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Official source: Official Paul Rubens Store | Independent Paul Rubens Reviews
Best overall value: 24 Metallic Colors + Paper Bundle ($51) — you get the shimmer paints AND the right paper in one box. Best for maximum sparkle: 48 Glitter Colors ($90). Best budget entry: Antique Pearl 36 ($33). Best for serious collectors: 96-Color Combo ($155.99).
Visual summary. Paul Rubens metallic watercolors work best when the shimmer supports the artwork: choose smaller sets to test the effect, larger hybrid sets for range, and always swatch on both black and white paper.
I've tested metallic watercolors from Kuretake, Finetec, Coliro, and half a dozen no-name Amazon brands. Most of them disappointed me in one way or another.
Then I went through the entire Paul Rubens metallic and glitter lineup. All 8 sets. Side by side. Same paper. Same brushes. Same lighting conditions.
And here's what surprised me:
Not all of these sets are created equal. Some are genuinely excellent. One or two are niche picks that only make sense for specific use cases. And the price differences don't always reflect quality differences.
This review covers every Paul Rubens metallic, glitter, and pearlescent watercolor set you can buy right now. I'll give each one a score, tell you exactly who it's for, and — most importantly — tell you which ones to skip.
No diplomatic hedging. No "it depends on your preferences." I have opinions, and you're getting them.
What Makes Paul Rubens Metallic Watercolors Different From Kuretake and Finetec
Before I get into the individual reviews, you need to understand why I keep coming back to Paul Rubens for metallic watercolors specifically.
Kuretake Gansai Tambi Starry Colors are beautiful. Finetec Artist Mica Watercolors are the gold standard for calligraphy. I'm not going to pretend otherwise.
But here's the thing:
Kuretake gives you 6 colors for about $13. Finetec gives you 6 colors for $25+. Paul Rubens gives you 24 metallic colors for $49 — or 48 glitter colors for $90.
The per-color cost isn't even close. And the quality gap? It's narrower than you'd think.
Paul Rubens metallic watercolors use ultra-fine mica-based pigments — the same fundamental technology as Finetec. The mica platelets reflect light at multiple angles, producing that characteristic shimmer. The particle size is fine enough that the paint flows smoothly without clogging brushes or settling into clumps.
Where Finetec has an edge: their gold shades are slightly more intense, and the pans are larger. Where Paul Rubens wins: color variety, price, and packaging convenience. Having 24 or 48 shimmer shades in a portable case with a built-in palette is genuinely more practical than a 6-pan Finetec set for most projects.
Now let's get into the individual sets.
1. Paul Rubens Metallic Glitter 24 Colors (No Paper) — The Gateway Set
Paul Rubens Artist Watercolor Paints — Metallic Glitter 24 Colors
My Verdict:
Solid set. Good shimmer. But I'll be honest — I don't recommend this one. For just $2 more, you get the same exact paints PLUS 20 sheets of 100% cotton hot press paper (which is the best paper for showing shimmer). The no-paper version only makes sense if you already have a stockpile of hot press paper at home. Otherwise, get the bundle below.
Who should buy this:
Artists who already own hot press watercolor paper and don't need more. Otherwise, spend the extra $2 on the paper bundle.
2. Paul Rubens Metallic Glitter 24 Colors + Paper Bundle — My #1 Pick for Most People
Paul Rubens Metallic Glitter 24 Colors + 20 Sheets Cotton Paper
My Verdict:
This is the set I recommend to anyone asking "where should I start with metallic watercolors?" The math is simple: the paper alone would cost $8-12 separately, so you're basically getting it for free. And the paper is specifically chosen to maximize shimmer — 100% cotton, hot pressed, 300 gsm. That's not an accident. Metallic watercolors on hot press paper look 3x better than on cold press. Paul Rubens is literally handing you the ideal surface to make their paints look their best. Smart move on their part, great deal for you.
Who should buy this:
First-time metallic watercolor buyers. Card makers. Journal artists. Anyone who wants to unbox and start painting immediately without worrying about paper compatibility.
Now let's talk about something bigger.
