Looking for the best colored pencil sets for vibrant artwork in 2025? I’ve found a variety of great options, from beginner-friendly sets like Crayola and Soucolor to professional-grade collections like PRINA and Castle Art Supplies. Each set offers different features, sizes, and price points to suit your skill level and needs. Keep exploring to find detailed reviews and tips that will help you choose the perfect pencils for your creative projects.
Key Takeaways
- The article reviews a variety of colored pencil sets, from beginner-friendly to professional-grade options, suitable for vibrant artwork in 2025.
- It highlights key features such as core quality, pigment richness, packaging, and organization for optimal use.
- The guide considers target audiences like beginners, hobbyists, and professionals to recommend appropriate sets.
- Pros, cons, and value for money are analyzed to help artists choose the best set for their skill level and budget.
- Top brands like Prismacolor, Castle Art Supplies, and Soucolor are featured for their vibrant color ranges and performance.
Amazon Basics Colored Pencils for Coloring and Drawing (24 Count, Pack of 1)
If you’re looking for a reliable set of colored pencils for everyday use, the Amazon Basics Colored Pencils are an excellent choice. This 24-pack offers vibrant, rich colors perfect for coloring, sketching, and shading. The artist-grade lead provides a smooth, soft application that resists breakage, making them durable and long-lasting. They come pre-sharpened, saving you time, and are easy to resharpen for continued work. The included tin case with a detachable lid and built-in tray keeps everything organized and protected. Ideal for students, hobbyists, or anyone needing dependable pencils for detailed work at home or school.
Best For: students, hobbyists, and artists seeking reliable, vibrant colored pencils for detailed coloring, sketching, and shading projects.
Pros:
- Premium artist-grade lead for smooth, saturated color application
- Durable, thick cores resist breakage and are long-lasting
- Comes pre-sharpened and easy to resharpen, saving time and effort
Cons:
- May be less suitable for large-area coloring compared to broader markers or crayons
- Limited color variety with only 24 shades, which might not meet advanced artists’ needs
- The tin case, while protective, can be bulky for carrying in small bags
PRINA 120-Color Colored Pencils Set for Artists
The PRINA 120-Color Colored Pencils Set is an excellent choice for artists who want a versatile and high-quality coloring tool that caters to both beginners and experienced creators. It features soft, oil-based cores with vibrant, bold colors, ideal for layering, blending, and shading. The set comes in a sturdy zipper case that keeps everything organized and portable. It includes a sketchbook, additional paper options, and a helpful tutorial, making it perfect for practice and experimentation. Praised for its rich pigment and durability, this set offers great value, though some tips may break with heavy sharpening. Overall, it’s a all-inclusive kit for any artist.
Best For: artists of all skill levels seeking a comprehensive, vibrant, and portable coloring set for sketching, blending, and shading projects.
Pros:
- Includes 120 high-quality, oil-based, soft-core colored pencils with rich pigmentation.
- Comes with a sturdy zipper case, sketchbook, and additional paper options for organized and versatile use.
- Excellent blending, layering, and shading capabilities suitable for detailed artwork and beginner practice.
Cons:
- Soft cores may break or wear down quickly with heavy sharpening or extensive use.
- Slightly heavier weight (2.53 pounds) may affect portability for some users.
- Some users report tips breaking during sharpening, requiring careful handling.
Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils Set for Drawing and Coloring
The Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils Set stands out as an excellent choice for beginners and casual artists who want a versatile, affordable palette. It comes with 72 vibrant pencils neatly stored in a clear box, making organization easy. The soft leads sharpen smoothly and produce rich, vibrant colors suitable for blending and shading. Users love the variety of shades and the high pigmentation, even on basic paper. The set is safe, certified, and includes helpful features like a color chart, sharpener, and eraser. While packaging could be sturdier, the overall quality and value make this set a popular pick for artists of all levels.
Best For: Beginners, casual artists, and students seeking a versatile, affordable set of vibrant colored pencils for drawing, coloring, and shading.
