper surfaces
  3. Mont Marte Oil Paint Set (Water Mixable 8 Colors)

    Mont Marte Oil Paint Set (Water Mixable 8 Colors)

    Budget-Friendly Option

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    For both beginners and experienced artists, the Mont Marte Oil Paint Set offers a versatile solution with its 8 water mixable colors. Each tube contains 18ml of rich pigment, including colors like titanium white and cadmium red. You can dilute these paints with water, making cleanup simple and mess-free. This non-toxic formulation is safe, allowing you to paint indoors and outdoors without worries. The set’s satin finish enhances your artwork, while the paints work well with various palettes and brushes. Remember, they aren’t water-resistant once dried, so take care when handling finished pieces. Enjoy the freedom this set brings to your creativity!

    • Brand:Mont Marte
    • Volume per Tube:18ml
    • Water Mixable:Yes
    • Finish Type:Satin
    • Non-toxic:Yes
    • Suitable for Indoor Use:Yes
    • Additional Feature:Non-toxic formulation
    • Additional Feature:Compatible with traditional mediums
    • Additional Feature:Multiple surface applications
  4. Cobra Artist oil colour mixing set | 5 x 20 ml

    Cobra Artist oil colour mixing set | 5 x 20 ml

    Premium Quality

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    Artists seeking a versatile painting solution will find the Cobra Artist oil colour mixing set a fantastic option. This set includes five 20 ml tubes in essential colors: Ivory Black, Primary Cyan, Primary Magenta, Primary Yellow, and Titanium White. They’re water mixable, allowing for easy cleaning without solvents, which makes painting more enjoyable. The premium pigments ensure impressive color quality and durability. You can use these paints on various surfaces, from wood to canvas. Enjoy a glossy finish and opaque coverage while you explore over 100 colors available in this series, all crafted for excellent lightfastness. It’s a practical choice for any artist.

    • Brand:Cobra
    • Volume per Tube:20ml
    • Water Mixable:Yes
    • Finish Type:Gloss
    • Non-toxic:Yes
    • Suitable for Indoor Use:Yes
    • Additional Feature:Triple roller milled
    • Additional Feature:Excellent lightfastness
    • Additional Feature:45 mono-pigmented colors
  5. Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Paint Set

    Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Paint Set

    Complete Color Range

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    Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Paint Set stands out as an excellent option for beginners and those looking to simplify their painting process. This set includes 20 tubes, each containing 0.4 ounces of vibrant color, such as Titanium White and Cadmium Red Deep Hue. You can thin and clean the paint with water, eliminating hazardous solvents. The buttery consistency helps retain brush strokes beautifully. With a dry time of around 168 hours, you’ll have ample time to work on your masterpiece. Plus, as you grow, you can expand your palette with Winsor & Newton’s other options.

    • Brand:Winsor & Newton
    • Volume per Tube:12ml
    • Water Mixable:Yes
    • Finish Type:Variable
    • Non-toxic:Yes
    • Suitable for Indoor Use:Yes
    • Additional Feature:Expansive color range
    • Additional Feature:Short curing time
    • Additional Feature:Stiff consistency performance
  6. Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Colour – Ivory Black

    Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Colour - Ivory Black

    Classic Choice

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    If you’re looking for a reliable paint that combines the rich qualities of traditional oil colors with the convenience of water mixability, the Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Colour in Ivory Black is a great option. This 1.25 oz (37 ml) tube offers an opaque, satin finish that enhances your artwork. It’s made from modified linseed and safflower oils, making it safe to use while working in shared spaces. You can paint on various surfaces like canvas, wood, and metal. Plus, it has excellent tinting power with stable brown undertones. Enjoy creating with this versatile, environmentally-friendly paint!

    • Brand:Winsor & Newton
    • Volume per Tube:37ml
    • Water Mixable:Yes
    • Finish Type:Satin
    • Non-toxic:Yes
    • Suitable for Indoor Use:Yes
    • Additional Feature:Excellent tinting power
    • Additional Feature:Opaque color quality
    • Additional Feature:Animal-friendly formulation
  7. Mont Marte Water-Soluble Oil Paint Set (36 Colors)

    Mont Marte Water-Soluble Oil Paint Set (36 Colors)

    Versatile Use

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    For those looking to explore the versatility of oil painting without the mess of traditional solvents, the Mont Marte Water-Soluble Oil Paint Set is an excellent choice. This set includes 36 vibrant colors, each in an 18 ml tube, giving you a total volume of 648 milliliters. You can easily dilute these paints with water—up to 25%—to achieve the desired consistency. They’re also washable, which makes cleanup simple. With a satin finish, these paints provide a professional look. Plus, they can be mixed with traditional oils and acrylics, enhancing your creative possibilities. Enjoy experimenting and creating!