3. Paul Rubens 48 Colors (24 Metallic + 24 Vivid) — The Versatile Hybrid
Paul Rubens 48 Colors — 24 Metallic + 24 Vivid
My Verdict:
Here's my honest take: if you DON'T already own a Paul Rubens vivid set, this is a brilliant buy. You get a complete watercolor kit — standard colors for regular painting, metallics for accents and highlights — in one portable case. If you already own a Paul Rubens vivid set, you'd just be duplicating 24 colors. In that case, get the 24 metallic + paper bundle for $51 instead and save $38.
Who should buy this:
Artists who want ONE set that does everything. Plein air painters. Travelers who don't want to carry multiple palettes. People who use metallics as accents rather than for full-shimmer paintings.
But what if 24 metallic shades isn't enough for you?
4. Paul Rubens 48 Glitter Colors + Paper Block — Maximum Sparkle Mode
Paul Rubens 48 Glitter Colors + Cotton Paper Block
My Verdict:
This is the flagship shimmer set, and it shows. 48 glitter colors gives you an absurd amount of variety — golds from pale champagne to deep bronze, silvers from icy blue to warm pewter, plus iridescent greens, pinks, and purples you won't find in the 24-color sets. If shimmer is the point of your painting rather than an accent, this is the set. Card makers, illustration artists, and galaxy painters: this is your go-to. The included paper block is a nice bonus — acid-free cotton that won't yellow over time.
Who should buy this:
Dedicated shimmer painters. Card makers who want maximum color variety. Galaxy and cosmic art enthusiasts. Artists who already own a regular watercolor set and want a separate shimmer palette.
It gets even better, though.
Ready to Add Some Shimmer?
All metallic, glitter, and pearlescent watercolor sets. Free shipping on orders over $49.
Shop All Shimmer Sets →5. Paul Rubens Metallic Glitter 12 Colors + Paper Pad — The Premium Concentrate
Paul Rubens Metallic Glitter 12 Colors + Watercolor Paper Pad
My Verdict:
I'll be straight with you: the value proposition here is tough to justify. At $76.99 for 12 colors, you're paying $6.42 per color. The 24-color bundle is $2.13 per color. Yes, the pans are larger and the pigment concentration is higher. But for most artists, more color variety matters more than more pigment per color — especially since metallic pans last a long time with minimal water use anyway. I'd only recommend this if you specifically want a tiny, ultra-portable kit with premium pigment density for travel sketching.
Who should buy this:
Travel artists who prioritize pigment quality over color variety. Professional calligraphers who use the same 6-8 metallic shades repeatedly and want larger pans. If color range matters to you at all, look at the 24 or 48 sets.
Now for the pearlescent options — which are different from glitter, and I'll explain why that matters.
6. Paul Rubens 36 Classical Pearlescent Colors — The Subtle Shimmer
Paul Rubens 36 Classical Pearlescent Colors
My Verdict:
Here's the important distinction most people miss: pearlescent is NOT the same as glitter. Glitter watercolors have visible sparkle particles. Pearlescent watercolors have a smooth, color-shifting sheen — like the inside of an oyster shell. You tilt the paper and the color subtly changes. It's refined. It's elegant. And for fine art and illustration, I actually prefer it to glitter. The classical color palette is well-curated — you get warm earth tones, cool metallics, and iridescent pastels that are hard to find elsewhere. If "sophisticated shimmer" appeals to you more than "sparkle party," this is your set.
Who should buy this:
Fine artists who want shimmer without the "crafty" look. Fashion illustrators. Botanical painters who want subtle iridescence on petals and leaves. Anyone who thinks Finetec is too glittery but regular watercolors are too flat.
7. Paul Rubens Antique Pearl 36 Colors — The Budget Surprise
Paul Rubens Antique Pearl Watercolor Set — 36 Colors
My Verdict:
This set genuinely surprised me. At $33, I expected mediocre shimmer and chalky application. What I got was a thoughtfully curated set of antique-toned pearls that look gorgeous on cream and black paper. The color palette is different from the standard metallic line — think aged brass, tarnished silver, vintage rose gold, dusky pearl. It's the most underrated set in the entire Paul Rubens metallic lineup. For calligraphers, card makers, and anyone who prefers "old world" aesthetics over "disco ball," this is the one. And at $0.92 per color, the value is hard to beat anywhere.