Pros:
- Rich pigmentation and smooth color payoff that works well even on basic paper
- Easy to sharpen with soft leads that do not break easily
- Includes useful accessories like a sharpener, eraser, and color chart for added convenience
Cons:
- Plastic inserts in the box are flimsy, causing pencils to scatter when removed
- Packaging could be sturdier, especially for gift-giving or organization preferences
- Colors are not arranged in order, making organization or color matching slightly inconvenient
120 Colored Pencils for Adults and Artists
Looking for a versatile colored pencil set that balances quality and affordability? This 120-color oil-based set is perfect for adults and artists alike. The pencils are pre-sharpened, labeled, and stored in a durable zippered case with elastic loops, making organization easy and portable. Made from high-quality pigments and sturdy wood, they deliver vibrant, fade-resistant colors and smooth blending, ideal for sketching, shading, and detailed work. While not professional-grade, they offer excellent value for hobbyists and beginners wanting rich hues and reliable performance. The included sharpener, eraser, and color swatch sheet make them user-friendly, encouraging creative exploration without breaking the bank.
Best For: hobbyists, beginners, and intermediate artists seeking an affordable, versatile set of colorful pencils for coloring, sketching, and shading.
Pros:
- Wide range of 120 vibrant, pigment-rich colors suitable for various artistic techniques
- Durable, lightweight zipper case with elastic loops for organized portability
- Pre-sharpened pencils with clear labeling and included accessories like sharpener, eraser, and color swatch sheet
Cons:
- Firm cores may require multiple layers for deep saturation and richness
- Some colors may be similar, leading to repetitive shades in the palette
- Not professional-grade; may lack the blendability and softness of higher-end pencils
KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils Set for Drawing and Coloring
If you’re searching for a versatile set of colored pencils that caters to both beginners and experienced artists, the KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils offers an excellent choice. With 72 vibrant colors, each pencil features a unique number and color name, making selection effortless. The high-quality basswood barrels are easy to sharpen, and the soft, silky leads deliver vivid, highly pigmented hues. Break-resistant cores allow for smooth blending and layering, perfect for detailed artwork or shading. Whether you’re coloring, drawing, or sketching, this set enhances your creative options. Plus, it’s non-toxic and safe for all ages, making it a fantastic gift or personal art companion.
Best For: artists, students, and hobbyists seeking a versatile, high-quality colored pencil set suitable for beginners and experienced creatives alike.
Pros:
- Features 72 vibrant, highly pigmented colors with easy-to-identify numbering and color names.
- Made of durable basswood with soft, silky leads that are easy to sharpen and lay down rich color smoothly.
- Break-resistant cores facilitate blending, layering, and detailed artwork, making them versatile for various art projects.
Cons:
- May be more expensive compared to basic colored pencil sets with fewer colors.
- Some users might find the variety of colors overwhelming initially.
- The set might be too large for casual users who prefer a more compact collection.
Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils, 24 Count
Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils, 24 Count, stand out as an excellent choice for artists and hobbyists who want vibrant, smooth, and easy-to-blend colors. Their soft, thick cores excel at shading, blending, and creating rich shadows, making them perfect for detailed work. The ultra-smooth, even color laydown ensures consistent application, while the high-quality, lightfast pigments deliver long-lasting, vibrant hues. With a diverse color range—including True Blue, Crimson Red, and Poppy Red—these pencils suit various styles and projects. Their durable leads resist chipping, ideal for adult coloring books and intricate artwork. A reliable, professional-grade set in a compact size.
Best For: artists and hobbyists seeking vibrant, smooth, and easy-to-blend colored pencils for detailed sketching, shading, and coloring projects.
