Hey there, fellow art enthusiasts! Robert Kline here, your trusted guide in the world of art supplies. Today, we’re diving deep into the vibrant universe of gouache with a comprehensive review of Winsor & Newton’s Designer Gouache. This review is for anyone who’s curious about this popular brand, from beginners dipping their toes into gouache for the first time to seasoned artists seeking reliable and high-quality paints.
As a long-time fan of Winsor & Newton products, I’ve been using their Designer Gouache for years and have a lot to share about its performance. So, grab your brushes, squeeze out your favorite colors, and let’s get started!
Winsor & Newton Designer Gouache: What You Need to Know
Affordability and Availability
Winsor & Newton’s Designer Gouache sits comfortably in the lower-to-middle price range for professional-grade gouache. In the U.S., expect to shell out between $6.35 and $9.75 per tube, with a few pricier colors clocking in around $14.35. You’ll find even friendlier prices across the pond, thanks to its manufacturing roots in France.
You can easily snag these paints from Robert Kline Art or your favorite art supply store.
Vegan-Friendly Options
Good news for our animal-loving artists! Winsor & Newton Designer Gouache is largely vegan-friendly. The company uses a pure pigment and gum arabic binder, steering clear of extra additives. However, keep in mind that a few colors contain ox gall, an animal byproduct. These include:
- Intense Blue
- Primary Blue
- Burnt Umber
- Ivory Black
- Lamp Black
- Prussian Blue
- Sky Blue
- Winsor Green
- Neutral Grey
Also, any colors containing PBk9 are not vegan. But hey, with a rainbow of other fantastic shades, there’s plenty to love!
Packaging and Longevity
Winsor & Newton nails it with their practical and user-friendly tube design. The white caps are a breeze to open and close securely, even with dried gouache lurking around the edges. My oldest tubes are pushing four years and still going strong, thanks to the airtight seal.
Winsor Newton Designer Gouache Review
Winsor & Newton Designer Gouache tubes are designed for easy use and longevity.
Color Range and Swatches
Winsor & Newton boasts a diverse color palette, but I was particularly curious about their cadmium-free alternatives. While these are great options for those avoiding cadmium pigments, I found them slightly less vibrant than their traditional cadmium counterparts.
Winsor Newton Designer Gouache Color Swatches
Winsor & Newton Designer Gouache offers a wide range of colors, including cadmium-free options.
It’s worth noting that Winsor & Newton doesn’t publicly disclose the pigments used in their cadmium-free colors. However, I’m currently conducting lightfastness tests on my collection, including the cadmium-free range, so stay tuned for the results!
Winsor Newton Designer Gouache Color Swatches
Winsor & Newton Designer Gouache colors are known for their vibrancy and smooth application.
Mixing and Performance
One word: delightful! Winsor & Newton Designer Gouache boasts a creamy consistency straight from the tube, with most colors offering impressive opacity.
Winsor Newton Designer Gouache Review
Winsor & Newton Designer Gouache is known for its excellent mixing properties.
Unlike some gouache brands that turn goopy or overly transparent with the slightest drop of water, this formula plays well, allowing for beautiful blending and layering. This gouache truly shines in its ability to be used both diluted and thick while maintaining its opacity.
Winsor Newton Designer Gouache Mixing Chart
This mixing chart showcases the beautiful colors achievable with Winsor & Newton Designer Gouache.
Tips from My Experience
Having used this gouache extensively, I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way.
- Older tubes might be a tad stickier than fresh ones. No worries! A touch of water on the tip of your brush will restore their creamy flow.
- Cobalt Turquoise Light, though a personal favorite, tends to be quite gooey. Again, a tiny bit of water is your friend.
- Prussian Blue and Primary Blue dry with a slight sheen, almost like acrylics. This is something to keep in mind if you’re aiming for a completely matte finish.
Winsor Newton Designer Gouache Review
With proper care and a bit of water, even older tubes of Winsor & Newton Designer Gouache can perform like new.
Final Verdict: A Reliable and High-Performing Gouache
Winsor & Newton Designer Gouache is a winner in my book. Its affordable price, impressive opacity, smooth blending, and vegan-friendly options make it a fantastic choice for artists of all levels.
Winsor Newton Designer Gouache Review
Winsor & Newton Designer Gouache is a versatile and reliable choice for artists of all skill levels.
Ready to Create?
Have you tried Winsor & Newton Designer Gouache? Share your experiences and artwork in the comments below! And if you’re looking for more art inspiration or unique handmade gifts, browse our collection at Robert Kline Art. Happy painting!