Question about watercolor paint

[sharonb]

I know that watercolor paint will be required in a future HOD guide for us (I'm thinking CTC?), and I have a couple of sets of nice watercolors that come in tubes. BUT, one of the sets is about 25 years old (from my childhood) and the other set is of unknown age, and I inherited it from my grandparents. I've hung onto it since I know that we'll need it eventually, but then it occurred to me today that perhaps I should ask if watercolors in a tube have a shelf life. Anyone know? I'm in the process of cleaning out my school/art cabinets this evening, and I'm ready to toss the paint if I should just start fresh with new paint when we need it. I figured someone here knows more about art supplies than I do and can advise me. Thanks!!!

[MommaK5]

Yes, I have had tubes of watercolor dry out before. If it is a good brand you might cut the tube open to get it out and add drops of water to it to rehydrate. However, it's never exactly the same as new. I suggest try using some to paint for fun and then if they are too dried out you will know for sure.
HTH
Kathy

[sharonb]

Dh and I decided to say "goodbye" to the old paint. So, I get to buy nice new paint when the time comes. (In the meantime we have plenty of "kiddie" paint for them to use.) My school/art cabinets look great now too.