Pros:
- Soft, thick cores ideal for shading, blending, and creating rich shadows
- Ultra-smooth, even color laydown for consistent application
- High-quality, lightfast pigments ensure long-lasting, vibrant colors
Cons:
- Limited to 24 shades, may require additional sets for a broader palette
- Tin artwork may vary, which could affect presentation for collectors
- Slightly higher price point compared to basic colored pencil sets
PRINA 120-Color Artist Colored Pencils Set with Sketchbook
The PRINA 120-Color Artist Colored Pencils Set with Sketchbook is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced artists who want a versatile, high-quality coloring solution. The set includes soft, oil-based pencils with vibrant, bold colors, perfect for layering, blending, and shading. Each pencil is pre-sharpened with a medium point and HB hardness, ensuring smooth pigment application. It also comes with a sturdy zipper case, a 3-color sketchbook, extra paper options, and a helpful tutorial, making it ideal for practice and creative exploration. With high ratings and a reputation for quality, it’s a all-encompassing kit that balances convenience and performance.
Best For: beginner and experienced artists seeking a comprehensive, portable, and high-quality colored pencil set for sketching, coloring, and shading.
Pros:
- Includes 120 vibrant, oil-based colored pencils with thick cores for layering and blending
- Comes with a durable zipper case, a 3-color sketchbook, extra paper, and a helpful tutorial for all skill levels
- Offers smooth, rich pigment application with pre-sharpened pencils and organized color identification
Cons:
- Soft cores may break or wear down quickly with extensive use or frequent sharpening
- Slightly heavier weight (2.53 pounds) may be less convenient for travel or on-the-go use
- Some users report tips can break during sharpening, especially with shipping or aggressive sharpening techniques
Colored Pencils for Adults and Beginners (72 Colors)
A 72-color set of colored pencils offers an excellent balance of variety and affordability, making it perfect for adults and beginners enthusiastic to explore their artistic potential. These oil-based pencils deliver vibrant, vivid colors suitable for sketching, adult coloring books, and casual projects. Packaged in a sturdy cylindrical case, they’re portable and easy to store. Users praise their smooth application, easy sharpening, and color-coded ends for quick identification. While some colors may not match the actual pigment perfectly, swatching helps. Ideal for learning and experimenting, this set provides a reliable, budget-friendly way to develop your skills without professional-grade performance demands.
Best For: Beginners, casual artists, and hobbyists seeking an affordable, versatile set of colored pencils for everyday artwork and exploration.
Pros:
- Vibrant, vivid colors ideal for a variety of projects
- Portable cylindrical case for easy storage and transportation
- Smooth application and easy sharpening enhance user experience
Cons:
- Some colors may not match the actual pigment, requiring swatching
- Limited blending and layering capabilities compared to professional sets
- Occasional inconsistency in core softness and pigment grit
Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils Set for Adults and Kids
If you’re looking for a versatile set that suits both beginners and experienced artists, the Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils Set is an excellent choice. It includes 72 vibrant pencils stored in a clear, organized box, perfect for drawing, sketching, and coloring projects. The soft leads sharpen easily without breaking, offering smooth, rich colors ideal for blending and shading. Users love the variety and pigmentation that perform well on basic paper. Plus, the set is safe, certified, and comes with a sharpener and eraser. Although the plastic trays are flimsy, overall, it provides great value and quality for artists of all skill levels.
Best For: Beginners, casual artists, and students seeking a versatile, affordable set of vibrant colored pencils for drawing, coloring, and shading.
Pros:
- Rich pigmentation and smooth application suitable for blending and detailed work
- Easy to sharpen without breaking, with soft leads for precise coloring
- Comes with a durable, organized clear box, sharpener, and eraser for added convenience
Cons:
- Plastic trays are flimsy and may cause pencils to scatter when removed
- Colors are not in order, which may require users to label or organize them
- Packaging could be more robust for gift-giving or for those with OCD tendencies
Amazon Basics Colored Pencils for Coloring and Drawing
For students, hobbyists, and casual artists seeking reliable colored pencils, Amazon Basics Colored Pencils for Coloring and Drawing offer a practical choice. With 24 vibrant, multicolor pencils, they’re perfect for coloring, sketching, shading, and layering. The premium artist-grade lead provides a soft, smooth application with rich, saturated pigments, while the thick cores resist breakage for durability. Pre-sharpened and easy to resharpen, they save time and effort. The included tin storage case with a detachable lid and built-in tray keeps everything organized and protected. Whether for school, home, or personal projects, these pencils deliver quality and convenience in a compact package.
