You’re seeking vibrant colors, you’re craving durability, and you’re wanting professional quality without breaking the bank. Watercolor colored pencils deliver on all fronts, but not all brands perform equally. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, selecting the right set can transform your creative work. The question isn’t which pencils exist—it’s which ones truly deserve a spot in your collection.
Quick Overview
- Professional artists prioritize high-quality pigmentation, soft break-resistant cores, and consistent color delivery across wet and dry applications.
- Larger color sets with expanded hue ranges enable artists to create vibrant, nuanced artwork with greater creative flexibility.
- Dual-functionality between wet and dry techniques allows seamless transitions within single pieces for diverse artistic effects.
- Portable protective cases with organized storage and included brushes support on-the-go artistry without compromising quality or accessibility.
- Fade-resistant pigments and durable construction ensure longevity, making professional-grade sets valuable long-term investments for serious artists.
| KALOUR Professional Watercolor Pencils 72 Colors with Brushes |
| Best Professional Set | Color Count: 72 colors | Included Brush: Included in set | Storage/Case: Tin box with plastic trays | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Art Magic Watercolor Pencils Set of 48 Professional |
| Best Value | Color Count: 48 colors | Included Brush: Brush included | Storage/Case: Standard packaging | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Crayola Watercolor Colored Pencils Set for Kids |
| Best For Kids | Color Count: 24 colors | Included Brush: No brush included | Storage/Case: Basic packaging | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| KALOUR 72-Color Professional Watercolor Pencils Set |
| Editor’s Choice | Color Count: 72 colors | Included Brush: Watercolor brush and water brush pen | Storage/Case: Stylish cylindrical case | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| KALOUR Watercolor Pencils 50 Colors Blendable Wet Dry |
| Best Blendable | Color Count: 50 colors | Included Brush: High-quality watercolor brush and water brush pen | Storage/Case: Stylish cylindrical case | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| 36-Color Watercolor Pencils Set for Artists |
| Best For Travel | Color Count: 36 colors | Included Brush: 1 detail paint brush included | Storage/Case: Sturdy pen holder with angular design | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Crayola Classpack Watercolor Pencils 240ct 12 Colors |
| Best Classroom Pack | Color Count: 12 colors (240 count bulk) | Included Brush: No brush included | Storage/Case: Bulk classroom packaging | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
KALOUR Professional Watercolor Pencils 72 Colors with Brushes
If you’re seeking a versatile, budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality, the KALOUR Professional Watercolor Pencils deliver exceptional value. You’ll appreciate the 72 vibrant colors that work wet or dry, giving you maximum creative flexibility. The soft, break-resistant cores won’t frustrate you mid-project, while the hexagonal barrels feel comfortable during extended drawing sessions. These pencils use non-toxic pigments and comply with safety standards, making them suitable for everyone. The protective tin box with plastic trays keeps your collection organized and portable for on-the-go artistry. Whether you’re an experienced artist or exploring coloring as a hobby, this all-encompassing set offers professional-quality results without the premium price tag.
- Color Count:72 colors
- Included Brush:Included in set
- Storage/Case:Tin box with plastic trays
- Barrel Shape:Hexagonal
- Target Audience:Adults and children, artists
- Safety Certification:ASTM D-4236 & EN71-3 compliant, non-toxic
- Additional Feature:Soft, break-resistant cores
- Additional Feature:Premium wood construction
- Additional Feature:Tin box with plastic trays
Art Magic Watercolor Pencils Set of 48 Professional
The Art Magic Watercolor Pencils Set of 48 Professional is your ideal choice if you’re seeking versatility without compromise. You’ll appreciate the hexagonal shape that guarantees precise control during detailed work. The pre-sharpened, high-grade leads let you start creating immediately without preparation delays. With 48 rich colors, you’ll achieve smooth coloring, blending, and layering effects when you apply a moistened brush. The fade-resistant pigments certify your artwork remains vibrant for years. At 12.3 ounces, this compact set travels easily. Art Magic backs your purchase with a lifetime guarantee, demonstrating confidence in quality. You’re investing in a reliable tool that removes creative restrictions and enhances your artistic expression.
- Color Count:48 colors
- Included Brush:Brush included
- Storage/Case:Standard packaging
- Barrel Shape:Hexagonal
- Target Audience:Professional and beginners
- Safety Certification:Non-toxic (no specific standard listed)
- Additional Feature:Lifetime guarantee included
- Additional Feature:Pre-sharpened pencil leads
- Additional Feature:Lifetime customer service support
Crayola Watercolor Colored Pencils Set for Kids
Crayola’s 24-count watercolor colored pencils stand out as the best choice for young artists who want to explore multiple creative techniques without purchasing separate supplies. You’ll appreciate the three application methods: activating the pencil tip with water, sketching on pre-wetted paper, or layering a wet brush over your drawings. These pre-sharpened pencils arrive ready to use, eliminating prep time. Made from reforested wood and completely nontoxic, they’re safe for kids ages three and up. Whether you’re crafting greeting cards or scrapbooking, you’ll merge drawing and painting seamlessly. This set delivers professional watercolor effects at an accessible price point, making it ideal for budding artists exploring their artistic potential.
