Best Coloured Pencils 2026: Our Top Picks for Every Artist
The best coloured pencils for UK homes in 2026 is the Faber-Castell Polychromos Colour Pencils 60-pack, offering rich pigment and a sturdy 3.8 mm core at £84.88.
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 coloured pencils and analysed over 1,650 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK. We evaluated colour vibrancy, blending ability, core durability, ease of sharpening, and value for money. Prices range from £28 to £99.95, with models from Faber-Castell, Derwent, Prismacolor, and Stabilo.
We examined 10 coloured pencils and analysed over 1,650 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK. We evaluated colour vibrancy, blending ability, core durability, ease of sharpening, and value for money. Prices range from £28 to £99.95, with models from Faber-Castell, Derwent, Prismacolor, and Stabilo.
Top List5 best coloured pencils 2026
Best Coloured Pencils 2026
#1
Faber-Castell Polychromos Colour Pencils 60-pack
Rating9.3/10
A professional favourite, these pencils offer outstanding pigment, smooth blending, and excellent lightfastness, making them ideal for serious artists and hobbyists alike.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which coloured pencils matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
Faber-Castell Polychromos Co
Derwent Lightfast Colored Pe
Faber-Castell Colour Pencil
Derwent Coloursoft Pencil Me
Prismacolor Premier Colored
Price £
84.88
99.95
51.50
28.00
30.10
Number of Pencils
60
36
36
24
24
Core Thickness mm
3.8
-
3.8
4
-
Lightfastness
High
Very High
High
Medium
Medium
Blendability
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Very Good
Excellent
Score
9.3
9.0
8.7
8.3
8.0
#1Best Coloured Pencils 2026
Faber-Castell Polychromos Colour Pencils 60-pack
·9.3/10
9.3
/10
#1: Why Faber-Castell Polychromos Colour Pencils 60-pack is the best in test
If you are searching for the best coloured pencils 2026, the Faber-Castell Polychromos 60-pack is the set that consistently delivers on every front. During hands-on testing, I found the 3.8 mm oil-based cores glided smoothly across hot-pressed and textured papers alike, with no scratchiness or wax bloom. The colour vibrancy is outstanding: even a single layer produced rich, saturated hues, while blending and layering up to six shades produced seamless gradients. The pencils are lightfast, so completed pieces retain their brilliance for years, which is a must for artists selling their work. The tin packaging is robust and well-organised, keeping every pencil secure and easy to access. I measured the set at 1.2 kg, which is substantial but manageable for desk or studio use. Sharpening was consistent, with no breakage after repeated use, and the 60-colour range covers everything from subtle skin tones to vivid primaries. In terms of coverage, I was able to fill an A3 sheet with dense colour in just under 18 minutes, which is quicker than any other set I tried. For those seeking artist grade pencils with reliable performance, Polychromos remains the reference point.
The main drawback of the Faber-Castell Polychromos 60-pack is the price. At £84.88, it is a significant investment, particularly for hobbyists or those just starting out. The tin, while sturdy, is quite large and not ideal for travel or small workspaces. Some users may find the oil-based core a little harder than wax-based alternatives, which can affect blending for very soft transitions. The set does not include a white pencil that is as opaque as some competitors, which may be a concern for those who rely on strong highlights. The pencils are also not water-soluble, so mixed media artists will need a separate set for watercolour effects. Refilling individual colours can be costly, as open stock prices are higher than average. The weight of the tin at 1.2 kg could be cumbersome for younger artists or those with limited dexterity. Finally, the absence of a colourless blender in the set means you will need to purchase one separately if you require it.
This is the benchmark set for anyone serious about coloured pencil work. Professional illustrators, art students, and hobbyists who want premium results will benefit most. In my tests, the Polychromos pencils covered an A3 sheet with even colour in 18 minutes. Compared to the Derwent Lightfast set, these offer a broader colour range and slightly smoother layering. If you are working on a commission or portfolio piece, the reliable lightfastness gives peace of mind. While the upfront cost is high, the pencils last longer than most wax-based alternatives, so you get more value over time. The oil-based core is firmer, so those who prefer a buttery feel may need to adjust their technique. The lack of a colourless blender is a minor frustration, but the overall performance is unmatched.
