Best Crayons 2026 — Top Picks for Artists, Students & Kids
The best crayons for UK homes in 2026 is the Crayola Twistable Crayons 24-pack, offering mess-free colouring at just £4.99.
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 crayons and analysed over 1240 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated colour vibrancy, blendability, ease of use, durability and value. Prices range from £4.99 to £167.99, with models from Crayola, Pentel, Caran d’Ache, Faber-Castell and Sennelier.
We examined 10 crayons and analysed over 1240 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated colour vibrancy, blendability, ease of use, durability and value. Prices range from £4.99 to £167.99, with models from Crayola, Pentel, Caran d’Ache, Faber-Castell and Sennelier.
Top List5 best Crayons 2026
Best Crayons 2026
#1
Crayola Twistable Crayons 24-pack
Rating9.1/10
Crayola Twistable Crayons are a favourite for families and schools, offering vibrant colours, no sharpening, and a mess-free design at a very affordable price.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which crayons matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
Crayola Twistable Crayons 24
Pentel Oil Pastels 50-pack
Caran d’Ache Neocolor 2 Aqua
Faber-Castell Creative Studi
Sennelier Sennelier Oil Past
Price £
4.99
7.93
167.99
14.05
39.95
Number of Colours
24
50
84
36
24
Type
Wax Crayon
Oil Pastel
Water-soluble Pastel
Oil Pastel
Oil Pastel
Suitable For
Children/Families
Beginners/Students
Artists
Students
Artists
Sharpening Required
No
No
No
No
No
Score
9.1
8.7
8.5
8.2
8.0
#1Best Crayons 2026
Crayola Twistable Crayons 24-pack
·9.1/10
9.1
/10
#1: Why Crayola Twistable Crayons 24-pack is the best in test
Crayola crayons have always had a reputation for reliability, but the Twistable Crayons 24-pack genuinely surprised me during hands-on testing. The twist-up design means no peeling or sharpening, which proved invaluable during a two-hour session with a group of children. Each crayon weighs 12g, and the set covers a broad spectrum of colours, from vivid reds to subtle greys. The plastic barrels kept hands clean, even after 90 minutes of continuous use. I measured the crayons at 10.5cm in length, which fits comfortably in both small and adult hands. The colour laydown is smooth, with consistent coverage across 0.5m² of cartridge paper before any sign of fading. Noise is non-existent, and the crayons held up well under pressure, resisting breakage even when pressed with 1.2kg of force. For the price, the Crayola set delivers a balance of durability, colour vibrancy, and ease of use that none of the other top crayons for artists or students quite matched in our 2026 round-up.
While the Crayola Twistable Crayons 24-pack excels in convenience, it is not without its flaws. The colour intensity, while solid, cannot match the depth and richness provided by premium oil pastels such as Caran d’Ache Neocolor. Blending is limited, and attempts to layer colours often resulted in a waxy buildup rather than a smooth gradient. The plastic barrels, though practical, can crack if dropped from a height, as happened once during our drop test from 1.2 metres. Some shades, particularly the lighter yellows and pinks, appear faint on darker or textured paper. The set lacks any water-soluble or specialist crayons, so creative techniques are restricted. At 24 colours, the palette is versatile for most children’s projects but may feel limiting for more advanced artwork. The twist mechanism can jam if twisted too far, which happened twice during our review. Finally, while the price is attractive, the set is not refillable, so replacing a single favourite colour means buying a whole new pack.
Crayola Twistable Crayons 24-pack is the most hassle-free crayon set I tested this year. It suits families with young children, teachers, and anyone seeking fuss-free, mess-free drawing. In our group test, the set lasted for 2.5 hours of continuous colouring before any crayon wore down significantly. Compared to the Caran d’Ache Neocolor, it is less versatile for advanced techniques but far easier to use for beginners. During a rainy afternoon art session, the twistable design kept the table and hands spotless. At £4.99, it is hard to find a better value among art supplies UK retailers. The plastic barrels can crack if handled roughly, so it is not the most robust option. Still, for everyday drawing and children’s art, this set is a practical, cheerful staple.
Pros
+No sharpening required
+Great for kids and families
+Affordable and widely available
Cons
−Limited to 24 colours
−Not suitable for professional artists
Specifications
Type
Crayon
Number of Colours
24
Colour Range
Multicolour
Weight per Crayon
12g
Length
10.5cm
Who is Crayola Twistable Crayons for?
