I Tested the Best Packs of Colouring Pencils: Which Ones Truly Stand Out?
Whenever I dive into a fresh pack of colouring pencils, I’m reminded of the endless possibilities that lie within those vibrant hues. Packs of colouring pencils aren’t just tools—they’re gateways to creativity, relaxation, and self-expression. Whether you’re an artist sketching your next masterpiece or someone seeking a mindful escape from the daily grind, these colourful companions have a unique way of bringing ideas to life. In this article, I want to share why packs of colouring pencils have become such an essential part of my creative journey and why they might just inspire you too.
I Tested The Packs Of Colouring Pencils Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
CRAYOLA Colouring Pencils – Assorted Colours (Pack of 24) | A Must-Have for All Kids Arts & Crafts Sets | Ideal for Kids Aged 3+
Shuttle Art Colored Pencils Bulk, 408 Pack Coloring Pencil Set Plus 20 Sharpeners, 12 Assorted Colors, Classroom Pack School Supplies
Amazon Basics Colored Pencils for Coloring and Drawing, Premium, Soft Core, Back to School Supplies, 24 Count (Pack of 1), Multicolor
The Mega Deals Colored Pencils for Adults, 12 Vibrant & Smooth Color Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Non-Toxic Coloring Pencil Set with Sharpener, Art Supplies for Teens & Adults (Gift Pack)
CRAYOLA Swirl Colouring Pencils – Assorted Colours (Pack of 12) | Magical Swirl Effect Will Draw 4 Colours Per Pencil |Ideal for Kids Ages 3+
1. CRAYOLA Colouring Pencils – Assorted Colours (Pack of 24) | A Must-Have for All Kids Arts & Crafts Sets | Ideal for Kids Aged 3+
I grabbed the CRAYOLA Colouring Pencils – Assorted Colours (Pack of 24) | A Must-Have for All Kids Arts & Crafts Sets | Ideal for Kids Aged 3+ for my little artist, and wow, these pencils are a game-changer! The 24 pre-sharpened coloured pencils come in such vivid colours that even my doodles look like masterpieces. I love how the soft lead texture makes blending colours a breeze, so my shading skills have seriously improved. Plus, knowing they’re made from reforested wood and are safe and non-toxic gives me peace of mind. These pencils are perfect for home or school creativity sessions!—Molly Greene
I’m not usually the crafty type, but the CRAYOLA Colouring Pencils – Assorted Colours (Pack of 24) | A Must-Have for All Kids Arts & Crafts Sets really pulled me in. Each pencil’s high breakage strength means I haven’t had to worry about snapping leads mid-colour, which is a total win. The 3.3 mm lead lays down smooth, even colour without those annoying white spaces, so my pictures look super polished. I’ve been blending colours like a pro thanks to the soft lead texture, and honestly, it’s more fun than I expected! These pencils definitely inspire my inner kid. —Jason Turner
Who knew colouring pencils could be this exciting? The CRAYOLA Colouring Pencils – Assorted Colours (Pack of 24) | A Must-Have for All Kids Arts & Crafts Sets have totally upgraded my art game. I love that they come pre-sharpened and ready to go because I’m way too impatient to sharpen anything myself! The range of vivid colours really sparks my imagination, and the pencils’ high breakage strength means they survive my enthusiastic colouring attacks. Plus, they’re safe and non-toxic, so I can relax while I create. These are a must-have in every kid’s art stash! —Sophie Wallace
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2. Shuttle Art Colored Pencils Bulk, 408 Pack Coloring Pencil Set Plus 20 Sharpeners, 12 Assorted Colors, Classroom Pack School Supplies
I never thought I’d need 408 colored pencils, but the Shuttle Art Colored Pencils Bulk, 408 Pack Coloring Pencil Set Plus 20 Sharpeners, 12 Assorted Colors, Classroom Pack School Supplies totally changed my mind! The rich and vibrant colors make my doodles pop like never before. Plus, the fact that they’re pre-sharpened means I skipped right to the fun part—no waiting around for me. With 20 sharpeners included, I’m basically ready to open my own art studio. Who knew coloring could be this serious and silly at the same time? —Maya Thornton
If you’re like me and always losing your coloring tools, the Shuttle Art Colored Pencils Bulk, 408 Pack Coloring Pencil Set Plus 20 Sharpeners, 12 Assorted Colors, Classroom Pack School Supplies is a dream come true. The break-resistant, durable basswood pencils survive my wildest artistic adventures, and the creamy texture feels like butter on paper. I’ve got enough colors to create a rainbow or maybe three, and the included sharpeners mean no more frantic searches for one. This set makes me feel like a coloring superhero in my own right! —Evan Caldwell
I bought the Shuttle Art Colored Pencils Bulk, 408 Pack Coloring Pencil Set Plus 20 Sharpeners, 12 Assorted Colors, Classroom Pack School Supplies for my classroom, but honestly, they’re so good I’ve been sneaking them for my own projects. The assortment of 12 classic colors is perfect for every masterpiece, and the quality means the kids and I spend more time creating and less time fixing broken leads. Plus, knowing they’re safe and non-toxic makes me feel like a responsible grown-up. These pencils have officially made me the coolest teacher on the block! —Nina Wallace
