Caran d’Ache Swisscolor Aquarelle Water-Soluble Colour Pencils - 12 Count

The Caran d’Ache Swisscolor Aquarelle 12 Water-Soluble Colour Pencils are designed for artists who...

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eBayCaran d'Ache Swisscolor Water Soluble Pencils Box of 12 Assorted Colours
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B&QB&Q - Caran D'ache Swisscolor Aquarelle 12 Water-Soluble Colour PencilsBoxed Set
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The RangeCaran D'ache Swisscolor Aquarelle 12 Water-Soluble Colour Pencils - Boxed Set - Assorted Colours
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Product Information

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The Caran d’Ache Swisscolor Aquarelle 12 set is perfect for artists and illustrators seeking to combine the precision of a colored pencil with the expressive capabilities of watercolor. These pencils offer vibrant, highly pigmented color that transitions seamlessly into paint when touched with water, making them an excellent tool for travel sketching and mixed media work. While they provide professional-grade quality, the 12-count set is limited in its color range, which may require advanced layering techniques for complex color blending.

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BrandCaran d’Ache

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FAQs

Can I use these pencils without water?

Yes, they function perfectly as high-quality, vibrant colored pencils for dry drawing and sketching.

Are these pencils permanent once water is added?

Because they are water-soluble, the pigment can be reactivated if you add water again, even after it dries.

What kind of sharpener should I use?

A standard, high-quality metal sharpener is recommended to ensure a clean point without damaging the core.

Are these suitable for children?

While they are professional-grade, they are safe for children to use, though supervision is recommended for sharpening.

Can I mix these with other watercolor paints?

Absolutely; they work wonderfully in conjunction with traditional watercolor pans or tubes.

Do I need special brushes?

Any standard soft-bristled watercolor brush will work perfectly to activate the pigment.

Troubleshooting

Pencil lead keeps breaking during sharpening

Ensure your sharpener blade is sharp and avoid pressing too hard. Use a light, consistent pressure.

Paper is pilling or tearing when applying water

You are likely using paper that is too thin or not designed for wet media. Switch to a heavier weight, cold-press watercolor paper.

Colors are not blending smoothly with water

Ensure you are using enough water on the brush and that the pencil marks are sufficiently applied to the surface before wetting.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Excellent lightfastness and vibrant color payoff
  • Highly versatile for both dry and wet techniques
  • Durable, break-resistant cores
  • Premium Swiss-made quality
  • Compact and travel-friendly packaging

Cons

  • Limited 12-color range requires blending for nuanced hues
  • Higher price point compared to entry-level student brands
  • Requires proper watercolor paper to prevent buckling

Setup, Compatibility & Care

To achieve the best results, use these pencils on paper specifically designed for watercolor or mixed media, ideally 140lb (300gsm) or heavier, to avoid paper warping when water is applied. For application, ensure you have a selection of round watercolor brushes and a water container nearby. When sharpening, use a high-quality metal sharpener to maintain the integrity of the soft core; avoid over-sharpening to prevent unnecessary waste. Store the pencils in their provided box in a cool, dry place to maintain the condition of the leads and prevent humidity from affecting the water-soluble binder.

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