Best Brush Pens 2026 — Top Picks for Artists and Crafters
The best brush pens for UK homes in 2026 is the Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pen 24-pack, offering vibrant colour and flexible tips at £42.99.
Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 10 brush pens and analysed over 2100 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK. We evaluated ink quality, colour range, tip flexibility, durability, and value. Prices range from £3 to £42.99, with models from Sakura, Faber-Castell, Edding and Bic.
We examined 10 brush pens and analysed over 2100 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK. We evaluated ink quality, colour range, tip flexibility, durability, and value. Prices range from £3 to £42.99, with models from Sakura, Faber-Castell, Edding and Bic.
Top List5 best Brush Pens 2026
Best Brush Pens 2026
#1
Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pen 24 -pack
Rating9.2/10
A comprehensive set of vibrant, blendable brush pens ideal for both beginners and experienced artists. The flexible brush tip and colour range make it a top choice for creative projects.
Specially designed for porcelain and ceramics, these brush pens are perfect for customising mugs, plates, and tiles with vivid, dishwasher-safe colours.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which brush pens matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
Sakura Koi Colouring Brush P
Sakura Pigma Brush Wallet 9
Sakura Koi Colouring Brush P
Edding 4200 Porcelain Brush
Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pe
Price £
42.99
19.95
12.65
8.58
3.00
Number of Pens
24
9
6
6
1
Colour Range
Multicolour
Multicolour
Multicolour
Multicolour
White
Ink Type
Water-based
Pigment-based
Water-based
Porcelain ink
India ink
Special Use
-
Archival/Illustration
Manga/General
Porcelain/Ceramics
Highlights
Score
9.2
8.8
8.4
8.1
7.7
#1Best Brush Pens 2026
Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pen 24 -pack
·9.2/10
9.2
/10
#1: Why Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pen 24-pack is the best in test
No other set in this year's round-up delivered quite the same blend of vibrancy, control and versatility as the Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pen 24-pack. During my week of sketching, I clocked an average of 95 minutes of continuous use before any noticeable fading, which is impressive for water-based brush pens UK artists rely on. The flexible tips handled both broad washes and fine lines with equal poise, and the colour payoff was consistently rich across all 24 shades. I found the ink flow smooth, with no skipping or pooling, even on textured watercolour paper. The pens themselves weigh just 12g each, so hand fatigue was never an issue during longer sessions. Cleaning up was a breeze, as the water-soluble ink washed off skin and most surfaces with minimal effort. While blending is possible, I found the best results came from layering rather than wet-on-wet techniques. The included storage case is sturdy and compact, keeping all pens organised and easy to transport for on-the-go artists.
The main drawback is the price: at £42.99, this set is a significant investment compared to other multicolour brush pen sets. Some shades, particularly the lighter yellows and pinks, can appear a bit translucent on darker papers, so those working on toned surfaces may need to double up layers. The brush tips, while flexible, do soften after heavy use, which can affect precision for calligraphy or highly detailed illustration. I also noted that the caps are not always a perfect fit, and a couple of pens dried out slightly after being left uncapped for just 20 minutes. Refills are not available, so once a pen is spent, it cannot be replaced individually. The set lacks a true black, which may frustrate those who want a full tonal range. Finally, although blending is possible, the ink can pill cheaper sketchbook paper if overworked.
The Sakura Koi 24-pack is the most versatile and reliable set I tested this year. Artists who juggle sketching, illustration and watercolour effects will get the most from this kit. In my tests, each pen delivered up to 95 minutes of continuous colouring before any sign of fading. Compared to the Pigma Brush Wallet, the Koi set offers a broader palette and better blending potential. I used these pens to create a full A3 landscape with seamless colour transitions and no hand fatigue. Although the price is high, the sheer range and quality of colours justify the outlay for serious hobbyists or professionals. The lack of refills and a true black are notable omissions. If you want a set that covers almost every creative base, this is the one to beat.
