Derwent Watercolour Pencils 24 Count - Precise Blendable Color

In this review of the Derwent Watercolour Pencils 24 count, the bottom line is clear: these pencils are ideal for artists who want precise pencil control with the flexibility of watercolour washes. The set suits sketchers, illustrators and hobbyists who value rich pigment and easy blending; the 3.4mm core and hexagonal barrel deliver steady handling for detailed work, while the water soluble formulation lets users switch smoothly between dry drawing and soft, watery effects. Overall this set is best for creative makers who blend and layer color often.

Key Features

• Sturdy precision: The 3.4mm core and hexagonal barrel give comfortable grip and fine control for detailed lines and longer sketching sessions.
• Water soluble pigment: The pencils dissolve with water so artists can produce textured wet lines or full washes by wetting either the tip or the paper.
• Blendability: A softer formulation transfers pigment quickly, making it easier to layer colors and achieve smooth transitions.
• Color variety: The 24 included colours give a wide palette for mixing, layering and building both bold and subtle tones.
• Durable construction: Pencils are described as easy to sharpen and relatively break resistant for everyday studio use.
• Accessory compatibility: Works well with water brushes, technique brushes and watercolor paper for best results.

Who It's For

These watercolour pencils are a good match for art students, urban sketchers and hobby painters who want both precision drawing and soft wash effects without switching media. The set's 24 colours are versatile enough for landscapes, studies and mixed media sketchbooks, and the hexagonal barrels make them comfortable for longer sessions.

Serious professional painters who require highly lightfast archival pigments or heavy-duty cores for constant sharpening may want to compare with specialist artist ranges. Also, if an artist needs an entirely permanent pigment that will not move with water at all, these water soluble pencils are not designed for that use.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Rich, blendable colours that work well both wet and dry for versatile effects.
• 3.4mm cores and hexagonal barrels provide precise control and comfortable grip.
• Can be used with a water brush or damp paper to create soft, vibrant washes.

Cons

• Some customers report occasional core breakage, so care is needed when sharpening or pressing hard.

Specifications

Brand	Derwent
Product type	Watercolour pencils
Count	24 colours
Core diameter	3.4mm
Barrel style	Hexagonal
Solubility	Water soluble pigment

Our Verdict

Derwent's 24 count watercolour pencils are a practical, well rounded set for anyone who wants pencil precision plus watercolor flexibility; they are good value for sketching, layering and mixed media work, though careful sharpening helps avoid occasional breakage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can these pencils be used dry and wet?
Yes. They perform well dry for detailed drawing and dissolve with water to create washes or blended effects.

Are the cores durable?
The cores are designed to be break resistant and easy to sharpen, but some users report occasional breakage if sharpened aggressively or pressed hard.

What accessories work best with these pencils?
They pair well with a water brush, soft brushes and good quality watercolour paper to get the fullest wash and blending effects.