Caran d'Ache SUPRACOLOR Sonderedition 18-color watercolor artists' pencils, water-soluble, soft core

Caran d'Ache SUPRACOLOR Sonderedition 18-color watercolor artists' pencils are water-soluble, soft-core pencils designed for drawing, sketching and producing watercolor effects. The set contains 18 carefully selected pigments that apply smoothly for dense color laydown in dry use and transform into transparent washes when activated with water. These pencils target users who want precise line work, layering and seamless blending between drawing and painted passages.

Advantages

The soft core provides strong color saturation with minimal pressure, enabling smooth gradations and easy layering. Water-solubility lets you switch from dry pencil techniques to wet washes without changing tools, and the high-quality pigments retain clarity when diluted. The compact 18-color selection balances portability and range, suitable for travel, fieldwork and studio sketches.

Suitable for

• Sketching and preliminary studies
• Watercolor effects and wash techniques
• Mixed-media illustrations combining pencil and water
• Portraits, landscapes and botanical drawings
• Hobby and professional artwork requiring precise control

When it may not be suitable

This 18-color set offers a curated palette rather than a full spectrum for exact color matching; artists who need an extensive range of hues or very specific color matches may prefer larger sets. The soft core is prone to wear if used with heavy pressure, so it may not be ideal for techniques that require very hard, fine lines without frequent sharpening.

Key specifications

• Number of colors: 18
• Core type: soft, water-soluble pigment cores
• Intended use: drawing, sketching, watercolor washes, mixed media
• Form factor: pencil set in a compact case suitable for transport and storage

How to use

Apply the pencils dry for precise lines, hatching and layering. To produce watercolor effects, apply color on dry paper and blend with a wet brush; use more water to create transparent washes or less for subtle gradients. For mixed-media work, layer dry pencil over washed areas after they are fully dry to add detail and contrast. Keep a sharpener and a variety of brushes on hand to vary stroke widths and blending styles.

What to consider before purchase

• Whether an 18-color selection provides the hues you need for your projects
• Paper type: heavier, watercolor-capable paper improves wet blending and reduces buckling
• Sharpeners: soft cores require a sharpener designed for colored pencils to avoid breakage

Usage recommendations

For best results, test colors on the paper you plan to use, build tones gradually with layers, and blend with a soft, round brush to preserve pigment transparency. Store pencils horizontally to reduce risk of breakage and keep the case closed when transporting.