Liquitex BASICS Acrylic Paint Set 12 x 22ml - Student-Grade Colors

In this review of the Liquitex BASICS Acrylic Paint Set, the bottom line is clear: this 12-color kit is best for students and hobbyists who need dependable pigment quality without the professional price. The set delivers a heavy body consistency that holds brush strokes and peaks, and uses the same high quality pigments Liquitex uses in its pro line, so color clarity and blendability are the standout reasons to buy. For people learning color mixing or practicing techniques, the kit balances performance and value.

Key Features

• Student-quality formulation: Provides a buttery, heavy body consistency that makes it easier to learn blending and brushwork while remaining affordable.
• High quality pigments: Uses the same pigments and a rigorous manufacturing process as professional ranges, which preserves brightness and strong color development.
• Fast drying and water cleanup: Dries quickly for layering and can be cleaned with water while wet, simplifying studio workflow.
• Surface versatility: Adheres to canvas, paper, wood, ceramics, textiles and more, allowing experimentation on many supports.
• Intermixable with pro products: Compatible with Liquitex Professional Acrylics and mediums, so artists can extend the range as they progress.

Who It's For

The Liquitex BASICS set is ideal for art students, classroom use, and hobbyists who want reliable pigments and a range of commonly used colors without investing in professional tubes. Its AP Seal and durable pigments make it appropriate for educational settings and beginners learning color theory.

More advanced painters who require highly lightfast, single-pigment professional colors or large formats might prefer the professional line, but those who want to mix with professional media or practice techniques will find BASICS a sensible, economical choice.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Good color quality and vibrancy due to the same pigments used in professional ranges.
• Excellent value for the number of colors and tube sizes included, making it budget-friendly for students.
• Buttery heavy body texture that retains brush marks and blends well for layered work.

Cons

• Tube size (22ml) is modest and some users may find them smaller than expected for frequent use.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Liquitex BASICS 12 x 22ml set is a solid purchase for students and casual painters who want true pigment performance at a lower price point. It blends easily, holds brush texture, and pairs with professional media as skill grows, delivering strong value for practice, study, and mixed-surface experimentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these paints suitable for beginners?
Yes. The set is formulated for students and comes with an AP Seal, making it suitable for classroom and home study.

Can I mix these with professional Liquitex products?
Yes. BASICS are intermixable with Liquitex Professional Acrylic Colors and mediums for extended versatility.

How do I clean brushes after use?
Clean with water while the paint is still wet; once dry, use mechanical or solvent-based methods if needed for thorough removal.