Colored Pencil Set questions answered
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
The best colored pencil set depends on your skill level and budget; for beginners, a moderately priced 24–36 set with soft, blendable leads is ideal, while experienced artists may prefer larger sets with lightfast pigments. Most casual users will be happy with a well-reviewed wax-based set from brands like Prismacolor or Arteza, but professionals often invest in oil-based pencils from Faber-Castell or Caran d'Ache for higher lightfastness and hard, precise points. Prioritize sets that include a range of values and at least one colorless blender for versatility.
Which colored pencil set should I buy for beginners?
For someone just starting out, a set of 24 to 36 pencils is a sweet spot, it offers enough colors to practice blending and layering without overwhelming you. Look for a set that’s labeled “soft” or “vibrant” because those leads tend to lay down color more easily and require less pressure. Budget-friendly options from brands like Crayola or Arteza are perfectly fine for learning, though they may not blend as smoothly as mid-tier sets. If you’re willing to spend a bit more, Prismacolor Premier is the gold standard for beginners who want creamier wax-based leads. They’re widely available, come in many set sizes, and are known for being forgiving, you can layer and burnish without much effort. Just be aware that softer leads break more easily, so a gentle touch and a decent sharpener are essential.
What’s the difference between wax-based and oil-based colored pencils?
Wax-based pencils use a binder that’s mostly wax, making them soft and creamy. They deposit a lot of pigment quickly, blend beautifully with solvents or by layering, and are generally more affordable. However, they can develop something called “wax bloom”. a cloudy haze that appears over time, and the leads are more prone to breaking if dropped. Oil-based pencils use a plant-based or synthetic oil binder. They are harder, hold a sharp point longer, and are less likely to break. They also resist wax bloom and often have greater lightfastness (fade resistance). Brands like Faber-Castell Polychromos and Caran d’Ache Luminance are famous for their oil-based formula. The trade-off is that they require more pressure to layer and are usually more expensive, so they’re better suited for someone who already knows they’ll use the set heavily.
Are expensive artist-grade pencils worth the extra cost?
Yes, if you plan to create finished artwork that you want to last. Artist-grade pencils (like Prismacolor Premier, Faber-Castell Polychromos, or Caran d’Ache Luminance) use better pigments and more binder, so the colors are more intense, blend more smoothly, and are far more lightfast. A drawing made with student-grade pencils might show visible fading within a year, while artist-grade works can stay vibrant for decades. That said, for casual coloring books, doodling, or kid’s projects, expensive pencils are overkill. The average hobbyist is perfectly happy with a moderately priced set that costs less than a dinner out. The key is to match the set to your intended use: buy cheap for fun, buy premium for heirloom-quality work.
How do I choose the right color palette and set size?
Start by thinking about what you’ll draw most often. If you do landscapes, you’ll need a wide range of greens, browns, and earth tones. Portraits call for a strong selection of skin tones, warm neutrals, and grays. Plant and flower artists need bright reds, pinks, yellows, and crisp greens. A general 36-set usually covers all these basics, but you’ll likely still have to mix to get exact matches. Larger sets, 72 or 120 pencils, save you time because you have more pre-mixed shades. They’re also easier to buy as a bundle than to collect individually. However, a big set can feel wasteful if you only use a fraction of the colors. Many professionals recommend starting with a 24 or 36 set and then supplementing with open-stock pencils as you discover gaps. That way you don’t pay for colors you’ll never use.
Can I use colored pencils on different paper types?
Yes, but the paper’s tooth (texture) makes a huge difference. Colored pencils work best on papers with a fine-to-medium grain that can hold multiple layers of pigment. Smooth Bristol board or hot-press watercolor paper lets you achieve very fine detail and burnished finishes. Heavily textured cold-press paper creates a speckled look and can eat up your pencil tips quickly. Avoid standard printer paper, it’s too smooth and thin to handle layering without tearing or wax bloom. For beginners, a mid-weight sketch paper with a slight tooth (like Strathmore 400 series) is a reliable, affordable starting point. If you want to experiment with blending, try a paper that’s thick enough to accept a small amount of solvent without buckling.
Frequently asked questions
How many colored pencils do I actually need?
For most artists, a set of 24 to 48 pencils provides enough variety to learn mixing and layering. If you’re strictly a colorist or illustrator who works large, 72 or more might save time, but you can always buy open-stock pencils later.
Do I need a special sharpener for colored pencils?
Yes, a good sharpener matters because cheap sharpeners tend to break soft leads. Choose a manual sharpener with a helical blade (like one from Prismacolor or Kum) or an electric sharpener designed for colored pencils. Avoid sharpeners that chew through the wood unevenly.
What does “lightfast” mean and why should I care?
Lightfastness measures how resistant a pigment is to fading when exposed to light over time. Artist-grade pencils are rated on the Blue Wool scale or ASTM system; a rating of I or II means the color will stay vivid for decades. Student-grade pencils often have poor lightfastness, so your artwork may change noticeably within a year if displayed in direct sunlight.
Can I blend colored pencils without special tools?
Yes. Layering multiple colors and pressing firmly (burnishing) creates a smooth blend. You can also use a colorless blender pencil, a blending stump, or even a tiny bit of rubbing alcohol applied with a brush. A white or cream pencil also works to lighten and mix colors.
Are there colored pencils that are safe for children?
Yes, but check labeling. Most major brands like Crayola, Faber-Castell, and Staedtler offer non-toxic pencils suitable for ages 3 and up. Avoid artist-grade pencils that contain heavy-metal pigments and are labeled “not for children.” The leads in regular student sets are perfectly safe.