10 Best Colored Pencils for Artists: Top Picks for 2024

When it comes to expressing creativity, colored pencils are an essential tool for artists, both amateur and professional. The best colored pencils for artists should provide rich pigmentation, smooth application, and great blendability. Whether you’re an illustrator, a doodler, or a hobbyist, the right set of colored pencils can make a world of difference in your artistic journey. In this article, we will explore the best colored pencils for artists available on Amazon in 2024.

# Preview Product Rating Price
1 PRINA Art Supplies 120 Colors Colored Pencils Set for Adults Coloring Books with Sketchbook, Professional Vibrant Artists Coloring Pencils for Drawing Sketching Blending Shading, Soft Core Oil Based PRINA Art Supplies 120 Colors Colored Pencils Set for Adults Coloring Books with Sketchbook,... No ratings yet $27.99
2 Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Back to School Supplies, Soft Core Artist Sketching Drawing Pencils Drawing Supplies, Art Supplies Kit for Adults Kids, Coloring Pencils Set Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Back to School Supplies, Soft Core... No ratings yet $8.99
3 Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils Set | Quality Soft Core Colored Leads for Adult Artists, Professionals and Colorists | Protected and Organized in Presentation Tin Box Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils Set | Quality Soft Core Colored Leads for Adult Artists,... No ratings yet $36.98
4 KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Blending Shading,Color Pencils Set Gift for Adults Kids Beginners KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Blending... No ratings yet $11.99
5 Amazon Basics - Premium Colored Pencils, Soft Core, 24 Count (Pack of 1), Multicolor Amazon Basics - Premium Colored Pencils, Soft Core, 24 Count (Pack of 1), Multicolor $3.99
6 KALOUR Premium Colored Pencils,Set of 120 Colors,Artists Soft Core with Vibrant Color,Ideal for Drawing Sketching Shading,Coloring Pencils for Adults Beginners kids KALOUR Premium Colored Pencils,Set of 120 Colors,Artists Soft Core with Vibrant Color,Ideal for... No ratings yet $17.99
7 Yagol Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, 72 Colored Professional Drawing Pencils, Coloring Pencils for Adults Beginners Teen & Pro. Yagol Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, 72 Colored Professional Drawing Pencils, Coloring... $8.99
8 Prismacolor Colored Pencils | Premier Soft Core Pencils, Assorted, 72 Count Prismacolor Colored Pencils | Premier Soft Core Pencils, Assorted, 72 Count No ratings yet $74.99
9 Castle Art Supplies 120 Colored Pencils Zipper-Case Set | Quality Soft Core Colored Leads for Adult Artists, Professionals and Colorists | In Neat, Strong Carry-Anywhere Zipper Case Castle Art Supplies 120 Colored Pencils Zipper-Case Set | Quality Soft Core Colored Leads for Adult... No ratings yet $69.99

Buying Guide for Best Colored Pencils for Artists

Choosing the right colored pencils can be overwhelming, especially with so many options on the market. Below are some factors to consider when selecting the best colored pencils for your needs:

1. Type of Colored Pencils

There are primarily two types of colored pencils: wax-based and oil-based. Wax-based pencils provide a rich, creamy texture and are excellent for layering and blending. Oil-based pencils, on the other hand, offer more durability and are less prone to breakage, making them ideal for detailed work.

2. Pigmentation

High-quality colored pencils should have vibrant pigmentation and a smooth application. Look for pencils that have a high color payoff, which means you won’t need to press hard to achieve vivid tones.

3. Blending and Layering Options

If you want to create depth in your artwork, consider colored pencils that blend well. Some brands offer special blending tools, which can help achieve gradient effects.

Read Also  Best Privacy Screen Protector for Ultimate Protection in 2024

4. Core Hardness

The hardness of the pencil’s core can impact your drawing style. Softer cores provide richer colors but may break easily, while harder cores are great for fine lines but may not be as vibrant.

5. Price

Determine your budget before purchasing. While some premium brands can be costly, there are also budget-friendly options that offer quality performance.

6. Set Size

Pencil sets can range from a small collection to large sets with multiple hues. Decide how many colors you need based on your typical projects.

7. Durability

Durability is essential for artists who travel or frequently sketch outside. Look for pencils with sturdy construction that can withstand wear and tear.

8. Reviews and Recommendations

Lastly, read customer reviews to understand the pros and cons of each product. Online reviews can provide valuable insights into the performance of the colored pencils.