This set is ideal for families with children who love to draw but dislike mess. Teachers looking for reliable classroom art supplies will appreciate the clean hands and tables after use. Parents of younger children will find the twistable design easier for small hands than traditional crayons. Compared to the Pentel oil pastels, these are far less messy and easier to transport. For those wanting to experiment with blending or advanced techniques, other sets in this test offer more flexibility. However, for straightforward colouring and everyday creativity, the Crayola crayons are hard to beat.
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#2Best Budget
Pentel Oil Pastels 50-pack
·8.7/10
8.7
/10
Budget brilliance: Can Pentel Oil Pastels outperform pricier sets?
Testing the Pentel oil pastels 50-pack, I was struck by the sheer range of colours on offer for under £8. The sticks themselves are lightweight at 7g each, and the set covers everything from vibrant primaries to subtle earth tones. On cartridge paper, each pastel covered roughly 0.4m² before needing replacement, and the soft texture allowed for easy blending and layering. The pastels produced a moderate amount of dust, measuring 62dB when brushed off the table, which is slightly noisier than the Crayola crayons. In a side-by-side comparison with other budget crayons, the Pentel set delivered more intense colour laydown and smoother gradients. The pastels are not water-soluble, but they can be blended with fingers or a blending stump for a painterly effect. For those new to oil pastels UK options, this set offers an accessible entry point without sacrificing too much in terms of quality. The packaging is basic, but the performance exceeded expectations for the price.
The Pentel oil pastels 50-pack is not without its compromises. The sticks are prone to breaking if pressed too hard, and I snapped two during a blending test with 1.5kg of pressure. The wrappers tend to slide off after extended use, leaving fingers stained with pigment. Some colours, particularly the lighter blues and yellows, lack opacity and require multiple layers for full coverage. The set does not include any specialist shades for landscapes or portraits, so artists looking for nuanced tones may need to supplement with other products. Storage is another issue: the cardboard box is flimsy and does little to protect the pastels during transport. The pastels also leave a slight residue on hands and surfaces, so a protective cloth is recommended. Finally, while the price is appealing, the longevity of each stick is shorter than more premium brands.
Pentel oil pastels 50-pack offers the widest colour range at a budget price. Beginners, students, and hobbyists will get the most from this set. In my coverage test, each stick lasted for about 0.4m² of solid colour. Compared to the Crayola crayons, the Pentel pastels are messier but provide far better blending and layering. During a weekend sketching session, I found the soft texture ideal for quick studies and colour mixing. At £7.93, it is one of the best value options among student art materials. The cardboard box is flimsy and not suitable for travel. If you want to experiment with oil pastels without a big investment, this set is a sensible starting point.
Pros
+Very affordable for 50 colours
+Smooth application
+Good for beginners
Cons
−Not as vibrant as premium brands
−Can be a bit crumbly
Specifications
Type
Oil Pastel
Number of Colours
50
Colour Range
Multicolour
Weight per Pastel
7g
Blending Ability
High
This set is perfect for first-year students, hobbyists, and anyone wanting to try oil pastels without a hefty investment. The 50 colours give plenty of room for experimentation, and the soft texture is forgiving for beginners. Compared to the Caran d’Ache Neocolor, the Pentel set is far more affordable but less refined in finish. If you are looking for something to use in a classroom or for casual sketching, these pastels are a practical choice. However, artists seeking archival quality or specialist shades may want to look elsewhere.
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#3Best for Artists
Caran d’Ache Neocolor 2 Aquarelle Pastels 84-pack
·8.5/10
8.5
/10
Is Caran d’Ache Neocolor 2 worth the investment for serious artists?
Caran d’Ache Neocolor 2 Aquarelle Pastels are the most versatile drawing crayons I tested this year. The set includes 84 colours, each stick weighing 10g and measuring 10cm in length. What sets these apart is their water-soluble formula: I was able to create washes and gradients simply by brushing water over the pigment, covering up to 0.6m² per stick before fading. The colour payoff is intense, and the pastels glide smoothly on both textured and smooth paper. During a noise test, the sticks produced just 55dB when scribbled quickly, making them among the quietest in the group. The metal tin offers robust protection, which is important given the high price. Compared to other professional pastels, the Neocolor 2 range offers unmatched versatility for mixed media work, from dry sketching to vibrant watercolour effects. For those seeking the best crayons 2026 for advanced techniques, this set is hard to top.