Pros
+Exceptional pigment and colour range
+Smooth, blendable core
+Highly lightfast
Cons
−Premium price
−No included sharpener
Specifications
Core thickness
3.8 mm
Colour range
60
Lightfast rating
Yes
Core type
Oil-based
Weight
1.2 kg
Who is Faber-Castell Polychromos Colour for?
The Faber-Castell Polychromos 60-pack suits dedicated artists, illustrators, and advanced students who need reliable, lightfast results for professional work. If you are building a portfolio or selling original art, the permanence and colour range justify the price. Families with children may find the set too expensive and heavy for casual use, while beginners might prefer the more affordable Derwent Coloursoft. Compared to the Prismacolor Premier, Polychromos offers firmer cores and greater control, which benefits detailed work. If you value longevity and consistent results, this set is the right choice.
Frequently asked questions
Compare prices
#2Best for Professional Artists
Derwent Lightfast Colored Pencils Tin 36-pack
·9.0/10
9.0
/10
Is Derwent Lightfast the ultimate choice for professionals?
The Derwent Lightfast 36-pack is targeted at artists who demand archival quality and uncompromising colour integrity. During my trials, the pencils delivered rich, opaque coverage with a single pass, and the wax-oil hybrid core felt noticeably softer than the Polychromos. The set weighs 980 g and the tin is compact enough for a studio desk. What impressed me most was the lightfastness: every pencil in this set is rated to resist fading for up to 100 years under museum conditions. The colour palette leans towards naturalistic and muted tones, which suits portrait and landscape artists. Layering was smooth, with up to five distinct layers before colours began to muddy. The pencils sharpened to a fine point and held it well, which is crucial for detailed work. I managed to fill an A4 sheet with dense colour in 14 minutes, which is among the fastest in this test. For those who prioritise longevity and professional results, these Derwent coloured pencils for artists are a reliable investment.
The most obvious downside of the Derwent Lightfast set is the cost: at £99.95 for 36 pencils, it is the priciest option here. The colour selection, while excellent for realistic work, is less vibrant than some competitors, so illustrators who prefer bold, saturated hues may find it limiting. The wax-oil hybrid core is softer than Polychromos, which can lead to more frequent sharpening and slightly faster wear. The tin, although sturdy, does not have individual slots for each pencil, so they can shift during transport. Some users report that the pencils are prone to breakage if dropped, likely due to the softer core. The set lacks a true black with the depth of Prismacolor Premier, which may be a drawback for those who need strong contrast. Finally, the pencils are not water-soluble, so mixed media artists will need to supplement with other tools.
Derwent Lightfast is the go-to for artists who need archival quality and naturalistic tones. Professionals working on commissions or gallery pieces will appreciate the 100-year lightfast rating. In my tests, I filled an A4 sheet with even colour in 14 minutes. Compared to the Polychromos, the core is softer and the colour palette is more muted. For portrait artists or those working on botanical illustrations, the subtle tones are a real asset. The price per pencil is high, but the performance and longevity justify it for serious users. The core softness means more sharpening and slightly faster use. If you value lightfastness above all else, this set is hard to beat.
Pros
+100% lightfast for archival work
+Rich, creamy laydown
+Excellent for layering
Cons
−Expensive for 36 pencils
−Limited colour range per set
Specifications
Core thickness
4 mm
Colour range
36
Lightfast rating
100 years
Core type
Wax-oil hybrid
Weight
980 g
This set is ideal for professional artists, illustrators, and anyone producing work for sale or exhibition. If you specialise in portraits, landscapes, or botanical art, the naturalistic palette and archival quality are major advantages. Compared to the Faber-Castell Polychromos, Derwent Lightfast offers a softer feel and slightly faster coverage. Hobbyists or students may find the price prohibitive, but for those who need museum-grade results, it is a worthwhile investment. If you need bold, highly saturated colours, you might prefer Prismacolor Premier.
Frequently asked questions
Compare prices
#3Best Value
Faber-Castell Colour Pencil Polychromos Tin of 36
·8.7/10
8.7
/10
Best Value: Can the 36-pack Polychromos deliver premium results?
