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Japanese stationary company PLUS just released a set of three of the cutest erasers. Featuring some of 18th-century Japanese woodblock printmaker Katsushika Hokusai‘s most popular prints of Mount Fuji, the erasers are perfect to use when channeling your inner artist.

Famously, The Great Wave off Kanagawa features a stunning wave in the foreground with a snow-topped Mt. Fuji in the distance. Yet that was just one panel of his series called Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji. The panels titled Surface of the Koshu Misaka River and Fine Wind and Clear Weather are The Great Wave's companions in this set. You might think their cuteness will be a problem once you actually need to erase a mistake, but don't worry. There's a clever trick within them that only ups the ante.

These erasers have the prints on their clear holders, but when you start to erase with the seemingly typical rectangular pieces of rubber, a snow capped Mt. Fuji is revealed. These erasers are a special limited-edition trio, but are part of PLUS's Air-In eraser series which feature designs, including their own rendition of Mt. Fuji, that are revealed once used. Using two layers of resin, users must erase evenly at the corners if they want to construct their own mountain. When you return them to their boxes, they turn into three-dimensional pieces of miniature art.

Hokusai's works inspired artists around the world, including Impressionists like Monet. Now you can be inspired to risk making some mistakes with erasers that you can't wait to use on hand. They're a great incentive to quell your inner perfectionist. The erasers are available at Amazon Japan and other stationary stores. They are retailing for ¥880 or roughly $5.50 on Amazon Japan, but at the moment only PLUS' standard Mt. Fuji erasers are available on Amazon in the U.S.

Japanese company PLUS released a limited-edition set of erasers that feature panels from Hokusai's Thirty-six Views of Mt. Fuji

PLUS: Website | Facebook
h/t: [Spoon and Tamago]

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READ: Fun Hokusai-Inspired Erasers Designed To Turn Into Mount Fuji the More You Use Them

Photo: Stock Photos from Grezova Olga/Shutterstock
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Sketchbooks are a must-have creative tool for artists to create on the go. Not only are they great for jotting down ideas and capturing scenery en plein air, but they also have a precious quality that makes you want to keep them forever. And although many people use art journals for dry media like pencil and pen, there are also great watercolor sketchbooks for painters that want to take their studio with them.

However, not just any sketchbook will do for watercolor adventures. In addition to having a durable cover for bumpy backpack rides, a good watercolor sketchbook should include thicker paper (average of 150 gsm) that can hold up to heavy washes of color and ink. Sounds like a lot to ask for? Fortunately, nowadays there's no shortage of high-quality watercolor sketchbooks—it's just a matter of narrowing down the competition. So, whether you prefer hardcover, softcover, or wire-bound, we've put together a list of the 10 best watercolor sketchbooks.

Among these varied options, you will find an ideal medium for capturing landscapes, portraits, and beyond. Some of these sketchbooks feature an elastic band to help you secure your page, an inner pocket that helps store notes and other small items, and a bookmark to help you find where you left off. Furthermore, you will find notebooks with hot-pressed paper, fine grain, and more that will suit your personal preference.

Scroll down to find your new favorite painting companion.

Need more art supplies before you start painting? Check out our guides of the best watercolor paint sets, watercolor mediums, and portable art supplies.

Start painting with one of these watercolor sketchbooks!

Photo: Stock Photos from telinunu/Shutterstock

Strathmore Hardbound 400 Series Watercolor Art Journal

Strathmore | $17.69

The Strathmore Watercolor Art Journal is a perfect sketchbook with multiple sheets of 300 gsm acid-free paper that can withstand washes, as well as lifting and scraping. Plus, at 5.5 x 8.5 inches, this soft cover booklet will perfectly fit inside any bag or purse.

Stillman & Birn Nova Mixed Media Sketchbooks

Stillman & Birn | $23.09

For painters who prefer to work on toned paper, the Stillman & Birn Sketchbook offers three options in one wire-bound format. It features 17 pages (140 gsm) in each color: beige, black, and gray with a medium grainy texture.

Hahnemühle The ZigZag Book

Hahnemühle | $22.19

Despite its small 5.5 x 5.5 inch size, the Hahnemühle The ZigZag Book has a lot to offer. Under the hardcover are 18 pages of thick 300gsm paper in a whimsical accordion-folded format, allowing the artist to spread their illustrations across multiple sheets.

Moleskine Watercolor Album

Moleskine | $33.69

Moleskine sketchbooks are well-known favorites of artists and designers, and their Watercolor Album is no exception. In addition to a reliable hardcover, this sketchbook features 60 pages of heavyweight, 200 gsm, cold press paper.

Holbein Multimedia Book

Holbein | $20.75

If the aesthetic is as important as the function, then the Holbein Multimedia Book is a great choice. Its elegant hardcover features a ribbon closure on the side to ensure that your artwork stays safe during travel. And its pH neutral, 120 gsm paper will be the perfect canvas for watercolor illustrations.

Paul Rubens Art Supplies Watercolor Journal

Paul Rubens | $14.99

Sleek and portable are just a few of the words to describe the Paul Rubens Watercolor Journal. Designed for artists of all ages, it has 100% cotton paper that is sturdy enough for different watercolor techniques, as well as other mediums like gouache and acrylics.

Leuchtturm1917 Sketchbook

Leuchtturm | $28.95

Leuchtturm is another well-designed sketchbook that's beloved by designers. It features a vibrant forest green hardcover and 121 pages of 150 gsm paper. Additionally, the art journal is bound in such a way that the pages can open flat for painting.

Canson Artist Series Watercolor Books

Canson | $15.62

For the prolific artist who doesn't want to break the bank with each journal purchase, the Canson Watercolor Sketchbook is a great deal. It includes 20 sheets of thick 300 gsm paper that is ideal for washes and different painting techniques. Plus, all of the pages are micro-perforated so you can remove them with ease.

Bee Paper Aquabee Super Deluxe Sketchbook

Bee Paper | $12.18

This mixed media sketchbook by Bee Paper can be used with both dry and wet media. It features a unique waterproof leatherette cover and 60 sheets of archival-quality 150 gsm textured paper.

Arteza Watercolor Sketchbook

Arteza | $30.25

This linen-bound watercolor sketchbook by Arteza is a stylish addition to every artist's collection. It includes 128 pages of heavyweight, cold-pressed 230 gsm paper with a light texture.

Want to pair your sketchbook with a super portable paint set? Check out these different sets by Viviva! They come in the form of a booklet.

Viviva Original Colorsheets

Viviva | $19.95+

Viviva Spring Colorsheets

Viviva | $19.95+

Viviva Metallics Colorsheets

Viviva | $19.95

This article has been edited and updated.

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READ: 10 Best Watercolor Sketchbooks for Artists Who Want to Paint On the Go

Photo: Stock Photos from Jacob Lund/Shutterstock
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A sketchbook is the ultimate artist's companion. Like a close friend, you'll spend a lot of time with it and tell it your inner thoughts (through drawing, painting, and writing). Many artists will regularly fill their pads with a bevy of drawings. Some are so polished that their books feel like mobile art galleries. But, gorgeous spreads aren’t the point of keeping a sketchbook. These books are private places to record your doodles, ideations, and observations without the pressure of sharing them with the world. If you want to, that’s great—but first a foremost, a sketchbook should be a place just for you.

So, how do you go about picking the perfect sketchbook for you? Well, there are a few things you'll have to consider…

Photo: Stock Photos from Africa Studio/Shutterstock

Selecting the right sketchbook is a personal choice.

There are a few big considerations you need to take when buying a sketch pad.

1. The size that you like to work in. If you draw a lot, you’ll notice that there’s a scale at which you naturally sketch. Maybe it’s smaller than a quarter or you prefer to take up the entire page. Or, perhaps it’s somewhere in the middle. Take stock of this when selecting a sketchbook. If you like to draw big, make sure you pick something that can handle large art. With miniature drawings, you can opt for something much smaller in size.

