Choosing the right oil paints for your artistic journey can feel overwhelming. You want paints that deliver vibrant colors and fit your specific needs as an artist.
In 2025, we've found 13 top oil paint sets for beginners and seasoned pros.
Let’s dive into what makes these selections special and how they can boost your creative process.
Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Color Paint Set, 20 x 12ml (0.4-oz) Tubes
The Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Color Paint Set is a fantastic option for beginners and artists wanting to add more colors to their collection without spending a lot. With 20 essential colors in 12ml tubes made from top-notch pigments, you'll enjoy creating vibrant artworks. This set is perfect for anyone looking to explore their artistic side while using high-quality materials.
Highlights:
- High pigment load gives you bright and long-lasting colors.
- Stiff consistency keeps brush strokes and palette knife techniques crisp.
- Great for different surfaces like canvas, board, and gesso-primed paper.
Magicfly Oil Paint, 40pcs Non-Toxic Paints for Artists and Kids
For both artists and kids, the Magicfly Oil Paint set is a fantastic option with 40 vibrant colors that invite creativity. Each 18ml tube is filled with safe, non-toxic paint that meets ASTM D-4236 standards. The smooth and creamy texture makes it easy to apply and mix on canvas, perfect for all skill levels.
Highlights:
- Rich colors that cover well and stand out
- Safe and non-toxic, meeting ASTM D-4236 standards
- Smooth texture for easy mixing and application on different surfaces
Paul Rubens Professional Oil Paint Set (20 Colors, 50ml)
Discover the Paul Rubens Professional Oil Paint Set, perfect for artists of all levels. This set includes 20 vibrant colors in generous 50ml tubes, ready to help you bring your creative visions to life. Whether you're a professional artist, student, or beginner, these high-quality paints will enhance your artistic journey.
Highlights:
- High saturation and creamy texture for easy application
- Excellent covering power and tinting strength with fine art pigments
- Non-toxic formulation with great lightfastness for long-lasting artwork
Castle Art Supplies 24 X 12ML Oil Paint Set
The Castle Art Supplies 24 X 12ML Oil Paint Set is perfect for both beginners and seasoned artists. With its beautiful presentation box and helpful tutorial, it's inviting for anyone looking to enhance their painting experience. This set features rich, vegan-friendly pigments that are lightfast and long-lasting, making it a great choice for adult artists and those just starting out.
Highlights:
- Buttery smooth consistency makes it easy to apply and blend colors.
- Vegan-friendly and lightfast pigments provide a vibrant finish that lasts.
- Comes with expert tips and tutorials to help boost your painting skills and confidence.
Gamblin 1980 Oil Color Exclusive Set
The Gamblin 1980 Oil Color Exclusive Set is perfect for aspiring artists who want quality materials without spending a lot. This set features eight vibrant 37ml tubes of Gamblin 1980 Oil Colors, giving you a great start on your artistic journey. Plus, you’ll enjoy a free cradled wood panel and solvent-free gel that come with the set.
Highlights:
- Comes with eight vibrant colors in 37ml tubes
- Includes a free cradled wood panel and solvent-free gel for ease
- Made in America for top-notch quality
Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Color, 200ml (6.75-oz) Tube, Titanium White
For artists looking for a dependable and budget-friendly option, Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Color in Titanium White is a fantastic pick. This 200ml tube delivers great quality, keeping your artwork vibrant and consistent. Whether you are just starting or have years of experience, this oil color is a must-have for your collection.
Highlights:
- High permanence rating (AA) means your artwork will last.
- Excellent lightfastness (ASTM I) helps prevent fading.
- The opacity of titanium white improves mixing for different techniques.
PHOENIX Studio Oil Paint Set - 20 Colors
Looking for an oil paint set that works for both beginners and experienced artists? The PHOENIX Studio Oil Paint Set has 20 vibrant colors in 50ml tubes, ready for any surface. With great color saturation and smooth application, it's perfect for blending and creating texture.
Highlights:
- High color saturation and strong tinting strength for bright artwork
- Excellent lightfastness keeps colors vivid for years
- Thick creamy consistency makes it easy to apply and create texture
Ohuhu Oil Paint Set, 24 Oil-Based Colors
The Ohuhu Oil Paint Set comes with 24 bright oil-based colors, making it a fantastic choice for artists of all levels. Whether you're a beginner, a kid, an adult, or a professional, this set has everything you need for various painting styles. With its safe non-toxic formula, you can create with peace of mind anywhere you go.
