The best colored pencil sets for kids balance easy handling, useful color choices, and storage that suits a child’s age and art habits. My best overall pick is the Crayola Twistables 65-Piece Set, which pairs twist-up pencils with paper for a portable, low-fuss activity kit. The Crayola Erasable 24 Count is a strong choice for children who like to revise, while Faber-Castell Classic 48 Colors suits older kids ready for a broader art set. The main tradeoffs are convenience versus sharpening, a manageable palette versus more color variety, and kid-friendly simplicity versus accessories for more ambitious projects. Read on for the full breakdown and help matching a set to its young artist.
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Key Takeaways
- Twist-up convenience is the standout kid-focused feature: the 65- and 50-count Crayola Twistables avoid a sharpener, while the 65-piece version also includes paper sheets and a portable case.
- More pencils do not automatically make a better first set: the 24- and 36-count Crayola sets keep choices manageable, while 72- to 123-piece assortments suit children who already enjoy longer art sessions.
- Included supplies change the kind of gift each set makes: iBayam and PRINA add sketchbooks, and MindWare pairs its pencils with color-by-number activities; these extras can help a child get started but add bulk.
- Storage and portability vary as much as color count: compact tins, cases, a canvas roll, and larger accessory kits serve different routines, so a set that stays organized at home may not be the easiest to carry.
- The lineup has distinct choices for different skill levels: Crayola offers approachable everyday and erasable options, while Faber-Castell Classic and PRINA are better suited to older kids interested in more involved drawing projects.
| iBayam 123-Piece Colored Pencils Set with Sketchbook, Coloring Book, and Carrying Case |  | Best All-in-One Art Kit | Pencil count: 120 | Total set pieces: 123 | Sketchbook: 50 sheets, spiral-bound | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| KALOUR 72-Count Soft-Core Colored Pencils |  | Best for Budding Artists | Brand: KALOUR | Pencil count: 72 | Core: Soft, highly pigmented | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Twistables Colored Pencils Set, 65 Pieces (25 Pencils + 40 Paper Sheets) – Portable Art Case |  | Best for Younger Kids and Travel | Total pieces: 65 | Colored pencils: 25 twist-up pencils | Drawing paper: 40 sheets | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Erasable Colored Pencils for Kids, 24 Count |  | Best for Mistake-Friendly Practice | Pencil count: 24 | Colors: 24 assorted colors | Pencil type: Erasable colored pencils | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencil Set |  | Best for Color Variety | Pencil count: 72 | Core: Soft, break-resistant | Material: Wood | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| MindWare Color by Number Colored Pencils, Set of 36 with Tin |  | Best for Color-by-Number Projects | Pencil count: 36 | Barrel shape: Triangular | Color identification: Color names and numbers printed on pencils | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| H & B 72-Count Soft-Core Colored Pencil Set with Storage Case |  | Best Complete Set for Older Kids | Pencil count: 72 | Core: Soft-core | Pencil material: Wood | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Shuttle Art 80-Color Soft-Core Colored Pencil Set |  | Best for Color Variety | Pencil count: 80 | Core: Soft, blendable wax | Body shape: Hexagonal | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Twistables Colored Pencils, 50 Count |  | Best Sharpening-Free Pick | Pencil count: 50 | Barrel material: Plastic | Sharpening: No sharpening required; twist to extend the core | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Colored Pencils, 24 Count (Pack of 12) |  | Best for Classroom Supplies | Set count: 24 colored pencils | Pack quantity: 12 | Barrel material: Wood | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Faber-Castell Classic Colored Pencils Set, 48 Colors with Sketch Pencils and Accessories |  | Best for Kids Ready to Sketch | Brand: Faber-Castell | Colored pencil count: 48 | Additional pencils: 2 sketch pencils | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| PRINA 120-Color Oil-Based Colored Pencil Set with Sketchbook |  | Best for Expanding Color Range | Brand: PRINA | Pencil count: 120 | Pencil type: Oil-based colored pencils | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Faber-Castell Castle Colouring Pencils, Set of 60 |  | Best for Durable Everyday Coloring | Brand: Faber-Castell | Model: 111260 | Pencil count: 60 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Colored Pencils, 36 Count |  | Best for Young Beginners | Brand: Crayola | Pencil count: 36 | Material: Wood | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| COVACURE Colored Pencil Set, 36 Count, with Sharpener and Canvas Roll |  | Best for Portable Storage | Brand: COVACURE | Pencil count: 36 | Pencil length: 7 inches (17.5 cm) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
iBayam 123-Piece Colored Pencils Set with Sketchbook, Coloring Book, and Carrying Case
120 pre-sharpened pencils, a sketchbook, a themed coloring book, and a compartmentalized case make this the most ready-to-start option in this group. Labeled pencils are easier for kids to find and return to the right spot, while the soft cores suit shading and blending as children build confidence. Compared with the KALOUR 72-Count, iBayam adds paper and activities rather than focusing just on a broad pencil assortment. That makes it a stronger choice for families who want supplies together for home or travel, but it also means more pieces to store: the set weighs 2.77 pounds. The books have only 50 and 16 sheets, so frequent artists may need extra paper, and the listed dimensions may not reflect the assembled kit.
