The Paul Rubens Oil Paint set offers 20 colors in 50ml tubes, positioning itself as a budget-friendly option for artists who need a large quantity of paint without breaking the bank. In practice, these paints are often used for studies, underpainting, or teaching environments where volume matters more than archival quality. The consistency is creamy and smooth, similar to a medium-bodied oil paint, which makes it easy to mix and apply straight from the tube.
One of the standout features here is the high saturation of the pigments. Colors like cadmium red, ultramarine, and yellow ochre retain their vibrancy even when thinned with solvent. The paint feels buttery on the brush, allowing for good spreadability across canvas or panel. For artists working on larger pieces, the 50ml tubes are a practical size—you get enough paint to cover substantial areas without needing to constantly replenish.
However, there are trade-offs. The lightfastness ratings are inconsistent across the set. While some colors are labeled as permanent, others may fade over time, especially if exposed to direct sunlight. This makes the set less ideal for fine art intended for sale or long-term display. Additionally, the paint contains a noticeable amount of filler, which can reduce the color strength when mixed with large amounts of medium. Compared to professional lines like Winsor & Newton or Gamblin, the Paul Rubens paints have a slightly stiffer consistency and less pigment load.
In terms of alternatives, this set competes with other student-grade brands such as Mont Marte or Artina. The Paul Rubens brand offers a wider range of colors in larger tubes for a similar price point, but the quality control can vary between batches. Some users report that certain colors, like titanium white, are more opaque than others, while some earth tones feel chalky. This is typical for budget oil paints and should be expected.
Who is this set suitable for? It works well for art students, hobbyists, and beginners who are learning color mixing and need a large quantity of paint to experiment with. It is also a good option for plein air painters who go through paint quickly and don’t want to worry about wasting expensive materials. On the other hand, this set is not recommended for professional artists who require consistent lightfastness and high pigment concentration for commissioned work or gallery exhibitions. The filler content and variable durability make it a poor choice for archival pieces.
Another limitation is the tube design. The caps can be difficult to screw on tightly, leading to dried paint around the threads. This is a minor annoyance but worth noting if you plan to store the set for long periods. The paint also has a stronger odor than some higher-end brands, so adequate ventilation is necessary during use.
Overall, the Paul Rubens Oil Paint set delivers on its promise of providing a large quantity of paint with decent saturation at an affordable price. It is a practical tool for learning and practice, but not a replacement for professional-grade materials. If you are looking for a workhorse set for studies or classroom use, this is a reasonable choice. Just be prepared to manage the limitations in lightfastness and consistency.