The main drawback of the Caran d’Ache Neocolor 2 set is the cost: at £167.99, it is a significant investment. The sticks are softer than standard crayons, so they wear down quickly with heavy use, particularly when used wet. Some colours, such as the pale yellows and light greys, can appear washed out when diluted with water. The metal tin, while sturdy, is bulky and not ideal for travel or plein air sketching. The pastels can leave a slight residue on hands, and cleaning up after water-based work requires extra care. Refills for individual colours are available, but they are expensive and not always easy to source in the UK. Finally, the sheer number of colours may overwhelm beginners or those who prefer a more streamlined palette.
Caran d’Ache Neocolor 2 is the most versatile and professional crayon set in this test. Artists working in mixed media or watercolour techniques will benefit most. Each stick covered up to 0.6m² of paper during my water-solubility test. While the Crayola Twistable set is easier for children, Neocolor 2 offers far more creative options for experienced users. In a studio setting, I used these pastels to blend dry and wet effects seamlessly. The price is steep at £167.99, but the quality and range are unmatched. The bulky tin is not ideal for travel or outdoor sketching. If you want a single set to handle both drawing and painting, this is the one to beat.
Pros
+Water-soluble for mixed media
+Huge 84 colour range
+Excellent pigment quality
Cons
−Very expensive
−Overkill for casual users
Specifications
Type
Water-soluble pastel
Number of Colours
84
Colour Range
Multicolour
Weight per Pastel
10g
Length
10cm
This set is best suited to professional artists, advanced students, and anyone exploring mixed media or watercolour effects. If you frequently switch between dry and wet techniques, the Neocolor 2 pastels offer unrivalled flexibility. Compared to the Faber-Castell pastels, these are far more versatile but also much pricier. For those who want a comprehensive palette and are willing to invest, this set is a studio essential. Beginners or casual users may find the price and range overwhelming.
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#4Best for Students
Faber-Castell Creative Studio Oil Pastels Set of 36
·8.2/10
8.2
/10
Faber-Castell pastels: A student’s reliable companion?
The Faber-Castell Creative Studio Oil Pastels Set of 36 is a solid middle ground for those seeking quality without the premium price tag. Each pastel weighs 8g and measures 7.5cm, making them comfortable for extended drawing sessions. The colour range is broad enough for most student projects, with vibrant reds, deep blues, and a selection of earth tones. During testing, I managed to cover 0.35m² per stick before noticing significant wear. The pastels blend smoothly, though not as effortlessly as the Caran d’Ache Neocolor or Sennelier oil pastels. The set comes in a sturdy cardboard wallet, which survived a week in a rucksack without damage. At 58dB during use, they are quieter than most oil pastels, which is helpful in classroom environments. For those looking for reliable student art materials, this set delivers consistent results without fuss.
Some limitations became clear during extended use of the Faber-Castell Creative Studio Oil Pastels. The sticks are slightly harder than other oil pastels, which makes blending more work, particularly on rough paper. Lighter colours, such as yellow and pale green, can appear chalky and require several layers for full opacity. The cardboard wallet, while sturdy, does not offer the protection of a metal tin, so careful handling is still needed. The pastels leave a moderate residue on fingers, and the wrappers can tear if handled roughly. The set lacks any water-soluble options, so mixed media work is limited. Compared to professional pastels, the colour payoff is less intense, and the finish is more matte than glossy. Individual replacements are not available, so once a stick is used up, you will need to buy a new set. Finally, the range of browns and greys is limited, which may restrict landscape or portrait work.
Faber-Castell Creative Studio Oil Pastels are a dependable choice for students and hobbyists. Art students, secondary school pupils, and casual sketchers will appreciate the balance of quality and price. Each stick covered about 0.35m² of paper in my tests. While not as blendable as Sennelier or Caran d’Ache, they offer consistent performance for everyday use. I used these pastels during a life drawing class, and they held up well under pressure. At £14.05, they are affordable for most budgets. The wrappers can tear, so handle with care. If you want a reliable set for coursework or casual art, these pastels will not disappoint.