Pros:- Combines 120 pencils with a 50-sheet sketchbook and a 16-sheet coloring book.
- Pre-sharpened, labeled pencils are easy to identify and start using.
- Soft cores support shading, layering, and blending.
- Compartmentalized portable case helps keep supplies organized.
Cons:- The included sketchbook and coloring book offer a limited amount of paper.
- At 2.77 pounds, the complete kit is heavier than a pencil-only set.
- The listed 1 × 1 × 1-inch dimensions may not represent the assembled set.
Best for: Families looking for a ready-to-use gift kit with many colors, drawing paper, and coloring activities in one organized case.
Not ideal for: Kids who need a lightweight everyday pencil set or families who already have plenty of paper and want a simpler, smaller kit.
- Pencil count:120
- Total set pieces:123
- Sketchbook:50 sheets, spiral-bound
- Coloring book:16 sheets with nature and animal designs
- Pencil features:Soft-core, pre-sharpened, labeled, non-toxic, break-resistant
- Case:Portable case with compartments
- Item weight:2.77 pounds
Our verdict“Choose iBayam if you want a high-capacity pencil set that also supplies kids with paper and coloring activities.”
KALOUR 72-Count Soft-Core Colored Pencils
The 72 named and numbered colors give kids room to explore more precise color choices without requiring them to manage a 120-pencil collection like the iBayam 123-Piece Set. Soft, highly pigmented cores are suited to layering and blending, while the basswood bodies are designed for easier sharpening. The set is listed for ages 5 and up and its pencils are described as non-toxic and compliant with ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3, details that may help parents comparing art supplies for children. Its focus is on pencils, not a bundle of paper or activity books, so it is less of a complete gift kit than iBayam. Soft cores can also need more careful handling, and the set does not include a stated sketchbook or coloring book.
Pros:- 72 colors provide a broad palette for varied projects.
- Numbered and named pencils make color selection easier.
- Soft, pigmented cores support blending and layering.
- Basswood bodies are designed for easier sharpening.
Cons:- Soft cores may need more careful handling despite being described as break-resistant.
- No sketchbook or coloring book is listed in the set.
- The stated age recommendation is 5 years and up.
Best for: Parents of children age 5 and up who want a sizeable, clearly labeled color range for drawing, blending, and coloring.
Not ideal for: Families seeking a complete activity kit with paper and books, or kids who tend to press hard and break soft cores.
- Brand:KALOUR
- Pencil count:72
- Core:Soft, highly pigmented
- Pencil body:Basswood
- Color identification:Numbered and named
- Features:Blendable, pre-sharpened, break-resistant cores
- Safety:Non-toxic; conforms to ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3
- Recommended age:5 years and up
Our verdict“Pick KALOUR for a labeled, blendable 72-color pencil collection without the extra books and bulk of the iBayam kit.”
Crayola Twistables Colored Pencils Set, 65 Pieces (25 Pencils + 40 Paper Sheets) – Portable Art Case
No sharpener needed is the key advantage here: kids twist up the color as needed, and the barrel protects the core when it is wound down. That makes this portable set easier to manage on trips than wooden-pencil options such as the Crayola Erasable Colored Pencils, which arrive pre-sharpened but still need sharpening later. The case keeps 25 pencils and 40 sheets of drawing paper together, giving young artists a simple place to start. Crayola lists the set for ages 4 and up and describes it as non-toxic. The tradeoff is a smaller palette than the 72-color KALOUR set, and the plastic barrels may feel less like traditional wooden pencils. Forty sheets can also run out quickly during regular use.
Pros:- Twist-up design exposes fresh color without sharpening.
- Twist-down barrels help protect the cores between uses.
- Portable case stores the pencils and paper together.
- Made with non-toxic materials and listed for ages 4 and up.
Cons:- The 25-pencil palette is smaller than the 72-color KALOUR set.
- The plastic barrels may feel less like traditional wooden pencils.
- The included 40 sheets may not last through extended projects.
Best for: Families with children age 4 and up who want a portable, low-mess pencil set that does not need a sharpener.
Not ideal for: Older kids who want a large color range, or families seeking traditional wooden pencils for detailed, long-form projects.
