Daniel Smith vs White Nights — Watercolour Comparison
Two of the world's most popular watercolour brands are Daniel Smith Extra-Fine and White Nights by Nevskaya Palitra. Both are available in Iceland at Föndurlist. But which one is right for you?
Overview — Key Differences
| Feature | Daniel Smith Extra-Fine | White Nights |
|---|---|---|
| Grade | Professional / Artist grade | Professional grade |
| Origin | USA (Seattle) | Russia (St. Petersburg) |
| Colour range | 250+ colours | 80+ colours |
| Colour strength | Very high — rich, deep colours | Good — especially in earth tones |
| Unique pigments | Yes — PrimaTek (mineral colours), Luminescent | No |
| Lightfastness | Excellent | High |
| Price range | Higher price point ($$–$$$) | Budget-friendly ($–$$) |
| Format | 15ml tubes | Pans and tubes |
| Best for | Professional artists and advanced enthusiasts | Everyone — beginners to professionals |
Daniel Smith — What Makes Them Special?
Daniel Smith is renowned for their PrimaTek colours — watercolours made from genuine minerals and semi-precious stones. Colours like Lunar Black, PrimaTek Amethyst Genuine, and Sleeping Beauty Turquoise simply aren't available from any other manufacturer.
The paint formula is highly concentrated — a small amount goes a long way, producing deep, intense colour. This means that despite the higher price per tube, Daniel Smith paints last a long time.
Price at Föndurlist: Daniel Smith 15ml tubes range from 2,490–5,390 kr. depending on the colour series — PrimaTek mineral colours from 3,860 kr.
White Nights — Outstanding Value for Money
White Nights by Nevskaya Palitra is made in Russia and has been in production since 1934. These paints offer incredible value for money — artist grade quality at a student-friendly price.
The earth tones and reds are particularly impressive. White Nights is available in both pans and tubes.
Price at Föndurlist: White Nights pans from 390 kr., tubes from 590 kr., 24-colour sets from 5,900 kr.
Which Should I Choose?
- Choose Daniel Smith if you're a professional artist or advanced enthusiast who wants the very best pigments, especially the unique PrimaTek mineral colours
- Choose White Nights if you want quality watercolours at a great price — especially if you're just starting out or want a wide colour range without breaking the bank
- Mix and match! Many artists use White Nights as their everyday colours and supplement with Daniel Smith specialty colours as needed
Where Can I Buy These Watercolours in Iceland?
Both Daniel Smith and White Nights watercolours are available at fondurlist.is. Föndurlist is the only retailer in Iceland carrying both brands. Free shipping on orders over 20,000 kr.