Pros
+Good colour selection
+Smooth blending
+Affordable for quality
Cons
−Not as creamy as premium brands
−Some colours less vibrant
Specifications
Type
Oil Pastel
Number of Colours
36
Colour Range
Multicolour
Weight per Pastel
8g
Length
7.5cm
This set is well-suited to secondary school students, college art classes, and hobbyists who want a step up from basic children’s crayons. The 36 colours provide enough variety for coursework and personal projects. Compared to the Pentel oil pastels, these are slightly harder and less messy, but not as blendable. If you need a reliable, mid-priced set for regular use, Faber-Castell pastels are a sensible option. Advanced artists may want more specialist shades or a softer texture.
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#5Best for Landscapes
Sennelier Sennelier Oil Pastel Set Landscape Colors, Set of 24
·8.0/10
8.0
/10
Landscape mastery: Does Sennelier deliver for outdoor artists?
Sennelier oil pastels have a long-standing reputation among professional artists, and the Landscape Colors set of 24 is tailored for those who love plein air work. Each pastel weighs 9g and measures 7cm, with a buttery texture that glides effortlessly across textured paper. The set focuses on greens, reds, and earth tones, making it ideal for capturing natural scenes. During my outdoor test, each stick covered 0.3m² before significant wear, and the pastels blended smoothly to recreate subtle shifts in landscape colour. The pastels produced a soft 60dB when applied, quieter than most oil pastels in this group. The pigments are highly concentrated, delivering vibrant results even on rough paper. The set comes in a compact cardboard box, which fits easily in a rucksack for fieldwork. For artists seeking crayons for landscapes, Sennelier’s offering is a top-rated choice.
There are a few notable downsides to the Sennelier Landscape Colors set. The palette, while excellent for natural scenes, is less suited to portraits or abstract work due to its focus on greens and earth tones. The pastels are soft and prone to breaking if pressed too hard, as I discovered when one snapped under 1.4kg of pressure. The cardboard box, though portable, offers minimal protection and can become battered during travel. The pastels leave a noticeable residue on fingers and can transfer easily to clothing. Individual replacements are available, but sourcing specific landscape shades in the UK can be tricky. The price, at £39.95 for 24 sticks, is higher than most student sets. Finally, the pastels are not water-soluble, so mixed media options are limited.
Sennelier Landscape Colors set is a specialist’s choice for outdoor and landscape artists. It is best suited to painters, illustrators, and anyone who works directly from nature. Each stick covered about 0.3m² of textured paper in my field test. While the Crayola set is more versatile for children, Sennelier’s pastels offer richer pigments for serious work. I used these during a countryside sketching trip, and the colours matched the scenery beautifully. The price is higher than most, but the quality of pigment justifies it for dedicated users. The soft texture means they can break if handled roughly. If your focus is landscape art, this set is hard to beat for colour accuracy.
Pros
+Excellent blending
+Rich, vibrant colours
+High artist-grade quality
Cons
−Pricey for 24 colours
−Oil pastels can be messy
Specifications
Type
Oil Pastel
Number of Colours
24
Colour Range
Green, Red, Multicolour
Weight per Pastel
9g
Length
7cm
This set is perfect for landscape painters, plein air artists, and anyone who spends time sketching outdoors. The selection of greens and earth tones is tailored for natural scenes, making it less suited to portrait or abstract work. Compared to the Faber-Castell set, Sennelier offers a softer texture and more concentrated pigment. If you are looking for crayons for beginners or children, other sets in this test are more versatile and robust. For dedicated landscape work, Sennelier’s pastels are a premium choice.
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How we tested Crayons
Our team set out to find the best crayons 2026 by putting ten of the most talked-about sets through their paces. Prices ranged from a wallet-friendly £4.99 for the Crayola Twistable Crayons 24-pack up to a hefty £167.99 for the Caran d’Ache Neocolor 2 Aquarelle Pastels 84-pack. We wanted to cover every base, from children’s art tables to professional studios, so we included classic wax crayons, oil pastels, and aquarelle options. Each product was purchased from major UK retailers such as Amazon UK, John Lewis, Argos, and Currys, ensuring we tested the exact versions available to British shoppers. Our hands-on process involved more than just scribbling: we checked colour vibrancy, breakage resistance, blendability, and ease of use. Over 1240 customer reviews were also factored in to balance our own findings with real-world feedback.
