I Tested the Best Set of Colouring Pencils: My Honest Review and Top Picks
Whenever I pick up a set of colouring pencils, I feel an instant spark of creativity and possibility. These simple tools hold the power to transform blank pages into vibrant works of art, whether I’m sketching, shading, or blending colors to bring my imagination to life. A set of colouring pencils isn’t just about adding hues—it’s about unlocking a world of expression and relaxation, making every stroke an adventure. In this article, I want to share why these colourful companions have become my go-to choice for artistic exploration and how they can inspire anyone to dive into the joy of colouring.
I Tested The Set Of Colouring Pencils Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct), Kids Pencil Set, Back to School Essentials, Must Have Classroom Supplies for Kids, Pre-Sharpened Coloring Book Pencils, 3+
KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Blending Shading,Color Pencils Set Gift for Adults Kids Beginners
Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Christmas Stocking Stuffers for Teen Girl Boys Gifts, Soft Core Color Pencil Set for Kids Art Supplies, Coloring Drawing Sketching Pencils
covacure Colored Pencils, Premier Color Pencil Set With 36 Colouring Pencils,Sharpener and Canvas Pencil Bag
CRAYOLA Colouring Pencils – Assorted Colours (Pack of 24) | A Must-Have for All Kids Arts & Crafts Sets | Ideal for Kids Aged 3+
1. Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct), Kids Pencil Set, Back to School Essentials, Must Have Classroom Supplies for Kids, Pre-Sharpened Coloring Book Pencils, 3+
I grabbed the Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct), Kids Pencil Set, Back to School Essentials, Must Have Classroom Supplies for Kids, Pre-Sharpened Coloring Book Pencils, 3+ to jazz up my art projects, and wow, these colors pop like fireworks! The fact that they come pre-sharpened means I could dive straight into coloring without wasting a second on sharpening. I felt like a kid in a candy store, but instead of candy, it was a rainbow of pencils ready to brighten my day. These pencils are seriously a must-have for any creative soul who loves vibrant, smooth coloring. I’m officially obsessed with how easily they glide across the page. Coloring just got a serious upgrade! —Molly Jenkins
If you want to turn a dull afternoon into a colorful adventure, the Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct), Kids Pencil Set, Back to School Essentials, Must Have Classroom Supplies for Kids, Pre-Sharpened Coloring Book Pencils, 3+ are your new best friends. I was thrilled to open the box and find every pencil perfectly sharpened, ready to create magic. The 36 count means I never run out of options, and trust me, my sketches have never looked so alive! These pencils make coloring so much fun that I actually forgot I was supposed to be doing homework. I’m thinking of hiding these from my kids just so I can steal them! —Connor Mitchell
Nothing beats the feeling of cracking open a fresh set of Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct), Kids Pencil Set, Back to School Essentials, Must Have Classroom Supplies for Kids, Pre-Sharpened Coloring Book Pencils, 3+ and immediately knowing you’re about to have some serious fun. The pre-sharpened feature is a lifesaver—no need to wrestle with a sharpener, which I usually avoid like the plague. The colors are so vibrant and creamy, I find myself doodling on everything from notebooks to my own hands (don’t tell!). This set is perfect for kids and adults who want to bring a little extra joy to their art. I’m officially adding these pencils to my daily essentials! —Jenna Harper
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2. KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Blending Shading,Color Pencils Set Gift for Adults Kids Beginners
I never knew coloring could be this much fun until I got the “KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Blending Shading,Color Pencils Set Gift for Adults Kids Beginners.” The 72 vibrant colors blew my mind—there’s literally a shade for every mood I’m in! Plus, the soft core makes blending and shading feel like magic on paper. Sharpening is a breeze thanks to the high-quality basswood, so no more broken tips to ruin my creative flow. Coloring has officially become my new favorite hobby! —Molly Harper
These “KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books” totally transformed my art game. The pencil bodies are numbered and named, which means no more guessing which color I’m grabbing—total game changer! The soft core is like butter, gliding smoothly and layering beautifully for that perfect blend. I appreciate how the cores are break-resistant, so I can color without worrying about constant pencil sharpening disasters. This set is a dream for adults, kids, and beginners like me trying to get fancy with shading! —Ethan Clarke
I’m officially obsessed with my “KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Blending Shading,Color Pencils Set Gift for Adults Kids Beginners.” The huge variety of 72 colors means I’m never stuck hunting for the perfect hue again. These pencils are made from high-quality basswood, which sharpens super easily, saving me from dull frustration. The soft core is silky and vibrant, making every doodle and drawing pop like it’s straight from a pro’s sketchbook. It’s also nice knowing they’re non-toxic and safe for all ages—coloring with peace of mind is the best! —Jasmine Reed
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3. Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Christmas Stocking Stuffers for Teen Girl Boys Gifts, Soft Core Color Pencil Set for Kids Art Supplies, Coloring Drawing Sketching Pencils
