Currently, my palette contains many of the same pigments listed in my Pure Pigment Palette as described in my book, "Making Color Sing". This is an excellent basic palette for mixing any color desired for clean results without obtaining mud. In addition, I have added some of my favorite Daniel Smith colors (introduced after my book publication) to use when I desire a more intense effect.

    Enjoy using them all!

The following are answers to the most asked pigment questions:

Winsor Newton Rose Madder Genuine: The closest alternative color is Winsor Newton Permanent Rose. However, the two pigments have different qualities. Rose Madder Genuine is very transparent and identified by Winsor Newton as an unique pigment used for luminous light effects that cannot be obtained by any other pigment. Rose Madder Genuine is a favorite color among artists who desire glowing flowers, delicate portraits, glazing, and atmospheric effects, etc. Although not listed as permanent, Rose Madder Genuine can remain durable IF your painting is framed properly with UV protected glass and not placed near a window or in direct sunlight (applicable to all watercolors).

Winsor Newton Permanent Rose, slightly bluer in color, is a staining pigment and thus, creates a permanent color stain on your paper. Although a staining pigment is resistant to fading, be aware that it may not result in capturing a luminous effect, if that is your goal as a watercolor artist.

Winsor & Newton makes a Permanent Alizarin Crimson. When I served on the Winsor & Newton Artist Advisory Board, I recommended that they develop a Permanent Alizarin Crimson that I knew colorists would welcome for powerful darks. And they did!

Because greens tend to appear colder when dry, I prefer Winsor Green Yellow Shade or Phthalo Green Yellow Shade to enliven my greens.

Pushing pigments towards a yellow, red, or blue shade for "octanic" mixtures is described in my book, "Making Color Sing."

Pure pigment is the most expensive ingredient in a tube of paint. Therefore, I am suspicious of inexpensive paints that may contain fillers.

Also be aware that the same pigment name in another manufacturer's line may vary in color, quality, saturation, or mixing behavior. Winsor & Newton and Daniel Smith have excellent reputations.

The Pigment Chart below shows how the Daniel Smith pigments (more intense), correspond to the Winsor & Newton pigments (very transparent), so that artists can interchange them as they desire.