For most kids, I’d start with the Faber-Castell Classic 48-color set: it pairs a manageable range of colors with sketch pencils and accessories. The Crayola 24-count is a straightforward choice for younger beginners, while Crayola Twistables sidestep sharpening for children who draw on the go. The main tradeoffs are color variety versus simple storage, and traditional sharpened cores versus twist-up convenience. Larger kits can add useful supplies, but they may bring more pieces for a child to keep track of. Read on for how I’d match each of the 15 sets to a child’s age, habits, and drawing needs.
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Key Takeaways
- Faber-Castell Classic 48-color earns the overall spot by balancing a useful color range with sketch pencils and accessories, rather than focusing on pencil count alone.
- Crayola 24-count is the simpler beginner pick; the 36-count adds color choices, while the 24-count multipack suits homes, classrooms, or siblings who need several sets.
- Twistables trade the familiar sharpened-pencil feel for less sharpening fuss, making them a practical fit for travel and children who misplace sharpeners.
- The 72- to 123-piece kits stand out for color variety and bundled supplies, but more pieces also mean more sorting, storage, and small items to keep together.
- Pre-sharpened options such as V-Opitos 48-count are ready to use, while a canvas or carrying case can make a set easier to take along and pack away.
| Faber-Castell Classic Colored Pencils Set, 48 Colors with Sketch Pencils and Accessories |  | Best All-in-One Starter Set | Brand: Faber-Castell | Colored pencil count: 48 | Additional contents: 2 sketch pencils, 1 sharpener, 1 eraser | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencil Set |  | Best for Color Variety | Brand: Soucolor | Pencil count: 72 | Core: Soft, break-resistant | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Shuttle Art 80-Color Soft-Core Colored Pencil Set |  | Best for the Widest Palette | Brand: Shuttle Art | Pencil count: 80 unique colors | Core and material: Soft, break-resistant wax core | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| COVACURE 36-Count Colored Pencil Set with Sharpener and Canvas Case |  | Best for Portable Drawing | Brand: COVACURE | Pencil count: 36 | Pencil length: 7 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| KALOUR 72-Count Soft-Core Colored Pencils |  | Best for Labeled, Blendable Colors | Brand: KALOUR | Pencil count: 72 | Core: Soft, break-resistant | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| iBayam 123-Piece Colored Pencils Set with Sketchbooks and Carrying Case |  | Best Complete Starter Set | Pencils: 120 | Total pieces: 123 | Included books: 50-sheet spiral-bound sketchbook and 16-sheet themed coloring book | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Erasable Colored Pencils for Kids, 24 Count |  | Best for Mistake-Prone Beginners | Count: 24 pencils | Features: Erasable and pre-sharpened | Material: Wood | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| PRINA 120-Color Oil-Based Colored Pencils Set with Sketchbook |  | Best for Budding Young Artists | Pencil count: 120 | Pencil type: Oil-based, soft-core | Included components: 120 pencils, three-color sketchbook, drawing tutorial | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| H & B 72-Color Soft-Core Colored Pencil Set with Storage Case and Coloring Book |  | Best Organized Mid-Size Set | Number of colors: 72 | Core type: Soft core | Included components: Pencils, garden flower coloring book, sharpener, vinyl eraser, storage case | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Twistables Colored Pencil Set, 50 Count |  | Best No-Sharpening Pick | Quantity: 50 colored pencils | Operation: Twist-up tips; twist down for storage | Material: Plastic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Colored Pencils, 24 Count (Pack of 12) |  | Best for Shared Classroom Supplies | Brand: Crayola | Quantity: 12 sets of 24 pencils | Material: Wood | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Faber-Castell Castle Colouring Pencils, 60-Count Set |  | Best for a Broad Color Range | Brand: Faber-Castell | Model: 111260 | Quantity: 60 pencils | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Colored Pencils, 36 Count |  | Best for School Beginners | Brand: Crayola | Quantity: 36 pencils | Colors: Multicolor | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Twistables Colored Pencils Set with 40 Sheets of Paper and Portable Case |  | Best for Travel and Low-Mess Use | Brand: Crayola | Pencils: 25 twistable colored pencils | Paper: 40 sheets | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| V-Opitos 48-Count Pre-Sharpened Colored Pencils |  | Best for a Mid-Size Assortment | Brand: V-Opitos | Count: 48 pencils | Color: Multicolor | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| colored pencil sets for kid | Brand | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Faber-Castell Classic Colored | Faber-Castell | — |
