I think a typical artist dreams of having a signature color palette. Colors you identify with and use on the reg, for convenience as well as for the sake of consistency. To have such a signature palette makes you feel confident. You don’t have to think about colors, you can just paint!

….I’ve been a Winsor & Newton gal for quite some time, ever since I got back into art a couple years ago… but recently I’ve made the switch to Daniel Smith pigments… I just personally think they are most delicious…

Above is an example of my go-to palette. (It’s available as an essential palette) Even though I prefer Daniel Smith, brand name doesn’t matter so much as quality – professional watercolor is the only way, and completely worth the investment. If you keep your palette limited, it wont be so costly in the long run, but a better product. And there are additional benefits. I especially like the idea of carrying less around with me as I travel. Also, taking less space on my desk!

…and although all that’s really important is your 3 primaries, these specific colors lend a perfect balance of one cool/one warm tone of each primary color… which basically gives you unlimited combos and mixes and access to ANY color! You know, I think having such a limited palette actually helps me understand color theory BETTER…

…I just the love salmons, mint greens/turquoises, and sepias I can make with this limited palette! I really feel at home with this current set. If you like the idea, you can even choose different brands or colors! Just choose 2 reds (one that has more yellow to it, and the other with more blue undertone), 2 blues (one more green and one more purple), and 2 yellows (like a lemon and an orange-yellow). Your should aim to mix cool/one warm hues together to get vibrant mixes…