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Best Coloring Pencils For Artists (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a reliable set of coloring pencils for artists, you’ve come to the right place. Finding the perfect set of pencils to create your artwork can be a daunting task, especially with so much variety available in the market. Therefore, before making any purchase, it’s important to take a few factors into consideration which will help you decide which set of coloring pencils best suits your needs.

One of the important factors to look for is the quality of the pencils you’re interested in buying. The quality of the pencil is dependent on the type of lead, the type of wood, and the overall construction. The lead should be soft and rich in pigmentation, providing smooth laydown and easy blending. The type of wood is also important, as softer woods tend to break more easily. The pencils should have strong construction with secure bonding between the lead and the wood to avoid breakage.

Are you tired of constantly sharpening your coloring pencils? Do you want a set that's lightweight and easy to store? Do you need a varied color selection? These are just a few of the questions you may be asking yourself as you look for a suitable set of coloring pencils for artists. Rest assured, there is a set out there that will meet all of your needs, and we’re here to help you find it. So, keep reading and allow us to guide you through the wonderful world of coloring pencils for artists.

10 Best Coloring Pencils For Artists

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
It is ideal for artists looking for a high-quality set of coloring pencils in a stylish and functional pencil holder.
2
This product is ideal for artists and students who need vibrant and smooth colored pencils for drawing, coloring, sketching, and portraiture.
3
Ideal for professional artists and students who want vibrant coloring pencils in a wooden carrying case for drawing and coloring.
4
This product is ideal for sharpening both No. 2 and colored pencils at home, in the office, school, or for art students.
5
This product is ideal for artists and coloring book enthusiasts who want high-quality colored pencils with vibrant colors.
6
The product is ideal for artists and students who want highly pigmented, thick and durable colored pencils for coloring.
7
Ideal for artists of all levels, offering highly pigmented and durable jumbo colored pencils suitable for drawing, coloring, and more.
8
Ideal for student artists and hobbyists; offers a variety of color options.
9
The product is ideal for coloring and drawing purposes.
10
The product is ideal for adult artists and colorists who want high-quality, oil-based colored pencils that stay sharp and resist breakage.
It is ideal for artists looking for a high-quality set of coloring pencils in a stylish and functional pencil holder.
This product is ideal for artists and students who need vibrant and smooth colored pencils for drawing, coloring, sketching, and portraiture.
Ideal for professional artists and students who want vibrant coloring pencils in a wooden carrying case for drawing and coloring.
This product is ideal for sharpening both No. 2 and colored pencils at home, in the office, school, or for art students.
This product is ideal for artists and coloring book enthusiasts who want high-quality colored pencils with vibrant colors.
The product is ideal for artists and students who want highly pigmented, thick and durable colored pencils for coloring.
Ideal for artists of all levels, offering highly pigmented and durable jumbo colored pencils suitable for drawing, coloring, and more.
Ideal for student artists and hobbyists; offers a variety of color options.
The product is ideal for adult artists and colorists who want high-quality, oil-based colored pencils that stay sharp and resist breakage.

1. Elephant Pencil Pot With 12 Polychromos Pencils

This small range of natural leather accessories is produced by a small Italian manufacturer from Umbria with love and passion. The little giants are perfect for organising your desk and come in a wonderfully cheerful design. Made of natural leather, they develop a beautiful patina over time, as they are subject to a natural darkening and ageing process. The collection was expanded in autumn 2019 with a variant of grey nubuck leather, which adds a touch of elegance to the range.

The desk organisers feature three large and flexible compartments made of dark grey soft felt, which provides ample space for all your stationery needs. The natural leather gives the organisers a unique character, while the felt compartments ensure that your items are protected and organised.

These natural leather desk organisers are not only functional but also add a touch of sophistication to your workspace. They are perfect for those who appreciate the beauty of natural materials and are looking for a stylish way to keep their desk organized.

Pros

  • Made of natural leather that develops a beautiful patina over time
  • Three large and flexible compartments made of dark grey soft felt
  • Adds a touch of sophistication to your workspace
  • Perfect for those who appreciate the beauty of natural materials

2. Vibrant Polycolor Pencils For Artists & Students

The Lyra Polycolor artist colored pencils set is an excellent tool for artists and professionals seeking high-quality colored pencils. The set boasts a vibrant, 4mm oil-based lead that provides smooth, effortless strokes of color. The lead is encased in lacquered cedar for style and longevity. These colored pencils are perfect for use on a variety of surfaces, including paper, cardboard, wood, and other synthetic materials, offering durability and trouble-free performance in every project. The set is available in 12, 24, 36, and 72 pencils, each with an exceptional color range.