Best For: students, hobbyists, and casual artists seeking reliable, vibrant colored pencils for detailed coloring, sketching, shading, and layering projects.
Pros:
- Premium artist-grade lead for smooth, rich pigment application
- Durable, thick cores that resist breakage for long-lasting use
- Comes with a convenient tin storage case for organization and portability
Cons:
- Limited to 24 colors, which may not suit professional artists needing a wider palette
- Not suitable for heavy-duty or professional-grade artwork requiring specialized materials
- Pencils are pre-sharpened, which may lead to waste if not used carefully
Amazon Basics Sketching and Drawing Art Pencil Kit (17 Pieces)
The Amazon Basics Sketching and Drawing Art Pencil Kit (17 Pieces) stands out as an excellent choice for beginners and casual artists seeking an all-inclusive, affordable set. It offers a versatile selection of pencils, charcoal sticks, sketching tools, and erasers, all designed for sketching, shading, and blending. The quality materials guarantee smooth drawing and easy sharpening, making it suitable for practice and learning foundational skills. Its compact design makes it perfect for on-the-go use or students. Priced around $7, it provides great value, especially for those starting their art journey or exploring different techniques without a big investment.
Best For: beginners, students, and casual artists looking for an affordable, all-in-one sketching set to practice foundational drawing techniques.
Pros:
- Comprehensive 17-piece set suitable for various sketching and shading techniques
- Affordable price point around $7, offering excellent value for entry-level artists
- Compact design with organized storage, ideal for on-the-go use or students
Cons:
- Lacks a 4H pencil, which may be needed for certain detailed or technical work
- Kneaded eraser can crumble and may require frequent replacement
- Not suitable for professional or highly detailed artwork due to its beginner-oriented quality
Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils Botanical Garden Set (12 Count)
Designed specifically for adult coloring enthusiasts and those who appreciate detailed botanical illustrations, the Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils Botanical Garden Set offers a versatile palette of 12 rich, vibrant shades. These artist-quality pencils feature soft, thick cores that glide smoothly, making blending and shading effortless. The carefully selected colors—including Pomegranate, Pink Rose, Olive Green, and Lavender—bring botanical scenes to life with depth and brilliance. Perfect for all skill levels, this set provides high-quality pigments that deliver bold, saturated colors. Whether you’re working on intricate floral designs or lush landscapes, these pencils help achieve refined, vibrant results with ease.
Best For: adult coloring enthusiasts, botanical artists, and anyone seeking high-quality, vibrant colored pencils for detailed illustrations and coloring projects.
Pros:
- Rich, vibrant pigments for bold color saturation
- Soft, thick cores provide smooth blending and shading
- Versatile palette of 12 carefully selected shades suitable for detailed botanical artwork
Cons:
- Limited color selection with only 12 shades
- May be more expensive than standard colored pencil sets
- Soft cores can be prone to breakage if not handled carefully
Castle Art Supplies 120 Colored Pencils in Zipper Pouch
If you’re an artist looking for an all-inclusive set to fuel your creativity, the Castle Art Supplies 120 Colored Pencils in a zipper pouch is an excellent choice. The set comes in a durable, fabric case with layered, color-coded sections, making selection quick and easy. Each pencil is named, numbered, and organized by color family, ensuring convenience. The soft, high-quality cores are richly pigmented, smooth, and resistant to crumbling, perfect for detailed work, blending, and layering on various surfaces. Designed for portability and protection, this set is ideal for beginners, hobbyists, and professionals alike, offering exceptional value and performance.
Best For: artists of all skill levels—including beginners, hobbyists, and professionals—seeking a comprehensive, high-quality colored pencil set for detailed and creative work.
Pros:
- Includes 120 soft, richly pigmented, and durable colored pencils organized in a color-coded, portable zipper pouch for easy access.
- Features advanced formulations with soft cores that resist crumbling, ideal for blending, layering, and fine detail on various surfaces.