- Color Count:24 colors
- Included Brush:No brush included
- Storage/Case:Basic packaging
- Barrel Shape:Standard
- Target Audience:Kids ages 3+
- Safety Certification:Nontoxic, eco-friendly reforested wood
- Additional Feature:Three watercolor creation methods
- Additional Feature:Reforested wood, eco-friendly
- Additional Feature:Ages 3+ appropriate
KALOUR 72-Color Professional Watercolor Pencils Set
Artists seeking extensive color range and professional versatility won’t find better value than KALOUR’s 72-color watercolor pencil set. You’ll appreciate the hexagonal design, which prevents rolling while offering comfortable grip control. These water-soluble pencils blend seamlessly whether you’re working wet or dry, giving you maximum creative flexibility. The included watercolor brush and water brush pen enhance your application options for detailed illustrations or expansive compositions. Each pencil features a durable core that delivers vibrant, consistent color without compromising precision. The sturdy cylindrical case keeps everything organized and portable. Whether you’re a student, professional, or enthusiast, this set provides the exhaustive palette and quality tools you need.
- Color Count:72 colors
- Included Brush:Watercolor brush and water brush pen
- Storage/Case:Stylish cylindrical case
- Barrel Shape:Hexagonal
- Target Audience:Artists, beginners, professionals, students
- Safety Certification:Non-toxic (standard compliance not specified)
- Additional Feature:Includes water brush pen
- Additional Feature:Cylindrical case organization
- Additional Feature:Durable core consistency
KALOUR Watercolor Pencils 50 Colors Blendable Wet Dry
If you’re seeking a versatile set that performs beautifully in wet and dry applications, KALOUR’s 50-color watercolor pencils deliver professional-grade results for both beginners and experienced artists. You’ll appreciate the high-quality pigments and durable cores that guarantee consistent color application. The included high-quality brush and water brush pen let you easily activate the pencils’ water-soluble properties for seamless blending. You can work dry for precise detail work, then add water for soft shifts and vibrant washes. The stylish cylindrical case keeps your pencils organized and portable, with each pencil clearly labeled by color name and number. Whether you’re tackling coloring books or fine art projects, this set provides the versatility and quality you need.
- Color Count:50 colors
- Included Brush:High-quality watercolor brush and water brush pen
- Storage/Case:Stylish cylindrical case
- Barrel Shape:Standard (cylindrical case)
- Target Audience:Seasoned artists and beginners
- Safety Certification:Non-toxic (standard compliance not specified)
- Additional Feature:Color-labeled pencils included
- Additional Feature:Cylindrical case storage
- Additional Feature:Includes water brush pen
36-Color Watercolor Pencils Set for Artists
You’ll find the 36-color watercolor pencils set ideal if you’re seeking professional-grade tools that won’t compromise on versatility. These highly pigmented, water-soluble pencils deliver rich, stable colors perfect for painting and sketching. You can blend, mix, and layer them to achieve professional effects while enjoying light-resistant pigments that won’t fade. The angular pen holder design keeps pencils from rolling away, making them easier to handle during your creative sessions. Each set includes a detail brush and sturdy storage holder for convenient portability. Whether you’re an adult or teenage artist, you’ll appreciate how these pencils perform reliably across various techniques and projects.
- Color Count:36 colors
- Included Brush:1 detail paint brush included
- Storage/Case:Sturdy pen holder with angular design
- Barrel Shape:Angular design (non-rolling)
- Target Audience:Artists and teenage/adult colorists
- Safety Certification:Non-toxic (standard compliance not specified)
- Additional Feature:Angular pen holder design
- Additional Feature:Non-rolling desk safety
- Additional Feature:Light-resistant, fade-proof colors
Crayola Classpack Watercolor Pencils 240ct 12 Colors
Classroom teachers and homeschool educators have found the Crayola Classpack Watercolor Pencils 240ct to be an excellent bulk option for group art projects. You’ll receive 240 presharpened pencils in 12 vibrant colors—20 of each shade including Sky Blue, Red, Blue, Magenta, Orange, Violet, Brown, Yellow, Green, Yellow Green, White, and Black. The 3.3mm lead diameter provides durability for extended use. You can apply these nontoxic pencils dry or wet, enabling both traditional coloring and watercolor techniques. They’re ideal for children ages three and up, offering quality materials at a practical price point for classrooms and educational settings.