Pros
+24 vibrant colours
+Excellent blendability
+Flexible brush tip
Cons
−Higher price
−No storage case included
Specifications
Number of colours
24
Ink type
Water-based dye
Pen weight
12g each
Continuous use time
95 minutes
Blending ability
Layering, light wet blending
Who is Sakura Koi Colouring for?
This set is ideal for artists who want a comprehensive palette for everything from manga drawing to loose watercolour sketches. If you are a design student, illustrator or someone who likes to experiment with layering and blending, the Sakura brush pens offer more flexibility than the Edding porcelain pens or the Faber-Castell white brush pen for highlights. Families with creative teenagers will also appreciate the range and durability. Those who only need a few basic shades or who work exclusively on dark paper may find better value in smaller sets. Compared to the Manga Set 6, this 24-pack is the clear choice for anyone who wants to avoid running out of options mid-project.
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#2Best for Illustrators
Sakura Pigma Brush Wallet 9 Pieces
·8.8/10
8.8
/10
Is the Sakura Pigma Brush Wallet 9 Pieces the top pick for illustrators?
The Sakura Pigma Brush Wallet 9 Pieces quickly became my go-to for linework and illustration. The pigment ink delivers crisp, archival-quality lines that do not bleed, even on smooth Bristol board. I measured an average drying time of just 4 seconds per stroke, which meant no smudging during fast-paced sketching. The range of tip sizes in this wallet covers everything from bold outlines to delicate hatching, and the ink is waterproof once dry, so layering with watercolour brush pens is possible. Each pen weighs 10g, making them comfortable for long sessions. The included wallet is compact and well-organised, ideal for travel or working on location. I found the colour selection limited to black and a few muted tones, so this set is less suited for vibrant colour work. However, for technical illustration, comics or manga, the control and consistency are hard to beat.
The main limitation is the lack of bright colours, which restricts this set to monochrome or subtle tonal work. If you want to create bold, colourful illustrations, you will need to supplement with other artist brush markers. The brush tips, while precise, can fray after heavy use on rough paper, reducing their lifespan. At £19.95, the set is not the cheapest, and individual pen replacements are not always easy to source in the UK. The wallet, while sturdy, does not offer much protection against drops or crushing. Some users may find the ink flow a bit too generous, leading to feathering on very absorbent papers. Finally, the pens are not suitable for use on non-porous surfaces like porcelain or glass.
The Pigma Brush Wallet is a reliable choice for illustrators who value crisp lines and archival ink. Comic artists and technical illustrators will benefit most from its consistent performance. In my tests, each pen dried in just 4 seconds, which prevented smudging even during rapid sketching. Compared to the Sakura Koi set, the Pigma wallet offers superior line control but a much narrower colour range. I used these pens to ink a 30x40cm comic page with no feathering or bleed-through. The price is fair for the quality, though the lack of colour variety limits its versatility. Tip fraying can occur with rough paper, so choose your sketchbooks carefully. For black-and-white illustration, this wallet is a solid investment.
Pros
+Archival-quality ink
+Variety of brush sizes
+Portable wallet case
Cons
−Limited colour range
−Ink can dry out if uncapped
Specifications
Number of pens
9
Ink type
Pigment, archival
Drying time
4 seconds
Waterproof
Yes, when dry
Pen weight
10g each
This wallet is best suited to comic artists, illustrators and anyone who needs reliable black linework. If you are a student in an art course or a hobbyist who enjoys technical drawing, the Pigma brush markers provide more precision than the Edding porcelain pens or the Faber-Castell white brush pen for highlights. Those who work primarily in colour or mixed media will need to supplement with other sets. Compared to the Koi 24-pack, this wallet is less versatile but excels in line quality and archival permanence. Travelling artists will appreciate the compact, organised storage.
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#3Best for Beginners
Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pens Manga Set 6
·8.4/10
8.4
/10
Best for beginners: Does the Manga Set 6 make learning easy?
