Top Acrylic Paint Sets for Beginners in 2026: Picks and Tips
The Arteza Acrylic Paint Set of 60 colors is our top pick for beginners. It offers a wide range of shades, good consistency, and an affordable price. Its main limitation is that the included brushes are basic, so you may want to upgrade later.
Starting with acrylics is exciting. You need paints that blend well, dry predictably, and are forgiving. The right set can make learning fun.
We looked at customer reviews and product specs to find sets that offer good value. These picks suit different budgets and styles.
What we recommend
Arteza Acrylic Paint Set of 60 Colors
This set includes 60 vibrant colors in 2 oz tubes. The paint is creamy and blends effortlessly. Owners report excellent coverage and minimal drying issues. The assortment covers all basics plus unique shades.
Pros
- Huge color variety
- Smooth, creamy texture
- Lightfast and archival quality
Cons
- Brushes are basic
- Tubes may be hard to squeeze when full
Liquitex BASICS Acrylic Paint Set, 12 x 22ml
Liquitex is a trusted brand. This set offers professional-grade pigments in a student-friendly size. The paint is thick and retains brush strokes. Ideal for learning color mixing and techniques.
Pros
- Professional-grade pigments
- Excellent lightfastness
- Thick consistency allows texture
Cons
- Small tubes
- Limited color range
Castle Art Supplies Acrylic Paint Set of 24
This set gives you 24 generous 12 ml tubes at a great price. The colors are bright and mix well. Users appreciate the sturdy case and the included palette. It is perfect for casual painting and crafts.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Includes useful accessories
- Good pigment load for price
Cons
- Tubes are smaller
- Paint may separate if not shaken
U.S. Art Supply Acrylic Paint Set of 24 Colors
A safe, non-toxic set with 24 colors in 12 ml tubes. The paint is washable and easy for children to use. Parents report that it cleans up with soap and water. Great for school projects and family art time.
Pros
- Non-toxic and safe
- Washable formula
- Vibrant colors
Cons
- Pigment strength is weaker
- Not ideal for professional work
Mont Marte Acrylic Paint Set of 36
Mont Marte offers a huge selection of colors in a compact 36-piece set. Each tube contains 12 ml of paint. The consistency is buttery and smooth. Customers enjoy the unique shades and mixability.
Pros
- Large variety of colors
- Smooth application
- Great for color studies
Cons
- Some colors are semi-transparent
- Small tubes may run out quickly
Sargent Art Acrylic Paint Set, 16 oz Jars, 6 Pack
If you need lots of paint for canvases or crafts, this set offers six 16 oz jars in primary colors. The paint is fluid and covers well. It is ideal for painting large areas or mixing your own shades.
Pros
- Huge volume for the price
- Good for base coats
- Versatile for mixed media
Cons
- Limited color selection
- Jars are heavy and bulky
Grumbacher Academy Acrylic Paint Set of 10
This set includes 10 basic colors in 37 ml tubes. Grumbacher is known for quality educational paints. The paint has a nice body and dries to a matte finish. It is a solid choice for art students.
Pros
- Trusted brand
- Large tubes
- Good paint for practicing
Cons
- Only basic colors
- May need to mix frequently
What to look for
Understanding Paint Qualities Beginner paints should have good pigment load, smooth consistency, and reliable drying. Heavy body paints hold shape, while fluid paints are better for washes. Look for non-toxic formulas, especially for kids.
Color Selection Strategies Start with a basic palette that includes primary colors, white, and earth tones. This allows you to mix a wide range of shades. A larger set is fun but can be overwhelming. Consider your projects.
Essential Accessories You will need brushes, a palette, and canvas or paper. Quality brushes matter, but you can start with budget sets. A palette with a lid keeps paints moist. Use water to thin and clean up.
Caring for Your Paints Always seal tubes tightly after use. Store paints in a cool, dry place. If paint dries on your brush, use warm soapy water. Acrylics are water-based, so cleanup is easy if done promptly.
How they compare
| # | Model | Color Count | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arteza Acrylic Paint Set of 60 Colors | 60 unique colors | Best Overall for Beginners | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Liquitex BASICS Acrylic Paint Set, 12 x 22ml | 12 colors | Best Professional-Grade Starter | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Castle Art Supplies Acrylic Paint Set of 24 | 24 colors | Best Value for Hobbyists | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | U.S. Art Supply Acrylic Paint Set of 24 Colors | 24 colors | Best for Kids and Beginners | 8.7 | Check price |
| 5 | Mont Marte Acrylic Paint Set of 36 | 36 colors | Best for Exploring Colors | 8.5 | Check price |
| 6 | Sargent Art Acrylic Paint Set, 16 oz Jars, 6 Pack | 6 colors (red, yellow, blue, etc.) | Best for Large Projects | 8.2 | Check price |
| 7 | Grumbacher Academy Acrylic Paint Set of 10 | 10 colors | Best for Learning Techniques | 8.0 | Check price |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between student and professional acrylic paints?
Student paints have lower pigment concentration and may use fillers. They are more affordable and good for practice. Professional paints have higher pigment load, offering richer color and better lightfastness.
How many colors should a beginner set include?
A set of 10 to 24 colors is ideal. This provides enough variety without being overwhelming. You can mix most colors from primaries, but extra shades save time.
Are acrylic paints safe for children?
Many acrylics are non-toxic and certified safe. Look for the AP seal. Always supervise young children and ensure they do not ingest paint or get it in eyes.
Can I use acrylic paints on any surface?
Acrylics work on canvas, paper, wood, and fabric. For non-porous surfaces like glass, you need a primer or specially formulated acrylics. Test on a small area first.
Why does my acrylic paint dry too fast?
Acrylics dry quickly by nature. Use a misting spray bottle to keep the palette moist, or add a retarder. Work in a cool, humid environment if possible.
How do I clean acrylic paint from brushes?
Rinse brushes in water immediately after use. Use mild soap to remove residue. For dried paint, soak in acrylic cleaner or warm soapy water.
What is the best way to store acrylic paints?
Keep tubes capped tightly and store them upside down to prevent air from entering. Store paints in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Can I mix different brands of acrylic paint?
Yes, you can mix brands as long as they are all acrylic-based. Differences in consistency and binder may affect the final texture, but for general use, mixing is fine.
Our pick
For most beginners, the Arteza Acrylic Paint Set of 60 offers unbeatable value and variety. If you prefer professional-grade quality, choose Liquitex BASICS. For children, the U.S. Art Supply set is the safest option.
Jake Monroe
Jake worked as a residential contractor for over a decade before shifting to full-time writing. He evaluates power tools, hand tools and workshop gear through the lens of someone who has actually used them on job sites, not just read the box.