    • Brand:Mont Marte
    • Volume per Tube:18ml
    • Water Mixable:Yes
    • Finish Type:Satin
    • Non-toxic:Yes
    • Suitable for Indoor Use:Yes
    • Additional Feature:Washable and easy cleanup
    • Additional Feature:Dilution up to 25%
    • Additional Feature:36 vibrant colors
  8. Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Colour – Titanium White

    Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Colour - Titanium White

    Artist’s Favorite

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    Water Mixable Oil Paints offer a fantastic solution for artists searching for convenience and safety in their creative process. Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Colour in Titanium White is a prime example. This paint comes in a 6.75 oz (200 ml) tube, providing ample supply. Its opaque finish delivers rich color quality, perfect for various techniques like still life or landscape painting. You can thin it and clean up with water, eliminating the need for hazardous solvents. Made from modified linseed and safflower oils, this paint ensures safety in shared spaces or schools. It conforms to ASTM D4236 standards, offering peace of mind.

    • Brand:Winsor & Newton
    • Volume per Tube:200ml
    • Water Mixable:Yes
    • Finish Type:Satin
    • Non-toxic:Yes
    • Suitable for Indoor Use:Yes
    • Additional Feature:Pigmented for rich quality
    • Additional Feature:Ideal for various techniques
    • Additional Feature:No hazardous solvents needed
  9. Cobra Artist Value Pack 10 X 40 ml (21820510)

    Cobra Artist Value Pack 10 X 40 ml (21820510)

    Exceptional Lightfastness

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    Cobra Artist Value Pack 10 X 40 ml (21820510) is an ideal choice for artists seeking versatility in their painting adventures. With ten 40 ml tubes, you’ll have ample paint to experiment with. This set offers 70 colors, including transparent, semi-transparent, and opaque options, ensuring you’ve got a suitable hue for any project.

    These paints use a non-toxic formulation that’s easy to clean up with just soap and water. Drying in about 24 hours, they work well on surfaces like paper. Their high lightfastness means your artwork will remain vibrant for generations. It’s a practical set every artist should consider.

    • Brand:Cobra
    • Volume per Tube:40ml
    • Water Mixable:Yes
    • Finish Type:Matte
    • Non-toxic:Yes
    • Suitable for Indoor Use:Yes
    • Additional Feature:Includes exclusive pigment colors
    • Additional Feature:High lightfastness rating
    • Additional Feature:Suitable for alla prima technique
  10. Lukas Berlin Water Mixable Oil Paint Set of 6

    Lukas Berlin Water Mixable Oil Paint Set of 6

    Professional Grade

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    If you’re an artist seeking a versatile paint option, the Lukas Berlin Water Mixable Oil Paint Set of 6 is a fantastic choice. This set includes six 20mL tubes of high-quality, lightfast pigments. The paints mix easily with water, thanks to modified linseed oils that maintain brilliance and malleability. Additionally, the inclusion of bleached beeswax provides a buttery texture, creating a smooth application. Non-toxic and free of harsh solvents, these paints are great for artists concerned about health. With a drying time of 5 to 7 days, you can confidently explore various techniques on surfaces like canvas, paper, and wood.

    • Brand:Lukas
    • Volume per Tube:20ml
    • Water Mixable:Yes
    • Finish Type:Glossy
    • Non-toxic:Yes
    • Suitable for Indoor Use:Yes
    • Additional Feature:Enhanced by added beeswax
    • Additional Feature:Suitable for solvent allergies
    • Additional Feature:Versatile in techniques

Factors to Consider When Choosing Oil Paint Water Mixable

When you’re choosing water mixable oil paints, there are several important factors to think about. First, consider the color selection and how it fits your palette; a wide range of hues can give you more creative options. You’ll also want to pay attention to the paint’s consistency, finish type options, and ease of clean-up to ensure you enjoy your painting experience.

Color Selection and Palette

Selecting the right colors for your water mixable oil paints plays a crucial role in your artistic journey. Start by examining the range of colors in a set. A diverse palette gives you more creative freedom and mixing opportunities. Aim for essential colors like Titanium White, Cadmium Red, and Ultramarine, as these are fundamental for creating secondary and tertiary colors. Consider the variations in hue; alternatives can affect the brightness and opacity of your palette. Larger sets, like those with 36 colors, offer greater mixing flexibility. Lastly, check the performance characteristics of the pigments; a high lightfastness rating ensures that your art remains vibrant over time. This careful color selection will elevate your painting experience.

Consistency and Texture

Understanding the consistency and texture of water mixable oil paints is essential for every artist. Some paints have a buttery consistency, allowing them to hold brush strokes well, while others are more fluid, making blending easier. A stiffer paint offers greater control, perfect for detailed work and layering. You’ll often notice that different formulations can dry at various rates, which affects your painting techniques. When diluted with water, you can adjust the texture, achieving rich, opaque finishes or lighter washes. Remember, consistency impacts drying time and the artwork’s final appearance. For instance, an oil-rich paint might dry slower, giving you more time to work. Choose wisely to suit your artistic style!