Lyra's Polycolor artist colored pencils set is highly lightfast, meaning that you can enjoy your works of art for years to come without worrying about fading or discoloring over time. This exceptional lightfast quality ensures that your creations maintain their vibrancy and beauty for an extended period. Made in Germany, this set reflects Lyra's commitment to providing the best tools for artists and professionals to enjoy for years to come.

Pros

  • Vibrant, 4mm oil-based lead provides smooth, effortless strokes of color
  • Encased in lacquered cedar for style and longevity
  • Perfect for use on a variety of surfaces, including paper, cardboard, wood, and other synthetic materials
  • Available in 12, 24, 36, and 72 pencils, each with an exceptional color range
  • Highly lightfast, ensuring that your creations maintain their vibrancy and beauty for an extended period
  • Made in Germany, reflecting Lyra's commitment to providing the best tools for artists and professionals

3. Vibrant 100 – Polycolor Pencils In Wooden Case

Experience the premium quality colored pencils in Lyra's Polycolor artist set, perfect for unleashing your creativity with vibrant and beautifully pigmented colors. Each pencil features a 4mm oil-based lead that provides smooth and effortless strokes of color, encased in lacquered cedar for style and durability. Its surface versatility makes it suitable for use on various surfaces such as paper, cardboard, wood and other synthetic materials, making every project trouble-free and long lasting.

Lyra's Polycolor artist colored pencils set is also highly lightfast, ensuring your works of art will not fade or discolor over time, allowing you to enjoy your art for years to come. With an exceptional color range of 68 vibrant colored pencils, 10 grey toned pencils, 22 sketching pencils and accessories, you can easily create specific shades, tones, gradients, designs, illustrations, portraits and more. Made in Germany since 1806, Lyra is a product of talent, vision, creativity and performance, offering the best tools for artists and professionals to enjoy for years to come.

Pros

  • Vibrant and beautifully pigmented colors
  • Smooth and effortless strokes of color
  • Lacquered cedar encasing for durability and style
  • Suitable for use on various surfaces
  • Highly lightfast to prevent fading or discoloring over time
  • Exceptional color range of 68 vibrant colored pencils, 10 grey toned pencils, 22 sketching pencils and accessories
  • Made in Germany with high quality standards

4. Ultimate Portable Pencil Sharpener

The Power Me pencil sharpener is the perfect choice for artists, teachers, students, and business people. Its beautiful design and high-quality materials make it suitable for commercial use, classrooms, executive use, desktops, or office settings. The table mount vertical space-saving design fits comfortably on any size desk.

Crafted from high-quality materials, the Power Me electric pencil sharpener is built to last. With up to 3000 times of sharpening without wearing out and the heavy-duty, ultra-durable high-grade stainless steel helical blade, it only takes 3 seconds to sharpen. You will never have to replace a dull blade again! Being compact and lightweight, you can take it wherever you need it.

Safety for your kids is guaranteed with the innovative auto-stop safety feature that prevents the pencil sharpener from being used if the lid is removed. This makes it an ideal choice for classrooms with young children. The large transparent shavings reservoir rarely needs emptying and can be cleaned easily by removing the shavings tray and emptying it into a wastebasket.

Designed for perfection, the unique rotating spiral drill design ensures the perfect point every time, so you will never get an uneven tip. The auto-jam release system prevents stuck pencils. Simply push down on the pencil, and it will be released. This professional pencil sharpener is ideal for No. 2 and colored pencils for drawing and coloring.

The Power Me pencil sharpener comes with a 100% money-back guarantee. If you are not fully satisfied with it, our professional customer service will do whatever it takes to ensure your satisfaction. We offer a 6-month no-questions-asked return policy.

Pros

  • Beautiful design and high-quality materials
  • Suitable for commercial use, classrooms, executive use, desktops, or office settings
  • Table mount vertical space-saving design fits comfortably on any size desk
  • Up to 3000 times of sharpening without wearing out
  • Heavy-duty, ultra-durable high-grade stainless steel helical blade
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Innovative auto-stop safety feature
  • Large transparent shavings reservoir
  • Easy to clean
  • Unique rotating spiral drill design ensures the perfect point every time
  • Auto-jam release system prevents stuck pencils
  • Ideal for No. 2 and colored pencils
  • 100% money-back guarantee
  • Professional customer service