2. Where will you be using this sketchbook? Another aspect to determine is where you intend to draw. For sketching at home, the size won’t matter as much—your book doesn’t have to travel. But if you intend to draw on the road, it’d be wise to select a scale that will fit comfortably in a backpack.

3. What media will you use? It’s important to decide what media you’ll use in your sketchbook because it will determine the type of paper that can best handle your art. For pencil and colored pencil, your doodles will be fine on thin 20-pound paper. Tools like watercolor paint, gouache paint, or markers are best used on thicker paper that can handle a lot of media and heavy saturation of materials.

Check out our comprehensive guide for an overview of the types of paper used for art.

Our Picks for the Best Sketchbooks

There are a lot of sketchbooks on the market that come in a variety of bindings and covers. The popular spiral-bound books allow you to lay them completely flat as you draw. Another binding style is called perfect bound, which makes your sketchbook look like a conventional book you'd find on a library shelf. In terms of cover choices, you can opt for inexpensive soft-cover sketch pads or splurge on a hardcover book that offers more durability.

Before you start to doodle, check out our list of best sketchbooks, below.

Sennelier 6″ x 4″ Urban Sketchbook

Sennelier | $20.24

Artists that love to draw on location will love this sketchbook by Sennelier. It features an accordian-fold design that offers eight panels per side for creatives to add their drawings and notes.

Pentalic 9″ x 6″ Nature Sketch Book

Pentalic | $14.69

Open the beautiful foil-stamped cover of this sketchbook by Pentalic and you'll find heavyweight, 211 gsm paper with a medium tooth, rough vellum surface that is ideal for both dry and wet media. In addition, a portion of every sale benefits the American Wildlife Foundation.

Hahnemühle 12″ x 8 1/2″ Tan Sketchbook

Hahnemühle | $23.24

The smooth, tan-toned paper of The Cappuccino Book by Hahnemühle provides an ideal surface for work with India ink, fountain pens, acrylic markers, and other water-based pens.

Alibabette Paris 8.25″ x 5.7″ Journal 

Alibabette Paris Journals | $17.77

Sometimes sketchbooks themselves are works of art. Alibabette Paris Journals feature colorful covers and 240 blank pages of high-quality, 100 gsm ivory drawing paper. This exquisite Bodoni-style stitching allows the book to lie open completely flat as you draw, write, or collage.

Blackwing Palomino 8 1/2″ x 5″ Notebook

Blackwing | $25

If you're a fan of the popular Blackwing Palomino pencils, then maybe it's time to complete the set with a matching journal! The Palomino Notebook is available with blank or lined pages and features a durable, water-resistant cover and dual-sewn binding that allows the book to lie flat.

Shizen Faux Leather 8″ x 6″ Journal

Shizen Designs | $15.50

Take a break from the blank canvas with the inspiring colorful sketchbooks by Shizen Designs. These whimsical journals are bound in a soft faux leather cover and hold 180 pages of 80 gsm paper. Available colors include red, yellow, orange, black, and white.

Global Art 5 1/2″ x 5 1/2″ Hand Book Artist Journal

Global Art | $13.11

These Global Art Hand Book Journals feature 128 heavyweight pages of 130 gsm and durable hardcovers wrapped in colorful book cloth. These hefty sketchbooks are available in a variety of sizes to suit your different creative projects.

Strathmore Series 400 9″ x 12″ Sketchbook

Strathmore | $9.36

This is the quintessential sketchpad, if you like to draw with dry media. Spiral bound with a soft cover, the 60-pound sheets of paper are perforated to allow you to tear out and frame later. With 100 sheets of paper at a low cost, this is one of the best sketchbooks for keeping in your studio and drawing on every day.

Moleskine 11-3/4” x 8-1/4” Hardcover Sketchbook

Moleskin | $25.48

Moleskine is known for high-quality bound sketchbooks that artists love to use. This book features premium off-white paper that’s 111 lbs and suitable for all types of media. Additionally, Moleskine is great for traveling. It has interior pockets for your artwork and is secured with elastic closure band.

Leda 7″ x 10″ Softbound Sketchbook

Leda Art Supply | $24

The Leda brand has created a premium art journal that boasts 160 cream-colored pages. The smooth, thick paper is meant to handle pens, pencils, pastels, and more. Like Moleskine, it comes with an accordion back pocket and an elastic band to keep the pages together. There is a caveat, however. You'll want to look elsewhere if you're considering painting. “Leda isn't meant for heavy wet media,” the company notes. “Some users experiment with a light watercolor wash.” If you do this, the pages might warp.

Travelogue Drawing Book, Pocket Portrait 5-1/2 x 3-1/2, Cadmium Green Artist Journal

Speedball | $10.99

Speedball is known for its fantastic dip pens, so it's only fitting that their series of sketchbooks would be of the same quality. The Traveloque Drawing books include 128 pages of high-quality 130 gsm paper that is suitable for a variety of dry media, including pen and ink, charcoal, and markers.

Leuchtturm1917 A4 Sketchbook

Leuchtturm1917 | $32.50

All Leuchtturm1917 sketchbooks feature a durable hardcover and 96 pages of high-quality 150 gsm paper. In addition, they are thread-bound in such a way that they can lay flat while the user is sketching.

Fabriano 8 1/4″ x 11 3/4″ Hardcover Black Sketchbook

Fabriano | $18.44

The name Fabriano is synonymous with high-quality creative products. The Hardcover Black Sketchbook features 40 sheets of 190 gsm black paper which is ideal for work in pastel, colored pencil, acrylic paint, and collage.

Once you’ve filled up your favorite sketchbook, don’t throw it away! Look at it later to inspire you in ways you didn’t expect.

This article has been edited and updated.

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Photo: Mounzer Awad
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In most creative fields, it's impossible to get away from one important tool—a pencil. It doesn't matter if you're an architect, a professional fine artist, or you're just learning to draw; a good graphite pencil is an essential part of any artist's supplies.

And while we've gone over how to select the best colored pencils, there are a whole other set of considerations when thinking about the right graphite pencil to add to your collection. In fact, you'll probably—like most artists—wind up using several different pencils depending on the effect you're looking for.

Figuring out the best pencils to bring your sketches and designs to life can appear challenging, but much of it comes down to personal preference. Once you get the hang of which brand you prefer, you can mix and match different pencil grades in order to expand your sketching capabilities. You'll see that much of what we suggest are pencil sets, which allow you to experiment with a wide variety of lines and shading, but each brand will also sell their pencils individually once you need to restock.

So check out our guide to the best pencils for drawing, and once you stock up, head over to our list of the best sketchbooks so that you can start drawing.

How to Select the Best Drawing Pencil

Photo: Jess Watters

When selecting the perfect graphite pencil, the first thing to consider is your drawing style. Technical drawings and detailed artwork with fine lines will require different pencils than those used for shading and sketching figures. Do you use dark, thick lines in your sketches or prefer lighter, thinner strokes? Understanding your personal artistic style and needs will help you narrow down the selection when searching for a good drawing pencil.

Keep in mind that most artists use more than one type of pencil. In fact, many manufacturers sell drawing pencil sets that come with a selection of graphite pencils in different grades. This will allow you to switch between tools depending on the requirements of a particular image.

Pencil Grading Scale

Photo: smbhax

Once you know what type of artwork you need the pencil for, you need to understand the different grades of graphite pencils. Even though we often refer to lead in pencils, there is actually no component of lead used in them. Whereas colored pencils are made with wax and pigment, graphite pencils are a mixture of graphite and clay. The combination of these two components allows for smooth strokes, but graphite pencils will give different lines depending on how much clay is present. Generally, the more clay in the pencil, the harder the pencil—and lighter the stroke—will be.