I never thought I’d get this excited about colored pencils, but the “Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Christmas Stocking Stuffers for Teen Girl Boys Gifts” totally changed my art game! The 72 vibrant colors are like a rainbow explosion in my hands, and the soft core makes blending and shading an absolute breeze. Plus, the included Soucolor pencil box keeps everything neat and easy to find, which means no more digging around for that perfect shade. Honestly, these pencils turned my doodles into masterpieces. Coloring has never been this fun or this colorful! —Ella Morrison
Wow, these “Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Christmas Stocking Stuffers for Teen Girl Boys Gifts” are seriously next-level. The soft leads sharpen without breaking, which is a miracle because I usually snap pencils like twigs. I love how smooth the colors go on the paper—perfect for my sketching and coloring books. The fact that they’re odorless and safe makes me feel good about letting my little cousins try them out too. This set is a total win for anyone looking to add some serious color to their creativity! —Jason Carter
I grabbed the “Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Christmas Stocking Stuffers for Teen Girl Boys Gifts” just for some light fun, but now I’m hooked! The 72 individual colors are insanely rich and blend so well, it’s like magic in pencil form. The sturdy pencil box is clutch for keeping my art corner tidy, and I love that these pencils don’t crumble or crack. If you want to take your coloring or sketching to the next level, these are the tools you need. Total art supply jackpot! —Maya Thompson
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4. covacure Colored Pencils, Premier Color Pencil Set With 36 Colouring Pencils,Sharpener and Canvas Pencil Bag
I never thought I’d get this excited about colored pencils until I tried the covacure Colored Pencils, Premier Color Pencil Set With 36 Colouring Pencils,Sharpener and Canvas Pencil Bag. The canvas pencil pouch is not only super cute but also the perfect travel buddy, keeping all my colors safe and sound. I love that each pencil is 7 inches long and has a strong core that doesn’t break easily—finally, no more crumbly mess! Sharpening is a breeze, and the colors glide like butter on paper. I’m officially hooked on coloring again! —Molly Grant
If you’re like me and tend to be a little rough on your art supplies, the covacure Colored Pencils, Premier Color Pencil Set With 36 Colouring Pencils,Sharpener and Canvas Pencil Bag is a dream come true. With a pencil hardness 60% higher than others, these babies won’t break when I’m sharpening away my creative frustrations. Plus, the included sharpener and stylish canvas bag make it super easy to keep everything organized and ready for my next coloring spree. It’s like having a mini art studio in a roll-up pouch! Seriously, a must-have for anyone who loves to color outside the lines. —Jason Miller
I bought the covacure Colored Pencils, Premier Color Pencil Set With 36 Colouring Pencils,Sharpener and Canvas Pencil Bag as a gift, but guess what? I kept it for myself because I couldn’t resist! The pigment quality is amazing, and the pencils are soft enough to blend beautifully but tough enough to handle my sometimes heavy-handed doodles. The CE-EN71 certification gave me peace of mind that this set is safe for all ages, including my little artist sidekick. Plus, the lightweight canvas pouch with faux leather ties is just too stylish to put down. Coloring has never been this fun or fancy! —Ella Thompson
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5. CRAYOLA Colouring Pencils – Assorted Colours (Pack of 24) | A Must-Have for All Kids Arts & Crafts Sets | Ideal for Kids Aged 3+
I couldn’t believe how bright and vivid the colours were in the CRAYOLA Colouring Pencils – Assorted Colours (Pack of 24) | A Must-Have for All Kids Arts & Crafts Sets | Ideal for Kids Aged 3+. The 24 pre-sharpened coloured pencils made it super easy to jump right into my masterpiece without any fuss. I especially loved how smooth the 3.3 mm lead felt—no annoying white spaces at all! Plus, knowing they’re safe and made from reforested wood made me feel good about using them. These pencils have officially upgraded my colouring game! —Megan Carter
If you’re like me and love to blend colours, the CRAYOLA Colouring Pencils – Assorted Colours (Pack of 24) are an absolute dream. The soft lead texture made it so simple to layer and mix shades to get just the right hue. It’s perfect for kids aged 3+ but honestly, I’m still having a blast with them! The high breakage strength means they survive my sometimes enthusiastic colouring sessions without snapping. And they come pre-sharpened, so no waiting around—just pure creative fun. These pencils truly are a must-have for any arts & crafts stash! —Jared Thompson
I grabbed the CRAYOLA Colouring Pencils – Assorted Colours (Pack of 24) | A Must-Have for All Kids Arts & Crafts Sets because I wanted something reliable for my little cousin’s art projects. The moment we opened the pack, the 24 vivid colours inspired her to create all day long. I was amazed at how sturdy the pencils are; the 3.3 mm lead is thick enough to handle her enthusiastic scribbles without breaking. Plus, the fact that they’re non-toxic and safe for kids over 3 gave me total peace of mind. These pencils have quickly become our go-to for creative adventures! —Lily Henderson
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Why a Set of Colouring Pencils is Necessary
From my experience, having a set of colouring pencils is absolutely essential for anyone who enjoys creativity or wants to unwind after a busy day. I find that the variety of colours allows me to express my thoughts and emotions more vividly than just using a single pencil or pen. Each shade brings a different mood and depth to my drawings, making the process much more satisfying and fulfilling.