5. Cool Bank Artist Colored Pencils In Tin Box.

Looking for professional quality colored pencils without breaking the bank? Look no further than this New and Improved artist quality colored pencil set! With 160 different colored pencils, each labeled and numbered for easy color identification, this set offers high pigment content and great value for money. The soft, break-resistant cores are made from lightfast pigment that won't fade over time, providing you with vibrant color that will last. The thick lead of our oil-based, pre-sharpened art pencils allows for great blending, layering and shading with each other and other premiere brands. These expert coloring pencils glide smoothly across your paper, blend beautifully and layer effortlessly, providing rich, deep coverage that will amaze you. And with the luxurious 'Soft Series' included, you'll have ultimate blending, shading and layering capabilities at your fingertips. This set is neatly packaged in a stunning presentation tin box, made of durable basswood with a strong core, ensuring that you can create art wherever you go. So why pay a fortune for premium art pencils when you can get the same professional quality with this affordable set? Try it out and see for yourself!

Pros

  • 160 different colored pencils with high pigment content and easy color identification
  • Soft, break-resistant cores made from lightfast pigment that won't fade over time
  • Thick lead of oil-based, pre-sharpened art pencils allows for great blending, layering and shading with each other and other premiere brands
  • Expert coloring pencils glide smoothly across your paper, blend beautifully and layer effortlessly
  • Luxurious 'Soft Series' included for ultimate blending, shading and layering capabilities
  • Neatly packaged in a stunning presentation tin box made of durable basswood with a strong core
  • Affordable professional quality colored pencils

6. Giant Triangular Artist Pencils – 18 Colors

Experience exceptional pigmentation with these fat colored pencils that offer soft and flowing colors, making it easy to glide through every line and detail in your drawings. The wax-based pencil lead is securely encased in lacquered cedar, making it stylish and long-lasting.

Avoid tip breakage, crumbling, and frequent sharpening with this set of color pencils for kids. The thick 6.25mm lead is break-resistant, ensuring that it lasts throughout your artistic endeavors and creations.

The triangular shape of these colored pencils is perfectly suited for a comfortable, stable grip. The thick barrel of these pencils makes them extremely easy for children and adults to hold while drawing and coloring.

This comprehensive set of thick colored pencils contains 18 bold colors that lay down bright, waterproof, and smudge-proof designs that last. Made in Germany, Lyra has been producing high-quality art supplies since 1806, making it a reliable brand for artists and professionals alike.

Pros

  • Exceptional pigmentation for soft and flowing colors
  • Securely encased wax-based pencil lead in lacquered cedar
  • Thick 6.25mm lead that is break-resistant
  • Comfortable, stable grip with a triangular shape and thick barrel
  • 18 bold colors that are waterproof and smudge-proof
  • High-quality brand with a long history of producing reliable art supplies

7. Vibrant Jumbo Pencils For Artistic Creations

The Lyra colored pencils for kids are an excellent choice for those who want to create detailed and vivid drawings. These pencils contain soft and flowing colors that will allow you to easily glide through every line and detail in your artwork. The wax-based pencil lead is securely encased in lacquered cedar for style and longevity.

With this set of 18 colored pencils, you can avoid tip breakage, crumbling, and frequent sharpening. The thick 6.25mm lead is break-resistant, ensuring that the pencils last throughout your artistic endeavors and creations. The hexagonal shape of these colored pencils for school is perfectly suited for a comfortable, stable grip. The thick barrel of these pencils makes them extremely easy for children and adults to hold while drawing and coloring.

This comprehensive set of colored pencils contains 18 soft, satisfying colors that lay down bold, bright, waterproof, and smudge-proof designs that last. These pencils are made in Germany by Lyra, a company that has been producing high-quality products since 1806. Lyra is known for its talent, vision, creativity, and performance, and this set of colored pencils is no exception. These pencils are the best tools for artists and professionals to enjoy for years to come.

Pros

  • Soft and flowing colors allow for easy gliding through every line and detail in artwork
  • Wax-based pencil lead is securely encased in lacquered cedar for style and longevity
  • Thick 6.25mm lead is break-resistant, ensuring that the pencils last throughout artistic endeavors
  • Hexagonal shape of the pencils is perfectly suited for a comfortable, stable grip
  • Thick barrel of the pencils makes them extremely easy for children and adults to hold while drawing and coloring
  • Comprehensive set of 18 soft, satisfying colors that lay down bold, bright, waterproof, and smudge-proof designs
  • Made in Germany by Lyra, a company known for its talent, vision, creativity, and performance

8. Lyra Grad Colours: Perfect For Artists & Hobbyists

Experience the ultimate definition with these intense and vibrant colours! Whether you're a beginner artist or an art student, this fine art and craft painting tool is perfect for all drawing techniques. Made from PEFC certified cedar wood, this pencil is eco-friendly and sustainable. With a bright and covering application, you can achieve the perfect shades and tones for your artwork.