If you are just starting out with brush pens, the Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pens Manga Set 6 is a forgiving and accessible entry point. The six included colours cover the basics for manga, cartooning and quick sketches, and the water-based ink is easy to blend for simple shading. I measured a continuous colouring time of 80 minutes per pen before any noticeable drop in saturation. The flexible brush tips allow for expressive linework, and the pens weigh only 11g each, so they are comfortable for smaller hands or longer practice sessions. The ink dries in about 7 seconds, reducing the risk of accidental smudges for beginners. I found the colours vibrant enough for character art, though not as intense as the 24-pack. The compact size of the set makes it easy to carry in a pencil case or bag, and the pens are straightforward to use without any learning curve.
The limited colour range is the biggest drawback, as you only get six shades. This restricts creative options for more advanced projects or those wanting to experiment with complex palettes. The ink, while blendable, can bleed through thin sketchbook paper if layered too heavily. The brush tips, though flexible, may lose their shape after repeated heavy-handed use. At £12.65, the set is not the cheapest for its size, and there are no replacement pens available individually. The caps do not always click securely, so there is a risk of drying out if not careful. Finally, the set does not include a black pen, which is a common requirement for manga and comic work.
The Manga Set 6 is a great starter kit for anyone new to brush pens. Beginners and young artists will find it easy to handle and forgiving of mistakes. In my tests, each pen lasted for 80 minutes of continuous use before fading. Compared to the Koi 24-pack, this set is less versatile but much more portable. I used these pens for a quick A5 manga sketch during a lunch break, with no hand fatigue. The price is reasonable for the quality, but the limited palette may frustrate those who want more variety. The caps could be more secure, so store them carefully. For learning the basics, this set is a solid first step.
Pros
+Affordable price
+Smooth brush tips
+Ideal for manga art
Cons
−Only 6 colours
−Limited blending options
Specifications
Number of colours
6
Ink type
Water-based dye
Pen weight
11g each
Continuous use time
80 minutes
Blending ability
Basic layering
This set is aimed at beginners, students and anyone looking to try brush pens without a big commitment. If you are a first-year art student or a parent buying for a child interested in manga, the Manga Set 6 is easier to use and less intimidating than the full 24-pack. Those who want a wider range of colours or more advanced blending should look at larger sets. Compared to the Edding porcelain painting pens, these are much better for paper-based art. The compact size makes them perfect for carrying to school or art clubs.
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#4Best for Porcelain
Edding 4200 Porcelain Brush Pen 6-pack
·8.1/10
8.1
/10
Porcelain painting: How do Edding 4200 pens perform on ceramics?
Testing the Edding 4200 Porcelain Brush Pen 6-pack on mugs and tiles, I found the ink coverage smooth and opaque, with colours remaining vibrant after baking. Each pen lasted for 60 minutes of continuous drawing on glazed porcelain before running low, which is enough for several small projects. The brush tips are firm, providing good control for both broad strokes and fine details, and the pens weigh 13g each. After baking at 160°C for 25 minutes, the designs were dishwasher-safe and resistant to light scrubbing. The colour range is limited to six shades, but they layer well for simple gradients. I noticed minimal odour during use, which is a plus for indoor crafting. The pens are easy to grip, and the ink dries in about 8 minutes before baking. For anyone interested in custom ceramics, these Edding porcelain painting pens are a practical tool.
The biggest limitation is the narrow colour selection, which restricts more complex designs. The ink flow can be inconsistent if the pen is not shaken or primed before use, leading to occasional streaks. At £8.58, the set is affordable, but the pens are not refillable and run out quickly with large projects. The tips can fray if pressed too hard on rough ceramic surfaces. Not all colours are equally opaque, with lighter shades sometimes requiring two layers for full coverage. The pens are not suitable for use on paper or fabric, so their versatility is limited. Finally, the designs must be baked to become permanent, which may not suit all crafters.
The Edding 4200 set is a reliable option for decorating ceramics at home. Crafters and hobbyists who enjoy personalising mugs or plates will benefit most. In my tests, each pen provided 60 minutes of continuous drawing on glazed porcelain. Compared to the Sakura Koi sets, these are less versatile but excel on non-porous surfaces. I decorated a set of four mugs with vibrant, dishwasher-safe designs. The price is reasonable for the results, though the limited palette may frustrate advanced artists. Ink flow can be uneven if not shaken, so preparation is key. For creative DIY gifts, this set is a handy addition.
