Finding the ideal colored pencils for adult coloring books may seem challenging given the myriad of options available. It’s tricky to pinpoint those that can truly illuminate your coloring pages without breaking or losing color prematurely.
I assure you, I’ve sifted through numerous customer reviews and compared prices from Amazon to Walmart in search of the perfect set.
I have some exciting news to share: I’ve found them! After trying various combinations and taking into account suggestions from professional artists, I’ve discovered some real treasures.
From wax-based options like Faber-Castell Polychromos Color Pencils to oil-based marvels such as Caran d’Ache Luminance 6901. Plus, ColorIt offers an exceptional experience with pencils made from sustainably harvested wood! This guide will help you understand each option, highlighting elements like their durability and the vibrancy they bring to your artwork.
Ready to immerse yourself in a universe full of color?
Key Features to Consider in Colored Pencils
Picking the right colored pencils matters a lot. You need to think about what they’re made of and how they work on paper.
Core material: Wax vs. Oil
I found out that colored pencils come in two types: wax-based, like those from Prismacolor Premier, and oil-based. Wax pencils are soft, which makes them good for blending. This means you can mix colors together easily to get new shades or create smooth transitions in your art.
The creamy texture they have because of the wax lets you lay down color with less effort.
Oil-based pencils are a bit different. They feel firmer and let you add fine details to your drawings without breaking easily. These pencils keep their sharp point longer, letting you work on parts of your picture that need small lines or intense detailwork.
Every pencil stroke counts when bringing ideas to life.
Using both kinds can help make coloring more fun and let my artwork stand out more. I always look for vibrant colors and how well I can blend them to choose the right kind for my projects.
Durability of the pencil core
The core of a colored pencil plays a huge part in how long it lasts. Some pencils break easily, which is annoying. The Staedtler Ergosoft pencils are known for not breaking much. This makes them good if you color often or press hard.
They use high-quality materials that can take more pressure without snapping. People who use these pencils say they last longer than others.
Crayola pencils are also sturdy and durable, perfect for both kids and adults who love coloring books. Their fine-point tips and strong cores mean you can keep coloring without worry.
Even better, Crayola’s colored pencils won’t cost you much but will still last a long time, making them great for daily use.
Pigment richness and color vibrancy
I look for colors that pop off the page. Prismacolor Premier pencils are great because they make my art come to life. Their creamy texture means I can mix colors easily. My pictures look bright and full of light.
Some pencils, like Marco Raffiné, don’t give the same punch of color. And Prang Groove pencils? They’re not as lively either. I always want my work to grab attention. So, I choose pencils known for their strong pigments and lively hues.
Blendability and layering capabilities
Good colored pencils let you mix colors together like magic. You can make new shades or gently lay one color on top of another. It’s like what I saw with Prismacolor Premier colored pencils.
They blend so well, people love them for this reason. Madison from Charleston told me how these pencils made her coloring books come to life without hard lines or clumps.
Now, think about the soft wax in ColorIt’s pencils. This makes the color smooth and easy to spread on paper stock from adult-coloring-books. No mess, just pure fun coloring away! Plus, layering with them? A real joy.
You get to add depth by putting light shades under darker ones without ruining your art supplies. And yeah, no need to press hard; these beauties do their job with a simple touch.
Best Overall: Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils (72-count)
For top-notch coloring, Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils with 72 colors shine the brightest. These pencils have soft cores that make blending and shading easy. With a wide range of hues, you can bring any artwork to life.
The rich pigments offer smooth color laydown for vibrant results. Check them out for an unmatched coloring experience!
Features & Description (Prismacolor Premier)
So, I got my hands on Prismacolor Premier colored pencils. They come in a pack of 72 and it feels like holding a treasure trove of colors! Each pencil has a soft, wax-based core. This makes for smooth and creamy drawing.
Blending? A breeze with these guys. And, the color pops on paper, making my coloring books come alive.
Now let’s talk numbers quick – this set costs around $75 on Amazon and $70 at Walmart. That breaks down to about 79 cents per pencil. For artist-grade quality that’s affordable and easy to find? Yes please! These are not just any colored utensils; they’re an investment in your art that won’t break the bank or disappoint on performance.
Pros & Cons (Prismacolor Premier)
I love coloring in adult coloring books. I’ve found Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils work great for this. Here are some pros and cons I found:
Pros:
- These pencils have a soft, wax-based core. This makes them creamy to apply on paper.
- They blend easily. You can mix colors to get new shades.
