How to Choose Paints: A Practical Guide

How should you choose paints? First, decide what you will paint, which surface you will work on, and what visual result you want. Then compare the paint type, package volume, colors included in the set, and the need for additional tools. The number of colors or the appearance of the packaging alone is not a sufficient criterion.

If you are still learning the technique, a compact set will help you try several colors and practice mixing. For regular work, consider which colors you use most often, the size of your paintings, and whether you already have suitable brushes and other necessary materials.

How to Choose Paints — A Short Checklist

Write down your requirements before making a choice. A short list like this reduces the risk of comparing completely different options and helps you focus on your actual needs.

• Technique: What type of paint do you want to work with?
• Surface: What do you plan to paint on, and is the chosen paint suitable for it?
• Format: Are you creating small studies or relatively large works?
• Set contents: Do you need only paints, or a brush as well?
• Experience: Are you trying the technique for the first time, or do you already know which colors you want?
• Working conditions: Do you have a suitable space for use and storage?

Main Selection Criteria

Paint Type and Desired Effect

Different types of paint involve different working processes. Start your selection with the technique rather than a random color palette. Consider whether you want to work in layers, mix colors, create texture, or complete quick studies. Also check the instructions on the packaging for use and care in advance.

If you are specifically interested in oil painting, you can browse the selection of oil paints in one place. When comparing options on the collection page, pay attention to the set contents and volume, not only the number of colors.

Number of Colors and Palette Practicality

More colors do not automatically mean a better choice. At the beginning, it is more important for the set to allow color mixing and include tones that are useful to you. If you have a particular subject in mind, such as portraiture, landscape, or a decorative composition, list the colors you will need most often and then compare them with the contents of the set.

More experienced users can assess whether they need an entirely new set or only replacements for frequently used colors. This approach helps prevent the accumulation of tones that are rarely used in practice.

Volume, Surface, and Use Case

The volume should suit the frequency and scale of your work. Small packages are convenient for exploring a new technique, testing color combinations, or occasional use. Larger volumes become necessary when you work regularly, create large-format pieces, or frequently use a particular color.

Before using the paints, check their suitability for the intended surface. Look for information on the product label or in the description about intended use, preparation, cleaning, and storage. If surface compatibility is unclear, do not rely on visual similarity alone.

Your use case also affects the choice of accessories. Check whether you already have brushes intended for your technique, a palette, and materials for protecting your workspace. A set that includes an additional tool may be practical for getting started, but only if you genuinely need that tool.

How to Compare Options Step by Step

1. Define Your Goal in One Sentence

For example: “I want to try oil painting for the first time on small pieces” or “I need a set of colors for regular practice.” A clear goal quickly eliminates options that are too extensive, too small in volume, or intended for another technique.

2. Compare the Same Details

For each option, note the paint type, number of colors, volume of each package, and set contents. When assessing the price, do not rely only on the total cost of the set: consider how useful all its components will be and whether you will need to select additional items separately.

3. Check the Product Page

The title and main image do not always provide the full picture. Review all available descriptions and images to confirm the contents of the set. Pay particular attention to the quantity, volume, and whether a brush or another accessory is included in the list.

4. Narrow It Down to Two Realistic Candidates

For the final choice, compare only two options: which one better meets your current goal, and which components will remain useful in the future. This way, the decision is based on practical suitability rather than the longest list of contents.

Example Comparison of Two Oil Paint Sets

You may consider the 12-color oil paint set when the number of colors is your main initial selection criterion. The product title confirms that the set contains 12 colors; check the product page directly for other details.

The 10×20 ml oil paint set with brush offers a different point of comparison: the title specifies ten 20 ml tubes and a brush. Consider this option when both the volume and the inclusion of a brush are important to you.

In this example, choosing between “12 colors” and “10×20 ml with a brush” is not simply a matter of comparing numbers. First decide whether you want to try more colors or whether a specific volume and an additional tool matter more. Read all the information provided on both pages before making your final decision.

Common Mistakes When Choosing Paints

• Choosing only by color: A desired tone does not replace checking compatibility with the technique and surface.
• Automatically buying the largest set: Unused colors and accessories do not add practical value.
• Ignoring volume: Sets with the same number of colors may differ in volume.
• Forgetting additional materials: Check in advance what you already have and what you will need to select separately.
• Skipping the label instructions: Instructions for use and care should be checked for each specific product.
• Overlooking the workspace: The technique should suit your environment, storage capacity, and cleaning conditions.

Practical Recommendations Before Buying

If you are a beginner, choose a clearly described set with understandable contents that suits your first exercises. Prepare a few simple tasks in advance: color mixing, tonal transitions, and a small composition. This will show you which colors and tools you need for the next stage.

If you already paint, review your existing supplies and note the colors you use frequently. Choose a new set only when most of it fills a genuine gap. For a one-off project, list the surface size, approximate color palette, and necessary accessories.

The final checklist before buying is simple: Does the paint type match the technique? Are the set contents clear? Is the volume sufficient? Do you need the included brush? Do you have the remaining materials? Have you read the product instructions?

Conclusion — Start with the Intended Use

The most reliable way to choose paints is to define your goal, surface, technique, and working format in a consistent order. Then compare the number of colors, volume, and set contents. A good choice is one whose components you will actually use and that suits your current experience and project.