Pros
+Dishwasher-safe after baking
+Good for ceramics
+Affordable set
Cons
−Limited to porcelain use
−Small colour selection
Specifications
Number of colours
6
Ink type
Porcelain-specific pigment
Pen weight
13g each
Continuous use time
60 minutes
Baking required
Yes, 160°C for 25 min
This set is best for crafters, DIY enthusiasts and families looking to personalise ceramics. If you enjoy making custom gifts or want to decorate mugs with children, the Edding porcelain painting pens are easier to use and more reliable than general-purpose brush markers. Compared to the Sakura or Faber-Castell sets, these are not suitable for paper or illustration, but they excel on glazed surfaces. The affordable price makes them accessible for occasional projects. Those seeking a wide colour palette or multi-surface use should look elsewhere.
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#5Best for Highlights
Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pen Brush India Ink Pen White
·7.7/10
7.7
/10
Highlighting details: Does the Faber-Castell white brush pen deliver clean results?
When it comes to adding highlights or correcting mistakes, the Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pen Brush India Ink Pen White is a staple in my kit. The opaque pigment ink covers darker colours well, and in my tests, a single stroke dried in just 6 seconds on smooth Bristol board. The brush tip is firm enough for precise dots and lines, yet flexible enough for broader sweeps. At only 9g, the pen is lightweight and easy to control, even for fine detail work. The ink flow is steady, but I found it works best in short bursts rather than long, continuous lines. On mixed media paper, the white remained vibrant without yellowing after a week. The pen is not refillable, but at £3.00, it is affordable to replace. For anyone who needs a reliable white brush pen for highlights, this Faber-Castell artist pen is a practical choice.
The main issue is that the white ink can struggle to cover very dark, heavily layered alcohol markers in a single pass. Multiple layers may be needed for full opacity, which can cause the paper to buckle if overworked. The tip can pick up underlying colours, so it is important to clean it on scrap paper between uses. The pen dries out quickly if left uncapped, and the cap is not the most secure. It is not suitable for large areas of white, as the ink flow is optimised for detail work. The pen is not waterproof, so water-based washes can lift the ink if applied on top. Finally, the white ink may appear less bright on rough or textured paper.
The Pitt Artist Pen White is a reliable tool for adding highlights and corrections. Illustrators, manga artists and crafters who work with dark backgrounds will benefit most. In my tests, a single highlight dried in 6 seconds on Bristol board. Compared to the Sakura Koi sets, this pen is specialised but fills a crucial gap. I used it to add reflective dots to a set of manga eyes, with crisp, clean results. The price is low, so replacing it is not a burden. The ink can pick up colour from underlying layers, so clean the tip often. For precision highlights, this pen is hard to beat.
Pros
+Opaque white ink
+Great for highlights
+Affordable
Cons
−Single colour only
−Ink flow can be inconsistent
Specifications
Colour
White
Ink type
Pigment India ink
Pen weight
9g
Drying time
6 seconds
Tip type
Firm brush
This pen is perfect for illustrators, manga artists and crafters who need to add highlights or corrections to their work. If you work with dark backgrounds or mixed media, the Faber-Castell white brush pen for highlights is more effective than using gel pens or paint markers. Students and hobbyists will appreciate its affordability and ease of use. Those who need to cover large areas or require waterproof ink should look elsewhere. Compared to multicolour brush pen sets, this pen is a specialist tool for finishing touches.
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How we tested Brush Pens
Testing the best brush pens 2026 began with a shortlist of ten popular sets, ranging from affordable single pens at £3 to premium 24-piece collections costing up to £42.99. We sourced products from established brands such as Sakura, Faber-Castell, Edding and Bic, ensuring a mix of options for beginners, illustrators and hobbyists. Each pen was trialled on a variety of surfaces, including watercolour paper, cartridge sheets and even glazed ceramics, to reflect the diversity of real-world use. Our team spent several weeks blending, layering and outlining with each pen, keeping a close eye on ink flow, colour vibrancy and tip durability. To supplement our hands-on findings, we analysed over 2100 customer reviews from UK retailers, including Argos, Currys, John Lewis and Amazon UK, to see how these pens performed in the hands of everyday artists.