| Soucolor 72-Color Colored Penc | Soucolor | Wood |
| Shuttle Art 80-Color Soft-Core | Shuttle Art | — |
| COVACURE 36-Count Colored Penc | COVACURE | — |
| KALOUR 72-Count Soft-Core Colo | KALOUR | — |
| iBayam 123-Piece Colored Penci | — | — |
| Crayola Erasable Colored Penci | — | Wood |
| PRINA 120-Color Oil-Based Colo | — | — |
| H & B 72-Color Soft-Core Color | — | Wood |
| Crayola Twistables Colored Pen | — | Plastic |
| Crayola Colored Pencils | Crayola | Wood |
| Faber-Castell Castle Colouring | Faber-Castell | Wood |
| Crayola Colored Pencils | Crayola | Wood |
| Crayola Twistables Colored Pen | Crayola | — |
| V-Opitos 48-Count Pre-Sharpene | V-Opitos | Resin |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Faber-Castell Classic Colored Pencils Set, 48 Colors with Sketch Pencils and Accessories
Faber-Castell’s 48-color set is a practical starting point for kids who want room to experiment without needing separate sketching supplies. The two sketch pencils, sharpener, and eraser make it more ready for drawing projects than the Soucolor 72-Color set, which focuses on colored pencils and a larger palette. Its full-length bonded leads are designed to resist breakage, a helpful feature for young artists who press firmly while coloring. The tradeoff is that 48 shades offer fewer choices than the Soucolor or Shuttle Art 80-Color sets, and the 16-ounce metal tin is heavier than a lightweight carry case. I’d choose it for a child starting both coloring and sketching, but skip it if portability or maximum color variety matters most.
Pros:- Includes 48 colored pencils plus two sketch pencils, a sharpener, and an eraser.
- Full-length bonded leads are designed to resist breakage.
- Highly pigmented colors are described as blendable and flake-resistant.
- Reusable metal tin has removable trays for organizing supplies.
Cons:- The 48-color palette is smaller than the 72-color Soucolor and KALOUR sets.
- The metal tin and contents weigh 16 ounces, making it less convenient to carry.
- The introductory design may offer fewer options for children ready for more advanced color work.
Best for: Kids ages 5 and up who are beginning to draw as well as color and would benefit from included sketching and sharpening supplies.
Not ideal for: Children who need a lightweight pencil set for travel or want the widest possible color selection.
- Brand:Faber-Castell
- Colored pencil count:48
- Additional contents:2 sketch pencils, 1 sharpener, 1 eraser
- Case:Metal tin with removable trays
- Lead construction:Break-resistant leads bonded along their full length
- Wood:Reforested wood
- Safety:Non-toxic and acid-free pencils; PVC- and latex-free eraser
- Recommended age:5+
- Dimensions and weight:11.63 × 7.25 × 1.13 inches; 16 ounces
Our verdict“Choose this set for a beginner who wants coloring and sketching supplies together in a sturdy, organized tin.”
Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencil Set
Kids who like switching shades mid-project get a broad palette with the 72 pre-sharpened pencils in this Soucolor set. The numbered and named barrels make it easier to find a particular color again, which is useful for continuing a drawing across several sessions. Its soft, 3 mm cores are intended for smooth coloring and layering, while the Faber-Castell Classic set is a better fit for a beginner who also wants sketch pencils, an eraser, and a sharpener in the package. Soucolor keeps its contents focused on color, so those extras need to come from elsewhere. The cores are described as break-resistant, though their softness may mean more frequent sharpening, and the pencils are not water resistant. I’d pick this for shade variety over an all-in-one starter kit.
Pros:- 72 pre-sharpened colors provide more shade choices than the Faber-Castell Classic 48-color set.
- Color names and numbers make pencils easier to identify and replace in a drawing.
- Soft cores are designed for smooth coloring, blending, and layering.
- Wood pencils have break-resistant cores and an EN71-3 safety certificate.
Cons:- The set does not list a sharpener, eraser, or sketch pencils among its included contents.
- Soft cores may need sharpening more often.
- Pencils are not water resistant.
Best for: Kids who color detailed books or drawings and want many labeled shades ready to use straight from the box.
Not ideal for: Beginners who need sketching and sharpening accessories included, or children who want pencils that can handle water-based work.
- Brand:Soucolor
- Pencil count:72
- Core:Soft, break-resistant
- Lead size:3 mm
- Material:Wood
- Color identification:Numbered and named pencils
- Safety:Non-toxic; EN71-3 safety certificate
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
- Recommended uses:Sketching, coloring, drawing, blending, and shading
Our verdict“Pick Soucolor when a child values a large, clearly labeled palette more than bundled drawing accessories.”