In the United States, we commonly think of the number 2 pencil, which is standard for schools and test-taking. The American number scale for pencils ranges 1 to 4 (including 2.5), but the rest of the world uses a different grading scale. Most manufacturers use the HB scale, where “H” stands for hardness and “B” for blackness. A standard number 2 pencil corresponds to HB on this scale.

The HB scale ranges from 9H, a hard pencil that leaves fine, light marks, to 9B, a soft pencil with a high ratio of graphite that leaves bold, dark marks. While every manufacturer gives each pencil a designation on the scale, it's all relative to a given brand, so remember that a 6H pencil from one manufacturer might give a slightly different stroke than a 6H pencil from another.

Once you understand the type of lines you can expect from your pencils, it's easy to mix and match to create a graphite pencil set that will meet your needs as an artist.

Best Graphite Drawing Pencils

Photo: Igor Ovsyannykov

Check out our selection of high quality drawing pencils that are ideal for every level of artist. If you're new to drawing, then picking up a set will allow you to try different types of pencils and discover which grading suits you best.

Derwent Medium Graphic Drawing Pencils (set of 12)

Derwent | $17.21

Available in different sets filled with a wide variety of grades, both beginners and professionals swear by Derwent. You can select between soft, medium, and hard sets depending on your subject matter and people note that the pencils are easy to sharpen to a point, as well as a flat shape. This allows for detailed work, as well as shading. And the hexagonal shape makes them easy to grip.

Prismacolor Premier Graphite Drawing Pencils (18 piece set)

Prismacolor | $19.99

Prismacolor's graphite drawing set is a good introductory kit when starting to sketch. It comes with seven graphite drawing pencils of different grades, as well as four woodless graphite pencils. These create beautiful, broad strokes when used on their side, and allow you to experiment with a variety of tools. As an added bonus, the pencil set includes water-soluble graphite pencils, which transform into a wash when brushed with water. All told, the drawing kit is a great way to start sketching seriously.

Staedtler Mars Lumograph Graphite Pencil Set (set of 12)

Staedtler | $14.15

Many artists swear by Staedtler‘s range of drawing pencils. Their Mars Lumograph is known for its consistency and lack of breakage, making them great for detailed work. They also erase cleanly, meaning you won't be left with stray smudges on the paper. Staedtler's standard set provides 6B, 5B, 4B, 3B, 2B, B, HB, F, H, 2H, 3H, and 4H drawing pencils, making it extremely versatile. “I've been using Staedtler Lumograph professionally for over 30 years and in that time I've found no better,” says artist and art educator Mike Sibley. “I even give them away at my workshops.”

Lyra Rembrandt Art Design Pencils (set of 12)

Lyra | $20.19

For a good value, you can't beat Lyra Art Design Pencils. The graphite is rigid enough that it works for technical drawing, and with 17 different grades available, there's no shortage of shading you can accomplish. One reviewer writes, “The finest pencils for drawing. High-quality graphite that is smooth and easy to blend. A wide variety of hardness for all your artwork needs.”

Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Sketch Pencil Art Set (set of 12)

Faber-Castell | $11.44

Faber-Castell is a German brand known for high-quality art supplies, and the Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Sketch pencils are no exception. The brand makes sets with a variety of grades included or you can purchase single packs of pencils in each grade. Known for their consistency and durability, they sharpen easily and don't often break. Plus, Faber-Castell's handy tin makes the pencils highly portable. It's no wonder they are an artist's favorite, no matter the style or skill level.

Tombow Mono Professional Drawing Pencils (set of 12)

Tombow | $16.98

Japanese manufacturer Tombow is known for its high-density pencils, meaning they sharpen easily and the point stays longer. The Mono pencil is known to run a bit dark and is virtually smudge-proof. The dark lines of the Tombow Mono can almost mimic inks, making it a favorite of artists who focus on linework and tracing.

Cretacolor Monolith Woodless Graphite Pencil Set

Creatacolor | $26.53

Woodless pencils may cost a bit more, but they generally last longer than the typical wood-encased pencils. Cretacolor woodless pencils are perfect for shading and the graphite in them is water-soluble, allowing you to create soft washes over the page. Creatacolor's kit also comes with a kneaded eraser and sharpener, giving you all the tools you need in one box.

Koh-I-Noor Woodless Graphite Pencils (Set of 12)

Koh-I-Noor | $18.21

These Koh-I-Noor pencils are woodless, meaning that they are all graphite surrounded by a thin layer of lacquer. While this makes them fragile, it also has some advantages. One is that these pencils don't need to be sharpened much, and a second, quite important, point is that they lay down a thick layer of color. Artists love them for blending and smudging, particularly when creating shadows. They also produce nice smooth lines without a lot of texture.

General Semi-Hex Drawing Pencils (4-Pack)

General Pencil | $4.50

The General Pencil Company has been in production since 1889 with products whose quality has stood the test of time. In art supply stores, you'll often find that you have to purchase them per pencil, but this four-pack gives you better value—especially if you prefer the softer graphite. The set contains HB, 2B, 4B, and 6B pencils.

Prismacolor Ebony Graphite Drawing Pencil (12-pack)

Prismacolor | $7.34

The Prismacolor Ebony Graphite pencil, which has a 2B grade, is a beautiful choice for rich, velvety lines. It is easily blendable and soft, and while it won't create jet-black lines—it gets close for graphite. Due to its softness, you'll need to sharpen it often, and many swear by it for shading that is difficult to achieve without using charcoal.

ARTEZA Woodless Drawing Pencils (Set of 12)

Arteza | $15.99

This set of 12 woodless pencils covers all the grading you'll need for sketching. The comprehensive kit includes pencils from 6B to 4H and gives you the range needed to complete all types of drawing–from quick, gestural strokes to more precise artwork. ARTEZA boasts that the “woodless pencil contains more graphite, making it last longer and shade larger areas.”

Palomino Pearl Pencils (box of 12)

Blackwing | $30

Although new, California-based brand Blackwing has already established itself as a favorite among illustrators. The Palomino Pearl pencils feature an elegant white body with a smooth Japanese graphite core of medium hardness—ideal for lettering and line work.

Caran D'ache Graphite Line Gift Box Set 

Caran D'ache | $240.88

Don't be scared by the price. Caran D'ache is for serious sketchers looking to up their drawing game. As Switzerland's only pencil maker, the brand has carried out exacting studies to get things just right, making them the favorite of many artists. This gift set will get you 15 graphic pencils, 3 water-soluble graphite pencils, plus accessories. Some say they are the best drawing pencils on the market, and that once you try them, you'll never go back.

Best Pencil Sharpeners

Photo: londondeposit/DepositPhotos

If you know you'll be working with graphite pencils frequently, then you'll be in need of a good pencil sharpener to make sure your utensils are always at a point. We've selected a few to help you get started.

Dux Pencil Sharpeners

DUX | $5.99

DUX is the oldest pencil sharpener factory in Germany, so you know you can't go wrong with their utensils. Their pencil sharpener includes openings for slim and oversized pencils and comes in a variety of cute colors to complement your drawing set.

Blackwing Long Point Pencil Sharpener

Blackwing | $15

Unlike most pencil sharpeners, Blackwing‘s product goes through a two-step process. The first hole is intended to shave away the wood, while the second opening will carve the graphite to a fine point. It includes an automatic brake to prevent oversharpening, too.

Stanley Bostitch Electric Pencil Sharpener

Stanley Bostitch | $66.94

If you're an artist that will be using graphite drawing pencils frequently, then you may want to invest in an electric sharpener. This one by Stanely Bostitch will cut the time it takes to sharpen your pencils in half (it even works with colored pencils!). It also features SharpStop technology so you won't risk oversharpening, and instead keeping them at a perfectly fine point.

Best Mechanical Pencils for Drawing

Photo: Stock Photos from Auttapon Jantham/Shutterstock

While some artists prefer the look and feel of traditional wooden pencils, others prefer the more consistent and controlled marks of mechanical pencils. Refillable and made from plastic or metal, these utensils are ideal for those who prefer long-lasting tools. Depending on the size of lead you choose (0.7, 0.5, etc.), mechanical pencils might be the better choice for creating fine details in your artwork.

Tikky by rOtring Mechanical Pencil (0.7 mm)

rOtring | $6.67

ROtring is the dominant name in the field of technical drawing pens, and this model carries on the tradition. This lightweight drafting pencil has been specially designed to reduce breakage, meaning you'll waste less money on refills. With a retractable tip and comfortable rubber grip, it will quickly become a favorite whether used for drafting or sketching.

Faber Castell Grip 2011 Mechanical Pencil 0.7 mm

Faber-Castell | $18.94

Faber-Castell's Grip 2011 Mechanical Pencil has won design awards for a reason. Rubber dots along the triangular barrel make it extremely comfortable and easy to grip. It also comes with a twist-out eraser and is pre-loaded with lead.

Staedtler Mars 780 Technical Mechanical Pencil

Staedtler | $11.10

If you're looking for a pencil for technical sketching, give the Staedtler Mars 780 a try. Reviewers talk about these pencils as keepsakes that they use for years and only replace when necessary. “I've used this specific lead holder for over a decade and when I lost it I just had to replace it,” one person wrote. “The holder itself is light, with a nice weight given by the metal grip. Despite what you might expect the metal diamond grip is actually very comfortable and pretty smooth.”

Pentel GraphGear 1000 Mechanical Pencil (0.5 mm)

Pentel | $10.88

Work in comfort when you use the Pentel GraphGear mechanical pencil. It is inlaid with soft pads that will feel good on your fingers. Beyond that, the pencil features a dual retractor to both advance and retract your lead with ease.

Looking for more drawing tips? Subscribe to our Drawing Club newsletter.

This article has been edited and updated.

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Photo: Stock Photos from Oilly.Ar/Shutterstock
This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

Do you remember coloring with markers as a kid? Maybe you had an awesome collection of vibrant Crayolas that you’d use when drawing? While we often associate markers with childhood, they still come in handy today—especially if you’re an artist who loves sketching or consider yourself an adult coloring book enthusiast.

There are many great reasons to try art markers. One is because of how easy they are to use and their portability. Whether you’re staying in your studio or drawing on location, it’s effortless to grab a handful of the hues that you’ll need and put them in your bag. And speaking of colors, many artist marker sets come in packs of 12, 18, or even 60 pens, so you’ve got a variety of hues at your disposal. For pigments that you don’t have, many—like Copic markers—allow you to blend like you would colored pencils.

These versatile art supplies can be used to create realistic portraits, decorate crafts, design greeting cards, produce vibrant coloring pages, and much more. That's why any creative will want to make sure that they have a good set of markers on hand. The nice part is that markers not only come in all shapes and sizes but also budgets. We've included a wide range of prices in our recommendations, so whether you are on a tight budget or want to splurge, you'll find something to meet your needs.

To help you find the perfect set for your next art project, we've picked out some of the best high-quality art markers available. Whether you're shopping for aspiring manga artists or an experienced illustrator, our selection has great options for beginner and professional artists alike. These kits come with utensils in an array of vibrant colors and without a strong odor that will inspire you to bring drawings to life.

Scroll down to learn about the types of art markers and to shop for the best art marker sets.

Looking for more drawing supplies? We've got you covered in our guide to the best colored pencils and best drawing pencils.

Photo: Stock Photos from Napoleonka/Shutterstock

Types of Artist Markers

Two of the most popular types of artist markers are pens that are alcohol-based or water-based. Each type has its own characteristics that are essentially the opposite of one another.

Alcohol-based art makers comprise a combination of pigment and alcohol. They are known to dry quickly and are permanent—meaning that if you apply water to them, they won’t smudge. Using alcohol markers gives you the ability to layer color and even create cool ombre effects. There is a downside to alcohol-based markers; however, they sometimes have an odor. If they have a strong smell, it’s best to use them in a well-ventilated area. They also tend to bleed through paper, making them not the best choice for coloring books.

Water-based markers contain water (or a combination of water and glycerin), as their name suggests. They are often not permanent and will bleed if water touches them. However, they are odorless, which makes them great for kids—just make sure you let them dry fully.

How to Select a Marker Tip

When selecting markers, you'll see that there are different tips available. What you select depends on the type of project you are looking to create. Here are some of the most common tips that you will find, with a short explanation of what they are used for. If you aren't sure what you need or think that you'd use multiple tips, look for dual-tipped marker sets. They provide two different-shaped tips on the same marker for greater flexibility.

Fine tip markers are useful for any project where you want to create crisp, precise lines. As the name suggests, they are perfect for creating fine details. These markers aren't the best choice if you want to fill in large areas of color, but can also be used in specific places to create highlights and contrast.

Chisel tip markers give artists more options since they can be used to create details or fill in color depending on the way the tip is used. Calligraphers and anyone producing hand-lettering projects commonly use them.

Brush tip markers are another versatile type of marker designed to help you explore your creativity. The tip acts like a paintbrush and can produce a wide variety of lines depending on the pressure you apply. Increased pressure causes the tip to fan out and fill in large areas, while light pressure will produce a crisp, thin line. Skilled artists will use these properties to produce a single stroke of varying widths, allowing for endless creative possibilities.

Bullet tip markers aren't necessarily great for coloring but work well when creating an art journal or anything that involves writing.

Best Art Markers

Copic 12-Piece Sketch Basic Set

Copic | $70.20

Copic brand is one of the most popular artist markers out there. An alcohol-based ink, the colors are non-toxic and are refillable once you’ve used all of the pigment. They are more expensive than other brands, but people who use them understand why they are so pricey. “They are INCREDIBLE,” one reviewer writes. “Coloring with them is a similar process to watercolor, where it's all about layering and blending. The markers go on smooth and wonderful and they are able to blend with similar colors beautifully.”

Copic 6-Piece Skin Tones Sketch Set

Copic | $34.70

This set is the same great Copic-brand markers but tailored to skin-tone colored hues. It's perfect for drawing portraits!

Staedtler Double-Ended Fiber-Tip Pen Set of 36

Staedtler | $14.27

Staedtler's double-ended pens are like two markers in one. Each utensil features a fine nib on one side and a broad nib on the other, so you have more creative flexibility in your coloring.

Uni-posca 16-Piece Paint Marker Pens

Uni-posca | $41.62

In the world of art markers, Uni-posca (aka Posca) has been gaining traction in creative circles. They are water-based paint markers that are lightfast and waterproof—but they don’t bleed if water is applied once they've dried. Their opaque felt tip can even write on a variety of surfaces, including metal and plastic; reviewers on Amazon say they’ve decorated things like their Gameboys and surfboards.

Sakura Koi Coloring Brush Pens Set of 12

Sakura | $15.64

These brush pens by Sakura are perfect for illustrators. They feature flexible nibs that allow the user to create fine, medium, and bold strokes depending on how much pressure they apply to the pen. Plus, these utensils are completely odorless.

Winsor & Newton Promarker Brush Markers Set of 6

Winsor & Newton | $16.80

This set by Winsor & Newton features six alcohol-based markers that are ideal for rendering and shading. As dual-nibbed pens, they feature a fine nib on one side and a brush tip on the other.

Ohuhu 36 Colors Dual Tips Markers

Ohuhu | $12.99

Ohuhu has created a set of dual-ended markers that feature a broad tip on one end and a fine-liner on the other. This makes it easy to move from precise highlighting and underlining to drawing with thin lines. These pens will go the distance, too. This particular set allows you to color in at least 984 feet worth of drawings.

Prismacolor 12-Count Double-Ended Art Markers

Prismacolor | $29.99

Prismacolor remains one of the top brands for artist supplies. This highly-regarded set is a great deal for the quantity as well as the quality of markers; the alcohol-based, dual-tipped pens come in 12 rainbow hues that beginners or professionals alike will be happy with. “You can tell these are artist quality,” one reviewer shares. “I have already been able to achieve things in this medium that I previously didn’t know was possible. For example, it was relatively easy for me to figure out how to colour without streaking, something I found impossible with other markers and therefore didn’t know was an option.”

Tanmit 40 Dual-Tipped Brush Pens / Art Markers

Tanmit | $9.97

Another set of double-ended markers, Tanmit brand gives you an incredible amount of colors for a reasonable price. Both tips are on the narrower side—one is a brush style while the other is a pen—so they are ideal for sketching or filling in your art journal.

Feela 100-Count Watercolor Dual Brush Tip and Highlighters

Feela | $25.99

Looking for a ton of colors? Feela has it with their watercolor pens. Designed for both broad strokes and fine-detailed work, the water-based ink blends smoothly and won’t bleed through your paper (unless you go over the same spot multiple times). If you’re an adult coloring-book enthusiast, this could be the set for you. The consensus among reviewers is that this set is great for casual coloring.

Faber-Castell 12 Pitt Artist Brush Pens

Faber-Castell | $41.50

Faber-Castell is another brand synonymous with artist-quality supplies. Their PITT Artist Pens combine a synthetic brush nib with traditional India ink. The results are “deep and true color” pens that are fade-resistant and waterproof.

Caran d'Ache Fibralo Marker Set of 30

Caran d'Ache | $60.75

Sketching, drawing, coloring—the Fibralo Markers by Swiss art company Caran d'Ache can do it all. Each marker contains water-soluble ink that is vegetable-based, non-allergenic, and won't bleed through paper. Plus, even if you forget to put the cap back on, these durable pens retain their vibrancy for up to seven days.

Tombow Dual Brush Pens Set of 54 

Tombow | $132.99

Tombow markers are among the most popular double-tipped pens out there. The hard nylon tip allows you to draw fine lines and lettering, whereas the fiber brush tip can fill large spaces with the odorless water-based ink.

Chartpak Landscape Marker Set of 25

Chartpak | $111.69

Instead of a dual-tipped marker, Chartpak has designed a single nib that allows three distinct line weights with just a shift of the wrist! These markers go from a fine point to medium weight and even broad strokes.

Windsor & Newton ProMarkers Student Designer Wallet Set of 24

Winsor & Newton | $64.71

If you're looking for markers to use in design, comic art, or illustration, Winsor & Newton's ProMarkers are the way to go. These dependable tools provide even application of permanent, alcohol-based ink and are available in a wide variety of sets and colors.

This article has been edited and updated.

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READ: 15 Best Art Marker Sets for Coloring Enthusiasts and Professional Creatives

Photo: Kira auf der Heide
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Since gaining widespread popularity in the 18th century, watercolor painting has been a favorite of amateur and professional artists alike. Its portability makes it the perfect medium to take on the road, allowing artists to sketch en plein air or rapidly work out ideas. But with so many available brands, what are the best watercolor sets on the market? And what to look for when selecting watercolor paint?

Whether seeking out pans or tubes or professional or student quality, these are certain technical aspects you'll want to be aware of as you seek out watercolor paint. Of course, you can always buy individual tubes or pans for any of the brands mentioned below, filling an empty watercolor well palette or empty watercolor pan tin to make your own travel set. But if you are looking for something ready to go or simply want to splurge on a professional watercolor set, here are some things to consider.

How to Pick the Best Watercolor Paint Set

Professional vs. Student Quality Paint

Just like many other art supplies, such as acrylic paints, watercolors come in two grades: student and professional. Professional, or artist-quality, watercolor paint is typically made with more pigment and comes in a wider range of colors. As student watercolors usually have more synthetic binders and fillers, which keeps the cost down, but they tend to have less permanence.

If you are a beginner or just want to test your hand at watercolor painting, student quality should be just fine. You may not even notice much difference to begin with, and it will be lighter on your wallet.

Number of Colors

The nice thing about watercolor paint is that mixing means you can greatly extend your color palette without investing in a wide range of colors. So, if you are considering upgrading to artist-quality paint, you may want to start with just 5 to 10 colors to test before making a bigger investment.

Of course, single pigment colors will be more vibrant than mixed colors, but some artists swear by using a limited number of single pigments and building from there. This depends on your style and what you are attempting to achieve.

You may notice that pigments, especially with professional watercolor paints, have different prices depending on the raw minerals used. This is because certain minerals are simply rarer, and thus more expensive. Student watercolors have standardized pricing because synthetic fillers substitute for these rare pigments, which is why you'll often see the word “hue” after the pigment name—it's a filler.

Photo: Victoria Bilsborough

Level of Permanence

Permanence is the paint's durability, given exposure to light and humidity. Much of this depends on the quality of the pigments and how much filler—if any—is in the paint to cut down on cost. Permanence is also called lightfastness, and you'll want to check your label to see how each color rates on the ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) rating scale. You are looking for an I (excellent) or II (good) here, and most brands like Winsor & Newton will also have this information online.

Opaque vs. Transparent Watercolors

The beauty of watercolor paint is its ability to let light pass through it and create a washed-out effect. Watercolor paint can be opaque or transparent, with manufacturers typically writing on the tubes or pans if the paint is opaque. Though you can thin opaque watercolors out, it will be important to note the transparency to create the layered effect of most watercolor paintings.

If you are looking for something with full coverage, you might consider gouache. We have a full guide to the best gouache paint to get you started.

Not familiar with watercolor transparency? Craftsy has a great introductory method for testing your paint.

Photo: Bench Accounting

Staining vs. Non-Staining Watercolors

Some watercolor paints penetrate the paper, creating a “stain,” while others lay on the paper's surface, making it easier to erase unwanted lines with a sponge or by scraping the paper. This really comes down to the pigment, and if you are a beginner, with a little practice, you'll begin to understand which pigments stain. Staining will also become a factor when layering colors, as non-staining watercolors can become muddy when mixed. Try testing out your colors on a white piece of paper to understand which colors in your palette are non-staining, as they vary by brand.

Pans or Tubes

The most common way to buy watercolors is either in small tubes or in trays of solid paint called pans. Pans, which are only activated when touched with a wet brush, are great for their portability. As the amount of pigment you can take each time is limited, it's a bit more difficult to paint large-scale projects, but each pan will go a long way.

Tubes, by contrast, are filled with liquid paint. This makes it a bit messier to bring on the road, but easier for mixing and painting on a larger scale. However, it's easier to use more paint quickly with tubes, so it can mean buying paint more often. Artists must also be careful not to let the paint dry out, as many brands don't hold up well to constant rewetting.

Remember that both tubes and pans are sold individually, so if you aren't sure what works best for you, you can mix and match until you find the perfect combination.

Best Watercolor Sets for Beginners

Prang Watercolor Paint Cakes Set of 12

Prang | $4.38

Prang's set of 8 watercolors is a great economical option for beginner artists who want to experiment without any fuss. The oval half-pans come in a durable plastic case that is ideal for transport. All of the colors are semi-moist and transparent and come with one brush.

Winsor & Newton Cotman Watercolor Sketchers Pocket Box

Winsor & Newton | $18.69

Cotman is the student line of watercolors by the popular brand Winsor & Newton. Cotman is a great entry into Winsor & Newton, as synthetic fillers help keep the prices down, yet the quality is still high. The Cotman line comes both in pans and tubes, but we love this sketchers pocket box for how portable it is. With 12 half pans and a brush, you have just enough to paint on the go, with the box lid doubling as a mixing palette.

Raphaël Watercolor Travel Pan Set

Raphaël | $17.49

The Raphaël Aquarelle Watercolor Travel Set makes it easy for artists to paint anywhere and anytime. It features a compact circular tin with an array of 10 half pans of student-grade colors, as well as a 12-compartment mixing palette on the top lid and a small brush. From Burnt Sienna to Yellow Ochre, you'll have all the colors you need to get started. Creatives can stash this pocket-size set in their bag and use it for en plein air painting like the Impressionists.

Sargent Art Watercolor Aquarelle Set

Sargent | $6.79

If you are just getting started with watercolors and want to understand more about color theory and mixing, this beginner's set by Sargent is a good, affordable option. It comes with 12 tubes of watercolor paint to get you comfortable with mixing color.

Van Gogh Watercolor 12 Tube Pocket Box Set

Van Gogh | $38.81

Although advertised as student-grade paints, reviewers rave about the quality of Van Gogh watercolor tubes. It's no wonder, as they are made by the respected Royal Talens brand.  “They blend well and work with all of the watercolor techniques. They dry quickly and the colors remain vivid after they are dry.” These watercolors are also available as pans and come in a convenient wood or plastic carrying case so that they're easy to travel with.

Kuretake Gansai Portable Watercolor Set

Kuretake | $29.50

Made in Japan, Kuretake's Gansai set includes 14 creamy colors. Each of these paints is well-crafted and displays a greater opacity than European and American watercolors, according to traditional Japanese style. This is thanks to the fact that Kuretake uses a different binder than the traditional gum arabic used in Western paints. The durable plastic case also features an inner lid designed for mixing paints.

Daniel Smith Extra Fine Essentials Introductory Watercolor

Daniel Smith | $37.80

Daniel Smith is an American watercolor paint brand known for its artist-quality paints. Their 6-tube introductory watercolor kit is a great first set if you are looking to transition into professional watercolor paints, as it allows you to mix a wide range of colors before investing in more tubes. The set contains three warm and three cool primary colors from Daniel Smith's 240+ color collection.

Sennelier La Petite Aquarelle 24 Half Pans

Sennelier | $38.95

Known for their high-quality paints, Sennelier's student set makes the perfect travel companion. It comes with 24 half pans, a mixing tray, and an elastic strap for field painting. Good transparency means that it's easy to create a glazing effect, and colors are clear and bright.

Daler-Rowney Aquafine Watercolor Pan Set of 24

Daler-Rowney | $27.78

The Daler-Rowney Aquafine Watercolor Set includes 24 colors that allow for easy mixing and delicate washes. Its high-quality pigments and economical price make it an excellent set for students and professionals alike.

Best Professional Watercolor Sets

Holbein Set Of 24 Artists' Watercolor Tubes

Holbein | $116.84

Made in Japan, Holbein watercolors claim to be “more finely ground than any other artist watercolor,” leaving a smooth, non-granular texture. They tend not to dry out in the tube and have a wide range of colors that are vibrant and intense according to reviewers.

Grumbacher Academy Watercolors Set of 12 Tubes

Grumbacher | $72.98

Grumbacher is a favorite brand among professional watercolorists. This set of 12 tubes comes in a plastic case with 12 color wells for mixing paint and creating even more hues. It also includes a camel-hair watercolor paintbrush so you can get started straight away.

Mijello Mission Gold Watercolor Tube Set of 24

Mijello | $54.31

Mijello's Mission Gold Watercolors were designed with the help of expert watercolorists to mirror the colors of nature. This set of 24 contains a range of colorful 7 ml tubes with excellent lightfastness.

ShinHan PWC Extra Fine Professional Watercolor Set of 24 Tubes

ShinHan | $98.80

This set of 24 colors by ShinHan is ideal for artists of all skill levels. These 15 ml tubs contain a large amount of paint, featuring “professional-behaving granulation” and lightfastness.

M. Graham Intermediate 10-Color Watercolor Paint Set

M. Graham | $144.53

M.Graham uses honey as an additive, making this a great option for artists who prefer a thicker consistency to their paint. With a high pigment load, this professional watercolor paint is known as a great value.

Winsor & Newton Professional Watercolor Lightweight Sketchers' Box

Winsor & Newton | $76.99

If you prefer working with tubes and want something portable, Winsor & Newton's professional sketching case is a terrific option. It includes 12 tubes of Winsor & Newton professional watercolor paints, which are known for their high pigment load. More expensive than other brands, Winsor & Newton has remained popular for overall quality and smooth consistency.

Sennelier French Metal Set

Sennelier | $64.11

A favorite brand among professionals, Sennelier uses honey as an additive, making rewetting easier. This portable set is easy to travel with, and as Sennelier also sells pans individually, you can refill them or add new colors as needed. One reviewer notes, “They respond very quickly to a wet brush, quicker than some other pan paints I have tried. The colors are rich, vibrant, and heavily pigmented.”

Schmincke Horadam Aquarell Paint Tube Metal Set

Schmincke | $81.11

Known for its superior quality, Schmincke has been using the same, traditional formula since 1881. The German brand has a huge selection of 139 colors, with 112 tones achieving the highest possible lightfastness. One reviewer calls them “Winsor & Newton on steroids!” and states that “the colors portray a delicate softness that I think is similar to WN watercolors, but Schmincke has a bit more boldness and flow, more variance in opaque and translucent colors, and much more granulation in certain colors.” If you prefer pans, they also have that option, as well as the student grade Akademie Aquarell line.

Utrecht Artists' Watercolor

Utrecht | $264.53

This beautiful kit by Utrecht is well worth the price for professional artists looking to treat themselves. It comes with 18 tubes of professional watercolors, 4 Utrecht brushes, one Utrecht flat knife, a Yasutomo fan-shaped plastic palette with 24 assorted wells, an artist sponge, and a kneaded eraser. Housed in a chic Beechwood wood case, it will make you want to go out and set up your easel immediately.

Rembrandt Watercolor Set

Rembrandt | $157.47

Made by the same manufacturer as Van Gogh, Rembrandt professional watercolors are known for their smooth texture and transparency. If you like working in layers and want to splurge on a wide range of colors, their 24-pan set is the perfect watercolor kit for the serious watercolorist.

Lukas Set of 70 Colors

Lukas | $192.99

For professional artists who want a full spectrum of colors at their fingertips, there's this extravagant set of 70 colors by Lukas. All of these high-quality half-pan shades are packaged conveniently inside a wooden box for easy transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are tube or pan watercolors better?

There are pros and cons to both.

Pans, which are only activated when touched with a wet brush, are great for their portability. As the amount of pigment you can take each time is limited, it's a bit more difficult to paint large-scale projects, but each pan will go a long way.

Tubes, by contrast, are filled with liquid paint. This makes it a bit messier to bring on the road, but easier for mixing and painting on a larger scale. However, it's easier to use more paint quickly with tubes, so it can mean buying paint more often. Artists also need to be careful not to let the paint dry out, as many brands don't hold up well to constant rewetting.

Keep in mind that both tubes and pans are sold individually, so if you aren't sure what works best for you, you can mix and match until you find the perfect combination.

How do I choose a watercolor set?

When choosing a watercolor set, it's important to keep in mind your skill level (beginner or professional) and your own creative goals. Bearing that information, you can choose a set based on the number of colors included, whether the set comes in tubes or pans, the price point, and the quality of the materials.

Do you need specific watercolor brushes?

Similar to painting in acrylic or oil, you will need good paintbrushes to make the most of your watercolor paint set. Most watercolor paint brushes are available in synthetic or natural fibers, each of which has its pros and cons.

Synthetic brushes—which are made from nylon or polyester—are the more economical option. Not only that, but they are also easy to clean and maintain their shape after significant usage. The downside is that they do not retain as much water.

Natural brushes—which are made from animal hair—are usually the go-to utensil for professional watercolorists. Although they are overall more expensive, they hold more paint and can produce pleasing effects.

Check out our guide to the best paint brushes for more insight into choosing your tools.

This article has been edited and updated.

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Photo: Mehmet Cetin / Shutterstock
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Colored pencils are often associated with childhood, but with the adult coloring book craze, it's clear that grown-ups like to use them, too. These tools, however, can do much more than color inside lines. Artists regularly use colored pencils in their drawings because they offer a range of possibilities—especially in their hues. While many professional sets include a bevy of beautiful colors, you can layer them to create even more dimension in your work.

While colored pencils may seem like something you use when you're a child, they're actually a versatile art supply that any creative should have on hand. They allow you to layer color, create texture, and produce vibrant images that pop off the page. You can use wax-based pencils, oil-based pencils, or even watercolor pencils to vary your artwork.

Determining the best colored pencils can be a challenge. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preference, but to get you started on the right track, we’ve identified some of the best pencils to try. These brands are available to purchase online, so it’s easy to test out a few different pencils without breaking the bank. It's important to find your favorites; by taking the time to hone your tools, you'll make producing your art more enjoyable. Make sure you try out your pencils using these essential colored pencil techniques. They'll provide a good gauge as to whether you'll like drawing with them long-term.

Looking for graphite drawing pencils? We've got you covered in our guide to the best drawing pencils.

How can you tell the quality of colored pencils?

One of the most crucial aspects is, of course, the color. Professional or Artist grade pencils are generally of higher quality than materials labeled as Student grade. In terms of colored pencils, this means they’ll deliver richer hues that offer a more vibrant color once you put them to paper. They also offer exceptional lightfastness, meaning your work won't fade over time. Avoid dull or pale tones, as they’re lower quality with less pigment in the lead.

Another important characteristic is how well the pencil glides over the paper. The best-colored pencils will seem to move effortlessly as you drag them across a surface. This is thanks to their ingredients. If you’re looking for top-of-the-line pencils, go for something that’s oil-based as opposed to wax-based. Hard wax, especially, can be brittle, which makes it harder to blend colors.

Best Colored Pencils

Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Pencils (set of 72)

Prismacolor | $74.99

Prismacolor Premier is considered by many to be ideal for beginners, as well as the best colored pencils for coloring books. They're a low price per pencil (only about $1 per pencil when you buy this set of 150!) and are made of soft wax; they blend well with a buttery application. One thing to be aware of is that, due to their soft nature, it can be more difficult to keep a sharp point, and they are prone to breakage. But, if you want to ease into colored pencils,  try out this set.

Blick Studio Artists' Colored Pencils (set of 48)

Blick | $37.50

One of America's biggest art supply stores has developed its own in-house colored pencils following guidance by artists from the Colored Pencil Society of America (CPSA). As such, Blick Studio Artists' Colored Pencils are a mix of professional quality at an affordable price. Highly pigmented and fade-resistant, the line has 91 colors that are sold individually or in sets.

Tombow Colored Pencil Set (Set of 36)

Tombow | $41.59

Another set that’s great for beginners and casual coloring book fans is Tombow. This 36-color set of pencils features 3mm cores inside cedar casings for even sharpening and break-resistance. The colored pencils also come inside of a metal case for easy portability.

ARTEZA Professional Wax-Based Core Pencils (set of 48)

ARTEZA | $18.50

Geared towards artists, ARTEZA‘s set of soft, wax-based core pencils boasts professional quality at a budget-conscious price. The set of 48 pencils focuses on brilliant colors that will make your artwork pop. These aspects make them a hit. “These pencils look very classy,” a reviewer shares, “and like a much higher-end product than the price would suggest.”

Fantasia Colored Pencils (set of 48)

Fantasia | $38.81

For beginners, Fantasia is a great way to get into colored pencils without investing too heavily. Their extra-thick, blendable cores make them perfect for layering and blending. “I got these for my 8-year-old son so could have his own ‘good set' of pencils in a tin like mom,” one reviewer commented. “I tried them out and actually like these nearly as much as my Prisma's and more than some of the other much more expensive pencils I have tried.”

Koh-I-Noor Polycolor Pencils (set of 24)

Koh-I-Noor | $34.48

Koh-I-Noor's Polycolor premium oil-based drawing pencils are ideal for both coloring and drawing. They can be layered and blended to create a variety of different hues.

Cretacolor Mega Colored Pencils (set of 24)

Cretacolor | $42.53

These extra-thick colored pencils have a 6.4 mm core that allows for broad strokes. Their waxy formulation makes them perfect for blending and layering, and as they're designed for all skill levels, beginners and professionals will enjoy their rich pigmentation. Cretacolor Mega Colored Pencils come in 36 colors and are available in a range of sets.

Derwent Colorsoft Pencils (set of 24)

Derwent | $41.63

If you’re looking to move beyond the beginner sets, try Derwent pencils. Created with artists in mind, they have a more muted palette—including beautiful terracottas and cadmium. It’s recommended that you use these for work where there’s a lot of shading and blending, as they’re less adept at depicting fine, sharp details. Derwent also prides itself on producing pencils that are 100% lightfast, meaning that your work will last in time.

Caran D'ache Luminance Colored Pencil (set of 20)

Caran D'ache | $69.19

The Caran D'ache colored pencils are known for their ability to blend. Many who start with the Prismacolor Premier enjoy the Caran D'ache because you can easily and beautifully burnish the hues. This is great news if you enjoy realistic drawing because it will help develop three-dimensional form. Want a set that's a little smaller (and less expensive)? Try Caran D'ache's “soft and unbreakable” core featuring 12 colored pencils in a tin container.

Uni-Posca Colored Pencils (Set of 36)

Uni-Posca | $44.76

This set of 36 oil-based colored pencils by Uni-Posca is ideal for drawings and mixed-media work. Each pencil is fade-resistant, highly opaque, and blendable.

LYRA Rembrandt Polycolor Art Pencils (set of 72)

Lyra | $74.25

With its price, the oil-based Lyra Rembrandts are probably in your “splurge” category, but this particular set is great for serious artists who love to draw. In addition to paper, you can also use these on synthetic materials, wood, and textiles.

Faber-Castell Polychromos Color Pencils (set of 120)

Faber-Castell | $154.56

The oil-based Faber-Castell Polychromos colors are lauded for their rich pigments that easily go on the paper, and you don’t have to press as hard to achieve brilliant saturated tones. “My favorite quality of these pencils besides how they lay down beautiful rich color is they are named actual pigment names,” one reviewer writes, “So if you have ever painted, you'll be familiar with these colors.”

Holbein Artists' Colored Pencils (Set of 150)

Holbein | $568

Holbein creates superbly pigmented, premium-quality pencils, and this set of 150 is a dream for every colored pencil-enthusiast. It features three rows of utensils in a rainbow of different hues. Although the price point is high, the quality and lush application of color will make it worth your while. Holbein is known for its exceptional color range and is a high-quality product with exceptional lightfastness.

Something to Keep in Mind as You Shop For Colored Pencils

If you hesitate to spend money on this type of artistic tool, remember that they’re meant to last. “Colored pencils are different from the paints and markers we use because we typically have them a lot longer,” Cheryl Trowbridge of Teach Kids Art advises. “They don’t dry out like markers do, and they don’t get used up as fast as markers and paint do.”

Photo: Colored Pencil Portraits

How to Make the Most of Your Favorite Colored Pencils

Once you have your colored pencils—and found a brand you love—hone your skills with online classes! There are many courses on how to use them. Why not try one of the following?

• Drawing with Colored Pencils: Basic Blending Tips & Techniques
• Painting with Colored Pencils: A Beginner's Guide
• How to draw Realistic Hair with Colored Pencils
• Colored-Pencils Portraits : How to Master Them
• Colored Pencil Drawing Technique: Blending with Solvent
• Architectural Illustration for Everyone: Draw Buildings in Ink and Colored Pencil

Looking for a cool colored pencils project?