Finish Type Options

Choosing the right finish type for your water mixable oil paints can significantly affect your artwork’s overall look. You have three main options: satin, gloss, and matte. Satin finishes strike a balance, reflecting some light while providing a soft sheen. This makes them versatile for many styles. Gloss finishes offer a vibrant, shiny look, enhancing color saturation and luminosity. However, be cautious of glare during viewing. Matte finishes, on the other hand, create a non-reflective surface, perfect for techniques that require precision and reduced glare. Additionally, different finishes affect texture and application; satin might hold brush strokes, while matte could be smoother for blending. Consider these factors to match your artistic vision and technique.

Clean-Up and Maintenance

When working with water mixable oil paints, you’ll find that clean-up and maintenance are much simpler compared to traditional oils. You can clean your brushes and palettes easily with just soap and water, eliminating harsh solvents. Be sure to clean your tools promptly; dried paint can be tough to remove. You can also dilute the paint with water, up to 25%, making it easy to adjust the consistency during both application and clean-up. Regularly clean containers to prevent cross-contamination with traditional oils or other mediums. Lastly, dispose of used rags and paper towels properly to avoid spontaneous combustion due to oil residue. Keeping these tips in mind makes your painting experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Safety and Non-Toxicity

Although many artists enjoy working with traditional oil paints, the safety advantages of water mixable oil paints can’t be ignored. These paints are formulated without hazardous solvents, reducing potential health risks. By using modified oils like linseed and safflower, you can thin and clean up your palette with just water. This significantly lowers your exposure to harmful chemicals. Plus, many formulations are non-toxic, making them perfect for schools or shared workspaces. They’re especially beneficial for those sensitive to traditional solvents. Look for paints that meet safety standards, like ASTM D4236, which indicate they’ve been evaluated and are safe for consumer use. Prioritizing safety will enhance your creative experience without the worry of harmful substances.

Price and Value

As you explore water mixable oil paints, consider how price and value can affect your creative journey. Prices vary significantly based on brand and quality. Sets with multiple tubes are often more economical than purchasing individual colors, giving you better value per tube. Look for larger sizes, too; the price per milliliter usually drops as the tube size increases. High-quality pigments might cost more, but they deliver superior performance and longevity, making them worth the investment. Special features, like lightfastness—how well a paint resists fading in sunlight—can justify higher prices. Always weigh these factors based on how you paint, ensuring you get the best value for your artistic needs without compromising your budget.

Compatibility With Other Mediums

Understanding compatibility with other mediums is essential when choosing water mixable oil paints. These paints blend well with traditional oil paints, so you can create unique textures safely. Many brands also mix nicely with acrylics, gouache, and even airbrush paints, adding versatility to your toolkit. Water mixable oils behave similarly to conventional oils, supporting techniques like glazing and wet-in-wet painting.

However, it’s vital to check compatibility as formulations differ by brand. Always verify specific mixing recommendations to avoid unwanted results. Additionally, you can clean and thin these paints using only water, eliminating harsh solvents that may affect other mediums. This feature keeps your workspace safe and allows you more creative freedom.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Water Mixable Oil Paints Be Used Like Traditional Oil Paints?

Yes, you can use water mixable oil paints like traditional oil paints. They offer similar properties, allowing for blending, glazing, and layering. However, the main difference is that you’ll clean your brushes with water instead of solvents. For best results, use a medium designed specifically for water mixable paints to maintain consistency. Always test your colors on a palette first, as these paints can behave differently than standard oils.

How Do I Clean Brushes Used With Water Mixable Oil Paints?

To clean brushes used with water mixable oil paints, rinse them in warm water right away. Use mild soap, like dish soap, to break down the paint. Work the soap into the bristles with your fingers for about 30 seconds. Rinse thoroughly under warm water until it runs clear. For stubborn paint, a brush cleaner can be helpful. Dry them flat or hang them to maintain their shape and longevity.

Do Water Mixable Oil Paints Have a Strong Odor?

Water mixable oil paints don’t have a strong odor, unlike traditional oil paints. You’ll notice an earthy scent, which is far more tolerable. This paints’ unique formulation allows them to mix with water, reducing the need for harsh solvents. When you’re painting, you might catch some scent, but it’s generally mild. So, if you hate overpowering fumes, these paints come to the rescue, making your creative space more enjoyable and less distracting.

What Is the Drying Time for Water Mixable Oil Paints?

Water mixable oil paints typically dry to the touch in about 1 to 2 hours. However, complete curing may take several days. This depends on factors like thickness and environmental conditions. If you’re painting with a thicker application, expect it to take longer. It’s advisable to check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific drying times. A slow-drying paint allows for extended blending, which can come to the rescue for detailed work.

Are There Any Specific Mediums for Water Mixable Oil Paints?

Yes, there are specific mediums for water mixable oil paints. You can use products like water mixable linseed oil, which helps improve flow and drying time. A typical ratio is one part medium to three parts paint. Another option is water mixable painting mediums, designed for specific effects, like glazing. These mediums permit cleaner, easier clean-up with soap and water, making them ideal for artists looking to simplify their process while achieving great results.