Founder Story

7 Real-Life Moments That Inspired Me To Create The World’s Most Popular Pocket Watercolor Set

By Mel
Founder, Tobio's

UPDATE: Ok, I had no idea how viral this was going to go. Thank you guys so much for all the love!!! but Tobio’s is dangerously close to selling out AGAIN. If you want one please click here to secure yours.

What started as a personal project is now one of the most talked-about creative kits online.

I’m Mel, the founder of Tobio’s, and I created this tiny, travel-friendly watercolor kit to bring a sense of calm, creativity, and joy back into my life when everything felt loud, digital, and overwhelming. These moments were things I thought only I dealt with, but now I know they’re shared with thousands of people like you!

Here are the 7 real-life moments that inspired me and why so many people are now obsessed with Tobios.

1. Painting in Cafes Without Feeling Self-Conscious or Making a Mess

Traditional art supplies always felt too bulky, too messy, and a little intimidating to pull out in public. What started as a fun idea quickly became an overwhelming setup that drew more attention than I wanted.

That’s why I made this kit small enough to fit in your palm. It’s subtle, stylish, and completely spill-proof. Now I can paint quietly at a cafe table without water cups, giant sketchbooks, or a second glance from anyone. Just me, my thoughts, and the peaceful rhythm of color on paper.

2. Sketching on a Hike, in a Field, or While Traveling

Whether I’m on a train, hiking through hills, or sitting at the edge of a quiet beach, I love being able to capture the moment with paint.

This kit fits in my coat pocket or backpack, and because the brush holds water, I don’t need a sink or cup. I just flip open the case and start painting wherever I am. It became my favorite travel companion long before it became a product.

3. Choosing Art Over Alcohol at Social Gatherings

At some point, I realized I didn’t always want to drink at parties or get-togethers. I craved something more mindful to do with my hands that still let me connect with people.

That’s when I started bringing this kit. Painting became my alternative. It’s creative, calming, and surprisingly social. I’ve painted on boats, at dinner tables, and during quiet moments when everyone else was on their phones. And I’m not the only one, this is something that has resonated with so many others.

4. Making Quiet, Connected Moments With a Partner

My partner and I were always looking for ways to unwind without defaulting to Netflix. Turns out we didn’t need much more than just a way to slow down and be together.

That’s when we started painting together. One kit. Two brushes. Ten quiet minutes. It became our little ritual,something simple that brought laughter, presence, and connection into our evenings.

5. Giving Thoughtful Gifts That Aren’t Plastic or Digital

I wanted to give my friends’ kids something meaningful, something that wasn’t another noisy toy or a screen.

This kit became that gift! It’s creative, calming, unplugged, and beautifully made. When I saw how much joy it brought them, I realized it wasn’t just a gift. It was a little doorway into imagination. Now it’s my go-to gift for all ages, not just kids.

6. Creating a Kit That Feels Premium Without the Price Tag

From the beginning, I wanted this kit to feel special. Like something you’d find in a boutique, not a big box store. So I chose every detail carefully: 12 vibrant colors, a refillable brush, cotton paper, and a built-in palette.

But it still had to be affordable. Less than a dinner or a bouquet of flowers, and it gives you hours of peace and creative joy. It’s a little piece of luxury that anyone can own.

7. 4,000 Plus Reviews Say: "This Changed the Way I Think About Art"

When I first launched Tobio’s, I hoped it might help a few people reconnect with creativity. I never expected to hear from thousands.

“I thought I wasn’t creative.” “I hadn’t painted since I was 12.” “I take this everywhere.”

Reading these messages is still the best part of my day. Because for so many of us, this kit isn’t just a product , it’s a soft return to something we forgot we love

BONUS: Try it today and if you don’t love it, it’s free!

Tobio’s comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee. If you don’t feel calmer, more creative, and a little bit happier, we’ll refund you in full.

No questions, no stress.

UPDATE! Tobio’s Watercolor Set has unexpectedly gone viral across social media. We did not anticipate this happening, and we were totally unprepared with our inventory. For this reason we’re dangerously close to selling out. Click below to secure yours now!

2500+ Have Loved Our Watercolor Kits

I loved the dreamy package i received. I’ve playing and carrying it around where ever i go. The materials are up to satisfaction and quality is superb.

I have enjoyed travelling in Greece with my kit.

My partner is a nature lover and loves to be outdoors enjoying the fresh air.
We often take photos of views , animals and other interesting sights. After seeing the watercolor kit, we thought about how she used to paint and was quite good .
So what a good idea to take a small , compact kit like this and capture small memories of our experiences which could be put together to make a collection of ideas , or could even be made into a game or even greetings cards etc .
I purchased an extra set of paints and cards so we can get going .
Thanks for this lovely item .
Regards
Mike

The moment I opened my kit I couldn’t resist having a go and I love it. My first attempt at watercolour and I had everything I needed to make a good start. Going to be perfect for holidays and travelling. I bought a second kit for my granddaughter for Christmas but I’m thinking of giving it to her now so we can paint together. Highly recommend.

Excellent comms around delivery and my husband loved it, really easy to use and has done some excellent paintings thank you

I bought 3 for Xmas gifts, but decided to give my 16 yr old grand daughters to her now. She LOVED It!!
Theres a variety of colors, the brush is perfect, the paper is good quality, and it can go with her anywhere!
Ill definately be ordering more paints & paper!!!

I brought this for a friend for her birthday and she loved being able to put it in her bag and take it around with us on holiday. She was able to create so many beautiful memories.

What a great idea
I bought 2 one for a friend and myself, we live in different states and have our catch ups via zoom, we included this activity and had a great time, we were chatting and painting for about 2 hours fantastic

It was therapeutic for both of us and we are now planning to do it more regularly, can't recommend this experience enough.