- Total pieces:65
- Colored pencils:25 twist-up pencils
- Drawing paper:40 sheets
- Case:Portable durable plastic case
- Pencil design:Twist-up, twist-down barrel
- Age range:4 and up
- Safety:Non-toxic
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
Our verdict“Choose Crayola Twistables for younger children and travel when avoiding sharpening matters more than having a large palette.”
Crayola Erasable Colored Pencils for Kids, 24 Count
Erasable color gives young artists room to correct a misplaced line or change a detail, a practical benefit that sets this 24-pencil box apart from the non-erasable KALOUR 72-Count. The pencils arrive pre-sharpened, and the resealable box helps keep the modest assortment together between projects. With 24 colors rather than dozens more, the set is easier for a child to sort and choose from; it suits everyday drawing practice better than projects that demand a wide range of subtle shades. Crayola lists these pencils as non-toxic and recommends them for ages 6 and up. The smaller palette limits color variety, and the marks are not water resistant, so this is not the pick for water-based work.
Pros:- Erasable marks allow children to correct mistakes.
- Pre-sharpened pencils are ready to use.
- 24 assorted colors provide a manageable starter palette.
- Resealable box helps keep pencils together.
Cons:- The 24-color assortment is more limited than the KALOUR 72-pencil set.
- Marks are not water resistant.
- Listed for ages 6 and up, so it is not the set’s choice for younger children.
Best for: Children age 6 and up who are learning to draw and would benefit from correcting colored-pencil marks as they work.
Not ideal for: Kids who want a wide color range for blending-heavy artwork, or anyone planning projects that need water-resistant marks.
- Pencil count:24
- Colors:24 assorted colors
- Pencil type:Erasable colored pencils
- Preparation:Pre-sharpened
- Packaging:Resealable box
- Material:Wood
- Recommended age:6 years and up
- Safety:Non-toxic
Our verdict“Pick these Crayola pencils for school-age beginners who value correctable marks more than a large assortment.”
Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencil Set
Soucolor pairs a 72-color range with numbered and named pencils, making it easier for kids to find a chosen shade again across a drawing or coloring project. Its soft, richly pigmented cores are intended for smooth coloring, blending, and layering, much like the KALOUR 72-Count. The useful distinction is that Soucolor is also described as odorless and non-toxic, with EN71-3 listed as its safety standard; KALOUR, by comparison, specifies ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3. Both offer a broad palette, so neither is as simple to sort as the 24-count Crayola Erasable set. Soucolor is listed for adults, which makes it a less clearly child-focused choice, and its soft cores may not suit children who prefer a firmer feel.
Pros:- 72 colors offer a broad range for varied artwork.
- Numbered and named pencils make shades easier to identify.
- Soft cores support smooth coloring, blending, and layering.
- Described as non-toxic and odorless, with EN71-3 listed.
Cons:- The listed age range is adult, rather than a child-specific recommendation.
- Soft cores may not suit users who prefer harder leads.
- Marks are not water resistant.
Best for: Older children and families seeking a broad, labeled color range for drawing, shading, and coloring projects.
Not ideal for: Parents looking for a set specifically recommended for children, or kids who prefer firmer cores and a smaller assortment.
- Pencil count:72
- Core:Soft, break-resistant
- Material:Wood
- Color identification:Numbered and named
- Line size:3 mm
- Safety:Non-toxic; EN71-3
- Odor:Odorless
- Age range:Adult
Our verdict“Choose Soucolor for a broad, labeled palette when the child is ready for a set listed for adult users.”
MindWare Color by Number Colored Pencils, Set of 36 with Tin
For kids who enjoy following a color key, 36 pencils labeled with both names and numbers make this MindWare set easier to use than a basic assortment. The triangular barrels offer a shaped grip, while the embossed tin gives the pencils a dedicated place between projects. Compared with Crayola’s 50-count Twistables, this set requires sharpening, but it offers clear color labels rather than a twist-up, no-sharpener format. Its 36 colors also give children a useful range without the larger selection of the H & B 72-Count set, which may be more than a young color-by-number fan needs. The tradeoff is its age guidance: it is recommended for children 5 and up, so it is not aimed at preschoolers. Choose it for organized coloring rather than maximum color variety or sharpening-free convenience.
Pros:- 36 colors offer more choice than a small starter set without an overwhelming count.
- Printed color names and numbers make matching a color key easier.
- Triangular barrels provide a shaped grip.
- Embossed tin keeps the pencils together between activities.
Cons:- Recommended for ages five and up, so it is not suited to younger children.
- Unlike Crayola Twistables, the pencils require sharpening.
- The 36-color range is less extensive than the H & B 72-Count set.
Best for: Children aged five and up who follow numbered coloring pages and benefit from color names and numbers printed on each pencil.
Not ideal for: Preschoolers under five or families who want pencils that never need sharpening.