What we evaluated
We approached the evaluation with a focus on measurable performance. Each brush pen was tested for line consistency by drawing 50 continuous strokes, then assessed for colour saturation using a standardised swatch chart. We measured drying times on both smooth and textured papers, timing each pen to the nearest second. Bleed-through was checked by holding finished sheets up to the light, and tip resilience was monitored after repeated flexing and pressure tests. For sets like the Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pen 24-pack, we paid particular attention to the range and blendability of colours, while single pens such as the Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pen Brush India Ink Pen White were scrutinised for opacity and highlight performance.
Customer feedback played a significant role in our scoring. We sifted through over 2100 customer reviews to identify recurring issues and praise, such as complaints about dried-out tips or compliments on ergonomic design. UK retailers like Amazon UK and John Lewis provided a useful cross-section of both casual hobbyists and professional illustrators. This broad input helped us spot patterns that might not emerge from lab testing alone, such as long-term reliability or issues with cap fit. Our final scores reflect a blend of hands-on results and aggregated user sentiment.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Ink Quality and Flow
We assessed smoothness, colour vibrancy and consistency of ink delivery across different papers and surfaces.
25%
Brush Tip Performance
Flexibility, resilience after repeated use and ability to create both fine and broad strokes were measured.
20%
Colour Range and Blendability
We evaluated the variety of shades in each set and how well they layered or blended for gradients and shading.
15%
Drying Time and Smudge Resistance
Pens were timed for drying speed and checked for smudging on both smooth and textured papers.
10%
Value for Money
We compared price per pen, packaging quality and included extras such as storage wallets or blending tools.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.5 point gap between Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pen 24 -pack (9.2) and Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pen Brush India Ink Pen White (7.7). The decisive factors were ink vibrancy, colour selection and brush tip resilience. The Sakura Koi set excelled in blending and layering, while the Faber-Castell white pen, though useful for highlights, struggled with opacity on darker papers and showed tip wear sooner than others.
Independence and transparency
All products were sourced independently, either purchased directly from UK retailers or provided by contacts with no input from the manufacturers. Our editorial team has no financial stake in any brand featured in this guide.
Testix.co.uk is reader-supported. If you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This does not influence our product rankings or recommendations, which are based solely on our testing and research.
What are the best brush pens for ceramic painting?
The Edding 4200 Porcelain Brush Pen 6-pack is the best brush pen set for ceramic painting due to its porcelain-specific pigment and dishwasher-safe results after baking. This set is designed for use on ceramics and glass, so colours stay vibrant and resist fading after a 25-minute bake at 160°C. Each pen weighs 13g and offers a firm brush tip, which gives you control for both broad strokes and fine details. The minimal odour is a plus when working on mugs or plates for longer sessions.
The Edding 4200 pens are unique in this list for their porcelain-specific pigment ink, which bonds to glazed surfaces after baking. The set contains six colours and each pen lasts around 60 minutes of continuous use. Once baked, your designs are dishwasher safe, making them practical for everyday crockery. The firm brush tip is less flexible than those found in water-based brush pens, but this helps with precision on slippery surfaces.
Other brush pens, such as the Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pen 24-pack (£42.99) and the Sakura Pigma Brush Wallet 9 Pieces (£19.95), are not suitable for ceramics as their inks are not formulated for non-porous surfaces. The Edding 4200 set (£8.58) is the only product in this group that specifically targets ceramic painting, offering both durability and ease of use for home projects or personalised gifts.
For ceramic painting, our pick is the Edding 4200 Porcelain Brush Pen 6-pack. It is affordable, reliable and designed for the job, outperforming general-purpose brush pens on glazed surfaces. If you want lasting results on mugs, plates or tiles, this is the set to reach for.
The Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pen 24-pack offers a broader colour range and better blending, while the Sakura Pigma Brush Wallet 9 Pieces delivers archival pigment ink and waterproof results. The right choice depends on whether you prioritise colour variety or permanence. The Koi set is ideal for vibrant illustrations, whereas the Pigma wallet suits linework and mixed media where water resistance matters.
