The fine pigments used in manufacturing allow for a good transparency, which is key when working with watercolours. Many of the colours in the range are graded as AA or A for permanency, which defines them as "permanent for artists". The large variety of colours in the range allows for a wide mixing palette. The colours in the Cotman Watercolour range can easily be used with the Winsor & Newton Watercolour range as many have the same hue.