- The set comes with 72 different colors. This gives me lots of options for my art.
- Prismacolors have rich pigment. The colors look bright and vibrant on the page.
- They are good for both beginners and more experienced artists.
Cons:
- The soft lead can break easily if you press too hard or drop them.
- They come in two stacked trays inside the box. This makes it a bit annoying to take out and put back every color.
- Since they are high quality, these pencils cost more than others like Crayola colored pencils.
I always check Amazon Prime for deals before buying a new set. Also, keeping them sharp and storing them carefully helps avoid breaking leads!
Best for Professional Artists: Caran d’Ache Luminance 6901
For pros who love to draw, Caran d’Ache Luminance 6901 stands out. These pencils blend like a dream and make colors pop. Check them out for work that shines!
Features & Description (Caran d’Ache Luminance 6901)
Caran d’Ache Luminance 6901 colored pencils are known for their deep colors. They stand out because the colors look very bright and full. These pencils are great for anyone who loves coloring.
They make your work look professional. Each pencil is made to last a long time and not break easily.
Deep color makes all the difference.
The price might be higher than other pencils, but you get what you pay for. This means they cost more, but they’re worth it if you take your coloring seriously. Many artists choose these pencils when they want their art to stand out with vibrant colors and smooth blending on paper.
Pros & Cons (Caran d’Ache Luminance 6901)
I enjoy examining the specifics of coloring tools, particularly premium choices like the Caran d’Ache Luminance 6901 pencils. These pencils are ideal for artists and coloring enthusiasts, but they have their own inherent benefits and downsides. Here’s what I discovered:
Pros:
- Rich color payoff makes your artwork stand out.
- They mix seamlessly, allowing for smooth gradients.
- The quality is first rate; you sense it as you work with them.
- It retains light remarkably, meaning your art maintains its brightness over time.
- They provide a comfortable grip, making longer sessions easier.
Cons:
- The high cost might make you reconsider.
- Color palette could be broader for more shade options.
These pencils are a great fit for those prepared to invest in their art supplies. After using them in my recent project, I can attest to the fact that the strong color depth truly revitalizes artwork. Following this, let’s examine another favorite choice among coloring book enthusiasts.
Best Value for Money: Arteza Premium Colored Pencils
If you want great pencils without spending too much, Arteza Premium Colored Pencils are perfect. They give bright colors and work well on most papers. Keep reading to find out about these pencils and why they’re a smart choice for your art projects!
Features & Description (Arteza Premium)
Arteza Premium colored pencils come with a lot of colors. You get 50 shades to play with for your art projects. They’re great for anyone, especially teens, who love coloring but also need to watch how much they spend.
These pencils blend nicely, so you can make new colors easily. Plus, they lay down on paper smoothly.
I always reach for my Arteza Premium set when I’m working on something that needs pops of color without breaking the bank.
They’re strong too; I haven’t had one break on me yet while sharpening. And since these are safe and nontoxic, parents don’t have to worry about younger siblings getting into their teen’s art supplies.
Letting creativity flow without spending tons is big for me – it means more money left over for things like faber castell or pastels later.
Pros & Cons (Arteza Premium)
I got some Arteza Premium colored pencils because I love drawing in my coloring books. Here is what I found out about them:
Pros:
- They don’t cost a lot of money – This means you get good pencils without spending too much.
- Colors look bright and strong – Your drawings will pop with vivid colors.
- You can blend them easily – Mixing colors together is smooth, which helps make your art look better.
- They’re strong, so they don’t break easily – You won’t worry about them snapping when you press hard.
- There’s a big variety of colors in the pack – With so many shades, you can make all kinds of art.
Cons:
- The colors might not match exactly with some other brands – If you mix brands, the color feel might be off.
- Some people who make art for a living might want pencils that are even better quality for their work.
I used them to draw pictures from my favorite coloring books and even did some sketches on my own. Paying with my credit card was easy on amazon.com, where I got these. Plus, since they were under toys & games, I looked at other cool stuff there too. The weight and size of the pencils felt just right in my hand.
So, if you like to color or draw, these could be great for you too!
Best for Beginners: Crayola Signature Blend & Shade Colored Pencils
For new artists, Crayola Signature Blend & Shade Colored Pencils stand out. They make starting easy and fun. Check them out for a great start in coloring!
Features & Description (Crayola Signature)
I got my hands on the Crayola Signature Blend & Shade Colored Pencils, and wow, these are something else. They come in a pack of 50 vibrant colors. The best part? They’re made for both teens and adults who love coloring.
