Colouring pencils

First, decide on the core type. Wax-based pencils offer vibrant color and smooth layering, ideal for most colouring books and general art, while oil-based pencils tend to hold a point longer and resist wax bloom, which is great for detailed work and longer sessions. Watercolour pencils add a different dimension, letting you blend with water for soft gradients and painterly effects. For a broader palette, look for sets that mix these formats or provide a dedicated watercolour option.

Next, consider color range and pigment quality. A larger color range provides more shade options, while high-quality pigments deliver richer saturation and better lightfastness, crucial if your artwork might see light exposure. If you plan to blend extensively, check for soft cores that glide smoothly and color laydown that layers well without too much pressure.

Paper compatibility matters too. Heavier-weight, acid-free paper or colouring books with toothy textures grip the pigments better and prevent excessive smudging. For novices, a balanced starter set (around 12–24 colors) paired with a good quality sharpener is often enough to explore shading, blending, and gradient techniques.

Ergonomics count for longer sessions. Look for hexagonal or triangular barrels that feel comfortable in hand and offer a steady grip. Storage is another practical factor, fold-out cases and portable tins keep pencils organized and protected, especially when you’re on the go or traveling with art supplies.

Wax-based coloured pencils are the workhorses of most hobby artists: they’re affordable, easy to blend, and provide bright, lively color. Oil-based pencils are prized by more experienced crafters for their harder leads, cleaner edges, and longer-lasting points, which means less sharpening during complex projects. Watercolour pencils open up a painterly path for those who want to add washes and soft edges to their drawings.

Professional sets often combine a wide color range with pigment-rich cores and lightfast ratings, ensuring your artwork remains vibrant across time. For those who enjoy mixed-media, some pencils are designed to work beautifully with markers or inks, giving you more versatility in your toolkit.

Keep pencils in a dry, cool place away from direct heat to prevent cores from cracking. Store them in upright cases or shallow trays so tips don’t rub against each other. Regularly sharpen with a quality sharpener that matches your core type, a gentle, precise sharpen helps maintain a fine point for detailed work. Wipe away crumbs after sessions to keep the ferrule clean and avoid collecting dust that can smudge work.

When you’re ready to expand, you’ll find a wide range of colouring pencils suitable for adults and kids, including beginner sets, gift-ready bundles, and professional grade options. With Wowcher, you can renovate your art space and add new hues without stretching your budget.

For beginners, a compact 12–24 color set is ideal to learn the basics of shading, layering, and color mixing. Look for good quality wax or wax-based cores that glide smoothly and a selection that includes essential primaries, earth tones, and a few vibrant accents. Synthetic brush-like blending tools or colorless blending stumps can help you achieve softer transitions. Consider starter bundles that include a sharpener and a small tin or pouch for easy transport.

If you’re ready to grow, step up to 36–72 color sets that provide a broader spectrum for more nuanced artwork, and look for brands with reliable pigment payoff and lightfastness ratings. For students and hobbyists, bundles that pair colouring pencils with quality paper or colouring books make a thoughtful, practical gift and a great value deal on Wowcher.

Yes, most colouring pencils are designed to be non-toxic and safe for children, but it’s always wise to check the packaging for age recommendations and safety certifications. For younger children, select break-resistant pencils with a sturdy cap and a thick outer wood casing to reduce breakage during use. Supervise little artists to prevent small pieces from becoming choking hazards, and choose sets with larger, easy-to-grip barrels that promote proper hand posture without frustration.

From spacious beginner sets to premium artist ranges, Wowcher brings you a wide selection of colouring pencils suitable for kids and adults alike. Whether it’s for school projects, family crafting, or personal relaxation, you’ll find deals that keep creativity accessible, fun, and safe for every age group.