Who should buy this:
Calligraphers. Card makers. Bullet journal enthusiasts. Budget-conscious artists who want to try shimmer watercolors without a big investment. Anyone who likes muted, vintage metallic tones over bright flashy ones.
But what if money isn't the constraint?
8. Paul Rubens 48 Vibrant + 48 Glitter Metallic Combo — The Full Collection
Paul Rubens 48 Vibrant + 48 Glitter Metallic — 96 Colors Total
My Verdict:
This is the "I want everything" set. And honestly? If you're starting from zero and know you'll use both regular and metallic watercolors, this is the most economical path to a complete collection. Buying the 48 vibrant set ($79) and the 48 glitter set ($90) separately would cost $169 — so the combo saves you about $13. Not a massive discount, but you get everything in one order. The vibrant colors are genuinely excellent artist-grade paints, not filler. My only reservation: unless you paint frequently, 96 colors is a LOT. If you're a hobbyist who paints once a week, you probably don't need this many colors. For professionals, content creators, and daily painters — it's a smart buy.
Who should buy this:
Professional artists. Art teachers who need a complete kit. Content creators who paint on camera. Anyone starting fresh who wants the full Paul Rubens experience without buying piecemeal.
Complete Ranking: All Paul Rubens Metallic & Shimmer Sets
Here's every set, ranked by overall value — factoring in shimmer quality, color range, price per color, and what you get in the box.
| Rank | Set | Colors | Type | Price | $/Color | Score | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 24 Metallic + Paper Bundle | 24 | Metallic Glitter | $51.00 | $2.13 | 9.0 | Overall Value |
| 2 | 48 Glitter Colors + Paper Block | 48 | All Glitter | $90.00 | $1.88 | 8.5 | Max Shimmer |
| 3 | Antique Pearl 36 Colors | 36 | Pearlescent | $33.00 | $0.92 | 8.5 | Budget Entry |
| 4 | 48 Colors (24 Metallic + 24 Vivid) | 48 | Hybrid | $89.00 | $1.85 | 8.0 | Versatility |
| 5 | 36 Classical Pearlescent | 36 | Pearlescent | $45.99 | $1.28 | 8.0 | Subtle Shimmer |
| 6 | 96-Color Combo (48+48) | 96 | Vivid + Glitter | $155.99 | $1.63 | 8.0 | Full Collection |
| 7 | 24 Metallic (No Paper) | 24 | Metallic Glitter | $48.98 | $2.04 | 7.5 | Paper Owners |
| 8 | 12 Colors + Paper Pad | 12 | Metallic Glitter | $76.99 | $6.42 | 7.0 | Travel |
Notice something interesting? The cheapest set (Antique Pearl at $33) ties for the second-highest score. Price doesn't always equal quality in this lineup.
Paul Rubens Metallic Watercolors Overall: Pros and Cons
After testing all 8 sets, here's my overall assessment of Paul Rubens as a metallic watercolor brand.
What Paul Rubens Gets Right
Where They Fall Short
The Paper Question: Why Hot Press Makes or Breaks Your Shimmer
I cannot stress this enough: the wrong paper will ruin your metallic watercolor experience.
Here's what happens at a microscopic level. Metallic watercolors contain mica platelets — tiny flat mirrors that reflect light. On smooth hot press paper, those platelets sit ON the surface where they can catch light from every angle. On cold press paper, they fall INTO the paper's texture valleys, hiding from the light.
The difference isn't subtle. It's dramatic.
I tested the same Paul Rubens metallic gold on four paper types:
- Hot press 300 gsm (cotton) — brilliant, mirror-like shimmer. This is what you see in promo photos.
- Cold press 300 gsm (cotton) — visible shimmer but muted by about 40%. Still nice, not stunning.
- Rough press 300 gsm — barely shimmered. Most of the mica disappeared into the paper texture.
- Black card stock — the most dramatic result. The dark background made every mica particle pop. Gorgeous.