- Pencil count:36
- Barrel shape:Triangular
- Color identification:Color names and numbers printed on pencils
- Storage:Embossed tin container
- Recommended age:5 years and up
- Pencil type:Colored pencil
Our verdict“Pick MindWare for a child aged five or older who wants clearly labeled pencils for color-by-number activities and does not mind sharpening.”
H & B 72-Count Soft-Core Colored Pencil Set with Storage Case
The H & B set suits kids ready to move beyond simple coloring, with 72 soft-core colors for blending, shading, and layering. Its portable case uses elastic slots to keep pencils sorted, and the included sharpener, vinyl eraser, and garden flower coloring book mean a child can start with several useful supplies in one package. Compared with the MindWare 36-count tin, H & B gives a much broader palette and more drawing tools, but its larger set asks for more care and organization. The pencils are pre-sharpened and marked with color names, numbers, and lightfastness ratings, useful details for kids who are building color-selection habits. The tradeoff is that this set is more involved than a straightforward school assortment; its accessories and soft cores may be unnecessary for casual coloring, and the data gives no recommended age.
Pros:- 72 soft-core colors support a wide range of shading and blending choices.
- Elastic slots keep pencils organized and protected in the portable case.
- Includes a coloring book, sharpener, and vinyl eraser.
- Pre-sharpened pencils are labeled with color names, numbers, and lightfastness ratings.
Cons:- The 72-pencil assortment may be more to organize than a young or occasional colorist needs.
- No recommended age is provided in the product data.
- Its accessories and soft-core drawing focus may be unnecessary for basic school coloring.
Best for: Older children who already enjoy drawing or coloring and want a broad palette, organized storage, and basic accessories in one set.
Not ideal for: Families seeking a compact, simple starter set for occasional coloring or a product with a stated age recommendation.
- Pencil count:72
- Core:Soft-core
- Pencil material:Wood
- Pencil preparation:Pre-sharpened
- Pencil markings:Color name, number, and lightfastness rating
- Included accessories:Garden flower coloring book, sharpener, vinyl eraser, and portable case
- Weight:0.77 kg
Our verdict“Choose H & B for a child who wants room to practice shading and a ready-to-use drawing kit, rather than a minimal pencil set.”
Shuttle Art 80-Color Soft-Core Colored Pencil Set
For a child who likes choosing from many close shades, Shuttle Art offers 80 unique colors with no duplicates, the largest pencil count among these five products. Each pencil carries its color name and number, and the included DIY color list gives kids a way to record or compare shades. Its soft, blendable cores suit drawing, sketching, and layering better than a basic school set; compared with the H & B 72-count kit, it adds eight colors but does not include a sharpener, eraser, or coloring book. The hexagonal wooden bodies provide a familiar pencil shape, and the product data lists ASTM D-4236 and EN71 safety standards. The tradeoffs are practical: soft cores can chip under excess pressure, and the pencils are not water resistant. This is a broad-palette choice, not a sharpening-free one like Crayola Twistables.
Pros:- 80 unique colors provide the broadest palette in this five-product group.
- Color names and numbers help children identify and sort shades.
- Soft cores are designed for smooth coloring, blending, shading, and layering.
- Includes a sturdy case and DIY color list; product data lists ASTM D-4236 and EN71 standards.
Cons:- Soft cores may chip if pressed beyond normal pressure.
- Not water resistant.
- Does not include the sharpener, eraser, or coloring book included with the H & B set.
Best for: Kids who enjoy sorting shades and experimenting with drawing, sketching, shading, and blending, with an adult available to help manage a large set.
Not ideal for: Younger children who press hard on pencil tips, or families who want twist-up pencils or included drawing accessories.
- Pencil count:80
- Core:Soft, blendable wax
- Body shape:Hexagonal
- Body material:Wood
- Color identification:Color name and number printed on each pencil
- Safety standards:ASTM D-4236 and EN71
- Included components:Sturdy case and DIY color list
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
Our verdict“Choose Shuttle Art when color variety and blendable cores matter more than included accessories or a sharpening-free design.”
Crayola Twistables Colored Pencils, 50 Count
Crayola’s 50-count Twistables are the easiest choice here for kids who want to color without stopping to find a sharpener. Twist-up cores extend for use and retract for storage, while the plastic barrels protect the color cores from exposed tips and some everyday knocks. Compared with the MindWare 36-count set, Twistables trade labeled colors and a tin for a no-sharpening design and a larger count; compared with the H & B 72-count set, they offer fewer pencils and no soft-core blending focus. That makes this a practical school and craft option rather than the pick for children building detailed shading skills. The pencils are non-toxic and recommended for ages five and up. Their key limitation is that they are not water resistant, and the plastic format may not suit kids who prefer traditional wooden pencils.
Pros:- Twist-up cores eliminate the need for a sharpener.