Shuttle Art 80-Color Soft-Core Colored Pencil Set
Shuttle Art’s 80-color set gives young artists the most shades among the five picks here, including more choices than the Soucolor 72-Color and KALOUR 72-Count sets. That breadth can help a child add subtle color changes to a drawing, while the names and numbers printed on each barrel make it easier to repeat a shade. The soft wax-based cores are designed to glide and support blending, shading, and layering; a DIY color list and sturdy case add useful organization. The tradeoff is that this set may be more color variety than a beginner needs, and the product data does not specify an age recommendation. Its cores are described as break-resistant but still call for careful handling, and the pencils are not water resistant. I’d favor it for a child who already enjoys choosing among many shades.
Pros:- 80 unique colors offer more variety than the Soucolor and KALOUR 72-pencil sets.
- Color names and numbers printed on the barrels simplify shade identification.
- Soft wax-based cores are designed for blending, shading, and layering.
- Includes a sturdy case and DIY color list.
Cons:- The large palette may be more than a beginner needs to sort and maintain.
- Soft cores call for careful handling despite being described as break-resistant.
- Pencils are not water resistant.
Best for: Older kids or practiced young artists who enjoy detailed coloring and want the broadest palette in this group.
Not ideal for: A first-time colorist who may find 80 shades hard to manage, or anyone needing water-resistant pencils.
- Brand:Shuttle Art
- Pencil count:80 unique colors
- Core and material:Soft, break-resistant wax core
- Barrel shape:Hexagonal
- Color identification:Color name and number on each pencil
- Included components:Sturdy case and DIY color list
- Safety:Non-toxic and acid-free; ASTM D-4236 and EN71
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
- Dimensions and weight:11.77 × 7.09 × 0.67 inches; 0.44 kg
Our verdict“Choose Shuttle Art for a child who wants the widest selection of labeled colors and is ready to manage a larger set.”
COVACURE 36-Count Colored Pencil Set with Sharpener and Canvas Case
The COVACURE 36-pencil set makes portability its main advantage: a lightweight canvas roll gives each pencil an individual slot, so kids can pack up without juggling a tin or loose pencils. That makes it a simpler travel choice than the 16-ounce Faber-Castell Classic set, though Faber-Castell supplies 12 more colors along with sketch pencils and an eraser. COVACURE’s soft cores are intended for coloring, blending, shading, and detailed drawing, and a sharpener is included. The compact pencil count keeps the selection manageable for younger artists, but it also limits shade options compared with the 72-color Soucolor and KALOUR sets. The canvas roll measures 17.7 inches long when laid out, which may be awkward for compact storage. I’d choose it when a child needs an easy-to-pack set for art away from home.
Pros:- Individual canvas compartments help keep 36 pencils organized.
- Includes a sharpener and a lightweight canvas case.
- Soft cores are intended for coloring, blending, shading, and detailed drawing.
- The listed item weight is 2.56 ounces, lighter than the Faber-Castell tin set.
Cons:- Its 36-color selection is smaller than the 48-color Faber-Castell set and the 72- and 80-color options.
- The canvas roll stretches 17.7 inches long when open, which can be bulky to store.
- The listed contents do not include an eraser or sketch pencils.
Best for: Kids who bring pencils to school, art class, or family trips and want each pencil stored in its own slot.
Not ideal for: Children who want a large range of shades or need a case that stays compact when opened.
- Brand:COVACURE
- Pencil count:36
- Pencil length:7 inches
- Core diameter:0.4 cm
- Included components:Sharpener and canvas pencil bag
- Canvas bag dimensions:17.7 × 8.3 inches
- Item weight:2.56 ounces
- Certification:CE-EN71
- Recommended uses:Coloring and drawing
Our verdict“Pick COVACURE for a child who needs an organized, lightweight set to carry between home and activities.”
KALOUR 72-Count Soft-Core Colored Pencils
KALOUR’s 72 soft-core pencils suit kids who want a generous palette but still need help finding the same shade again: every pencil has a number and color name. That labeling also helps distinguish it from the COVACURE 36-count set, which is easier to carry but offers half as many colors. The basswood barrels are described as easy to sharpen, and the soft, highly pigmented cores are intended for blending and layering. KALOUR is listed for ages 5 and up, giving families a clear age reference that the Shuttle Art 80-color listing does not provide. The tradeoff is the soft core: it can wear down faster during use, so frequent sharpening may interrupt longer coloring sessions. I’d choose it for a school-age child who wants variety and clear color identification.
Pros:- 72 colors provide a broader palette than the COVACURE 36-count set.
- Numbered pencils with color names make shades easier to identify.
- Soft, highly pigmented cores are designed for blending and layering.
- Basswood barrels are described as easy to sharpen.
Cons:- Soft cores may wear down faster and require more frequent sharpening.
- The listed weight is 0.47 kg, making it less suited to children seeking a very light carry set.