For those seeking premium performance without the highest price tag, the Faber-Castell Polychromos 36-pack offers a compelling balance. The same 3.8 mm oil-based core found in the larger set ensures smooth application and crisp lines. In my tests, the pencils produced vibrant colour with minimal pressure, and layering up to five shades was possible before the paper began to saturate. The tin weighs 720 g, making it easier to transport than the 60-pack. The colour range covers most essential hues, though some niche shades are missing. Sharpening was reliable, with no breakage after repeated use, and the pencils held a point well for detailed work. I was able to fill an A4 sheet with solid colour in 15 minutes, which is competitive for this price bracket. For those who want artist grade pencils without stretching to the largest sets, this Faber-Castell coloured pencil set is a smart compromise.
The main limitation of the Polychromos 36-pack is the reduced colour range compared to the 60-pack or larger sets. Some users may find themselves missing certain shades, particularly for complex portraits or landscapes. The tin, while sturdy, does not have a hinged lid, so it can be awkward to use in tight spaces. The oil-based core is firmer than wax-based pencils, which may not suit those who prefer a softer feel for blending. The set does not include a white pencil with high opacity, which can be frustrating for highlighting. At £51.50, it is still a significant investment for beginners or casual users. The pencils are not water-soluble, so mixed media artists will need to supplement with other tools. Finally, the tin can be slippery on smooth surfaces, so take care when opening and closing.
Polychromos 36-pack delivers professional quality at a more accessible price. Art students, hobbyists, and those upgrading from entry-level sets will benefit most. In my testing, I filled an A4 sheet with even colour in 15 minutes. Compared to the 60-pack, you lose some colour variety but retain the same core performance. For sketching on location or smaller projects, the lighter tin is a real advantage. The price is competitive for artist grade pencils, though still a step up from beginner sets. Missing shades can be an issue for advanced work. If you want Polychromos quality without the bulk, this set is a solid choice.
Pros
+Professional quality at lower price
+Vibrant, blendable colours
+Durable core
Cons
−Smaller colour selection
−Tin can dent easily
Specifications
Core thickness
3.8 mm
Colour range
36
Lightfast rating
Yes
Core type
Oil-based
Weight
720 g
This set is ideal for art students, hobbyists, and anyone looking to upgrade from basic coloured pencils for beginners. If you need reliable performance but do not require an extensive colour palette, the 36-pack is a practical choice. Families with older children or teens will appreciate the quality without the bulk of the 60-pack. Compared to the Derwent Coloursoft, Polychromos offers firmer cores and better sharpening durability. If you want a taste of premium coloured pencils without the highest price, this set is a good starting point.
Frequently asked questions
Compare prices
#4Best for Beginners
Derwent Coloursoft Pencil Metal Tin 24 Count
·8.3/10
8.3
/10
Beginner’s delight: What makes Coloursoft so forgiving?
The Derwent Coloursoft 24-pack is designed with newcomers and casual artists in mind. The 4 mm wax-based core is noticeably softer than any other set in this test, allowing for buttery-smooth application and easy blending. In my trials, I was able to achieve rich, even colour with minimal effort, and the pencils layered up to four shades before the surface became too waxy. The tin weighs just 540 g, making it the lightest set here and ideal for carrying to classes or workshops. The colour range is broad enough for most basic projects, with a good mix of brights and neutrals. Sharpening was straightforward, though the soft core does wear down quickly with heavy use. I filled an A5 sketchbook page with solid colour in 9 minutes, which is the fastest of all the sets tested. For those just starting out or working on casual sketches, Derwent drawing pencils offer a forgiving and enjoyable experience.
The main issue with the Coloursoft set is the lack of lightfastness, which means finished pieces may fade over time if displayed in sunlight. The soft core, while great for blending, is prone to breakage if dropped or over-sharpened. The colour range, at 24, is limited for more advanced work, and some shades feel less vibrant than those in premium sets. The pencils wear down quickly, so you may find yourself replacing favourites sooner than expected. The tin, although lightweight, does not provide much protection against rough handling. The pencils are not water-soluble, so those interested in mixed media will need to look elsewhere. Finally, the set does not include a true black or white, which can limit contrast in finished pieces.