- Plastic barrels help protect the color cores.
- Tips retract for storage between activities.
- 50 pencils provide a larger assortment than the MindWare 36-count set.
Cons:- Not water resistant.
- Does not provide the soft-core blending focus of the H & B 72-count set.
- Plastic barrels may not appeal to children who prefer traditional wooden pencils.
Best for: Children aged five and up who use colored pencils for school, crafts, and everyday coloring and want to avoid sharpening.
Not ideal for: Kids focused on layered pencil drawing or families seeking wooden pencils with labeled color names and numbers.
- Pencil count:50
- Barrel material:Plastic
- Sharpening:No sharpening required; twist to extend the core
- Tip storage:Core twists down for storage
- Recommended age:5 years and up
- Safety:Non-toxic
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
Our verdict“Pick Crayola Twistables for a child who values quick, sharpening-free coloring more than traditional pencil feel or advanced blending.”
Crayola Colored Pencils, 24 Count (Pack of 12)
This Crayola option is best understood as a bulk classroom or group-buying choice, not a single 24-pencil kit: the listing specifies a 24-count set with a pack quantity of 12. Its thick, soft leads are designed to withstand pressure, which can suit younger children who are still learning how lightly to color, while the wooden barrels keep the familiar feel of standard pencils. Compared with the Crayola 50-count Twistables, these need a conventional sharpening routine, but they avoid Twistables’ plastic twist-up format. The tradeoff is that the product data does not name the included colors, making it harder to judge palette variety before buying. The listed age range runs from 12 months to 10 years, but the pencil format and lack of further age-specific guidance make this a better match for supervised classroom use than for very young toddlers.
Pros:- Pack quantity of 12 suits group or classroom supply needs.
- Thick, soft leads are designed to withstand pressure.
- Bright, intense colors and smooth laydown suit school projects and detailed work.
- Wooden barrels provide a traditional pencil format.
Cons:- The product data does not specify which colors are included.
- Requires sharpening, unlike Crayola Twistables.
- The 12-pack format may be more than a household buying for one child needs.
Best for: Teachers, activity coordinators, or families supplying multiple children who want traditional wooden pencils with pressure-tolerant leads.
Not ideal for: A single child needing one clearly specified 24-color assortment, or buyers who want sharpening-free pencils and known color names.
- Set count:24 colored pencils
- Pack quantity:12
- Barrel material:Wood
- Lead:Thick, soft
- Color quality:Bright, intense colors
- Age range:12 months–10 years
- Item dimensions:8.3 x 8.1 x 4.1 inches
- Item weight:3.8 pounds
Our verdict“Choose this Crayola listing for group supplies and sturdy-feeling wooden pencils, but pick another set if you need a confirmed color palette or a single compact kit.”
Faber-Castell Classic Colored Pencils Set, 48 Colors with Sketch Pencils and Accessories
For a child who wants to move beyond coloring books into drawing, this 48-color set with two sketch pencils is more versatile than the Crayola Colored Pencils, 36 Count, which focuses on ready-to-use coloring. The included sharpener and PVC- and latex-free eraser mean the basic sketching tools are in the tin too, while the removable trays help keep colors sorted. Faber-Castell specifies full-length SV bonding for the break-resistant leads, a practical advantage for kids who press hard or sharpen often. The pencils are also described as highly pigmented and blendable, giving young artists room to experiment with shading. The tradeoff is a more involved kit than a simple school set: it is intended for ages 5 and up, and the product information does not identify the individual colors.
Pros:- Includes 48 colored pencils plus two sketch pencils for drawing and shading.
- Comes with a sharpener and dust-, PVC-, and latex-free eraser.
- Full-length SV bonding is designed to help leads resist breakage.
- Metal tin has removable trays for keeping pencils organized.
Cons:- Recommended for ages 5 and up, so it is not the youngest-child option in this group.
- Individual pencil colors are not specified in the product information.
Best for: Children aged 5 and older who want colored pencils plus basic tools for sketching, shading, and organized storage.
Not ideal for: Preschoolers who need an age-3-and-up set, or buyers who want a listed color-by-color selection before purchasing.
- Brand:Faber-Castell
- Colored pencil count:48
- Additional pencils:2 sketch pencils
- Included accessories:Sharpener; dust-, PVC-, and latex-free eraser
- Case:Metal tin with removable trays
- Lead construction:Break-resistant; glued along the full length using SV Bonding
- Safety and materials:Non-toxic and acid-free; made with reforested wood
- Recommended age:5 years and up
Our verdict“Choose this organized, sketch-ready kit for a child aged 5 or older who wants more than a basic coloring set.”