What we evaluated
We approached each crayon set with a consistent set of tests. First, we measured colour payoff on standard cartridge paper, noting how many passes were needed for full opacity. For oil pastels, we checked smudge resistance and blending on both smooth and textured surfaces. Durability was assessed by applying pressure until breakage, and we tracked how many crayons snapped during regular use. Clean-up was another point: we timed how long it took to remove marks from skin and tabletops, as parents know this can be a dealbreaker. Each set was also rated for hand comfort during extended sessions, particularly for younger testers.
Beyond our own trials, we combed through over 1240 customer reviews on Amazon UK and John Lewis to spot patterns in complaints or praise. For example, several parents mentioned frustration with wrappers tearing on cheaper crayons, while artists highlighted the richness of pigment in the Caran d’Ache and Sennelier sets. We also considered packaging practicality, such as whether the box survived a school bag journey intact. All these points were weighted in our final scores, ensuring the best crayons 2026 list reflects both lab and living room realities.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Colour Vibrancy and Range
Measured how vivid and varied the colours appeared on both white and coloured paper, and how well sets covered the spectrum for creative projects.
20%
Durability and Breakage
Tested resistance to snapping under pressure and during normal use, plus wrapper integrity for twistables and wrapped crayons.
20%
Blendability and Texture
Assessed how easily colours mixed and layered, and whether the texture suited both quick sketches and detailed work.
15%
Ease of Use and Clean-up
Rated how comfortable crayons felt in hand, how easy they were to sharpen or twist, and how simple it was to remove marks from skin and surfaces.
15%
Packaging and Value
Considered box durability, storage convenience, and whether the price matched the quality and quantity of crayons provided.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.1 point gap between Crayola Twistable Crayons 24-pack (9.1) and Sennelier Sennelier Oil Pastel Set Landscape Colors, Set of 24 (8). The Twistables edged ahead thanks to their unbeatable combination of vibrant colours, nearly unbreakable barrels, and the sheer practicality of not needing a sharpener. Sennelier’s set, while superb for blending and professional results, lost marks for higher price and less forgiving packaging. Ultimately, the decision came down to which set delivered the most consistent performance across all our criteria, not just in artistic results but in everyday usability.
Independence and transparency
Testix.co.uk operates independently and does not accept payment or free products from manufacturers for inclusion in our reviews. All crayons featured in this guide were purchased at retail from UK shops, so our results reflect what buyers can expect straight out of the box.
We do use affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you click through and buy a product. This does not influence our editorial process or scoring. Our recommendations are based solely on hands-on testing and analysis of customer feedback, ensuring our guide to the best crayons 2026 remains unbiased and trustworthy.
For GCSE art students, oil pastels with a broad colour range and strong blending ability are the most versatile choice. This is because coursework often requires both detailed studies and expressive, large-scale work. The Caran d’Ache Neocolor 2 Aquarelle Pastels 84-pack, with its 84 shades and very high blending ability, is particularly well-suited for students tackling mixed media projects and experimental techniques.
Looking at the specs, the Neocolor 2 set offers water-solubility, 10g sticks, and a coverage before fading of 0.6m² per pastel. The Faber-Castell Creative Studio Oil Pastels Set of 36 is another contender, with moderate blending and 36 colours, but lacks water-solubility. Both sets are silent to use and come in sturdy packaging, which is useful for students transporting materials between home and school.
The Neocolor 2 Aquarelle Pastels cost £167.99, which is a significant investment, but the range and performance justify it for serious students. The Faber-Castell Creative Studio set is more budget-friendly at £14.05, making it accessible for those who do not need water-soluble effects. Pentel Oil Pastels 50-pack (£7.93) is another budget option, with high blending but no water-solubility.
For GCSE coursework that demands versatility and durability, our pick is the Caran d’Ache Neocolor 2 set. It covers every technique required at this level, from dry blending to watercolour washes, and the 84 colours offer creative freedom.
Crayola Twistable Crayons 24-pack vs Pentel Oil Pastels 50-pack
Between the Crayola Twistable Crayons 24-pack and Pentel Oil Pastels 50-pack, the Pentel set is better for blending and artistic techniques, while Crayola is more suitable for children and casual use. The difference comes down to the type of crayon, blending ability, and intended user.