This is exactly why I rate the paper-included bundles so highly. Paul Rubens specifically chose hot press cotton paper to pair with their metallic paints. They know it shows the shimmer best. Don't fight the recommendation — use smooth paper for metallic work.
How I Tested These Sets (My Process)
I didn't just swatch each color and call it a day. Here's exactly what I evaluated for each set:
Shimmer intensity: How bright is the metallic effect in direct light, side light, and diffused light? I looked at each swatch from multiple angles.
Flow and application: Does the paint pick up smoothly with a wet brush? Does it distribute evenly? Any clumping, streaking, or particle settling?
Color accuracy: Do the colors match what's shown in the product photos? (Important — some metallic sets look very different in person.)
Rewetting: Can you rewet the paint after it dries in the pan and get consistent results? Some metallic paints get crusty and hard to reactivate.
Layering: Can you layer metallic paint over dried regular watercolor without disturbing the layer below?
Value assessment: Price per color, what's included in the box, and how it compares to competing brands at the same price point.
Every set performed well on flow and rewetting — that's a Paul Rubens strength across the board. The differences showed up mainly in shimmer intensity, color variety, and value proposition.
Metallic vs. Pearlescent vs. Glitter: Which Shimmer Type Do You Want?
Paul Rubens uses three different shimmer technologies across their sets, and the distinction matters more than most people realize.
| Feature | Metallic | Pearlescent | Glitter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shimmer Type | Smooth, reflective | Color-shifting sheen | Visible sparkle particles |
| Mica Size | Fine | Ultra-fine | Medium to large |
| Best For | Illustrations, fine art | Fashion, botanicals | Cards, crafts, galaxy art |
| Subtlety | Medium | High (elegant) | Low (flashy) |
| Paul Rubens Sets | 24-color, 12-color, 48 hybrid | 36 Classical, Antique Pearl | 48 Glitter, 96-color combo |
My recommendation: if you've never used metallic watercolors before, start with a metallic set (the 24-color + paper bundle). It's the most universally useful shimmer type. Once you know you like shimmer painting, branch out to pearlescent or glitter based on your art style.
4 Techniques to Get the Most Shimmer Out of Your Paints
Having the right set isn't enough. You need to use it correctly. Here's how to maximize the shimmer effect:
1. Use Less Water Than You Think
This is the #1 mistake I see. Metallic watercolors reward a concentrated application. Too much water spreads the mica particles thin, and you lose the reflective density. Load your brush, let a bit of water drip off, then paint. The shimmer should be obvious on the first stroke.
2. Layer Metallics OVER Dried Regular Watercolor
Paint your base scene in regular watercolors. Let it dry completely. Then add metallic highlights — gold sunlight, silver water reflections, copper accents. The regular paint provides the color foundation; the metallic paint adds the magic on top.
3. Try Black or Dark Paper
If you haven't painted metallics on black paper, you're missing out. The dark background creates maximum contrast for every mica particle. Galaxy paintings, night scenes, gold calligraphy on black — the results are stunning and photograph beautifully for social media.
4. Dry Brush for Textured Shimmer
Load your brush with concentrated metallic paint, then blot most of the moisture on a paper towel. Drag the nearly-dry brush across the paper. The mica catches only the high points of the paper texture, creating a sparkle-and-shadow effect. Beautiful for rocks, fabric, and architectural details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Paul Rubens metallic watercolors artist grade?
Yes. Paul Rubens markets them as artist-grade, and the mica quality supports that claim. The pigment is finely ground, flows smoothly, and produces consistent results. They're not Finetec-level in terms of pure shimmer intensity, but for the price point, the quality is excellent. Professional calligraphers and illustrators use these regularly.
What's the difference between the Paul Rubens metallic and pearlescent sets?
Metallic sets use mica particles that create a bright, reflective shimmer — think gold foil or chrome. Pearlescent sets use ultra-fine mica that produces a subtle color-shifting sheen — like the inside of a seashell. The pearlescent effect is more elegant and subtle; the metallic effect is more dramatic and eye-catching. The Antique Pearl 36 and Classical Pearlescent 36 are pearlescent. The 24-color, 48-color, and 12-color sets are metallic/glitter.