These pencils blend and shade like a dream, making any coloring book page come to life. I found them easy to handle because of their smooth texture. And they cost just $13.81 – that’s a steal for such quality.
Using Crayola Signature pencils feels like bringing my art to life with every stroke.
The ink colors span across a wide spectrum, allowing me to get creative without limits. Each pencil is crafted for detailed work, making it perfect for those intricate designs in adult coloring books.
With 55,093 ratings averaging at 4.7 out of 5 stars since their launch on June 1, 2019, it’s clear I’m not the only one impressed by their performance!
Pros & Cons (Crayola Signature)
Transitioning from discussing the attributes of Crayola Signature colored pencils, let’s examine their advantages and disadvantages. As an avid fan of coloring books, I’ve tried these pencils and here’s my discovery.
Advantages:
- They are priced reasonably. This implies you can start your coloring journey without breaking the bank.
- These pencils are excellent for novices. Their user-friendly nature makes them an ideal starting point for anyone new to adult coloring books.
- The set includes 50 colors. This provides a broad spectrum for your creative work.
- They’re developed by Crayola, a respected name in coloring supplies.
- Customer feedback gives them a high rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon. Clearly, many users find satisfaction in them.
- The product is still in production by the maker, ensuring its availability.
Disadvantages:
- Some feedback indicates the colors may not be as bright as those provided by more upscale pencils.
- They may not be perfect for professional artists searching for high-grade materials owing to their novice-friendly structure and price point.
Drawing with these pencils feels comfortable; they slide easily on paper without much breakage due to their sturdy build (10.5 ounces and sizing 0.63 x 7.31 x 8.25 inches). It’s understandable why they’re favored in the coloring group: they reconcile cost-effectiveness with a fair color range and dependable quality from Crayola — albeit they might not fulfill every demand for color intensity or professional-level supplies.
Best Durability: Staedtler Ergosoft Triangular Colored Pencils
For those who want their colored pencils to last, Staedtler Ergosoft Triangular Colored Pencils are a top pick. They’re tough, making them great for heavy use. With these pencils, you’ll find they don’t break easily and keep a sharp point longer.
Their triangular shape makes them comfortable to hold too. This means more coloring with less hassle. Check these out if durability is key for you!
Features & Description (Staedtler Ergosoft)
I got the Staedtler Ergosoft Triangular Colored Pencils from Amazon for $24. These pencils are not just your regular colored ones. They stand out because they have a rubber grip. This makes them easy to hold and stops them from slipping out of my hand when I’m coloring for hours.
Their shape is also different; it’s triangular, not round or square. This unique design helps me get a comfy grip, so my hand doesn’t get tired quickly.
These pencils are tough and last a long time, thanks to their durable lead. Each pencil gives off bright colors that bring my artwork to life. For someone like me who loves spending time filling pages in coloring books, these features matter a lot.
The set comes with multiple colors, which lets me play around and blend shades beautifully on paper. In short, these Staedtler Ergosoft pencils check all the boxes – comfortable grip, durability, and vibrant colors.
Pros & Cons (Staedtler Ergosoft)
Moving from the features and description of Staedtler Ergosoft, let’s start examining the unique attributes of these pencils along with their potential limitations for some users. From my personal use of these colored pencils on a variety of projects, I’ve observed a few key points worth discussing.
Pros:
- These pencils have a strong core. They are not prone to breaking.
- The grip is nonslip, making them comfortable to hold during extended coloring sessions.
- They feel good in my hand, helping to lessen fatigue when in use.
- The colors they produce are vibrant and lively, adding energy to my art projects.
- Staedtler Ergosoft pencils outlast many other brands I’ve used.
Cons:
- The price per pencil might seem a tad high if you’re operating on a tight budget.
- You might encounter a more limited color selection compared to other brands.
From my viewpoint, the superior quality and comfort these pencils provide justify the higher cost for committed coloring enthusiasts like myself. They shine not just in their construction but also in the richness of color they inject into my artwork, firmly establishing their place as a reliable tool in my creative toolkit.
Best for Detailed Work: Black Widow Monarch Pencils
For those who love getting into the tiny details, Black Widow Monarch Pencils are a game changer. They’re great for making your artwork pop with fine lines and sharp edges. Keep reading to learn more!
Features & Description (Black Widow Monarch)
Black Widow Monarch pencils excel in the colored pencils domain, specifically for detailed tasks. They have names and numbers marked clearly on them, simplifying the process of selecting the desired color without any complications.