- Comes with a fold-out tutorial to help users improve their coloring techniques and refine their artistic skills.
Cons:
- The large set size may be overwhelming for casual users or those with limited storage space.
- The detailed organization might require time to familiarize new users with the color arrangement.
- As a premium set, it may be priced higher than basic or smaller collections, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct)
A 36-count set of Crayola Colored Pencils offers vibrant, ready-to-use colors perfect for kids and students alike. The presharpened, durable cores resist breaking, ensuring they’re always ready for your next project. These pencils glide smoothly across pages, making coloring and artistic details effortless. Ideal for coloring books, classroom activities, or creative fun at home, they help spark imagination and promote self-expression. Suitable for children aged 3 and up, these pencils are versatile and perfect for both individual use and group projects. They’re a must-have addition to any school or art supplies collection, delivering vibrant color with every stroke.
Best For: children aged 3 and up, students, teachers, and parents seeking vibrant, durable coloring tools for creative and educational activities.
Pros:
- Vibrant spectrum of 36 colors for versatile artistic expression
- Presharpened and durable cores resist breaking for reliable use
- Smooth glide enhances coloring experience on various paper types
Cons:
- Limited to 36 colors, which may not cover all color preferences or needs
- Pencils may require additional sharpening for fine details over time
- Not suitable for very young children under age 3 due to small parts or choking hazard
Factors to Consider When Choosing Colored Pencil Sets
When choosing a colored pencil set, I look at color variety options to make certain I have enough shades for my projects. I also consider the quality of the leads for smooth application and durability, along with how the set is packaged and organized for easy use. Ultimately, I weigh the price and value, making sure the set suits my skill level and needs without overspending.
Color Variety Options
Have you ever wondered how the variety of colors in a set can influence your artwork? A broad spectrum of shades allows me to capture subtle nuances, making my pieces more realistic and detailed. Sets with extensive color options include both vibrant and muted tones, giving me greater flexibility for shading and blending. Having multiple shades of similar colors, like various greens or reds, helps create smooth gradients and seamless progressions. Specialty colors, such as skin tones or metallics, add depth and realism to my work, sparking creativity. Plus, larger collections offer more experimentation opportunities, allowing me to push boundaries and develop my style. Ultimately, a diverse color variety enhances my ability to craft vibrant, nuanced artwork that truly stands out.
Quality of Leads
Ever wondered what makes some colored pencils glide smoothly while others feel stiff or prone to breakage? The key lies in the quality of the leads. Artist-grade leads are made from high-quality pigments and binders, offering richer colors and better blending. Soft leads allow for smooth application and easy shading but tend to break easily, while harder leads are more durable but need more pressure for vibrant color. The diameter and thickness, measured in millimeters, impact fine detail work and how well the pencil withstands sharpening. High-quality leads also feature lightfast pigments, resisting fading over time to keep your artwork vibrant for years. Plus, the pigment-to-binder ratio influences color saturation, layering, and overall drawing consistency. Choosing the right lead quality makes a noticeable difference in your finished piece.
Packaging and Organization
Choosing the right packaging and organization for your colored pencil set can make a significant difference in your creative experience. A sturdy storage case, like a tin, zipper pouch, or plastic box, protects your pencils and keeps them organized. I find that pre-arranged, labeled, and color-coded slots or trays make selecting colors quick and effortless, saving time during your sessions. It’s also important to evaluate whether the organization system allows for easy refilling, replacement, or expansion, giving you flexibility as your collection grows. Features like removable or adjustable dividers help customize your setup and keep different color groups separated. Ultimately, durable packaging ensures portability for travel, outdoor sketching, or gifting, helping you maintain order and prevent damage wherever your creativity takes you.