The pencil is easy to hold and control, allowing you to create precise and detailed drawings. Its sturdy and durable design ensures that it can withstand daily use and rough handling. Use it to add depth and dimension to your sketches, or to create bold and expressive strokes in your paintings.

Suitable for a wide range of art styles and mediums, this pencil is an essential tool for any artist or student. Whether you're working on a still life, portrait, landscape, or abstract piece, this pencil will help you achieve the perfect colours and effects. With its smooth and consistent performance, you can focus on your creativity and let your imagination run wild!

Pros

  • Intense and vibrant colours for maximum definition
  • Bright and covering application
  • Suitable for all drawing techniques
  • Made from PEFC certified cedar wood, eco-friendly and sustainable
  • Ideal for beginner artists and art students

9. Koh-I-Noor Magic Fx Coloring Pencils, Pack Of 30, Original Mix (Fa3405.30)

The pack of 30 non-toxic pencils has an amazing special effect with its brilliant swirls of colors that change as you twist your wrist. The jumbo-sized hexagonal shape provides easy gripping and comfort while drawing or writing. These pencils can be easily sharpened with the larger hole of any two-hole sharpener. The pack includes a variety of braided colors, giving a unique look to each pencil. These pencils are perfect for both children and adults, as they are comfortable to hold and provide a unique experience with their color-changing effect.

These pencils are perfect for artists, writers, and students who want to add a fun twist to their work. The unique color-changing effect is sure to impress anyone who sees it. The jumbo-sized hexagonal shape provides easy gripping and comfort, making it perfect for extended use. The non-toxic nature of these pencils makes them safe for children to use. With a pack of 30, there are plenty of pencils for everyone to enjoy.

These pencils are a great addition to any art or writing collection. The color-changing effect is sure to inspire creativity and bring a unique twist to any project. The jumbo-sized hexagonal shape provides easy gripping and comfort for extended use. These pencils are non-toxic, making them safe for children to use. With a pack of 30, there are plenty of pencils for everyone to share and enjoy.

Pros

  • Brilliant swirls of colors provide a unique color-changing effect
  • Jumbo-sized hexagonal shape provides easy gripping and comfort
  • Easily sharpened with the larger hole of any two-hole sharpener
  • Pack of 30 provides plenty of pencils for everyone to enjoy

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for those who prefer traditional solid colors
  • – May not be suitable for those who prefer smaller-sized pencils

10. Gold Standard 120 | Artistic Coloring Set.

The flagship professional colored pencils set from this brand comes with an ultimate choice of 120 colors. The colors are named and numbered in color families to make it easier for the user to pick the perfect shade. The pencils come in a beautifully giftable, protective tin box. The colored drawing pencils are formulated with oil, which makes them harder. The vibrantly pigmented core is encased in fine-grain basswood, which can be sharpened to a finer, longer-lasting point with greater resistance to breakage even if dropped. This set provides superior control over color layering, unique blending capability, better for highly detailed areas, exceptional color coverage, burnish for richer, deeper tones, longer lasting with more coloring time between sharpening. The set comes with an expert, easy-to-follow 36-page handbook crammed with tips and demos to refine your prowess with pencils. The set also includes a fascinating 10 part tutorial to create “Gold Frieze’ images, plus tester and protector sheets. The set has been tested and developed by the brand's studio experts to surpass their competitors. It is trusted by ultimate judges – their 1.5 million customers worldwide; backed by a unique money-back-PLUS guarantee. So, it is highly recommended to buy this set for your creative fulfillment.

Pros

  • Comes with an ultimate choice of 120 colors
  • The colors are named and numbered in color families for easy selection of the perfect shade
  • The pencils are formulated with oil, which makes them harder
  • The vibrantly pigmented core is encased in fine-grain basswood
  • Provides superior control over color layering
  • Unique blending capability
  • Better for highly detailed areas
  • Exceptional color coverage
  • Burnish for richer, deeper tones
  • Longer lasting with more coloring time between sharpening
  • Comes with an expert, easy-to-follow 36-page handbook with tips and demos
  • Includes a fascinating 10 part tutorial to create “Gold Frieze’ images
  • Tester and protector sheets are also included
  • Tested and developed by the brand's studio experts to surpass their competitors
  • Trusted by ultimate judges – their 1.5 million customers worldwide
  • Backed by a unique money-back-PLUS guarantee

Best Coloring Pencils For Artists FAQs

How do I choose the right coloring pencils for my artistic style?

