Introduction
The Kuretake GANSAI TAMBI Watercolor Paint Set offers 18 vibrant colors, crafted using traditional Japanese watercolor techniques. These paints are known for their vivid, opaque nature and smooth application, drying with a subtle sheen. The large pans accommodate various brush sizes, making them suitable for a wide range of artistic applications.
This set is designed for artists and crafters seeking professional-quality watercolors that allow for flexible techniques, including easy flat washes and effective layering. The water-based pigments are ACMI-certified for safety.
Setup
- Unpacking: Carefully remove the paint set from its packaging. You will find the 18 watercolor pans, a protective plastic sheet, and a color chart.
- Protective Sheet / Palette: The clear plastic sheet placed over the paint pans serves two purposes. It protects the pans from shifting during transport and can be used as a mixing palette. After use, clean the palette with water.
- Color Chart: A blank color chart is included. It is recommended to swatch each color onto this chart to create a personal reference for the exact appearance of each paint when dry. This helps in distinguishing between similar shades.

Image: Kuretake GANSAI TAMBI 18 Color Watercolor Paint Set with individual pans visible, showing the arrangement of the large paint pans.

Image: Kuretake GANSAI TAMBI Color Chart, illustrating how to swatch and organize your paint colors for easy reference.
Video: This video demonstrates the activation and application of Kuretake GANSAI TAMBI watercolors, showcasing their smooth texture and vibrant pigment.
Operating Instructions
- Activating the Paint: Apply a small amount of water to the surface of the paint pan using a wet brush. Allow a few moments for the paint to soften before picking up the pigment.
- Adjusting Opacity: GANSAI TAMBI paints can range from highly opaque to translucent. To achieve more opaque results, use less water. For translucent effects, add more water.
- Mixing Colors: The paints are easy to mix, allowing for the creation of a wide range of custom colors. Use the included plastic sheet or a separate palette for mixing.
- Layering: These watercolors do not leave hard edges when dry, facilitating smooth flat washes and easy layering techniques for depth and dimension in your artwork.
- Brush Use: The large pan size is designed to accommodate both small detail brushes and larger wash brushes, offering versatility for various painting styles.

Image: An example watercolor painting showcasing the vibrant colors and layering capabilities of Kuretake GANSAI TAMBI paints.

Image: A detailed view of a watercolor painting in progress, illustrating the smooth application and blendability of the paints.
Video: Watch this video for a demonstration of Kuretake GANSAI TAMBI watercolors being used for illustration, highlighting their blendability and color intensity.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: After each use, clean your brushes thoroughly with water. Wipe any excess paint from the mixing palette (protective sheet) to prevent color contamination.
- Storage: Store the paint set in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or high temperatures. Ensure the protective plastic sheet is placed over the pans to prevent dust accumulation and protect the paint surfaces.
- Pan Removal: Individual pans can be removed for cleaning or to customize your palette. Ensure they are placed back in their correct slots after use.
Troubleshooting
- Paint Cracking: Occasionally, Gansai pans may develop cracks due to extreme dryness. This does not affect their quality or performance. To remedy, add a few drops of water to the cracked pan and allow it to dry naturally; the paint will often heal.
- Bubbles on Paint Surface: Small bubbles may appear on the paint surface during production. This is a natural occurrence and does not impact the paint's quality.
- Difficulty Picking Up Pigment: If the paint feels too hard, ensure your brush is adequately wet. Allow the water to sit on the pan for a few seconds to soften the pigment before attempting to pick it up.
Specifications
| Brand | Kuretake |
| Model Name | Gansai Tambi |
| Item Model Number | MC2018V |
| Color | 18 colors set |
| Paint Type | Watercolor |
| Item Form | Solid (Pans) |
| Special Feature | Water-based pigment |
| Surface Recommendation | Paper |
| Included Components | Palette (protective sheet) |
| Is Waterproof | False |
| Material | Cardboard (packaging) |
| Item Weight | 8.5 ounces |
| Product Dimensions | 36.31 x 6 x 0.5 inches |
Warranty and Support
For further information, support, or warranty details regarding your Kuretake GANSAI TAMBI Watercolor Paint Set, please refer to the official Kuretake website or contact their customer service directly.
You can also visit the Kuretake Store for additional products and resources: Kuretake Store