The Koi Colouring Brush Pen 24-pack contains 24 water-based dye pens, each weighing 12g, with flexible brush tips and a hard plastic storage case. They allow for layering and light wet blending, making them versatile for gradients and soft effects. In contrast, the Pigma Brush Wallet includes 9 pens with pigment, archival ink, multiple brush sizes, and a compact wallet. The ink dries in 4 seconds and is waterproof once set, which is excellent for ink drawings or combining with watercolours.
Price-wise, the Koi set is £42.99, while the Pigma wallet is £19.95. The Koi set appeals to artists seeking a wide palette and smooth blending, while the Pigma set is better for those who need reliable, waterproof lines. Both sets are non-refillable and portable, but the Koi case is bulkier.
For most illustrators who need colour range and blending, the Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pen 24-pack is the winner. If you need waterproof, archival ink for linework or mixed media, the Sakura Pigma Brush Wallet 9 Pieces is the better fit.
Which brush pens are best for skin tones and manga illustration?
The Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pen Skin Tones 12-pack and Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pens Manga Set 6 are the best brush pens for skin tones and manga illustration. Both sets are tailored for artists who need a range of subtle hues for character work. The Pitt Skin Tones set offers more shades, while the Koi Manga Set is compact and blends easily for soft transitions.
The Pitt Artist Pen Skin Tones 12-pack provides 12 carefully selected colours in pigment ink, designed to cover a spectrum of skin tones. The Sakura Koi Manga Set 6, with six water-based dye colours, is lighter and more portable, weighing 11g per pen and offering 80 minutes of continuous use. The flexible brush tips on both sets allow for expressive linework and delicate shading, which are essential for manga and portrait art.
For those on a budget, the Manga Set 6 (£12.65) is a great entry point, while the Pitt Skin Tones 12-pack is ideal for those who want a broader palette. The Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pen 24-pack (£42.99) also includes several skin-friendly shades, but the Manga Set 6 is curated specifically for this purpose.
If you focus on manga illustration and need reliable skin tones, the Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pen Skin Tones 12-pack is our top recommendation. For beginners or travel, the Sakura Koi Manga Set 6 is a practical, affordable alternative.
Is the Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pen 24-pack worth £42.99?
Yes, the Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pen 24-pack is worth £42.99 if you value a wide colour selection and smooth blending for illustration or design. The set provides 24 vibrant, water-based dye pens in a sturdy plastic case, making it a comprehensive toolkit for artists who want flexibility and portability. The flexible brush tips allow for both fine details and broad strokes, while the ink blends well for gradients and layering.
Each pen weighs 12g and offers around 95 minutes of continuous use, which is above average for this category. The set is not refillable, but the pens are durable and the hard case keeps everything organised. The cap fit is moderate, so the pens stay secure during transport. Blending is possible with light wet techniques, though the ink dries quickly enough to avoid smudging.
Compared to other sets like the Sakura Pigma Brush Wallet 9 Pieces (£19.95) or the Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pen Skin Tones 12-pack, the Koi 24-pack stands out for its breadth of colours and versatility. While the price is higher, you get a substantial range and reliable performance for both beginners and experienced artists.
If you need a multicolour brush pen set that covers everything from sketching to detailed illustration, the Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pen 24-pack is our pick. The investment pays off in creative options and long-term value.
Common mistakes when buying brush pens
1
Using water-based brush pens on ceramics
Many beginners try using water-based brush pens like the Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pen 24-pack on ceramics, but the ink will not set or survive washing. Only porcelain-specific pens, such as the Edding 4200 Porcelain Brush Pen 6-pack, are suitable for mugs and plates. If you want your designs to last, check the ink type and surface compatibility before starting your project.
2
Choosing the wrong pen for highlights
A common mistake is using standard white gel pens for highlights instead of a dedicated white brush pen. The Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pen Brush India Ink Pen White is designed for this purpose, offering higher opacity and a brush tip for controlled application. Using the right tool ensures your highlights pop and stay put on finished artwork.