When it comes to choosing the right coloring pencils for your artistic style, it's important to consider a few key factors. Firstly, think about the type of artwork you enjoy creating. Are you into detailed, intricate drawings or more bold, expressive pieces? This will help you determine the type of pencil you need – for example, if you prefer fine details, you may want to opt for a set of colored pencils with a hard lead that can be sharpened to a fine point.

Another consideration is the quality of the pencils. While cheaper sets may seem like a good option, they often lack the pigmentation and blendability of higher-end sets. Look for pencils with a high pigment load and a smooth, waxy texture that allows for easy blending and layering.

Finally, take a look at the color selection. Some sets may have a limited range of colors, while others may offer a wide variety of shades and hues. Choose a set that complements your artistic style and allows you to create the colors you envision in your artwork.

Overall, selecting the right coloring pencils for your artistic style is a personal choice that depends on your preferences and needs as an artist. By considering factors such as the type of artwork you create, the quality of the pencils, and the color selection, you can find the perfect set to bring your visions to life.

How do I properly care for my coloring pencils to ensure they last as long as possible?

To ensure that your coloring pencils last as long as possible, proper care is essential. Here are a few tips to help you take care of your coloring pencils:

1. Sharpening: Always use a sharpener specifically designed for colored pencils. Avoid using a regular pencil sharpener, as it may damage the soft lead of the coloring pencil. Sharpening the coloring pencil regularly also helps to maintain its shape and prevent breakage.

2. Storage: Store your coloring pencils in a cool, dry place to prevent them from drying out or becoming brittle. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.

3. Cleaning: Clean your coloring pencils regularly to remove any dirt or debris that may accumulate on them. Use a soft cloth or tissue to wipe them down gently.

4. Handling: When handling your coloring pencils, try to avoid dropping them or applying too much pressure. This can cause the lead to break or become damaged.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your coloring pencils last longer and provide you with beautiful and vibrant colors for all your coloring needs.

What are some tips and techniques for using coloring pencils effectively in my artwork?

Coloring pencils are versatile tools that can add depth and texture to your artwork. Here are some tips and techniques for using coloring pencils effectively:

1. Layering: Layering is the process of adding multiple layers of color to create depth and texture. Start with lighter colors and gradually build up to darker shades.

2. Blending: Blending colors can help create a smooth gradient effect. Use a blending tool or your finger to blend colors together.

3. Pressure: Varying the pressure you apply to the pencil can create different shades of color. Use light pressure for lighter shades and heavy pressure for darker ones.

4. Shading: Shading is the process of creating shadows and highlights. Use different shades of the same color or complementary colors to create depth and contrast.

5. Experiment: Don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques and colors. Try using different paper types, textures, and colors to see what works best for your artwork.

By using these techniques, you can create stunning artwork with coloring pencils. Remember to practice and experiment to find what works best for you.

What are the advantages of using high-quality coloring pencils for artists?

High-quality coloring pencils offer a plethora of advantages to artists, both professional and amateur. The first and foremost advantage is the superior quality of the pigments used in these pencils. The colors are brighter, more vivid, and have a more consistent tone. This allows artists to create more detailed and refined artwork, with a greater degree of accuracy and precision.

Secondly, high-quality coloring pencils are made with softer cores that offer better control and a smoother application. This means that the colors blend together more easily, allowing artists to create more subtle and nuanced shading and highlighting effects.

Another advantage of using high-quality coloring pencils is that they are more durable and long-lasting. They are less likely to break or wear down quickly, which means that artists can use them for longer periods of time and get more use out of them.

Finally, high-quality coloring pencils are often made with non-toxic and environmentally friendly materials, which is especially important for artists who are concerned about the safety and sustainability of their art materials. Overall, investing in high-quality coloring pencils can greatly enhance an artist's creativity and the quality of their artwork.

What are the best types of coloring pencils for artists?

As an avid artist myself, I can say that the best types of coloring pencils for artists are those that offer a wide range of colors, have a high level of pigmentation, and are easy to blend. Some of the most popular and highly recommended brands include Prismacolor, Faber-Castell, and Derwent. Prismacolor pencils are known for their softness and vibrant colors, making them ideal for blending and layering. Faber-Castell pencils, on the other hand, are known for their durability and lightfastness, ensuring that your artwork will last for years to come. Derwent pencils offer a wide range of colors and are ideal for detailed work and shading. Ultimately, the best type of coloring pencils for artists depends on personal preference and the type of artwork you are creating. It's always best to try out different brands and types to find the ones that work best for you.

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