Derwent Watercolour Pencils 24 Count - Precise, Water-Soluble Set

In this review the Derwent Watercolour Pencils (24 count) are judged as a versatile, easy-to-use set for artists who want the control of pencils with watercolour effects. The single biggest reason to buy is the blend of a sturdy, 3.4mm break-resistant core and a soft, water-soluble formulation that makes layering and washes straightforward. This set suits sketching, detailed drawing and creating textured watercolour lines without the mess of tubes or pans, and it ships in a metal tin that keeps the pencils organized and protected.

Key Features

• Sturdy precision: A 3.4mm core and hexagonal barrel give precise control for detailed drawing while remaining easy to sharpen.
• Water soluble pigment: The cores dissolve with water so users can create soft washes or lift and move colour even after drying.
• Colour layering: The softer formulation transfers pigment quickly, making blending and layering efficient for both bold colour and subtle transitions.
• Break resistant: Designed to resist breaking during long sessions, these pencils tolerate repeated sharpening and pressure.
• Metal tin storage: The included metal tin keeps all 24 colours organized and protected for travel or studio use.
• Accessory friendly: Works well with Derwent tools such as waterbrushes, technique brushes and watercolour paper pads to expand results.

Who It's For

The set is ideal for students, hobbyists and illustrators who want a portable, low-mess way to experiment with watercolour techniques while retaining pencil control. Artists who value precise line work that can be transformed into washes will appreciate the 3.4mm core and the quick pigment transfer for layering.

Professional watercolourists who require fully lightfast or permanent pigments, or those needing extremely large-format washes, may prefer dedicated watercolour paints instead. Likewise, buyers who need more than 24 colours in a single set should consider larger pencil assortments or combining with other palettes.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Strong, easy-to-sharpen 3.4mm cores permit fine detail and steady pressure without frequent breakage.
• Water-soluble formulation gives flexible effects from textured lines to soft washes with a wet brush.
• Quick pigment transfer supports smooth layering and blending for a wide tonal range.
• Metal tin provides durable, tidy storage for travel and studio use.

Cons

• Colours are water-soluble and not permanent, so finished work may need fixative or careful handling to avoid reactivation.
• Pack contains 24 colours only; users wanting an extended palette must buy additional sets or separate pencils.

Specifications

Brand	Derwent
Count	24 pencils
Core diameter	3.4mm
Barrel type	Hexagonal
Finish	Water soluble / watercolour pencils
Storage	Metal tin
Suitable accessories	Waterbrushes, technique brushes, watercolour paper pads

Our Verdict

The Derwent Watercolour Pencils 24 pack are a strong value for artists who want precise pencil control plus the ability to make washes without traditional paints. With a sturdy 3.4mm core, good pigment layering and a protective metal tin, this set is recommended for students, illustrators and mixed-media hobbyists who want flexible, travel-friendly watercolour effects.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these pencils water soluble?
Yes, the cores dissolve with water to create washes and allow colours to be moved or blended.

Do the pencils break easily when sharpening?
No, the formulation is designed to be break resistant and the 3.4mm core is sturdy for sharpening and use.

Can finished work be reactivated with water?
Yes, because the pigment is not permanent, adding water can move or adjust colours even after drying, so sealing may be needed for permanence.