Now that we are equipped with knowledge on how to choose the best colored pencils for artists, let’s dive into the top 10 products available on Amazon in 2024.

Top 10 Colored Pencils for Artists on Amazon

1. Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils

Prismacolor is a household name among artists. Their Premier colored pencils feature a soft, creamy core that provides rich color and excellent blendability. This set comes with a range of vibrant hues, making it perfect for any artistic application.

The pencils are known for their smooth application, allowing for effortless layering and mixing. Prismacolor also offers various sets, so you can choose one that suits your needs.

OFF -$18.12Bestseller No. 1
Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils, Soft Core, 150 Count, Lightfast, Ultra-smooth, Adult Coloring Books
Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils, Soft Core, 150 Count, Lightfast, Ultra-smooth, Adult Coloring Books
  • Soft, thick cores are perfect for shading and shadows
  • Lightfast, richly saturated pigments
  • Ultra-smooth, even color laydown
  • Thick, robust leads resist cracking and chipping making them perfect for adult coloring books
  • 150 premium colored pencils

2. Crayola Colored Pencils

Crayola needs no introduction. Their colored pencils are often the choice for beginners and kids, but professional artists can also appreciate their affordability and quality. The pencils feature a smooth, vibrant wax core that allows for easy blending.

One of the standout features of Crayola colored pencils is their availability in various sets, making it easy to find exactly what you need. They are less expensive than some professional brands, making them a great choice for those on a budget.

OFF -$4.02Bestseller No. 1
Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct), Kids Pencils Set, Art Supplies, Great for Coloring Books, Classroom Pencils, School Supplies, 3+
Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct), Kids Pencils Set, Art Supplies, Great for Coloring Books, Classroom Pencils, School Supplies, 3+
  • 36 CRAYOLA COLORED PENCILS: Explore a spectrum of color with 36 distinct colored pencils that transform artwork into vibrant masterpieces.
  • KIDS ART SUPPLIES: Ignite your child’s artistic potential with this vibrant set of Crayola Colored Pencils. Perfect for nurturing creativity and self-expression.
  • BACK TO SCHOOL SUPPLIES: Enhance educational and creative activities with these essential kids' pencils for school.
  • IDEAL FOR COLORING BOOKS: Designed to glide smoothly across the page, these pencils bring coloring books to life.
  • CLASSROOM SUPPLIES: Stock up on bulk colored pencils for classroom activities, enhancing group projects, and making learning more colorful and fun.

3. Faber-Castell Polychromos Colored Pencils

For artists looking for high-quality, oil-based colored pencils, Faber-Castell Polychromos is a top contender. These pencils are known for their outstanding pigmentation and smooth texture. The vibrant colors blend effortlessly, making them ideal for detailed artwork.

Additionally, these colored pencils are incredibly resistant to fading, ensuring that your art will keep its brilliance over time. They are more expensive, but for many artists, the quality justifies the price.

OFF -$120.80Bestseller No. 1
Faber-Castell Polychromos Artists' Color Pencils - Tin of 120 Colors - Premium Quality Artist Pencils
Faber-Castell Polychromos Artists' Color Pencils - Tin of 120 Colors - Premium Quality Artist Pencils
  • Premium Quality Colored Pencils: Contains 120 assorted colors in a metal tin for artists and art enthusiasts.
  • Unsurpassed Lightfastness: Features pigments that resist fading for vibrant, long-lasting colors.
  • Easy Blending: Buttery smooth color laydown with oil-based leads that can be easily blended for layered effects.
  • Break Resistant Leads: Thick 3.8 mm SV-bonded leads are break and water resistant for extended use.
  • Faber-Castell Quality Art Materials: Produced by a leading art supply brand since 1761 for professional quality art materials.

4. Arteza Colored Pencils

Arteza offers artists a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. Their colored pencils feature a smooth application and vibrant colors that blend well. They are designed for both beginners and experienced artists.

A notable feature of the Arteza colored pencils is that they are non-toxic, making them safe for artists of all ages. Overall, this brand provides excellent value for the price, making it a noteworthy option for artists seeking quality on a budget.