Crayola Twistables are standard wax crayons with a plastic barrel, 24 colours, 12g per crayon, and low blending ability. They are silent and cover 0.5m² before fading. Pentel Oil Pastels offer 50 colours, 7g per pastel, high blending, and cover 0.4m² before replacement. The Pentel set produces moderate residue and a 62dB noise level when dusting, while Crayola remains mess-free and silent.
Crayola’s pack is £4.99, making it affordable for children or classrooms. Pentel’s set is £7.93, still under £10, but offers more colours and artistic flexibility. Faber-Castell Creative Studio Oil Pastels Set of 36 (£14.05) sits between these two in price and performance, with moderate blending and a sturdy wallet.
For creative projects requiring blending and a wide palette, Pentel Oil Pastels are the clear winner. For young children or left-handed users who want a mess-free experience, Crayola Twistables are preferable.
Best crayons for outdoor sketching and landscapes
Oil pastels with high blending ability and a robust colour selection are ideal for outdoor sketching and landscape art. Sennelier Oil Pastel Set Landscape Colors, Set of 24, is tailored for this, offering greens, reds, and earth tones that suit natural scenes. The compact box is easy to carry, and the pastels’ texture allows for layering and expressive mark-making on location.
Sennelier’s set provides 24 colours, each 9g and 7cm long, with very high blending ability and a 0.3m² coverage before replacement. The noise level is 60dB, which is unobtrusive outdoors. Caran d’Ache Neocolor 2 Aquarelle Pastels 84-pack is another outdoor-friendly option, with water-solubility and a broader palette, but at a much higher price and slightly larger size.
The Sennelier set is £39.95, while the Neocolor 2 costs £167.99. Pentel Oil Pastels 50-pack (£7.93) is a budget alternative, though its colour range is less focused on landscapes. Sennelier’s packaging is compact and sturdy, suitable for travel.
For artists heading outdoors, the Sennelier Landscape Colors set is our recommendation. Its curated palette and creamy texture make it perfect for capturing the subtle shifts of light and colour in nature.
Is the Crayola Twistable Crayons 24-pack worth £4.99?
Yes, the Crayola Twistable Crayons 24-pack offers good value at £4.99 for families and classrooms seeking reliable, mess-free colouring tools. The twist-up design eliminates the need for sharpening and reduces breakage, making them practical for children and group settings.
Each crayon weighs 12g, measures 10.5cm, and is encased in a plastic barrel. The set provides 24 colours, with low blending ability and silent use. Coverage before fading is 0.5m² per crayon, which is sufficient for most school projects and everyday drawing. The non-refillable design is a minor drawback, but the crayons are durable and easy to store.
Compared to Pentel Oil Pastels 50-pack (£7.93) and Faber-Castell Creative Studio Oil Pastels Set of 36 (£14.05), Crayola Twistables are less suited for fine art but excel in durability and cleanliness. The other sets offer higher blending and more colours, but require more careful handling and can be messier.
For parents and teachers seeking crayons for children or group activities, Crayola Twistables are a sensible purchase. They combine convenience, safety, and a decent colour range at a low price.
Common mistakes when buying crayons
1
Choosing wax crayons for fine detail work
Wax crayons like Crayola Twistable Crayons 24-pack are not ideal for fine detail work. Their low blending ability and broad tips make it difficult to achieve sharp lines or subtle shading. For detail, oil pastels such as Pentel Oil Pastels 50-pack or Faber-Castell Creative Studio Oil Pastels Set of 36 are better suited.
2
Overlooking blending ability for mixed media
Some buyers select crayons without considering how well they blend with other media. For mixed media artists, water-soluble pastels like Caran d’Ache Neocolor 2 Aquarelle Pastels 84-pack offer far more flexibility than standard wax crayons or basic oil pastels.
3
Ignoring packaging durability for students
Students often transport art supplies between home and school, so packaging matters. Cardboard wallets or tins, as found with Faber-Castell Creative Studio Oil Pastels Set of 36 and Caran d’Ache Neocolor 2, protect pastels better than flimsy boxes, reducing breakage and lost pieces.
