Understanding Paints

Understanding paints takes some time, learning legends will assist you in choosing paints form various catalogs available from many art suppliers online.

Temperature
W = Warm
C = Cool

Staining
S = Staining
NS = Non-staining

Transparency
ST = Semi-Transparent
O = Opaque
SO = Semi- Opaque

Lightfastness is a concern of many artists, here's a few tips in what to understand re: legends
I = Lightfast - excellent rating
II = Very good
III = Fugitive

With a variety of paints on the market, I'm fairly familiar with two types: Watercolors and Acrylics. {I never ventured too far into to working with oils --- simply not my cup of tea; but I've learned never to say "never", LOL!} A note about paints: some contain Health Hazards *can be harmful if swallowed or inhaled* Use care and be wise to your art supplies. Keep them out of the reach of children and pets; and when in doubt, use protective clothing, safety equipment, and a well-ventilated area.

Watercolor Legends
AA = Extremely Permanent
A = Permanent
B = Moderately Durable
T = Transparent
O = Opaque
G= Granulating Color
S = Staining Color

My favorite brand is Winsor & Newton Artists Watercolors. They are made from the finest pigments available and have a high concentration with good handling properties. They are available in tubes of 5 and 14 ml. The 5 ml is a half pan great for portability and resolubility. My favorite is the Artist Watercolor Compact Set which contains 14 half pans in an attractive styled box with a mixing tray in the lid that is also detachable for easy cleaning. Colors are basic: Windsor Lemon, Windsor Yellow, Scarlet Lake, Windsor Red, Permanent Alizarin Crimson, Permanent Rose, French Ultramarine, Windsor Blue (GS), Windsor Green (BS), Permanent Sap Green (BS), Yellow Ochre, Burnt Sienna, and Raw Umber. Making a perfect mixing and blending palette.