- Recommended for ages 5 and up, so it is not positioned for younger children.
Best for: Children ages 5 and up who enjoy blending and want a broad set with clearly named, numbered shades.
Not ideal for: Kids who need a compact travel set or prefer harder cores that hold their point longer between sharpenings.
- Brand:KALOUR
- Pencil count:72
- Core:Soft, break-resistant
- Barrel material:Basswood
- Color identification:Numbered pencils with color names
- Barrel shape:Round
- Safety:Non-toxic; ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3
- Recommended age:5 years and up
- Dimensions and weight:11 × 7.4 × 0.62 inches; 0.47 kg
Our verdict“Choose KALOUR for a child age 5 or older who wants many labeled shades for blending and drawing.”
iBayam 123-Piece Colored Pencils Set with Sketchbooks and Carrying Case
The iBayam set is built for kids who want more than pencils: it pairs 120 pre-sharpened, labeled colors with a sketchbook, a themed coloring book, and a compartmented case. That gives a young artist room to try free drawing and guided coloring without needing to gather supplies separately. Compared with the Crayola Twistables Colored Pencil Set, 50 Count, iBayam offers far more color choices and traditional pencils for blending and shading, but Twistables are simpler for children who want to avoid sharpening. The soft cores suit layering, though younger kids may need help keeping the large assortment organized and avoiding breakage. The listed 1 x 1 x 1-inch dimensions appear unreliable, so the actual case size is unclear. Choose it for an activity-rich gift; skip it if a compact, low-maintenance set matters more.
Pros:- Combines 120 pencils with both a sketchbook and a themed coloring book
- Pre-sharpened, labeled pencils make colors easy to identify and use
- Soft cores support blending, sketching, coloring, and shading
- Compartmented portable case helps keep the large set organized
Cons:- The unusually listed 1 x 1 x 1-inch dimensions do not give a useful sense of the set’s actual size
- A 120-color assortment may feel overwhelming to younger or occasional colorers
- Traditional pencils need sharpening as tips wear down
Best for: Families buying one well-stocked art gift for a child ready to explore both coloring books and free drawing
Not ideal for: Younger children who need a small, simple set or parents who want dependable dimensions before choosing storage
- Pencils:120
- Total pieces:123
- Included books:50-sheet spiral-bound sketchbook and 16-sheet themed coloring book
- Pencil features:Pre-sharpened, labeled, soft-core
- Case:Portable case with compartments
- Item weight:2.77 pounds
- Listed dimensions:1 x 1 x 1 inches
Our verdict“Pick iBayam for a child who will use the included books and broad color range, and choose Twistables for easier sharpening-free upkeep.”
Crayola Erasable Colored Pencils for Kids, 24 Count
For children who get frustrated by stray marks, the erasable cores are the main reason to choose this Crayola set. Its 24 pre-sharpened colors are ready for drawing or detailed coloring, and the resealable box gives the pencils a straightforward home between projects. Compared with the standard Crayola Colored Pencils, 36 Count, this set trades a dozen color choices for the ability to correct more marks; that can matter more to a beginner than a larger palette. The smaller selection also keeps choices manageable for a young artist. These are wood-cased pencils, so tips still need sharpening, and their non-water-resistant marks are not suited to wet techniques. Choose this for practice and corrections; skip it if the child wants the broadest range of colors or water-based effects.
Pros:- Erasable marks can make practice less frustrating for beginners
- Pre-sharpened pencils are ready to use out of the box
- 24 colors offer a manageable palette for everyday drawing and coloring
- Resealable box keeps the set together between sessions
Cons:- A 24-color selection has fewer choices than the Crayola 36 Count set
- Wood-cased pencils need sharpening as the tips wear down
- Marks are not water resistant
Best for: Children aged six and up who are learning to color carefully and benefit from being able to erase mistakes
Not ideal for: Young artists who want a broad palette or plan to combine pencil marks with water-based art materials
- Count:24 pencils
- Features:Erasable and pre-sharpened
- Material:Wood
- Hardness:HB
- Grip and shape:Contoured grip; round body
- Recommended age:6 years and up
- Packaging:Resealable box
- Safety:Nontoxic
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
Our verdict“Choose these for a beginner who values easy corrections, and choose Crayola’s 36-count set if color variety matters more.”
PRINA 120-Color Oil-Based Colored Pencils Set with Sketchbook
PRINA suits a child ready to experiment with more layered, blended coloring. The 120 oil-based, soft-core pencils offer a wide palette, while the sketchbook and step-by-step parrot tutorial give a young artist a concrete project to start with. Compared with the iBayam 123-Piece Set, PRINA also provides 120 pencils and a portable case but centers its included activity on a drawing tutorial rather than a themed coloring book. Its ASTM D-4236 and EN71 conformity is specified in the product data. The tradeoff is that the included sketchbook is described as three-color, not as a full-color book, and the large assortment may be more than a casual colorer needs. This is the more technique-oriented pick for a child who wants to practice drawing and layering; beginners wanting simple guided coloring may prefer iBayam’s themed book.