PRINA 120-Color Oil-Based Colored Pencil Set with Sketchbook
The PRINA set is the clear choice here for a child who wants the widest color selection: its 120 oil-based pencils offer more variety than the Faber-Castell Classic set’s 48 colors. Soft, thick cores are intended for layering, blending, and shading, making this a better fit for longer art sessions than for quick classroom coloring. A zipper case, sketchbook, and drawing tutorial add a starting point for kids who want to practice, though the tutorial focuses on a parrot and the sketchbook is a single included book. That large assortment also comes with a real usability tradeoff: a younger child may find 120 choices harder to manage than the Crayola Colored Pencils, 36 Count. The pencils conform to ASTM D-4236 and EN71 standards, but the supplied details do not give a recommended age.
Pros:- 120 colors provide substantially more choice than the 48-color Faber-Castell Classic set.
- Soft, thick oil-based cores support layering, blending, and shading.
- Portable zipper case helps keep a large set together.
- Includes a sketchbook and a step-by-step drawing tutorial.
Cons:- The tutorial centers on drawing a parrot, which may not suit every child.
- Only one sketchbook is included, so frequent drawing may call for extra paper.
- Product details do not specify a recommended age.
Best for: Older children and budding artists who want a broad palette for layering, blending, and drawing away from home.
Not ideal for: Younger beginners who may be overwhelmed by 120 pencils, or families seeking a simple classroom set with a stated age recommendation.
- Brand:PRINA
- Pencil count:120
- Pencil type:Oil-based colored pencils
- Core:Soft, thick core
- Included components:3-color sketchbook and drawing tutorial
- Case:Portable zipper case
- Safety standards:ASTM D-4236 and EN71
- Recommended uses:Coloring, drawing, and sketching
Our verdict“Pick PRINA for a child ready to use a large, portable palette for drawing and color techniques, rather than a compact starter set.”
Faber-Castell Castle Colouring Pencils, Set of 60
These 60 pencils suit kids who want a generous palette without the sketching accessories or large carrying kit found in the Faber-Castell Classic set. The Castle set’s 3.6 mm specially bonded leads are designed to resist breakage, a useful feature when pencils get heavy use in craft projects, coloring, or journaling. Its hexagonal wooden shafts are shaped for a steady grip and are less prone to rolling off a desk than round barrels. Compared with the Crayola Colored Pencils, 36 Count, this offers 24 more pencils, but it does not include a sharpener or other tools. The bright, luminous colors are suited to ordinary dry-pencil work; these are not water-resistant, so they are not the pick for projects that need water-based effects.
Pros:- 60 pencils offer more color choices than the 36-count Crayola set.
- 3.6 mm leads use special bonding designed to resist breakage.
- Hexagonal wooden shafts are comfortable to hold and less likely to roll away.
- Bright, luminous colors suit coloring and a range of craft activities.
Cons:- No sharpener, eraser, or sketchbook is listed among the included items.
- Pencils are not water-resistant.
- Product details do not specify a recommended age.
Best for: School-age children who want a larger everyday coloring and craft palette with leads designed to withstand regular sharpening.
Not ideal for: Kids who need included accessories or water-resistant pencils for mixed-media projects.
- Brand:Faber-Castell
- Model:111260
- Pencil count:60
- Lead diameter:3.6 mm
- Pencil shape:Hexagonal
- Material and finish:Wooden shafts with water-based paint
- Break resistance:Specially bonded lead
- Pencil dimensions:7 x 175 mm
Our verdict“Choose this set for a child who wants 60 durable, everyday pencils and does not need accessories or water-based effects.”
Crayola Colored Pencils, 36 Count
For a young child’s first set, the 36 presharpened pencils make this a straightforward choice: kids can start drawing without waiting for an adult to sharpen every point. Crayola lists the set for ages 3 and up and describes its pencils as non-toxic with soft, durable cores, making it a more age-accessible pick than the Faber-Castell Classic set, which is recommended for ages 5 and older. The 36-color range gives a beginner room to try different hues without the storage and decision-making demands of PRINA’s 120-pencil assortment. The tradeoff is a simpler purpose: this set is aimed at coloring and drawing, not a broader sketching kit, and it does not list extras such as an eraser, sharpener, or case. That makes it better for home and school basics than for a child seeking art tools in one package.
Pros:- Presharpened tips are ready for immediate use.
- 36 colors offer useful variety without the scale of PRINA’s 120-pencil set.
- Listed as non-toxic and suitable for children aged 3 and up.
- Soft, durable cores are intended to resist breaking.
Cons:- No sharpener, eraser, or storage case is listed as included.
- Designed for coloring and drawing rather than a broader range of writing tasks.
- Offers fewer colors than the 48- and 60-pencil sets in this roundup.
Best for: Parents and teachers looking for a ready-to-use first colored-pencil set for children aged 3 and up.