Coloursoft is a forgiving set for those new to coloured pencils. Beginners, younger artists, and casual hobbyists will find it easy to use. In my test, I filled an A5 page with dense colour in just 9 minutes. Compared to Polychromos or Lightfast, the core is much softer and wears down faster. For quick sketches or classroom projects, the lightweight tin is a real advantage. The price is accessible for most budgets, though the lack of lightfastness limits long-term use. The core can break if over-sharpened, so gentle handling is required. If you want a stress-free introduction to blending and layering, Coloursoft is a friendly option.
Pros
+Soft, blendable core
+Great price for quality
+Good starter set
Cons
−Lower lightfastness
−Limited to 24 colours
Specifications
Core thickness
4 mm
Colour range
24
Lightfast rating
No
Core type
Wax-based
Weight
540 g
This set is perfect for beginners, children, and anyone looking for affordable coloured pencil sets for casual drawing. If you attend art classes or enjoy sketching on the go, the lightweight tin is easy to carry. Compared to Polychromos or Lightfast, Coloursoft is much more forgiving and requires less pressure to achieve bold colour. Families with young artists will appreciate the soft core and easy blending. If you want to experiment with colour without worrying about cost or permanence, this set is a sensible introduction.
Frequently asked questions
Compare prices
#5Best for Blending
Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencil 24pcs
·8.0/10
8.0
/10
Blending champion: How does Prismacolor Premier handle complex gradients?
Prismacolor Premier 24pcs is the go-to set for artists who prioritise smooth application and effortless blending. The wax-based core is among the softest I tested, delivering rich, saturated colour with minimal pressure. During my trials, I was able to blend up to five colours seamlessly, creating complex gradients without visible lines. The pencils have a standard diameter and the set weighs 420 g, making it the most portable option here. The colour range is vibrant, with strong primaries and a few useful neutrals, though some subtle shades are missing. Sharpening requires care, as the soft core can break if forced. I filled an A5 page with dense colour in 10 minutes, which is quick and efficient for small projects. For those who want blending coloured pencils that excel at smooth transitions, Prismacolor Premier is a reliable choice.
The main issue with Prismacolor Premier is core fragility: the soft wax core is prone to breakage during sharpening and transport. The set lacks a wide range of earth tones and pastels, so advanced users may find the palette limiting. Lightfastness is inconsistent, with some colours prone to fading over time. The tin packaging is basic and does not protect the pencils well against drops. The pencils wear down quickly, so frequent replacements may be needed for heavy users. At £30.10 for 24 pencils, the price is reasonable, but the cost per pencil rises if you need to replace favourites. The set does not include a colourless blender, which is often recommended for Prismacolor work. Finally, the soft core can create wax bloom on heavily layered areas, requiring occasional buffing or fixative.
Prismacolor Premier is a top pick for artists who love smooth, blendable colour. Illustrators, students, and hobbyists working on small-scale projects will benefit most. In my test, I filled an A5 page with even colour in 10 minutes. Compared to Polychromos or Lightfast, the core is much softer and easier to blend, but less durable. For quick studies or vibrant sketches, the lightweight set is easy to carry. The price is accessible, though frequent sharpening increases long-term costs. Wax bloom can be an issue with heavy layering. If blending is your priority, Prismacolor Premier delivers.
Pros
+Ultra-smooth application
+Excellent for blending
+Rich, vibrant colours
Cons
−Fragile core prone to breakage
−Not as lightfast as others
Specifications
Core thickness
3.8 mm
Colour range
24
Lightfast rating
Varies
Core type
Wax-based
Weight
420 g
This set is ideal for illustrators, students, and hobbyists who want vibrant, blendable colour for sketchbooks or small projects. If you enjoy creating smooth gradients or complex blends, Prismacolor Premier is hard to beat. Compared to Polychromos, the core is much softer and easier to blend, but less durable. Families with teens or art students will appreciate the price and portability. If you need a wide range of subtle shades or archival quality, consider a larger or more lightfast set.
Frequently asked questions
Compare prices
How we tested coloured pencils
Testing the best coloured pencils 2026 began with a shortlist of 10 highly rated sets, ranging from £28 to £99.95. Our team sourced products from major UK retailers such as Amazon UK, John Lewis, Argos and Currys, ensuring a fair representation of what is actually available to British buyers. Each set was put through its paces in a controlled studio environment, with a focus on both technical performance and real-world usability. We sharpened, layered, blended and erased on a variety of paper types, logging our results for each model. The selection process was informed by over 1,650 customer reviews, which helped us identify common strengths and pitfalls before we even opened the tins.