Pros:- 120 colors give developing artists many options for shading and color variation
- Soft, thick oil-based cores are suited to layering and blending
- Pre-sharpened pencils come with a portable zippered case
- Step-by-step parrot tutorial offers a starting point for a drawing project
Cons:- The included sketchbook is described as three-color rather than full-color
- A 120-pencil set may be excessive for children who mainly color occasionally
- The tutorial focuses on one drawing subject
Best for: Older children or developing artists who want many shades and a guided drawing project for practicing blending and layering
Not ideal for: Casual colorers who want a simple, full-color activity book or a smaller, less complex assortment
- Pencil count:120
- Pencil type:Oil-based, soft-core
- Included components:120 pencils, three-color sketchbook, drawing tutorial
- Case:Portable zippered case
- Recommended uses:Coloring, drawing, and sketching
- Safety standards:ASTM D-4236 and EN71
- Model number:CP001
Our verdict“Choose PRINA for a young artist ready to practice drawing techniques with a broad palette and tutorial.”
H & B 72-Color Soft-Core Colored Pencil Set with Storage Case and Coloring Book
H & B hits a useful middle ground for kids who have outgrown a small school set. Its 72 pre-sharpened pencils provide considerably more variety than the Crayola Erasable Colored Pencils, 24 Count, while staying less expansive than the 120-pencil iBayam and PRINA sets. Labeled color names and numbers can help a child find a shade again; the additional lightfastness rating is more useful to a budding artist keeping finished drawings. The case, sharpener, eraser, and garden flower coloring book make this a ready-to-go package. Its soft cores are suited to blending and layering, but they need care and sharpening, unlike Crayola Twistables. The included book’s garden theme may not appeal to every child, and this set is focused on art rather than general writing. Pick it for organized coloring practice; skip it for a broader activity kit.
Pros:- 72 colors provide more variety than a basic 24-pencil set without reaching 120
- Color names and numbers make shades easier to identify and replace
- Portable case with elastic slots helps organize and protect pencils
- Includes a sharpener, vinyl eraser, and coloring book
Cons:- The garden flower coloring book has a specific theme that may not suit every child
- Traditional pencils require sharpening and care to protect their soft cores
- The set is intended for art rather than general writing tasks
Best for: Children moving beyond a basic pencil box who want an organized set for coloring and drawing
Not ideal for: Families seeking a multipurpose school writing set or a coloring book with a different theme
- Number of colors:72
- Core type:Soft core
- Included components:Pencils, garden flower coloring book, sharpener, vinyl eraser, storage case
- Pencil labels:Color name, number, and lightfastness rating
- Material:Wood
- Weight:0.77 kg
- Warranty:Lifetime warranty
Our verdict“Choose H & B for a child who wants a well-organized, mid-size art set with useful drawing accessories.”
Crayola Twistables Colored Pencil Set, 50 Count
Crayola Twistables make pencil upkeep simpler for younger children. The 50 color cores twist up for coloring and back down for storage, so kids can start drawing without a sharpener and protect tips between uses. That makes this set easier to manage than the traditional wood-cased Crayola Erasable Colored Pencils, 24 Count, though Twistables cannot erase marks in the same way. Compared with the 120-pencil iBayam and PRINA sets, it offers fewer colors but a more straightforward routine for everyday crafts and school projects. The plastic barrels protect the cores, but the feel differs from a conventional pencil, which may matter to children who prefer wood. They are also not water resistant. Choose Twistables for younger artists and shared craft supplies; skip them if a wood-cased feel or blending-focused set is the priority.
Pros:- Twist-up tips eliminate routine sharpening
- Tips retract for protection during storage
- Plastic barrels help shield the color cores
- 50 colors cover a range of coloring, drawing, and craft projects
Cons:- Plastic barrels feel different from traditional wood-cased pencils
- Marks are not water resistant
- Unlike Crayola’s erasable 24-count set, these pencils are not described as erasable
Best for: Children aged four and up who draw during crafts or school projects and need a set that avoids sharpening
Not ideal for: Young artists who prefer the feel of wood-cased pencils or need erasable marks for practice
- Quantity:50 colored pencils
- Operation:Twist-up tips; twist down for storage
- Material:Plastic
- Recommended age:4 years and up
- Recommended uses:Coloring, drawing, crafts, and school projects
- Colors:Multicolor
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
Our verdict“Choose Twistables for younger children who value easy storage and no sharpening over an erasable, traditional pencil.”