Highlights:
- Brightly pigmented colors give you bold and striking results.
- Non-toxic formula keeps everyone safe while they create.
- Handy 12ml tubes make it easy to take your paints anywhere.
RoseArt Premium Oil Paint Set (24 Colors)
The RoseArt Premium Oil Paint Set is perfect for both casual and professional artists who want vibrant colors and great performance. With 24 .4oz tubes of rich paint, you can easily create stunning artwork. Trust in RoseArt's century-long family legacy to support your creativity.
Highlights:
- High-quality artist-grade oil paints with strong pigments for bright colors
- Great coverage and blendability on canvas, wood, and paper
- Smooth texture makes layering and creating unique effects easy
U.S. Art Supply Titanium White Oil Paint - 2 Extra-Large Tubes
Looking for a dependable white oil paint? U.S. Art Supply Titanium White Oil Paint comes in a handy twin pack of extra-large 100ml tubes, perfect for professional and aspiring artists alike. With its high opacity and strong tinting strength, this paint helps your colors blend beautifully.
Highlights:
- High opacity and strong tinting strength make color blending easy.
- Non-toxic and acid-free, safe for all users including kids.
- Smooth consistency and long working time give you creative freedom.
Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Color Paint Set, 10 x 12ml (0.4-oz) Tubes
If you're starting out with oil painting or just want to explore, the Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Color Paint Set is a great choice. It gives you 10 essential colors in handy 12ml tubes, so you can easily dive into your creative projects. With a higher pigment load than many other options, you can expect vibrant colors that last.
Highlights:
- Higher pigment load for lively and lasting colors
- Stiff consistency keeps brush and palette knife strokes intact
- Formulated for stability and durability for a satisfying painting experience
ZenART Impressionist Palette Professional Oil Paint Set (8 x 1.7 Fl Oz Tubes)
Discover the ZenART Impressionist Palette Professional Oil Paint Set, perfect for both beginners and experienced artists. This set features eight large tubes of vibrant colors, including Titanium White, Lemon Yellow, and Ultramarine Blue, all designed for great coverage and depth. With a creamy texture that makes mixing easy, you'll love exploring your creativity with these eco-friendly paints.
Highlights:
- Highly pigmented colors give you excellent coverage and vibrancy
- Creamy consistency lets you mix easily without needing extra mediums
- Non-toxic and eco-friendly formula ensures a safe working space
PHOENIX Studio Oil Paint Set - 10 Colors
The PHOENIX Studio Oil Paint Set is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced artists. With ten vibrant colors in 50ml tubes, you can create stunning artwork with ease. Enjoy the high-quality pigments that offer great color saturation and smooth application on various surfaces.
Highlights:
- Bright colors and strong tinting strength for eye-catching art
- Excellent lightfastness keeps your artwork vivid for years
- Thick creamy texture makes it easy to create texture and blend colors
Factors to Consider When Choosing Oil Paints
When choosing oil paints, you’ll want to consider several key factors to ensure you get the best results. Think about the quality of pigments, tube size options, and the texture and consistency that suit your style. Additionally, don’t overlook the variety of colors available and the importance of safety and non-toxicity.
Quality of Pigments
Choosing oil paints involves considering the quality of pigments, as they play a crucial role in your artwork's vibrancy and longevity. Higher-quality pigments provide richer hues, better opacity, and improved lightfastness, ensuring your colors won’t fade over time. When selecting paints, look for professional-grade options that typically contain a higher pigment load, resulting in more intense colors and superior coverage. Pay attention to lightfastness ratings, as these indicate how well a pigment resists fading. Additionally, the formulation of pigments, including their particle size and purity, affects how easily they mix and apply. Opt for non-toxic pigments that meet industry standards, ensuring safety for artists of all skill levels, including children and beginners.