- Color Count:12 colors (240 count bulk)
- Included Brush:No brush included
- Storage/Case:Bulk classroom packaging
- Barrel Shape:Standard
- Target Audience:Kids ages 3+ and classrooms
- Safety Certification:Nontoxic, quality materials
- Additional Feature:240 count bulk set
- Additional Feature:20 pencils per color
- Additional Feature:Classroom/educational use focused
Factors to Consider When Choosing Watercolor Colored Pencils
When you’re selecting watercolor colored pencils, you’ll want to evaluate several key factors that directly impact your experience and results. Consider the color count and selection available, the pencil’s wet and dry versatility, the core quality and durability, the price relative to what you’re getting, and how the packaging suits your portability needs. Each of these elements plays an indispensable role in determining whether a set truly matches your artistic requirements and budget.
Color Count and Selection
One of the first decisions you’ll face is determining how many colors you actually need. Watercolor pencil sets range from 12 to 72 colors, so you’ll want to match the count to your artistic goals. If you’re just starting out, a smaller set with primary, secondary, and neutral tones gives you enough versatility without overwhelming you. As you advance, you might prefer larger sets that offer expanded hue ranges for more nuanced effects.
Consider what you’ll create. Bold, vibrant artwork often requires broader color selection, while subtle, muted pieces work fine with curated basics. Some sets prioritize all-encompassing spectrums, while others focus on the most-used shades. Evaluate your specific needs—do you want maximum creative potential or practical essentials? This assessment guarantees you’ll select a set that truly supports your artistic vision.
Wet and Dry Versatility
How versatile are your watercolor pencils really? You’ll want pencils that perform excellently in both wet and dry applications. High-quality watercolor pencils maintain vibrant pigmentation whether you’re using a wet brush, applying them to wet paper, or working dry on standard surfaces.
This dual-functionality matters because it expands your creative possibilities markedly. You can layer delicate washes with water, then add bold, precise strokes without water for definition and detail. You’re not locked into one technique—you can effortlessly shift between methods within a single piece.
When you choose watercolor pencils that excel in both mediums, you gain genuine value and utility. Artists of all skill levels benefit from this consistency. You’ll find yourself more willing to experiment, knowing your tools won’t let you down regardless of your chosen application method.
Core Quality and Durability
The core of your watercolor pencil determines everything about its performance and lifespan. You’ll want high-quality, durable cores that deliver consistent color application without compromising longevity.
Look for soft, break-resistant formulations that enable smooth layering and blending. These characteristics matter because they allow you to build rich, nuanced artwork without frustrating breakage interrupting your creative flow.
Pigment-rich formulas are equally essential. They provide vibrant, long-lasting colors that resist fading over time, ensuring your finished pieces maintain their visual impact for years.
Additionally, consider pencil hardness or degree. This factor directly affects the level of detail and coverage you can achieve. Softer cores offer broader coverage, while harder cores enable precise detailing.
When evaluating cores, prioritize quality construction that combines durability with versatility.
Price and Value
While quality cores and durability matter considerably, you’ll also want to balance performance with your budget. Premium brands typically cost more, but they’re not always necessary for your needs. Consider whether you’re a hobbyist or professional—beginners benefit from mid-range sets that offer solid performance without excessive expense.
You’ll find that buying individual pencils lets you invest strategically in your favorite colors rather than committing to complete sets. Subscription boxes and bulk purchases often provide better value than retail pricing. Don’t assume cheaper options are inferior; many budget-friendly brands deliver respectable results.
Calculate cost-per-pencil across different sets and brands. Sometimes spending slightly more upfront saves money long-term through better pigment retention and less frequent replacement needs.
Packaging and Portability
Once you’ve selected your ideal pencils and colors, packaging and portability become essential factors—especially if you’re an artist who works in multiple locations. You’ll want durable cases that protect your supplies during transport while keeping everything organized and accessible.
Look for compact, space-saving designs that fit comfortably in your bag without adding unnecessary bulk. Consider the overall weight and size of the set to guarantee it’s manageable for extended carrying. Hexagonal-barreled pencils offer a practical advantage, as they’re less prone to rolling away on surfaces, reducing frustration during outdoor sessions.
Additionally, seek sets that include built-in accessories like brushes or water brushes. These integrated tools eliminate the need for separate supplies, streamlining your portable art kit and maximizing convenience whenever inspiration strikes.
Safety and Environmental Impact
As an artist, you’ll want to ascertain your watercolor pencils meet established safety standards like ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3, verifying they’re non-toxic and safe for regular use. Beyond toxicity, consider the environmental footprint of your supplies. Select pencils crafted from sustainably sourced wood and manufactured by brands committed to responsible practices. Light-resistant, high-quality pigments validate your artwork won’t fade, making them a worthwhile investment. Additionally, opt for water-soluble formulations that won’t harm aquatic ecosystems when washed down drains. Brands demonstrating genuine environmental accountability through transparent manufacturing and eco-conscious packaging choices deserve your support. Prioritizing safety and sustainability doesn’t compromise quality—it enhances your artistic practice while protecting both your health and the planet.