Crayola Colored Pencils, 24 Count (Pack of 12)
Bright color and pressure-tolerant soft leads make this Crayola set a practical fit for school projects and group art activities. The pack contains twelve 24-pencil sets, so it suits classrooms or families who want multiple sets on hand; the 3.8-pound total weight also makes it less convenient to carry than a single compact set. Compared with the Crayola Colored Pencils, 36 Count, each individual set has fewer colors, but the dozen-pack format is better suited to distributing supplies among children. The soft cores are designed to withstand pressure and lay down color smoothly, though children who press hard may still use them up faster, and their softness may not suit anyone who prefers a firmer, sharper line. I’d choose this for shared use over a single-set option, but not for a child who needs the broadest palette in one box.
Pros:- Twelve 24-pencil sets can be shared across a classroom or family
- Bright, intense colors suit school projects and detailed coloring
- Soft leads are designed to tolerate pressure
- Wooden pencils provide a familiar format for children
Cons:- Each individual set has fewer colors than the Crayola 36 Count
- The 3.8-pound pack is cumbersome for a child to carry
- Soft cores may not suit users who want a firmer point
Best for: Teachers, after-school leaders, and families who want several small Crayola sets to distribute among children
Not ideal for: A child looking for the widest color selection in one portable set, or someone who prefers harder pencil cores
- Brand:Crayola
- Quantity:12 sets of 24 pencils
- Material:Wood
- Lead:Thick and soft
- Color:Bright, intense colors
- Item weight:3.8 pounds
- Item dimensions:8.3 × 8.1 × 4.1 inches
- Included components:Pencils
Our verdict“Choose this multi-pack when you need several bright, shareable sets; pick the Crayola 36 Count for a broader palette in one box.”
Faber-Castell Castle Colouring Pencils, 60-Count Set
Sixty luminous colors give this Faber-Castell set more room for choosing shades than the Crayola Colored Pencils, 36 Count, making it a better fit for children who like to vary colors across drawings and crafts. Its 3.6 mm leads are specially glued to help resist breakage, while the hexagonal wooden barrels are less likely to roll off a desk. Those details can help a busy art table stay manageable, but the larger assortment may be more than a younger beginner needs to keep track of. The pencils are also not water resistant, so they’re meant for dry coloring rather than projects that involve water. Compared with Crayola’s compact, presharpened 36-count set, this one favors color choice and barrel design over a simpler ready-to-go selection.
Pros:- Sixty colors offer more shade choices than the Crayola 36 Count
- Specially glued leads are designed to resist breakage
- Hexagonal barrels help prevent pencils from rolling
- Water-based barrel coating is specified
Cons:- The large assortment may be harder for younger children to organize
- Pencils are not water resistant
- The product data does not specify a case or sharpener
Best for: School-age children who enjoy choosing among many shades for coloring, crafts, and illustration
Not ideal for: Young beginners who need a simpler set, or children making artwork that must withstand water
- Brand:Faber-Castell
- Model:111260
- Quantity:60 pencils
- Lead diameter:3.6 mm
- Pencil dimensions:7 mm diameter × 175 mm length
- Barrel shape:Hexagonal
- Material:Wood
- Lead construction:Special gluing designed for shatter resistance
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
Our verdict“Pick this set for a child ready to manage a wide dry-color palette, while the Crayola 36 Count is simpler for everyday school use.”
Crayola Colored Pencils, 36 Count
Ready-to-use tips and 36 colors make this Crayola set an easy starting point for children’s coloring books, classwork, and drawing. The pencils arrive presharpened, which removes one setup step for a new artist, and the soft, durable cores are designed to resist breaking. Its stated age recommendation of three and up makes the intended audience clearer than the Crayola Colored Pencils, 24 Count (Pack of 12), whose listing spans a much broader age range. That multi-pack is more useful when supplies need to be shared; this single 36-color set is more straightforward for one child. The tradeoff is that it is focused on colored pencils rather than including extra tools or paper, and 36 shades give less choice than the Faber-Castell Castle 60-Count Set.
Pros:- Presharpened pencils are ready for coloring and drawing
- Thirty-six colors provide more choice than a basic small set
- Soft cores are designed to resist breaking
- Nontoxic and recommended for ages three and up
Cons:- Has fewer colors than the Faber-Castell Castle 60-Count Set
- The set is limited to colored pencils rather than a broader art kit
- Product data does not list a storage case or included paper
Best for: Parents and teachers seeking a simple, presharpened colored-pencil set for children ages three and up
Not ideal for: Children who want a very large palette or a kit that includes paper, a case, or other art tools
- Brand:Crayola
- Quantity:36 pencils
- Colors:Multicolor
- Tip:Presharpened
- Core:Soft, durable
- Material:Wood
- Safety:Nontoxic
- Recommended age:3 years and up
Our verdict“Choose this as a straightforward first set for school-age coloring; move to the Faber-Castell 60-count option when shade variety matters more.”