4
Assuming all crayons are suitable for large scale art
Not all crayons cover large areas efficiently. Sennelier Oil Pastel Set Landscape Colors, Set of 24, and Caran d’Ache Neocolor 2 Aquarelle Pastels 84-pack have higher coverage per stick and blend well, making them more suitable for large scale projects than smaller, harder crayons.
Frequently asked questions about crayons
Which crayons are best for beginners on a budget?
+
Pentel Oil Pastels 50-pack are the top choice for beginners seeking quality on a budget. Priced at £7.93, they offer 50 colours and high blending ability, making them suitable for learning shading and layering techniques. Each pastel weighs 7g and covers 0.4m² before replacement. The set comes in a cardboard box and is easy to store. For those wanting a slightly larger stick, Faber-Castell Creative Studio Oil Pastels Set of 36 (£14.05) is another option, but Pentel’s price and performance are hard to beat for entry-level artists.
Are twistable crayons better for children than traditional crayons?
+
Twistable crayons, such as Crayola Twistable Crayons 24-pack, are generally better for children than traditional crayons. The plastic barrel prevents breakage and keeps hands clean, which is ideal for younger users. Each crayon is silent and does not require sharpening, reducing classroom mess. The set includes 24 colours and weighs 12g per crayon. While blending is limited, the convenience and durability make them a favourite in schools and at home.
Do Faber-Castell oil pastels blend well for mixed media artists?
+
Faber-Castell Creative Studio Oil Pastels Set of 36 offers moderate blending, suitable for basic mixed media work. Each pastel is 8g, 7.5cm long, and covers 0.35m² before replacement. While not as blendable as Caran d’Ache Neocolor 2, they perform well with dry layering and resist smudging. The set’s cardboard wallet is practical for transport. For more advanced blending or water-soluble effects, artists may prefer Neocolor 2 pastels.
Which crayons are best for large scale art projects?
+
Caran d’Ache Neocolor 2 Aquarelle Pastels 84-pack are the best choice for large scale art. Each pastel covers 0.6m² before fading and blends extremely well, making them ideal for big, expressive pieces. The 84 colours provide a broad palette, and the water-soluble formula allows for washes and layering. Sennelier Oil Pastel Set Landscape Colors, Set of 24, is another strong option for landscapes and outdoor murals, though with a smaller colour range.
Are Sennelier oil pastels suitable for outdoor sketching?
+
Sennelier Oil Pastel Set Landscape Colors, Set of 24, is well-suited for outdoor sketching. The compact box, 9g sticks, and very high blending ability make them easy to transport and use on location. The curated palette of greens, reds, and earth tones is ideal for capturing natural scenes. Their creamy texture allows for quick coverage and expressive marks, even on rough paper.
Which crayons are best for left-handed children?
+
Crayola Twistable Crayons 24-pack are a good option for left-handed children. The twist-up mechanism prevents smudging and breakage, while the plastic barrel is easy to grip in either hand. Each crayon is 10.5cm long and silent, making them suitable for classroom use. The low blending ability is a minor drawback, but the convenience and durability outweigh this for young users.
What are the best crayons for fine detail work?
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For fine detail work, oil pastels with a firmer texture and smaller diameter are preferable. Pentel Oil Pastels 50-pack and Faber-Castell Creative Studio Oil Pastels Set of 36 both offer good control for lines and small areas. Pentel’s 7g pastels are particularly easy to handle, while Faber-Castell’s 8g sticks provide a slightly softer laydown. Wax crayons like Crayola Twistables are less suitable due to their broader tips.
Are there crayons under £10 in the UK that are suitable for students?
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Yes, Pentel Oil Pastels 50-pack is available for £7.93 and is suitable for students. The set includes 50 colours, high blending ability, and covers 0.4m² per pastel. The cardboard box is practical for school bags, and the pastels are robust enough for daily use. Crayola Twistable Crayons 24-pack (£4.99) is another budget option, though better suited for younger students or group activities.
Other crayons included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
Rembrandt Pastel 90 Color Half Stick Set£58.18Crayon, Colour: Multicolour
Mont Marte Oil Pastels in Tin Box Signature 48pc£18.99Crayon, Colour: Yellow, Orange
Faber-Castell Soft Pastels Mini Cardboard Wallet 48-pack£19.71Crayon, Colour: Multicolour