Can I mix Paul Rubens metallic watercolors with regular watercolors?
Absolutely. Mixing a small amount of metallic into regular watercolor adds a subtle shimmer effect without going full glitter. Gold metallic mixed with yellow ochre creates a beautiful warm glow. Silver metallic with Payne's gray makes a gorgeous moody shimmer. The hybrid 48-color set (24 metallic + 24 vivid) is specifically designed to be mixed between the two types.
Which Paul Rubens metallic set is best for beginners?
The 24 Metallic Colors + Paper Bundle ($51). It includes everything you need — 24 shimmer colors and 20 sheets of hot press cotton paper that's specifically designed to show maximum shimmer. You don't need to worry about buying the wrong paper type. For a budget option, the Antique Pearl 36 ($33) is an excellent entry point.
Are Paul Rubens metallic watercolors lightfast?
Moderately lightfast. Mica-based pigments are more stable than many synthetic dyes, but they will fade over time under direct UV exposure. For artwork you plan to display, frame behind UV-protective glass. For cards, journals, and sketchbook work, lightfastness isn't a practical concern since they're not exposed to sustained light.
How do Paul Rubens metallic watercolors compare to Finetec?
Finetec has slightly more intense shimmer in their gold shades and larger individual pans. But Finetec gives you 6 colors for $25+, while Paul Rubens gives you 24 metallic colors for $49-51. The per-color cost isn't close. For calligraphers who only need 2-3 gold shades, Finetec may be worth the premium. For illustrators, card makers, and anyone who wants color variety, Paul Rubens wins on value.
What paper works best with metallic watercolors?
Hot press (smooth) paper shows maximum shimmer because the mica particles sit on the surface. Cold press reduces the effect by about 40% as particles fall into the paper texture. Rough paper is not recommended for metallic work. Black paper creates the most dramatic contrast. For the best results, use 100% cotton, 300 gsm hot press paper — which is exactly what Paul Rubens includes in their paper bundle sets.
Do I need special brushes for metallic watercolors?
No. Standard watercolor brushes work perfectly with Paul Rubens metallic paints. The mica particles are fine enough that they don't clog brush fibers. Synthetic brushes and natural hair brushes both work well. Just rinse your brush thoroughly between colors to avoid carrying shimmer into non-metallic paints. A flat brush gives more even metallic coverage; a round brush is better for detailed metallic accents.
TL;DR — Paul Rubens Metallic Watercolor Review Summary
- Best overall value: 24 Metallic Colors + Paper Bundle ($51) — same paints as the $49 set, plus 20 sheets of the perfect paper for $2 more.
- Best budget entry: Antique Pearl 36 ($33) — surprisingly good quality at under $1/color. Great for calligraphy and cards.
- Best for maximum shimmer: 48 Glitter Colors + Paper Block ($90) — 48 dedicated glitter shades, the most variety in any single shimmer set.
- Best one-set-does-all: 48 Colors Hybrid ($89) — 24 metallic + 24 vivid standard colors in one case. Perfect for travel.
- Skip unless you need it: 12 Colors + Paper Pad ($77) — good quality but terrible per-color value at $6.42 each.
- Biggest collection: 96-Color Combo ($156) — for professionals and collectors who want everything. Saves ~$13 vs buying sets separately.
- Paper matters more than paint brand. Hot press (smooth) paper shows 2-3x more shimmer than cold press. Always use smooth paper for metallic work.
- Vs. Finetec: Finetec has slightly better golds, but Paul Rubens gives you 4x more colors per dollar. For most artists, Paul Rubens is the smarter buy.
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Every metallic, glitter, and pearlescent watercolor set. Free shipping on orders over $49.
You Jingkun
Art supply specialist and founder of Paul Rubens Shop. Over a decade of experience testing watercolors, oil pastels, and drawing materials from pigment formulation to finished product. I test every product we sell — if it doesn't meet my standards, it doesn't make the shelf. Questions? Email me directly from the Contact page.
Official Paul Rubens evidence: Official Paul Rubens Store confirms the direct-from-factory store identity, and Independent Paul Rubens Reviews collects third-party artist tests and video reviews.