Crayola Twistables Colored Pencils Set with 40 Sheets of Paper and Portable Case
No sharpening and a protective twist-up design make this Crayola kit especially suited to car rides, waiting rooms, and shared spaces where pencil shavings are inconvenient. Children can twist the cores up to color and back down for storage, and the set includes 40 sheets of paper in a durable portable case. Compared with the Crayola Colored Pencils, 36 Count, it has fewer pencils, but it brings paper and storage together in one carryable kit. The tradeoff is that the listed 25-pencil assortment offers less color choice than the Faber-Castell Castle 60-Count Set, and the pencils are not water resistant. I’d pick Twistables when convenience and contained storage matter more than a large palette or traditional sharpenable pencils.
Pros:- Twist-up cores need no sharpening or peeling
- Cores twist down for protection during storage
- Includes a durable portable case
- Comes with 40 sheets of drawing paper
Cons:- Twenty-five pencils offer fewer choices than the 36- and 60-count alternatives
- Pencils are not water resistant
- The twistable format differs from traditional wooden pencils
Best for: Families who want a self-contained coloring kit for travel, outings, and places where sharpening is inconvenient
Not ideal for: Children who want many color choices or prefer standard wooden pencils that can be sharpened
- Brand:Crayola
- Pencils:25 twistable colored pencils
- Paper:40 sheets
- Case:Durable plastic
- Recommended age:4 years and up
- Color:Multicolor
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
- Model number:1214524
Our verdict“Choose Twistables for portable, contained coloring with paper included; select a larger standard set for more color variety.”
V-Opitos 48-Count Pre-Sharpened Colored Pencils
Forty-eight presharpened colors put this V-Opitos set between the Crayola Colored Pencils, 36 Count and Faber-Castell Castle 60-Count Set for assortment size. That middle ground may suit a child who wants more shades than a basic school set without managing sixty pencils. Its hexagonal barrels are designed for a comfortable grip and resist rolling off a table, while the pencils are described as easy to sharpen for later use. The product data lists resin as the material and an oil base, but does not provide a specific child age recommendation. It also does not specify a case or sharpener, so families may need to arrange storage and maintenance separately. I’d choose it for color variety, while the Crayola set is the clearer choice for a specified age range.
Pros:- Forty-eight colors sit between the Crayola 36 and Faber-Castell 60 assortments
- Presharpened pencils are ready to use
- Hexagonal barrels are designed for grip and resist rolling
- Described as easy to sharpen
Cons:- Product data does not specify a storage case or sharpener
- No recommended age is provided
- Resin material and oil-base details may be less familiar than standard wooden pencils
Best for: Families seeking a 48-color presharpened set for children who already have a sharpener and storage solution
Not ideal for: Parents who need a stated age recommendation, included case, or a complete ready-to-store kit
- Brand:V-Opitos
- Count:48 pencils
- Color:Multicolor
- Pre-sharpened:Yes
- Grip type:Hexagonal
- Material:Resin
- Ink base:Oil
- Item weight:0.34 kg
Our verdict“Choose V-Opitos for a middle-sized color selection if you already have storage and sharpening covered; choose Crayola for clearer age guidance.”
How We Picked
I ranked these sets around the needs that shape a child’s everyday drawing: a useful color range, approachable handling, storage, sharpening demands, and whether extras add practical value. I gave more weight to a balanced set that a child can pick up and use than to a high piece count by itself. For younger artists, simple pencil choices and easy upkeep matter; for older children, softer cores, wider palettes, or sketching supplies can make a larger kit more appealing.
The order reflects those tradeoffs. The Faber-Castell Classic set leads as a balanced option, while Crayola’s smaller sets rank well for straightforward use and Twistables for reduced sharpening. Broad kits from iBayam, PRINA, and others can suit children who want accessories and many colors, though their extra pieces may be unnecessary for casual coloring. Product names and listed features are the basis for this comparison; I’m not presenting it as hands-on testing.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Colored Pencil Sets For Kids
I’d choose a set around how a child actually draws: where they use it, how much help they want, and whether they enjoy coloring or experimenting with sketching. These checks can prevent a large assortment from becoming a frustrating pile of supplies.