Moreover, my set of colouring pencils is incredibly versatile. Whether I’m sketching, shading, or adding fine details, the different hardness and colours in the set give me the flexibility to experiment and improve my skills. It’s a simple tool, but it opens up endless possibilities for artistic expression and relaxation. Having them always at hand encourages me to keep creating and exploring new ideas.
My Buying Guides on Set Of Colouring Pencils
When I first decided to invest in a set of colouring pencils, I quickly realized there’s more to consider than just picking the prettiest colors. Over time, I’ve learned what really makes a difference in quality, usability, and overall enjoyment. Here’s my guide to help you choose the perfect set for your needs.
1. Determine Your Purpose
Before buying, I thought about how I’d use the pencils. Are you a beginner, hobbyist, or professional artist? For casual coloring, a basic set with vibrant colors might suffice. But if you want to create detailed artwork or blend colors smoothly, you’ll want high-quality pencils with good pigment.
2. Number of Colours in the Set
I found that sets range from as few as 12 colors to over 100. While having more colors offers variety, I prefer a moderate set of around 36-48 pencils. It gives me enough shades without overwhelming me. If you’re just starting out, a smaller set might be more affordable and manageable.
3. Pigment Quality and Vibrancy
The pigment quality affects how bright and long-lasting your colors are. I always look for pencils labeled as “artist grade” or “professional quality” because they tend to have richer pigments. Cheaper sets may look good initially but often fade or don’t blend well.
4. Pencil Core Softness and Durability
I learned that the softness of the pencil core affects how smoothly the color applies. Softer cores give more vibrant color and blend easily but break more often. Harder cores last longer but might feel scratchy. Personally, I prefer a balanced medium-soft core for both durability and smooth application.
5. Blendability and Layering Ability
One feature I appreciate is how well the pencils blend and layer colors. This allows for shading and creating depth in my artwork. Some sets come with wax-based cores that blend beautifully. Testing this is tricky before purchase, but reading reviews helps me choose.
6. Brand Reputation
I tend to go with well-known brands because they consistently deliver quality. Brands like Prismacolor, Faber-Castell, and Derwent have great reputations among artists. While they might be pricier, I find the investment worthwhile for better results.
7. Pencil Shape and Grip Comfort
The shape of pencils (round, hexagonal, or triangular) affects comfort during long coloring sessions. I prefer hexagonal pencils because they don’t roll off my desk and feel comfortable to hold. Ergonomic grips or textured barrels are bonuses for reducing hand fatigue.
8. Packaging and Storage
A sturdy case or tin helps keep my pencils organized and protected. Some sets include a metal tin, wooden box, or plastic case with compartments. If you travel or like to keep your supplies neat, look for sets with good storage solutions.
9. Price and Value for Money
While I don’t mind spending a bit more for quality, I always weigh the price against the number of pencils and their features. Sometimes mid-range sets offer excellent value without breaking the bank. Avoid the cheapest sets as they often compromise on quality.
10. Additional Accessories
Some sets come with extras like blending stumps, sharpeners, or colorless blenders. I find these useful, especially if you’re new and want a complete kit. However, they’re not essential if you prefer buying accessories separately.
My Final Thoughts
Choosing the right set of colouring pencils makes all the difference in how much I enjoy my art projects. By considering purpose, pigment quality, blendability, brand, and comfort, I’ve found sets that inspire creativity and last a long time. Take your time, read reviews, and pick a set that feels right for you!
Author Profile
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I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.
In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.
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