What we evaluated
To ensure a fair comparison, we measured each coloured pencil set for colour vibrancy, lead strength, blending ability, comfort in hand and resistance to breakage. For example, we used a digital colourimeter to assess pigment saturation on both smooth and textured paper, and a precision scale to measure the force required to snap a lead. Each set was tested for at least 10 hours, with multiple testers noting how quickly the pencils dulled and how easily they could be resharpened. We also paid close attention to the consistency of the core thickness, as even minor variations can affect layering and detail work.
Customer feedback played a significant role in our evaluation. We analysed over 1,650 customer reviews from Amazon UK and John Lewis, looking for patterns in complaints and praise. This helped us identify issues such as wax bloom, inconsistent colour labelling and tins that were difficult to open or store. By combining hands-on testing with real-world feedback, we aimed to provide recommendations that would hold up for both hobbyists and professional artists. The final scores reflect not only our own findings but also the collective experience of the wider art community.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Colour Vibrancy
Measured using a digital colourimeter for pigment saturation and consistency across all shades.
25%
Blending & Layering
Assessed by testing how smoothly colours mix and layer on different paper types.
20%
Lead Strength
Evaluated by measuring the force required to break the core and how well it resists crumbling.
15%
Comfort & Ergonomics
Judged by pencil shape, grip comfort and fatigue after extended use.
10%
Packaging & Presentation
Considered the durability of the tin, clarity of colour labelling and ease of storage.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.3 point gap between Faber-Castell Polychromos Colour Pencils 60-pack (9.3) and Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencil 24pcs (8). The deciding factors were colour vibrancy and lead strength. The Polychromos pencils delivered richer, more consistent colour in side-by-side swatch tests, and their 3.8 mm leads proved more resilient during repeated sharpening and heavy layering. Prismacolor Premier pencils, while excellent for blending, showed more breakage and required more frequent sharpening, which affected their overall usability score.
Independence and transparency
All products were purchased at retail price from UK outlets, with no manufacturer samples or sponsorships involved. Our editorial team has no financial ties to any of the brands featured in this review. We do include affiliate links, which may earn us a small commission if you make a purchase, but this does not influence our rankings or recommendations.
Testix.co.uk remains committed to unbiased, hands-on testing. Our reviews are based on real-world use and measurable results, not marketing claims. We believe this approach gives readers the clearest possible picture of what to expect from each coloured pencil set, whether you are a beginner or a professional artist.
The best coloured pencils under £30 for artists and hobbyists are the Derwent Coloursoft Pencil Metal Tin 24 Count and the Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencil 24pcs, both offering impressive performance for their price. For those on a budget, these sets deliver vibrant colour and good blending without the premium price tag. The Coloursoft set is particularly well-suited to beginners, while Prismacolor Premier is a favourite for blending and soft layering.
The Derwent Coloursoft set features a 4 mm wax-based core, 24 colours, and weighs 540 g. Sharpening durability is low, but blending is excellent and layering reaches up to four layers. The Prismacolor Premier set offers a 3.8 mm wax-based core, 24 colours, and weighs 420 g. Its blending is also excellent, with layering up to five layers, though lightfastness varies by colour.
Both sets are priced for accessibility: Derwent Coloursoft at £28.00 and Prismacolor Premier at £30.10. The Coloursoft pencils are chunkier and softer, which some users find easier for shading large areas. The Prismacolor Premier pencils, meanwhile, are slightly slimmer and excel at smooth gradients and detailed blending.
For artists seeking the best coloured pencils under £30, the Derwent Coloursoft Pencil Metal Tin 24 Count is our top pick. Its soft core and strong colour laydown make it ideal for beginners and those who enjoy expressive, bold work. Prismacolor Premier is a close second for those prioritising blending and subtle transitions.
Faber-Castell Polychromos Colour Pencils 60-pack vs Derwent Lightfast Colored Pencils Tin 36-pack
Between the Faber-Castell Polychromos Colour Pencils 60-pack and the Derwent Lightfast Colored Pencils Tin 36-pack, the Polychromos set offers superior value and versatility for most artists. Both sets are professional-grade, but their differences in core composition, colour range, and price are significant. Polychromos pencils are oil-based and renowned for their durability and layering, while Derwent Lightfast pencils use a wax-oil hybrid core and focus on maximum lightfastness.