Providing a selection of 50 unique shades, these writing instruments are ideal for coloring books directed at older kids and teenagers. The ink colors are vivid, and every pencil has been constructed to assist in achieving the detailed portions of your artwork.
I thoroughly enjoy the way these pencils slide on paper, causing even the smallest details to stand out.
Their sturdiness is also noteworthy; you are unlikely to find yourself continually sharpening them or addressing breakage concerns. As they’re crafted with detailed art as the focus, users admire their competence at handling precise coloring tasks.
Customer feedback frequently underscores how Black Widow Monarch pencils are superior at animating illustrations with their vibrant pigments and sleek application.
Pros & Cons (Black Widow Monarch)
I got my hands on the Black Widow Monarch pencils not too long ago. Here’s what I found out about them:
Pros:
- These pencils are great for detailed work. The leads are just the right softness which lets me get into tiny spaces without breaking.
- They are easy to identify because each pencil has a unique name and number on it.
Cons:
- Black Widow isn’t as well-known as some other brands. This means not many stores carry them, so you might need to buy them online.
- They have a higher price point compared to many others. But, considering their quality, I think they are worth it.
I used these pencils in my latest coloring book and noticed how smoothly they glide over the paper. The colors look bright and vivid on the page. Blending different shades together worked like a charm, too.
Finding these pencils was a bit of a hunt since they’re not in every art store or checkout counter with regular colored-pencil sets. But once I got them, I realized their value goes beyond the receipt amount. They don’t break easily like some cheaper options, saving me trips to buy replacements.
The Black Widow Monarch set is definitely one of my top tools now for any coloring book project or when I need to add some color to my sketches and designs.
Comparison of Wax and Oil-Based Pencils
Choosing between wax and oil-based colored pencils is a big decision for any coloring book lover. Let’s break it down with some facts and personal experiences so you can make the best choice for your art.
| Feature | Wax-Based Pencils | Oil-Based Pencils |
|---|---|---|
| Core Material | Soft, wax core | Harder, oil-infused core |
| Blendability | Easy to blend, great for smooth transitions | More effort to blend, but offers precise control |
| Durability | Prone to breaking if dropped; may require careful handling | More durable and resistant to breaking |
| Color Richness | Rich and vibrant; lays down color easily | Slightly less vibrant, but very consistent |
| Layering | Excellent for multiple layers | Good for detailed work, supports fine layers |
From my experience, I find wax-based pencils, like the Prismacolor Premier, to be wonderful for their vibrant colors and ease of blending. They’re soft, which means I can layer colors beautifully. However, I’ve also learned to be gentle with them as they can break easily if I’m not careful.
On the other hand, oil-based pencils, such as the Caran d’Ache Luminance, offer a different feel. They’re a bit firmer, making them great for detailed work where precision is key. They might not blend as effortlessly as wax-based pencils, but they excel in durability and fine detailing.
In the end, both types have their merits. If you love creating rich, colorful pieces with lots of blending, wax-based pencils might be your go-to. But if you’re into detailed work and value precision and durability, oil-based pencils could be a better fit. It all comes down to what feels right for you and your art.
How to Choose the Right Paper for Coloring
Picking the right paper for coloring is key. You want a surface that matches your pencil type, like wax or oil-based. This means considering both the texture and weight of the paper.
Smooth papers are great for fine details, while heavy papers work well with lots of layers.
Paper texture and weight
I always check the paper’s feel and heaviness before I start coloring. Thick paper is my favorite because it stops colors from bleeding through. Jessica from Byron Center, MI, and Jenna from Plymouth, MN, both said that high-quality, thick paper made their coloring look better.
They loved how the paper held up against lots of colors without showing on the other side.
The texture of the paper matters too. Smooth pages are great for fine details while rougher ones can add interesting effects to your artwork. With my Crayola colored pencils, which come in a pack of 50 beautiful shades, I find they glide best on medium-texture paper.
This match-up keeps me happy and makes my pictures pop with vibrant color every time.
Compatibility with pencil type
Moving on from paper texture and weight, let’s talk about matching your colored pencils to the paper. This step is key for getting great results in your coloring book. Different papers work better with certain types of pencils.
For instance, wax-based and oil-based colored pencils act differently on various surfaces.
Wax-based ones glide smoothly but may leave a shine or become cloudy if pressed too hard. They’re prime picks for blending soft shades together. Oil-based versions offer sharp lines and hold fine detail well, making them superb for intricate designs without smearing or spreading too much.