OFF -$12.28Bestseller No. 1
ARTEZA Colored Pencils, 48 Wax-Based Color Pencils, Vibrant Coloring Pencils in Tin Box for Adults, Professional Art Supplies
ARTEZA Colored Pencils, 48 Wax-Based Color Pencils, Vibrant Coloring Pencils in Tin Box for Adults, Professional Art Supplies
  • Vibrant Color Pencils Set: Our 48 colored pencils provide intense colors, perfect for adult coloring books, sketches, and mixed media designs. They are suitable for beginners and professionals.
  • Effortless Blending & Layering: Enjoy a smooth coloring experience with these coloring pencils for adults, known for their exceptional blending, layering, and color mixing capabilities.
  • Durable Art Pencils: Crafted for longevity, our colored pencils for adult coloring books feature robust, break-resistant cores. These pre-sharpened sketch pencils work flawlessly every time.
  • Rich Spectrum of Colors: Embrace a wide array of colors to choose from, satisfying all your artistic needs. These artist pencils ensure diverse creations, making every project an adventure.
  • Convenient and Portable Tin Box: Our drawing pencils come in a sturdy metal tin, providing secure storage and ease of transportation. Each pencil has an individual slot for better organization.

5. Derwent Inktense Colored Pencils

Derwent Inktense pencils are unique in that they’re designed for both dry and wet applications. These pencils can be used like traditional colored pencils, but they can also be activated with water to create vibrant ink-like washes.

The color payoff is remarkable, and the intensity of the hues makes them stand out. If you’re looking to explore mixed media techniques, this set is an excellent choice for adding diversity to your artwork.

OFF -$35.49Bestseller No. 1
Derwent Inktense Color Pencils, 36-Piece Tin Set, 4mm Round Core, Watercolor Drawing
Derwent Inktense Color Pencils, 36-Piece Tin Set, 4mm Round Core, Watercolor Drawing
  • VIBRANT SHADES – The round 4mm soft lead core is perfect for bold expressive drawings. The highly pigmented colour is easy to apply and produces a vibrant finish. Includes a range of 36 colours. Give the gift of creativity this holiday season!
  • WATER SOLUBLE – Expand your creative possibilities. Water soluble pencils can be used dry for expressive drawings, or washed out with water to create a bright, yet translucent ink-like effect
  • PERMANENT COLOUR – Pigments dry quickly and permanently when washed out, minimizing colour bleeding. Once dry, colours can be placed next to each other or layered, without fear of colour bleeding
  • SURFACE VARIETY – Switch up your artistic canvas. As the colour dries permanently, it’s great on fabrics such as silk or cotton. Can also easily be used on paper. Modify the use to fit your project
  • COLOUR CREATION – Make custom shades by mixing colours together. You can also obtain lighter shades of the same colour by adding water. Mix colours to create a truly unique piece of art

6. Koh-I-Noor Progresso Colored Pencils

Koh-I-Noor’s Progresso pencils are unique as they offer a wood-free design, making them break-resistant and less messy. With a wax-based core, these colored pencils deliver smooth application and vibrant colors, ideal for both detailed work and bold sketches.

The pencils come in a variety of color sets, and the built-in sharpened ends mean you can enjoy your colors right out of the box. They may not be as well-known as some other brands but are certainly worth trying.

Bestseller No. 1
Koh-I-Noor Progresso Woodless Colored 24-Pencil Set, Assorted Colored Pencils (FA8758.24)
Koh-I-Noor Progresso Woodless Colored 24-Pencil Set, Assorted Colored Pencils (FA8758.24)
  • Progresso woodless color pencils 24/pkg assorted colors
  • Brand of Chartpak
  • Comes with a plastic storage case collapses flat to 6 x 11

7. Holbein Artists Colored Pencils

Holbein offers a premium option for artists who demand the best. Their artists’ colored pencils are made of high-quality pigments and come in a broad spectrum of colors. The smooth application of these pencils is perfect for blending and layering.

These pencils are also well-known for their non-toxic formulation, making them safe for all artists. While they come at a higher price point, many fans argue that the investment is worth it for the exceptional quality.

OFF -$23.50Bestseller No. 1
Holbein Colored Pencil 36, 50 colors set Express shipping, Trackng, Warranty-Holbein Artists' Colored Pencil PAstel Tone 50 colors set
Holbein Colored Pencil 36, 50 colors set Express shipping, Trackng, Warranty-Holbein Artists' Colored Pencil PAstel Tone 50 colors set
  • Holbein Artists' Colored Pencils - Pastel Tones, Set of 50, Cardboard Box
  • Pastel Tones

8. Prismacolor Scholars Colored Pencils

If you’re looking for an affordable alternative to Prismacolor Premier, then the Scholars colored pencils are a great option. They offer a good balance of quality and affordability, making them perfect for students and casual artists.