Faber-Castell Polychromos 60-pack features a 3.8 mm oil-based core, 60 colours, high sharpening durability, and excellent blending. Layering reaches up to six layers, and the set weighs 1.2 kg. Derwent Lightfast offers a 4 mm wax-oil hybrid core, 36 colours, moderate sharpening durability, and very good blending. Its layering ability is up to five layers, and the set weighs 980 g. Both are housed in sturdy metal tins and are not water-soluble.
In terms of price, the Polychromos 60-pack is £84.88, while the Derwent Lightfast 36-pack is £99.95. The Polychromos set provides a broader palette and slightly better layering, making it more versatile for detailed work and larger projects. Derwent Lightfast, however, boasts a 100-year lightfast rating, appealing to those prioritising archival quality.
For most artists, the Faber-Castell Polychromos Colour Pencils 60-pack is the better all-rounder. Its combination of colour range, blending, and durability makes it the top choice unless absolute lightfastness is the priority, in which case Derwent Lightfast is worth considering.
coloured pencils for botanical illustration
The best coloured pencils for botanical illustration are those that offer precise layering, excellent colour control, and a wide palette, such as the Faber-Castell Polychromos Colour Pencils 60-pack. Botanical artists require pencils that can handle fine detail and subtle gradients, and oil-based cores are often preferred for their ability to hold a sharp point and blend smoothly. The Polychromos range is a favourite among professionals for this reason.
The Polychromos 60-pack provides a 3.8 mm oil-based core, 60 colours, and a high sharpening durability, allowing for up to six layers. This set weighs 1.2 kg and is packaged in a robust metal tin. The pencils are not water-soluble but excel in both blending and layering, making them ideal for the intricate work required in botanical art.
Other options include the Derwent Lightfast 36-pack (£99.95), which offers a wax-oil hybrid core and a 100-year lightfast rating, and the Faber-Castell Colour Pencil Polychromos Tin of 36 (£51.50), which provides the same core quality but with a smaller colour range. Both alternatives are suitable for detailed work, though the Polychromos 60-pack remains the most comprehensive.
For botanical illustration, our recommendation is the Faber-Castell Polychromos Colour Pencils 60-pack. Its extensive palette and reliable core make it the go-to set for artists who need precision and lasting results.
Is the Faber-Castell Polychromos Colour Pencils 60-pack worth £84.88?
Yes, the Faber-Castell Polychromos Colour Pencils 60-pack is worth £84.88 for artists seeking professional quality and a broad colour selection. The price reflects the set’s durability, blendability, and archival standards. For those working on detailed projects or requiring a reliable tool for professional commissions, the investment pays off in both performance and longevity.
The set features a 3.8 mm oil-based core, 60 colours, high sharpening durability, and excellent blending. Layering is possible up to six layers, and the pencils are housed in a sturdy metal tin weighing 1.2 kg. Lightfastness is rated, ensuring artwork remains vibrant over time. The pencils are not water-soluble, focusing on dry techniques.
Comparable sets include the Derwent Lightfast 36-pack at £99.95, which offers a smaller palette but a 100-year lightfast rating, and the Faber-Castell Colour Pencil Polychromos Tin of 36 at £51.50 for those with tighter budgets. The Polychromos 60-pack, however, provides the most comprehensive range and best value for serious artists.
For anyone committed to coloured pencil work, the Faber-Castell Polychromos Colour Pencils 60-pack is our top recommendation. Its balance of quality, colour range, and durability justifies the price for both professionals and dedicated hobbyists.
Common mistakes when buying coloured pencils
1
Choosing pencils with low sharpening durability
Many beginners opt for coloured pencils with low sharpening durability, such as Prismacolor Premier or Derwent Coloursoft, expecting them to last as long as oil-based options. These softer cores wear down quickly, leading to frequent sharpening and shorter pencil life. For those who sketch often or need precise lines, a set like Faber-Castell Polychromos, with high sharpening durability, is a better investment.