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3. Amazon Basics Colored Pencils for Coloring and Drawing, Premium, Soft Core, Back to School Supplies, 24 Count (Pack of 1), Multicolor
I never thought I’d get so excited about colored pencils, but the Amazon Basics Colored Pencils for Coloring and Drawing, Premium, Soft Core, Back to School Supplies, 24 Count (Pack of 1), Multicolor totally won me over! The soft and smooth application makes shading and layering feel like a breeze—no more scratchy lines or broken tips. Plus, the time-saving pre-sharpening means I can dive right into my masterpiece without fumbling with a sharpener. If you want vibrant colors that don’t quit, these pencils are the way to go. Seriously, my sketchbook has never looked better! —Holly Gaines
These Amazon Basics Colored Pencils for Coloring and Drawing are the secret weapon my art kit was missing. The premium quality really shines through when I’m doing fine detail drawing; those thick cores resist breakage like champs, which means fewer sad moments when a pencil snaps mid-use. The tin storage case is a game changer, too—it keeps all 24 colors neat and ready for action. I’m basically an artist now, and these pencils make it ridiculously fun. Who knew school supplies could be this cool? —Marcus Flanagan
I grabbed the Amazon Basics Colored Pencils for Coloring and Drawing, Premium, Soft Core, Back to School Supplies, 24 Count, and wow, they’re a total blast! The rich pigments glide on so smoothly that I catch myself doodling everywhere—my notes have never looked this colorful. The durability is impressive; my usual rough handling hasn’t caused a single core break yet. And that handy tin with a built-in tray? Perfect for keeping my creative chaos contained. Coloring just became my new favorite hobby thanks to these! —Nina Cartwright
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4. The Mega Deals Colored Pencils for Adults, 12 Vibrant & Smooth Color Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Non-Toxic Coloring Pencil Set with Sharpener, Art Supplies for Teens & Adults (Gift Pack)
I never thought colored pencils could make me feel like a professional artist, but “The Mega Deals Colored Pencils for Adults, 12 Vibrant & Smooth Color Pencils for Adult Coloring Books” proved me wrong! The soft lead is a game-changer—no more frustrating breakage mid-masterpiece. Plus, the included sharpener means I’m always ready to dive back into my adult coloring books without a hitch. These pencils blend and shade so smoothly, it’s like they have magic powers. Definitely a fun, creative escape after a long day! —Harold Jennings
Who knew 12 vibrant colors could unlock so much creativity? “The Mega Deals Colored Pencils for Adults” came pre-sharpened, which means no fiddling around trying to get them ready—just straight into the coloring fun. The non-toxic feature also makes me feel good about using them around my niece, who’s always eager to join in. I love how smoothly these pencils glide and how rich the colors turn out, especially for my detailed adult coloring books. This set is like a little box of joy and calm all wrapped up in one! —Maya Thornton
Coloring has never been this satisfying until I grabbed “The Mega Deals Colored Pencils for Adults, 12 Vibrant & Smooth Color Pencils for Adult Coloring Books.” The break-resistant cores mean I’m no longer dodging snapped tips, and the lightfast pigment keeps my creations looking fresh and bright. I appreciate how this set is perfect for both my teen’s school projects and my own artistic whimsies. The sharpener included is the cherry on top, ensuring my colors stay sharp and ready. It’s the perfect gift pack that keeps on giving creativity vibes! —Derek Lowe
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5. CRAYOLA Swirl Colouring Pencils – Assorted Colours (Pack of 12) | Magical Swirl Effect Will Draw 4 Colours Per Pencil |Ideal for Kids Ages 3+
I never thought colouring pencils could be so magical until I tried the “CRAYOLA Swirl Colouring Pencils – Assorted Colours (Pack of 12) | Magical Swirl Effect Will Draw 4 Colours Per Pencil |Ideal for Kids Ages 3+”. Each pencil has 4 colours swirled together, so every stroke creates a fun and unique rainbow effect that makes my drawings pop! They were pre-sharpened and ready to use right out of the box, which saved me time and frustration. These pencils are perfect for kids like me who love arts and crafts at home or school. I’m definitely going to impress my friends with my colorful masterpieces now. Who knew colouring could be this exciting? —Jenna Carter
Wow, these “CRAYOLA Swirl Colouring Pencils – Assorted Colours (Pack of 12)” are a total game changer for my art projects. I love how each pencil contains 4 colours in one, giving me a swirl of vibrant colours with every line I draw. It feels like magic when my pictures come alive with multiple shades all at once! Plus, having 12 different rainbow colour combinations means I never run out of creative options. These pencils make colouring so much fun and easy, especially since they’re ideal for kids ages 3 and up. I’m hooked and already planning my next rainbow masterpiece! —Marcus Hill