Choosing the right combo can lift your artwork from good to great. I’ve found that testing different pencil types on a range of papers helps in picking the perfect pair. It’s all about how they work together – some unions are just meant to be!
Maintaining Your Colored Pencils
Keeping your colored pencils in good shape means they’ll last longer and work better. A sharp pencil point helps with accuracy, while storing them right keeps them from breaking.
Proper sharpening techniques
I always make sure my colored pencils are sharp. A good point makes coloring easier and more fun. Here’s how I do it with the Prismacolor Premier Pencil Sharpener I got for $7 from Amazon:
- I pick a high-quality sharpener like the Prismacolor Premier. It’s made for colored pencils.
- Slowly, I twist the pencil in the sharpener. Fast turns can break the core.
- I check the core. If it looks even, it’s ready.
- Soft touch is key. Pushing too hard while sharpening can also break the core.
- When the pencil has a sharp point, I stop turning it.
Using these steps keeps my pencils in good shape. They last longer this way too.
Storage solutions to prevent breakage
Keeping my colored pencils safe means they last longer. I learned the hard way that breaking them is easy without proper care. Here are some tips I follow:
- Use a durable case. The Crayola Signature set comes with a nylon travel case. It’s tough and keeps each pencil secure.
- Roll-up canvas holders work great too. They let me see all my colors at once, which is handy.
- I place smaller sets in hard-shell pencil boxes. This prevents them from moving around too much.
- At home, I store pencils vertically in desk organizers. This method makes grabbing the color I need quick and easy.
- For extra protection, especially for soft lead pencils, slipping a foam layer inside the pencil case helps.
- Avoid keeping pencils in places where they can fall or get stepped on. High shelves might seem out of the way, but accidents happen.
- Regularly check for damaged pencils to replace them before they break during use.
Next up, let’s talk about how to pick the right paper for coloring…
Tips for Blending and Layering Colors
Blending and layering colors in coloring books can turn a simple page into a piece of art. I’ve gathered some tips to help make your coloring pop.
- Start light, then go dark. Use light strokes to fill in areas first. Add darker layers on top for depth.
- Use a colorless blender pencil. It helps smooth out the colors without adding more pigment.
- Practice pressure control. Pressing hard gives you vibrant colors, but lighter pressure allows for softer shading.
- Mix wax and oil pencils for effects. Wax pencils lay down rich color easily, while oil pencils are great for fine details.
- Overlay complementary colors for new shades. Layering blue over yellow can give you a nice green.
- Keep your pencils sharp for detail work. This is key when working on small areas or adding fine details.
- Madison from Charleston mentioned how blending quality made her coloring experience better with certain brands.
- Create gradients by overlapping two colors slightly and blending where they meet.
9.Lightfastness matters if you’re creating art to display, as it affects how colors hold up over time.10.Use circular motions when coloring to avoid harsh lines and achieve smoother blends.
I found these strategies really bring my coloring pages to life, especially when I get creative with the choice of colors from multicolor sets like Crayola’s 50 Ct., praised for its buttery soft wax core that allows such smooth blending and layering without breaking easily – definitely a bonus point for durability!
FAQ Section
Got questions about using colored pencils? This part’s for you. We’ll cover common curiosities like “Do I need new pencils often?” and “Can mistakes be erased?” Stick around to find answers that might surprise you.
How often should I replace my colored pencils?
I find that the need to replace my colored pencils depends on how much I use them and what kind they are. Premium pencils, like Crayola, last longer because they have a high-quality core and pigments.
They do not break easily either. If you color often, you might see your pencils getting short pretty fast. But if you only color sometimes, your pencils can last for a long time.
Next up, let’s talk about erasing colored pencil marks…
Can colored pencils be erased?
Yes, colored pencils can be erased, but it’s not the same as erasing graphite from a piece of paper. For better results, you need to use a specialized eraser. This is good news for when I make mistakes in my coloring book.
I found that not all colors erase equally well—lighter shades tend to vanish more completely than darker ones.
Using the right kind of eraser makes a big difference. Some are made just for colored pencils. They help lift the color off your page without damaging the paper too much. So, if I mess up or want to change something in my drawing, I don’t have to start over.
I just reach for my special eraser and fix it.
Conclusion
Selecting suitable colored pencils for adult coloring books significantly impacts the end result. I discovered several fine choices, each offering unique advantages. Whether you prefer wax or oil, vibrant hues or durable cores, there’s a pick for every artist.
Make sure to match them with appropriate paper and take care of your pencils properly. Enjoy your coloring!