Price and Value
When evaluating colored pencil sets, it’s essential to contemplate both price and value to make a smart investment. I always check how many pencils are included relative to the overall cost to guarantee I’m getting a good deal. Higher-priced sets often feature professional-grade pigments and more durable cores, but budget options can still deliver great quality, especially for beginners. I also look for sets that come with useful accessories like sharpeners, erasers, or swatch sheets, which boost overall value without extra purchases. Comparing the cost per pencil helps me identify which set offers the best value for my artistic needs and how often I’ll use them. Remember, paying more doesn’t always mean better quality—consider features, brand reputation, and reviews for a balanced choice.
Intended Skill Level
How does your skill level influence the kind of colored pencil set you should choose? If you’re a beginner, look for sets with softer cores that are easy to blend and include a wide range of colors to encourage experimentation. These sets help you learn blending techniques and develop your skills without frustration. Intermediate and advanced artists often prefer firmer cores, which allow for detailed work, precise shading, and layering. Professional-grade sets usually feature high-quality pigments with excellent lightfastness, perfect for artwork meant to last. Your skill level also determines the number of colors you need; beginners benefit from fewer versatile shades, while experienced artists may want extensive palettes for more complex projects. Matching the set’s hardness and color variety to your experience ensures better results and a more enjoyable creative process.
Additional Accessories
Have you considered how additional accessories can transform your coloring experience? Extras like sharpeners, erasers, and blending tools can make a big difference in usability and results. Many sets include a dedicated sharpener tailored for soft or soft-core pencils, helping you keep tips sharp and precise. A color swatch or reference chart is also handy—it helps you quickly identify and organize your pencils, streamlining your workflow. Bonus tools like blending stumps, burnishers, or applicators can elevate your shading and blending, giving your artwork a polished, professional look. Storage options such as cases, pouches, or trays are essential for protecting your pencils and keeping everything organized, especially if you’re on the go. These accessories can truly enhance your creative process and final artwork.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Should I Store My Colored Pencils to Prevent Breakage?
To prevent breakage, I recommend storing your colored pencils in a sturdy, protective case or a dedicated container with individual slots. Keep them flat and avoid excessive pressure or stacking. Make certain they’re stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can weaken the pencil cores. Regularly check for any signs of damage and handle them gently to ensure your pencils stay in top shape.
What Blending Techniques Work Best With These Colored Pencil Sets?
To make your colors sing, I recommend gentle blending techniques. I love starting with light layers and softly overlapping colors, then using a colorless blender or a light touch with a cotton swab for smooth progressions. Blending stumps also work wonders for refining shades. These methods help create seamless gradients and vibrant hues, making your artwork look polished and lively without harsh lines.
Are These Colored Pencils Suitable for Professional Artwork?
Yes, these colored pencils are suitable for professional artwork. I’ve used them for detailed illustrations and vibrant pieces, and they hold up well under scrutiny. Their rich pigmentation and blendability make them ideal for artists seeking quality results. Whether you’re creating intricate designs or bold, expressive works, these pencils deliver consistent color and smooth application, helping you achieve professional-level artwork with ease.
How Do I Sharpen Colored Pencils Without Damaging the Tips?
To sharpen colored pencils without damaging the tips, I recommend using a quality, sharp blade or a specialized pencil sharpener designed for colored pencils. I always turn the pencil gently and avoid forcing it, which prevents breakage. Holding the sharpener at a slight angle helps maintain a fine point. Regularly cleaning the blade or sharpener also keeps the edges smooth, ensuring your pencils stay sharp and ready for detailed work.
Can These Sets Be Used on Different Types of Paper Effectively?
Think of these sets like versatile tools that adapt to different papers. I find they work well on various surfaces, from smooth bristol to textured watercolor paper, giving vibrant results every time. While some papers might show more tooth, I just adjust my pressure and layering techniques. Overall, yes, these colored pencils are effective across a wide range of paper types, making my artwork more flexible and fun.
Conclusion
No matter which set you choose, I promise your artwork will come alive with vibrant hues that dance across the page. Imagine holding a pencil, feeling its smooth surface as you blend shades seamlessly, creating a masterpiece bursting with color and energy. These sets are your ticket to turning blank canvases into vivid worlds—so pick one, grab your tools, and let your creativity paint a beautiful, colorful story that’s uniquely yours.