Choose a color count the child can manage
A bigger palette can invite more detailed drawings, but it also asks a child to sort and return more pencils. For a first set, a modest range may make color choices less overwhelming and make missing pencils easier to spot. A larger set makes more sense when the child already enjoys blending shades or drawing scenes with varied colors. Avoid treating the count as a measure of quality: core feel, pencil durability, and how often the child uses the colors matter more. If you’re unsure, look for a middle-sized set before buying an extensive kit.
Match the pencil format to the child’s routine
Traditional pencils need sharpening, which gives children a familiar point but adds a sharpener and shavings to manage. Twist-up pencils reduce that upkeep and suit outings, though some children may prefer the feel of a regular wooden pencil. Pre-sharpened pencils let a child start drawing right away, but they will still need sharpening later. Think about who will handle maintenance and where the pencils will be used. A format that works at a kitchen table may be less convenient in a backpack or car.
Treat bundled extras as a bonus, not a checklist
Sketchbooks, coloring books, and sketch pencils can help a child start a project without needing separate supplies. They’re most useful when they match the child’s interests and get used regularly. A kit with many accessories can be harder to store, and a child may outgrow or ignore parts of it. Before buying, check whether the set includes the specific extras your child needs instead of assuming every item adds value. If the child already has paper and a case, paying attention to pencil quality and handling may matter more.
Plan for storage and shared use
A case can help a child keep colors together and carry them between home, school, or activities. Large palettes are especially easy to scatter if each pencil has no clear place to go. For siblings or classroom use, a multipack can be more practical than one elaborate kit, since several children can draw at once. Consider whether the storage closes securely and is easy for the child to open and repack. If a set will mostly stay in one place, a compact case may matter less than clear color labeling.
Pay for range or convenience where it counts
It can make sense to choose a broader palette when a child is ready to explore shading, layering, or more detailed pictures. For casual coloring, a smaller set can cover common needs without adding pencils that rarely leave the box. Twist-up designs and ready-to-use pencils put convenience first, while softer-core and oil-based options appeal to children who want a different drawing experience. Match that extra feature to a habit the child already has, rather than buying it on the assumption that more supplies will create one. A set that fits the child’s current interests is more likely to get used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy a small set or a 72-color set for a child’s first pencils?
I’d usually begin with a smaller set if the child is new to drawing or still needs help putting supplies away. Fewer colors make it easier to choose and to notice when a pencil goes missing. A 72-color set is a better fit when the child already enjoys coloring regularly and wants subtle shade differences. If you’re uncertain, consider whether the extra colors would be used for specific projects. A large number alone doesn’t make a set easier for a beginner.
Are twist-up colored pencils a good choice for travel?
They can be, especially when sharpening on the go would be inconvenient. Twistables remove the need to carry a sharpener and collect shavings, which helps during car trips or activities away from home. The tradeoff is that a child who prefers the feel or point of a traditional pencil may not like the format as much. Check that the set also has a case or another way to keep the pencils together. For a child who draws mostly at a desk, traditional pencils may be just as practical.
Do kids need soft-core or oil-based colored pencils?
Not every child does. These formats may appeal to older children who want to experiment with layering or a different drawing feel, while basic sets can be enough for everyday coloring. A specialized core is only useful if it matches the child’s interests and skill level. For a younger beginner, easy handling and storage may matter more than the pencil formula. I’d treat specialty cores as a reason to choose a particular set only when the child is ready to explore them.
Is a multipack a better choice for siblings or a classroom?
A multipack can work well when several children need their own pencils at the same time, since it avoids passing around one shared set. The Crayola 24-count multipack is a more direct fit for that purpose than a single large art kit. The tradeoff is that repeated basic sets won’t provide the same color variety or accessories as a broad assortment. Check how many complete sets are included and whether each child can store theirs separately. For one child, a single set with a case may be easier to manage.
What should I look for if my child loses pencils or dislikes sharpening?
Start with the child’s main frustration. Twist-up pencils reduce sharpening tasks, while a case gives traditional pencils a designated place after drawing. Pre-sharpened sets make the first use easier, though they don’t remove the need for a sharpener forever. A very large set may be harder to track, so a smaller or better-organized option can help a child who often loses supplies. If the set travels, prioritize storage and format together rather than focusing only on the number of colors.
Conclusion
My best overall pick is the Faber-Castell Classic 48-color set for its balance of colors and sketching extras. For best value and beginners, I’d choose the Crayola 24-count when a child needs a simple, familiar set; the 36-count offers a little more variety. Children who want a broad palette and bundled supplies may prefer the iBayam 123-piece kit, while the PRINA 120-color set suits those drawn to oil-based pencils. For travel or less sharpening, choose Crayola Twistables; for a ready-to-use set with a case, consider V-Opitos. The right choice comes down to whether your child needs an easy start, more room to experiment, or fewer supplies to maintain.
