Comments about Holbein Sumi Suzuri Painting Kit:

Having the sumi, inkstone and space for three brushes in the case make this kit a delightful, portable way to make Japanese watercolors (Sumi-E). I recommend replacing the included brushes with your own, and getting a 24oz water bottle, plus a shop rag. The included brushes did not seem useable. If you do plein air Sumi-E, you will appreciate having the extra water available (to drink, to wash). The rag is for drying off the stone once you clean it. I keep a disposable shop rag in the case. The sumi (ink stick) produces wonderfully black ink in seconds. I am very happy with it, and bought a handful of extra sumi. One stick seems to last a good long time, possibly lasting dozens or more paintings. The sumi are not expensive! Much cheaper than bottled ink, in my opinion.

I made only one real painting, but I did practice on a scrap sheet with the included brushes first. I threw away one of the brushes almost immediately. My next purchase is a set of nylon brushes and a wrap to keep them in. I am very happy with this kit overall. Sumi-E is a delightful art form.