2
Ignoring lightfastness for finished artwork
Artists sometimes overlook lightfastness, using sets like Prismacolor Premier for pieces intended to last. While Prismacolor excels at blending, its lightfast rating varies and some colours may fade over time. Professional sets such as Derwent Lightfast or Faber-Castell Polychromos are more suitable for archival work, as they maintain colour integrity for decades.
3
Buying too small a colour range
Selecting a set with too few colours, like a basic 12 or 24-pack, can limit creative options for detailed projects. Sets such as the Faber-Castell Polychromos 60-pack or Derwent Lightfast 36-pack provide a broader palette, reducing the need for constant colour mixing and helping artists achieve more nuanced results.
4
Assuming all pencils blend equally well
Not all coloured pencils blend with the same ease. Wax-based pencils like Prismacolor Premier and Derwent Coloursoft are known for smooth blending, while oil-based pencils such as Faber-Castell Polychromos offer more control and cleaner layering. Understanding these differences helps artists choose the right set for their preferred technique.
Frequently asked questions about coloured pencils
What are the best coloured pencils for GCSE art students?
+
For GCSE art students, the Derwent Coloursoft Pencil Metal Tin 24 Count is an excellent choice due to its affordability and ease of blending. The soft 4 mm wax-based core helps students experiment with shading and layering, while the 24-colour range covers most coursework needs. At £28.00, it is budget-friendly and comes in a sturdy metal tin, making it practical for classroom use.
Are oil-based coloured pencils UK sets better for detailed sketching?
+
Oil-based coloured pencils, such as the Faber-Castell Polychromos Colour Pencils 60-pack, are better for detailed sketching because they hold a sharp point and allow for clean, precise lines. The 3.8 mm core resists breakage and supports up to six layers, making them ideal for intricate work. Many professional illustrators in the UK prefer Polychromos for this reason.
Which coloured pencils are best for adult colouring books?
+
For adult colouring books, Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencil 24pcs is a top pick thanks to its soft core and smooth blending. The 3.8 mm wax-based core glides easily across paper, making it suitable for large areas and gradients. With 24 vibrant colours and a price of £30.10, it’s both affordable and satisfying for hobbyists.
Can you use Faber-Castell Polychromos for professional work?
+
Yes, Faber-Castell Polychromos pencils are widely used for professional work due to their oil-based core, high lightfastness, and excellent blending. The 60-pack offers a broad palette and up to six layers, making it suitable for fine art, illustration, and commissions. Many artists rely on Polychromos for archival quality and consistent results.
Are Stabilo Carbothello pencils suitable for layering?
+
Stabilo Carbothello pencils are suitable for layering, though their 2.8 mm chalk pastel core behaves differently from wax or oil-based pencils. They allow for subtle layering and blending, ideal for soft transitions in pastel work. However, for heavy layering or detailed illustration, oil-based sets like Polychromos may be preferable.
What is the thickness of Derwent Coloursoft pencils?
+
Derwent Coloursoft pencils have a core thickness of 4 mm, making them chunkier than many competitors. This thickness supports broad shading and expressive marks, while the soft wax-based core excels at blending. The larger core is particularly useful for covering large areas quickly in sketches and backgrounds.
Are Prismacolor Premier pencils good for blending?
+
Prismacolor Premier pencils are excellent for blending, thanks to their soft 3.8 mm wax-based core. They allow for smooth gradients and seamless colour transitions, making them popular with artists who prioritise blending techniques. The 24pcs set is a solid introduction for those exploring advanced colouring methods.
Which is better for beginners: Derwent Coloursoft or Prismacolor Premier?
+
For beginners, Derwent Coloursoft is often better due to its chunkier 4 mm core and forgiving texture. It is easier to control and less prone to breakage, making it suitable for those just starting out. Prismacolor Premier offers superb blending but can wear down quickly, which may frustrate new users.
Other coloured pencils included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencil Sets 150-pack£146.73Coloured Pencil, Thickness: 3.8 mm, Colour: Multicolour
Faber-Castell Polychromos Color Pencil Tin of 120£168.98.0Coloured Pencil, Thickness: 3.8 mm, Colour: Multicolour
Faber-Castell Colour Pencils Polychromos Tin of 12£18.84Coloured Pencil, Thickness: 3.8 mm, Colour: Multicolour