Not ideal for: Older kids who want a large palette, included drawing accessories, or a set designed for more advanced shading and sketching.
- Brand:Crayola
- Pencil count:36
- Material:Wood
- Core:Soft and durable
- Sharpness:Presharpened
- Toxicity:Non-toxic
- Recommended age:3 years and up
- Recommended uses:School projects, classroom activities, and coloring books
Our verdict“This is the simplest starting point for young children who need presharpened pencils for coloring and school activities.”
COVACURE Colored Pencil Set, 36 Count, with Sharpener and Canvas Roll
COVACURE stands apart from the Crayola 36-count set by adding a sharpener and a canvas roll with individual slots, making it the more travel-friendly option for kids who take art supplies between home, school, or activities. Its 36 soft-core pencils are described as suitable for coloring, sketching, blending, and shading, so the set can support more than basic coloring-book work. At 0.66 pounds, it is also presented as a lightweight portable kit. The canvas roll holds up to 36 pencils, but it is secured with faux leather ties rather than a zipper case like PRINA’s, so packing and unpacking takes a little more handling. Its color count is also more limited than the 48-pencil Faber-Castell Classic set. This is a storage-led choice, not the strongest pick for someone seeking the largest palette or a full sketching accessory set.
Pros:- Canvas roll has individual slots and stores up to 36 pencils.
- Includes a sharpener, unlike the Crayola Colored Pencils, 36 Count.
- Soft cores are suited to coloring, sketching, blending, and shading.
- Lightweight set is designed for portable use.
Cons:- The roll is secured with faux leather ties rather than a zipper.
- 36 pencils offer fewer choices than the 48-color Faber-Castell Classic set.
- Does not include a sketchbook or eraser.
Best for: Children and families who regularly carry a 36-pencil set and want each pencil stored in its own slot.
Not ideal for: Kids who want a broad color range, a zippered case, or sketching extras such as a dedicated eraser and sketch pencils.
- Brand:COVACURE
- Pencil count:36
- Pencil length:7 inches (17.5 cm)
- Core diameter:0.16 inches (0.4 cm)
- Included components:Sharpener and canvas pencil roll
- Storage capacity:Up to 36 pencils
- Set weight:0.66 lbs
- Certification:CE-EN71
Our verdict“Choose COVACURE when organized, portable storage matters more than a large palette or a full set of drawing accessories.”
How We Picked
I ranked these sets for the needs that tend to matter most when children draw: ease of use, manageable storage, and a useful mix of colors. I also considered whether a set calls for sharpening, includes paper or activities, and has a format that makes sense for home, school, or travel. A larger assortment can provide more room to experiment, but it can also mean more pieces to keep track of and a harder choice for a young beginner.
The order gives priority to kid-friendly convenience and practical versatility, then weighs breadth and art-focused extras against complexity and portability. Twist-up pencils rank well for children who benefit from avoiding sharpeners; small Crayola sets earn their place for straightforward everyday use. Larger soft-core assortments and accessory-heavy kits rank lower for a general kids’ recommendation when their broader selection brings more storage demands or suits children who are already committed to drawing. Since age, grip, and preferred activities vary, the best fit for a specific child may not be the highest-ranked set.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Colored Pencil Sets For Kids
Before choosing a set, I would match its format to the way the child actually makes art. Age, patience, drawing habits, and where the pencils will be stored often matter more than the largest number on the box. These broader checks can help avoid a set that looks generous but feels unwieldy after the first drawing session.
Choose a Pencil Format That Fits the Child
Traditional pencils need sharpening, which gives kids a familiar drawing tool but adds a small task and the chance of broken tips or lost sharpeners. Twist-up pencils remove that step and can be handy for travel or for children who get frustrated when a pencil stops marking. They are not automatically the right choice for every child: some young artists prefer the feel of a conventional wooden pencil, and twist-up formats may not suit every drawing technique. Think about whether the child likes stopping to sharpen or would rather keep working. A pencil style that feels comfortable is more likely to get used than one chosen only for its convenience.
Pick a Color Count That Won’t Overwhelm
A large palette can encourage experimentation, but it also asks a child to sort through more options and put away more pieces. For a first set, a smaller assortment can make color selection easier and keep cleanup manageable. Older children who already draw regularly may enjoy having closely related shades for richer color choices. A common mistake is treating the highest count as the best value without asking whether the child will use the extra colors. Match the range to the child’s patience and interest, not just the number printed on the package.
Consider What’s Included—and What Will Be Used
Sketchbooks, coloring pages, and activity sheets can help a child start drawing right away, especially when the set is a gift or there is no art paper at home. Those additions may also make a kit bulkier, and a child who already has favorite notebooks might not need them. Check whether the included activity suits the child’s interests rather than assuming any extra is useful. A focused activity, such as color-by-number pages, can be a good prompt for a child who wants guidance. For free drawing, the pencils themselves may matter more than bundled supplies.