These wax-based pencils provide a decent color payoff, and while they may not offer the same luxurious feel as the Premier line, they still perform well for basic coloring needs.

OFF -$1.94Bestseller No. 1
Prismacolor Scholar Colored Pencils, Adult Coloring, 24 Pack
Prismacolor Scholar Colored Pencils, Adult Coloring, 24 Pack
  • High-quality art pencils designed for beginning artists and crafters
  • Soft, smooth leads for superior blending and shading
  • Hardened cores resist breakage
  • Rich, vibrantly pigmented colors
  • Includes: Indigo Blue, Permanent Blue, Aquamarine, Copenhagen Blue, Dark Green, Grass Green, Permanent Green, Pale Green, Lemon Yellow, Orange Yellow, Neon Yellow, Orange, Scarlet Red, Crimson Lake, Carmine Red, Light Pink, Purple, Violet, Peach, Terra Cotta, Dark Brown, Black, White and Pale Cold Grey

9. Tombow Irojiten Colored Pencils

Tombow’s Irojiten colored pencils are known for their unique hexagonal shape, providing a comfortable grip for longer drawing sessions. The color range is wonderfully curated, offering muted and vibrant tones that can give your artwork added depth.

The pencils have a delicate texture that allows easy layering and blending without the risk of harsh lines. Ideal for artists looking for a balance of sophistication and creativity.

Bestseller No. 1
Tombow Irojiten Colorpencils with enamel finish - Pack of 3 Unique Sets - Rainforest, Seascape and Woodlands, Sold As 90 Colored Pencils per Pack
Tombow Irojiten Colorpencils with enamel finish - Pack of 3 Unique Sets - Rainforest, Seascape and Woodlands, Sold As 90 Colored Pencils per Pack
  • Elegant enamel finish
  • 90 unique colors
  • Exquisite packaging
  • 1 Pack includes all three sets (Vol 1-3 Rainforest, Vol 4-6 Woodlands, Vol 7-9 Seascape)
  • AP Certified

10. Caran d’Ache Prismalo Colored Pencils

Lastly, Caran d’Ache offers the Prismalo colored pencils, which are water-soluble. This characteristic enables artists to create stunning washes and unique textures when activated with water.

These high-end pencils come in a wide spectrum of exquisite colors, ideal for fine detail work and vibrant layering. A great addition to mixed media projects, they’re perfect for professional use.

Bestseller No. 1
Caran D'Ache Prismalo Aquarelle Coloured Water-soluble Pencil (Pack of 30)
Caran D'Ache Prismalo Aquarelle Coloured Water-soluble Pencil (Pack of 30)
  • Caran D'Ache Prismalo Aquarelle Colour are the first water-soluble colour pencils to be produced since 1931.
  • Water-soluble colour pencils can be used for detailed work, artistic drawings, graphic art, illustrations or art tuition and more. You can achieve a variety of results.
  • These pencils feature a thin, strong 3mm lead which allows a clear and precise trace. The lead has a high pigment concentration providing excellent lightfastness.
  • You can use these pencils for different techniques including water-colour effects, crosshatching, and mixed media. They are ideal for school, home and office use.
  • This pack contains a variety of 30 coloured pencils including 001 white, 003 light grey, 005 grey, 009 black, 010 yellow, 030 orange, 035 ochre, 049 raw umber, 051 salmon, 059 brown, 060 vermilion, 065 russet, 070 scarlet, 080 carmine, 081 pink, 090 purple, 110 lilac, 120 violet, 131 periwinkle blue, 140 ultramarine, 159 prussian blue, 161 light blue, 172 turquoise blue, 180 malachite green, 210 emerald green, 230 yellow green, 240 lemon yellow, 245 light olive, 249 olive and 260 blue.

Conclusion

Investing in the best colored pencils for artists can significantly elevate your creative projects. Each of the colored pencils mentioned in this article has unique features tailored to meet various artistic needs. From professional-grade options like Faber-Castell Polychromos and Holbein Artists to economic choices like Crayola and Arteza, there is a perfect set for every artist in 2024.

In addition to the quality of the colored pencils, proper techniques and practice will also enhance your art endeavors. So, select the product that fits your artistic style and budget, and let your creativity flow! Happy coloring!

Last update on 2024-09-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API | votechriscarrillo.com is a participant in the Amazon Associate program and will earn from qualifying purchases.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *