7 Real-Life Moments That Inspired Me To Create The World’s Most Popular Pocket Watercolor Set
By Mel
Founder, Tobio's
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
Customer Reviews
I bought the set as a gift which has not been given yet so I am unable to rate the product fully. However the set was presented in a pretty box and after having a peek inside all the items look great and inviting enough to want to use it straight away.
Perhaps I can suggest sturdier packaging for posting as the kit box was rather dented which was a shame as it was a shame.
Love the colors and mechanical brushes.
I have not looked at it because it is a Xmas present for a friend with Parkinson’s, I am hoping it will help her with her art. So fingers crossed
Fantastic compact sets. Well designed and they are a great way of creating art on the go with no mess.. such fun to use.
I bought these for my Wife and I, we took them on a beach holiday where we had a great time creating some images of our stay.
I am absolutely thrilled with this painting kit! It's wonderfully compact, making it the perfect companion for day trips, and it also makes an amazing gift for any art lover.
Great product and it’s quite ‘grounding’ to start doing something like this instead of mindlessly scrolling.
Got a kit each for me and my husband to take out with us. I am a complete beginner but my husband said it had been over 20 years since he last just stopped and painted outside. It was a beautiful mindful moment and we love this kit that kick started our new hobby.
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.
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.
