Hello! Oh wow this is a new trick, I will definetely try it! I must admit that it is hard to make the transition from Daniel Smith to anything else. I know I know it must sound so pretentious, but it is true. I used Koh-i-Noor, but not that specific type. I will look into those as well! I guess that for any artist is very tempting to dip our brushes in all sorts of colors as we like to experiment. Is there any brand you absolutely love and wouldn't change for anything or you like to mix it up?
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I can understand you being partial to Daniel Smith, and that's O.K. - why use anything else, if you're happy with it and it gets you results? The pencils, that's a different medium, so it's not a contradiction.
I don't consider myself an artist as I'm still learning. Consequently, I'm still experimenting a lot. I guess my only rule is to buy good media that are lightfast and compatible with each other. I do like to mix it up on the paper and can't get into making a "pure watercolor" painting, when adding other media (like pastels or gouache) will make the job go faster or easier.
There are so many great watercolors and gouaches, but for me it's also about what I can get locally as I like to see and possibly try the products first. Also, products need to be available open stock. Here in Germany that's Schmincke, so that's what I use most. I also have some White Knights from Russia, they're great and not as expensive.
I would love to try Maimeri Blu (Italy) which is a brand our friend @armandosodano is partial to, but lately due to Covid I'm not getting down to Milan anymore (factory). The closest dealer to me is in Luxembourg, except, this guy thinks he's a pharmacist and charges triple prices.
If I ever get really good at pastels I'll go on a shopping spree at "La Maison du Pastel" in Paris, that's on my bucket list :-)
http://lamaisondupastel.com/history.php
https://lamaisondupastel.com/shop/
Very good considerations, I have never used Daniel Smith, while Faber Castell Albrech Durer I have tried them and they are exceptional. Have a nice day and a watercolor hug.
You heard your name, eh? A big hug back to you 😀
If you work in watercolor Daniel Smith will just blow your mind lol, they are so good.
I wonder if you could order Maimeri online, it could save you a trip. I checked out la maison du pastel, they look so nice. I clicked on iridescents, 72 pc assortment, Woohooo pricey hahah. I bet they are super good. Are these the top of the line in regards to pastels?
Yes, I could order them, but I'm a brick and mortar guy. Have to see, touch, smell :-) Besides, it's fun going to Milan - just ask my wife. It's only a few hours for us, 600 klicks straight shot through Alsace and Switzerland. Not much more than Munich.
The French pastels are one of the top brands, probably the most expensive as they are handmade. Schmincke are very, very good and very, very soft, for a fraction of the price. (Still too expensive for a beginner like me.)