Tube Size Options
Several tube size options are available for oil paints, each catering to different needs and preferences. You’ll find sizes ranging from 12ml to 100ml, allowing you to choose based on your usage. If you’re a beginner or experimenting with colors, smaller tubes like 12ml are perfect. However, if you’re a professional artist, larger tubes provide better value and are more economical for frequent use. Remember, the volume affects cost—larger tubes typically offer a better price per milliliter. Also, consider the drying time; larger tubes may have a longer shelf life due to reduced air exposure. Always match the tube size to the projects you usually undertake to avoid running out of paint mid-creation.
Texture and Consistency
The texture and consistency of oil paints play a significant role in your artistic process. You’ll find a range from smooth and creamy to thick and buttery, each affecting how you apply and blend on the canvas. If you prefer visible brushwork, thicker paints are your best bet; they retain brush strokes beautifully. On the other hand, creamy oil paints excel in coverage and mixing, helping you create subtle gradients and effects. Keep in mind, the drying time varies with consistency—thicker paints take longer to dry, allowing for extended blending opportunities. Lastly, a high pigment load enhances color saturation and opacity, but this is also influenced by the paint's formulation and texture. Choose wisely to match your style!
Color Range Variety
When you explore the world of oil paints, a diverse color range can significantly impact your creative process. Having access to various colors allows you to experiment with different artistic styles and create unique blends essential for achieving specific hues and tones. Most oil paint sets include primary hues, earth tones, and whites, which enable you to mix a wider spectrum for your projects. Additionally, some sets offer specialty colors like metallics, enhancing your creative possibilities. When choosing oil paints, consider the number of colors in a set, as this can influence your ability to experiment and expand your techniques effectively. Whether you're a beginner needing basics or a pro seeking a comprehensive palette, color variety is crucial.
Safety and Non-Toxicity
Choosing oil paints that prioritize safety and non-toxicity is essential for maintaining a healthy creative environment. When selecting paints, look for brands that conform to safety standards like ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3, ensuring they’re non-toxic. Non-toxic oil paints minimize harmful ingredients, making them great for children, beginners, and artists concerned about health risks. You’ll be pleased to know that many non-toxic options still deliver vibrant colors and excellent performance, proving that safety doesn’t compromise quality. Check for safety certifications on the packaging; these labels can guide you in making informed choices. Using non-toxic oil paints also contributes to a safer workspace, especially in indoor areas with limited ventilation, allowing you to create with peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Store Oil Paints Properly?
To store oil paints properly, keep them in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight.
Make sure to tightly close the tubes or containers to prevent air from drying them out.
If you’re using a palette, cover it with plastic wrap or put it in an airtight container.
For opened tubes, consider placing them upside down to keep the paint fresh.
Regularly check for any signs of spoilage and throw them out if needed.
Can I Mix Different Brands of Oil Paints?
Yes, you can mix different brands of oil paints. Just make sure they are all made from similar materials like linseed oil or safflower oil to keep them compatible.
Keep in mind that some brands may have unique traits. This could affect the texture and drying time of your paint.
Always test a small amount first to see how the colors blend and interact.
Enjoy experimenting with your palette to create unique shades and effects in your artwork!
What Mediums Can I Use With Oil Paints?
You can use various mediums with oil paints to enhance your artwork. Common options include linseed oil for a glossy finish, turpentine for thinning and stand oil for a smoother application.
You might also try varnish for added protection or a painting medium that speeds up drying time.
Experimenting with these mediums allows you to achieve different textures and effects. This gives your paintings unique qualities. Just remember to mix them carefully for the best results.
How Do I Clean My Brushes After Using Oil Paints?
To clean your brushes after using oil paints, start by wiping off the excess paint with a paper towel.
Next, dip the brush in a solvent like turpentine or mineral spirits. Swirl it around in a container to loosen the paint.
After that, rinse the brush thoroughly with warm, soapy water and reshape the bristles.
If there’s any stubborn paint left, repeat the process until the brush is clean.
Finally, let your brushes dry flat to keep their shape.
Are There Any Safety Concerns With Oil Paints?
Yes, there are safety concerns with oil paints.
Always use them in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling harmful fumes. It’s important to wear gloves because some pigments can irritate your skin.
Be cautious with solvents like turpentine or mineral spirits. They can be toxic if ingested or inhaled.
Always read labels for safety instructions. Make sure you dispose of materials properly to minimize environmental impact.