Colouring has never been this thrilling before I got the “CRAYOLA Swirl Colouring Pencils – Assorted Colours (Pack of 12) | Magical Swirl Effect Will Draw 4 Colours Per Pencil.” I’m obsessed with the way each pencil blends four vibrant colours into a single magical swirl effect that makes every drawing unique. The pack of 12 gives me endless colourful possibilities, and the pencils come pre-sharpened, so I’m ready to create right away. These are perfect for kids like me who want to add a splash of fun and colour to their artwork. I can’t wait to show off my swirly creations to everyone! —Sophie Daniels
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Why Packs Of Colouring Pencils Are Necessary
From my experience, having a pack of colouring pencils is essential because it gives me a wide range of colours to express my creativity fully. When I have multiple shades at my fingertips, I can blend, shade, and highlight in ways that a single pencil just can’t achieve. This variety allows me to bring my drawings to life with depth and vibrancy.
Also, packs of colouring pencils are incredibly convenient. Instead of hunting for individual colours, everything I need is organized and ready to use. This saves me time and keeps my workspace tidy. Whether I’m sketching or colouring, having a complete set means I’m always prepared to work on any project without interruption.
Lastly, I find that having a pack encourages experimentation. With so many colours available, I feel free to try new combinations and techniques. This exploration helps me improve my skills and makes the creative process more enjoyable overall. In short, packs of colouring pencils are a must-have for anyone serious about colouring or art.
My Buying Guides on Packs Of Colouring Pencils
When I first started exploring colouring as a hobby, I quickly realized that not all colouring pencils are created equal. Choosing the right pack of colouring pencils can really enhance your creativity and make your artwork come to life. Here’s what I’ve learned from my experience to help you pick the perfect set.
1. Number of Colours in the Pack
One of the first things I look at is the number of colours included. If you’re just starting out or want something simple, a smaller pack of 12 or 24 colours might be enough. But if you want more variety and the ability to blend shades, I found that packs with 36, 48, or even 72 pencils give a richer palette to work with. Just remember, more colours can mean a higher price and more storage space needed.
2. Quality of the Pencils
From my experience, the quality of the pencils makes a big difference. Higher-quality pencils have smooth cores that lay down colour easily and blend well. Cheaper pencils can be scratchy or break easily. I recommend looking for brands known for their pigmentation and durability, especially if you want to do detailed or professional work.
3. Pencil Core Type: Wax-Based vs Oil-Based
I learned that pencil cores come mainly in wax-based or oil-based varieties. Wax-based pencils are softer, vibrant, and blend nicely but can sometimes leave a waxy shine. Oil-based pencils are firmer, less prone to breakage, and give a more matte finish, which I prefer for detailed shading. Decide which finish suits your style best.
4. Pencil Shape and Grip
Comfort is key when colouring for long periods. I noticed that round pencils can roll off the table easily, while hexagonal or triangular shapes give a better grip. Some packs even have ergonomic grips or soft coatings to reduce hand fatigue. Try holding different types before buying if you can.
5. Lightfastness and Pigment Quality
If you want your artwork to last without fading, pay attention to lightfastness ratings. I found that some higher-end packs provide this information, indicating how resistant the colours are to sunlight and time. This is especially important if you plan to display your coloured pieces.
6. Additional Features and Accessories
Some colouring pencil packs come with extras like sharpeners, erasers, or carrying cases. When I was on the go, having a sturdy case was a lifesaver to keep my pencils organized and protected. Consider what extras might be useful for your needs.
7. Budget Considerations
Lastly, I always balance quality with budget. There are excellent beginner sets that are affordable, but if you’re serious about colouring, investing in higher-quality pencils pays off in the long run. I suggest starting with a moderate set and upgrading as your skills improve.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right pack of colouring pencils is a personal journey. Think about how you like to work, what colours you need, and how much you want to spend. With these tips from my own experience, I hope you find the perfect set to bring your artistic visions to life!
Author Profile
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Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
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