The Kuretake Gansai Tambi set features traditional Japanese watercolors that are known for their creamy texture and high opacity. The pans are oversized "Mega-Pans" (approximately 48mm by 28mm), which are much larger than the half-pans found in Western sets. This design allows for the use of very large brushes without worrying about damaging the bristles against the sides of the pan.
The formulation uses a high concentration of pigment and specialty binders that allow for instant re-wetting. Functional characteristics include:
- Large pan dimensions that accommodate brushes up to size 14 easily.
- A kiln-dried surface that resists water beading for a smoother mixing process.
- AP-certified non-toxic safety that conforms to ASTM D 4236 standards.
- 36 colors that provide a rich, creamy finish ideal for sketching and illustration.
Because the binder is highly soluble, the paint activates with very little water. In very dry environments, it is a good idea to keep the set in a cool place to prevent the paint from cracking. These paints provide a more opaque look than Western watercolors, making them an excellent choice for bold illustrations where layering for transparency isn't the primary goal.
If you need a more traditional Western-style set with standard half-pan sizes, the Winsor & Newton Cotman set is a great choice. For an organized way to store these large pans, explore our craft drawer boxes.