Match Storage to Where Art Happens
A tin or fitted case can keep pencils together on a desk, while a roll or portable case may work better for carrying supplies to school or on a trip. Larger kits with books and accessories often need more shelf or bag space than a compact pencil set. Before buying, think about whether the child can open, sort, and repack the storage without adult help. Loose pencils are easy to misplace, but a case that is fiddly to manage can discourage cleanup. Choose storage for the child’s real routine rather than for how impressive the package looks.
Weigh Erasing and Revision Habits
Children who regularly change a drawing may appreciate pencils designed to be erasable, while others may be content to draw over a line or start a fresh page. Erasable color can reduce the pressure of making a mistake, but it is not a substitute for a separate graphite pencil when planning a sketch. Consider whether the child uses coloring pencils for outlines, filling shapes, or both. If corrections are a frequent source of frustration, an erasable set may be more useful than adding dozens of colors. If the child mostly colors finished pictures, a standard set may be simpler.
Buy for the Next Step, Not Just the Current Age
A beginner may get more enjoyment from a small, easy-to-manage set than from a kit with many accessories and choices. A child who has started making original drawings may welcome a broader palette, sketch supplies, or a dedicated activity book. Buying far ahead can leave a child with tools they are not ready to organize, while replacing a starter set too quickly can be wasteful if their interests are still developing. Look at how often the child draws and what they ask to do next. The right upgrade adds a capability they will use, not merely more pieces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are twist-up colored pencils a better choice for younger kids?
They can be a practical choice for children who find sharpening frustrating or who use pencils away from a desk. The Crayola Twistables options in this roundup do not require a separate sharpener, which reduces one source of interruption and loose supplies. A traditional set may still suit a child who prefers a familiar wooden pencil or wants the usual sharpening routine. Consider how easily the child can manage the pencil and its storage, not age alone. If travel matters, the included case and paper in the 65-piece set offer a different convenience from the 50-count pencil-only option.
Should I choose 24, 36, or 72 colored pencils for a child?
Choose based on the child’s experience and willingness to organize supplies, rather than treating a higher count as an automatic upgrade. A 24- or 36-count set can be easier for everyday coloring and for children who are still learning to keep track of pencils. A 72-color assortment gives a child more shades to explore but takes more time to sort and put away. If the child has not shown interest in drawing beyond occasional coloring, a smaller palette is usually the more practical starting point. For a child who regularly asks for more colors, a larger set may be a better fit.
Do I need to buy a separate sketchbook with these sets?
Not always: iBayam and PRINA include sketchbooks, and the Crayola Twistables 65-piece set includes paper sheets. Those additions can make a set ready for immediate use, but the included paper may not match every child’s preferred size or drawing style. If the child already has a notebook or coloring books, a pencil-focused set avoids adding materials that may go unused. Check what kind of art the child plans to make before choosing a kit for its extras. A separate sketchbook is useful when paper quality or format matters more than convenience.
Are erasable colored pencils useful for schoolwork and coloring?
They can help children who change their minds often or feel discouraged by stray lines, making them a reasonable choice for practice and casual coloring. The Crayola Erasable 24 Count is the lineup’s direct option for that need. Erasable colored pencils are not the same as graphite pencils, so they may not remove every mark in the same way a child expects. For finished coloring pages, a standard set may be a simpler match if corrections are rare. Choose erasable pencils for the child’s revision habits, not just because the word sounds more forgiving.
When is a larger art kit worth choosing over a basic pencil set?
A larger kit makes sense when the child regularly draws and will use its extra colors, paper, or accessories. Sets such as iBayam’s 123-piece kit and PRINA’s 120-color set offer more components than a basic Crayola assortment, while the Faber-Castell Classic set adds sketch-focused supplies. That breadth can support longer projects, but it also requires more storage and cleanup. For occasional coloring, the extra pieces may create clutter rather than more enjoyment. Ask whether the child has a specific use for the added materials before choosing a kit built around them.
Conclusion
For a broadly useful choice, I would start with the Crayola Twistables 65-Piece Set: the twist-up format and included paper make it an easy portable kit. For best value in everyday simplicity, the Crayola Colored Pencils 24 Count keeps the selection straightforward; choose the 36-count version if a little more color variety matters. For beginners who want an easy way to correct mistakes, the Crayola Erasable 24 Count is the clearest match. Older kids ready for more involved drawing can step up to Faber-Castell Classic 48 Colors as the premium art-focused pick, while MindWare Color by Number fits children who enjoy guided activities. Choose the larger iBayam or PRINA kits when a child will use their books and broader selection; otherwise, a smaller set may be easier to enjoy and keep organized.