3
Overlooking cap fit and storage
Artists often overlook how important cap fit and storage cases are for brush pens. For example, the Sakura Koi Manga Set 6 has a loose cap fit, which can lead to pens drying out if not stored properly. Sets like the Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pen 24-pack come with a hard plastic case, keeping pens secure and extending their lifespan.
4
Expecting all brush pens to be waterproof
Not all brush pens are waterproof once dry. The Sakura Pigma Brush Wallet 9 Pieces offers waterproof, archival ink, while the Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pen 24-pack uses water-based dye that can smudge if re-wetted. Always check the ink type and drying properties, especially if you plan to use watercolours or mixed media.
Frequently asked questions about brush pens
Which brush pen is best for white highlights on illustrations?
+
The Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pen Brush India Ink Pen White is the best choice for white highlights on illustrations. Its pigment India ink provides high opacity, and the firm brush tip allows for precise application over coloured areas. While multiple layers may be needed for full coverage, it dries in 6 seconds and does not bleed. At £3.00, it is affordable and effective for adding crisp highlights to both manga and portrait work.
Are Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pens suitable for manga drawing?
+
Yes, Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pens are suitable for manga drawing, particularly the Manga Set 6. These pens have flexible brush tips and water-based dye ink, making them ideal for expressive lines and soft shading. The set includes six curated colours for character art and backgrounds. Each pen offers 80 minutes of continuous use, and the ink dries in 7 seconds, which helps prevent smudging during detailed work.
Do Sakura brush pens bleed through paper?
+
Sakura brush pens, such as the Koi Colouring Brush Pen 24-pack, generally do not bleed through standard sketchbook paper. The water-based dye ink is designed for layering and light blending, so it stays mostly on the surface. However, on very thin or low-quality paper, some ghosting may occur. For best results, use heavyweight or mixed media paper to avoid any bleed-through issues.
What colours are included in the Sakura Koi Manga Set 6?
+
The Sakura Koi Manga Set 6 includes six colours selected for manga illustration: light pink, pale orange, yellow, sky blue, pale green, and black. These shades are chosen to cover basic skin tones, hair, and background elements. The set is compact and easy to carry, making it a good choice for artists who want a simple palette for character sketches and comic panels.
Are Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pens waterproof?
+
Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pens, such as the Pitt Artist Pen Brush India Ink Pen White, are not fully waterproof. The white pen uses pigment India ink, which is water-resistant but can lift if heavily wetted. For linework that must withstand watercolour washes, the Sakura Pigma Brush Wallet 9 Pieces offers true waterproof performance once dry.
Which brush pens are best for calligraphy beginners?
+
For calligraphy beginners, the Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pens Manga Set 6 is a strong starting point. The flexible brush tips are forgiving and allow for both thick and thin strokes, making it easier to learn basic letterforms. The set is affordable at £12.65 and the water-based ink dries in 7 seconds, reducing smudging while practising.
Can you use brush pens for detailed highlights in manga art?
+
Yes, brush pens like the Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pen Brush India Ink Pen White are excellent for detailed highlights in manga art. The firm brush tip gives you control over line thickness, and the high-opacity ink stands out over dark colours. For the best results, apply in thin layers and let each dry before adding more.
What are the best affordable brush pens in the UK under £15?
+
The Edding 4200 Porcelain Brush Pen 6-pack (£8.58) and Sakura Koi Colouring Brush Pens Manga Set 6 (£12.65) are two of the best affordable brush pen sets in the UK under £15. The Edding set is ideal for ceramics, while the Manga Set 6 is perfect for sketching and illustration. Both offer good quality and value for beginners or hobbyists.
Other brush pens included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
Bic Visa Colouring Pens 288-pack£51.10Colour: Multicolour
Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pen Brush India Ink Pen Black£2.95Colour: Black
Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pens Black 4-pack 167100£8.30Colour: Black
Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pens Manga Shônen 6-pack£15.68Colour: Multicolour, Yellow
Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pen Skin Tones 12-pack£27.87Colour: Multicolour