Artist Demi Lang has a comprehensive course on architectural illustration on My Modern Met Academy. Her online class is called Architectural Illustration for Everyone: Draw Buildings in Ink and Colored Pencil. It will take you step by step through her process of sketching structures with pencil and then colored pencils; and when complete, you will have created your own charming architectural illustration.

Get started with her course here!

This article has been updated and edited.

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Perfecting your artistic techniques isn't easy, but thankfully some skilled artists are willing to share their knowledge to help you up your game. This includes Luiza Niechoda, who is known for her contemporary pixelated landscape paintings. Niechoda teaches My Modern Met Academy's Acrylic Painting Masterclass. In it, she shows students several tools and techniques that can be applied to any style of art.

The intermediate-level course even includes a mini-lesson on how to stretch your own canvas for those who may be interested in getting their hands dirty. From there, Niechoda shows you how to prep your canvas prior to painting before sharing how you can execute sharp, crisp lines using a few different techniques.

You'll then move into looking at basic color theory before creating a color mixing chart that will become a valuable tool for any future artwork. After sourcing images and working on a preliminary sketch, you'll follow along as Niechoda paints two different abstract landscape paintings. Whether you also are interested in painting landscapes, or simply wish to learn new skills, this course will most definitely add to your artistic toolbox.

So, once you enroll, what supplies will you need to get started? Students receive the full supplies list with the course, but we'll give a quick rundown of some necessary items. First, you'll want two canvases, one with a raw or linen finish and a second with any finish that you'd like. Of course, if you decide to stretch your own canvas, you'll need stretcher bars, a staple gun, linen canvas, a rubber mallet, and glue.

When she paints, Niechoda works with angled and bright brushes and suggests bringing all the shades of blue and green paint you have to the class. You'll also need a piece of paper that can hold acrylic paint for the color mixing chart, as well as an acrylic painting medium and masking tape to get sharp lines.

My Modern Met Academy's Acrylic Painting Masterclass: Explore Color & Abstract Landscape Painting is available on January 31, 2024. If you purchase the course prior to that date, you can receive 10% off by entering the code MASTERCLASS10 at checkout. The course will then appear on your student dashboard when the course is released to the public.

In My Modern Met Academy's Acrylic Painting Masterclass, artist Luiza Niechoda will help students expand their painting skills.

Not only will students paint two abstract landscapes, they'll also create a color mixing chart and, if they want, learn to stretch their own canvas.

Here are some of the supplies that you'll need on hand to complete the course, which comes out on January 31, 2024.

Green and Blue Acrylic Paint

Winsor & Newton Professional Acrylic | $9.47+

Winsor & Newton Professional Acrylic | $12.83+

Angled and Bright Brushes

Princeton | $24.76

Princeton | $26.85

Acrylic Paper

Strathmore | $11.14

Acrylic Medium

Liquitex | $8.21+

White Canvas

Blick | $18.74

To prep your canvas, and stretch it if you decide to do so, you'll also need the following items.

White Gesso

Golden | $11.69+

Stretcher Bars

Best | $5.14

Linen Canvas Roll

Blick | $48.01+

Rabbit Skin or Vegan Glue

Utrecht | $16.50

Golden | $12.23+

Watch this preview of the Acrylic Painting Masterclass and enroll today.

My Modern Met Academy: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | TikTok

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READ: These Supplies Will Help You Ace Our Acrylic Painting Masterclass

Viviva Colors | $22

Looking to create a painting that stands out from the rest? A little bit of sparkle is a great way to brighten up your artwork. Fortunately, creative brand Viviva Colors—best known for their portable Original Colorsheets—have designed a small but mighty set of metallic watercolors pans that will go a long way in your studio.

This portable set measures 3 x 2.5 inches and weighs less than an ounce, making it great for on-the-go artists. Each pan is inserted inside a 100% biodegradable cork backing, which is completely eco-friendly. All the artist has to do to start using this amazing little set is to wet their paintbrush and swipe it over their desired color.

While pans may be the preferred watercolor delivery system for some, it's not the only way to use this medium. Viviva Colors has also made a metallic colorsheets set in their signature booklet style. It features an assortment of 10 high-quality colors that shimmer and shine in the light. Each sheet is made of a supersaturated layer of pigment that's deposited on the paper. To get started, simply wet your brush, run it over the chosen color, and start painting your next great masterpiece.

Scroll down to shop these watercolor supplies, and head over to My Modern Met Store when you're ready to checkout.

Viviva Colors makes portable watercolor supplies that are ideal for making art anywhere.

Watercolor Metallic Pans Set of 15 Colors

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Watercolor Pans Set of 16 Colors

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Spring Watercolor Pans Set of 16 Colors

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Fall Colorsheets

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Metallics Colorsheets

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Original Colorsheets

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Spring Colorsheets

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Find more Viviva Colors' watercolor supplies in My Modern Met Store!

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Follow My Modern Met Store: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter
Subscribe to the My Modern Met Store newsletter for updates!

READ: Add a Bit of Sparkle to Your Paintings With This Metallic Watercolor Set

Viviva Colors | $55

Inspiration can strike at any moment. With that in mind, Viviva Colors has designed a line of portable painting supplies—like their Original Colorsheets—that help artists work anywhere. One of their newest additions is an all-inclusive kit that has everything you need to make a masterpiece on the go.

Available in A5 and the smaller A6 size, these sets come with painting essentials that every artist should own. This includes one Viviva Original Colorsheets with 16 colors, one premium ivory sketchpad with 48 pages, one round tip water brush, and one black pen. All of the accessories are neatly tucked away in their designated compartments in the vegan leather case so that you don't have to worry about supplies rolling around in your bag.

The only difference between these two travel kits is the size. So while the A5 set comes with an ivory sketchpad measuring a generous 8.25 x 5.75 inches—an ideal size for composing illustrations without feeling limited by a small scale—the A6 set is just 4 x 6 inches, and slightly easier to tote around. Whichever kit you choose, the quality of the vibrant watercolors, premium paper, and hardwearing case is sure to impress you through numerous creative excursions.

You can take a look at these kits below, and head over to My Modern Met Store when you're ready to check out.

Viviva Colors makes portable art supplies so you can make masterpieces anywhere.

A5 Travel Paint Kit

Viviva Colors | $55

Viviva Colors | $55

Viviva Colors | $55

Viviva Colors | $55

Viviva Colors | $55

Viviva Colors | $55

Viviva Colors | $55

Viviva Colors | $55

A6 Travel Paint Kit

Viviva Colors | $45

Viviva Colors | $45

Viviva Colors | $45

Viviva Colors | $45

Viviva Colors | $45

Viviva Colors | $45

Viviva Colors | $45

Viviva Colors | $45

Viviva Colors | $45

Viviva Original Colorsheets

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Spring Colorsheets

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Metallics Colorsheets

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Fall Colorsheets

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Colors | $19.95

Viviva Spring Watercolor Pans Set of 16 Colors

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Watercolor Pans Set of 16 Colors

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Watercolor Metallic Pans Set of 15 Colors

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva Colors | $22

Viviva A5 Ivory Sketchbook

Viviva Colors | $16

Viviva Colors | $16

Viviva Colors | $16

Viviva Colors | $16

Viviva Colors | $16

Viviva Colors | $16

Viviva A6 Ivory Sketchbook

Viviva Colors | $12

Viviva Colors | $12

Viviva Colors | $12

Viviva Colors | $12

Viviva Colors | $12

Shop all Viviva Colors' products in My Modern Met Store!

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Follow My Modern Met Store: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter
Subscribe to the My Modern Met Store newsletter for updates!

READ: This Portable Painting Kit Has Everything You Need To Make Art On the Go