How to choose colored pencils for artists. Choosing graphic materials
Not all colored pencils are of really good quality. Some of them are too thick and uncomfortable, others paint fadedly, and still others require constant sharpening.Why is it so important to choose really good colored pencils for a child? In fact, everything is very simple. The counters of modern shops selling stationery are simply overflowing with all kinds of sets of colored pencils of various manufacturers, brands, varieties and shades. It is simply impossible not to get confused and confused in all this diversity. Do not rush to buy, carefully study the entire range presented and choose the best and highest quality colored pencils.
For toddlers, just learning the basics visual arts, pencils with a body are most suitable. They will help the child quickly learn how to correctly place the fingers while drawing, and not clench the pencil in a fist, as most kids do who have not yet reached three years of age. In addition, triangular colored pencils do not roll off the table during the drawing process and allow young artist focus solely on creativity, without distracting him from constantly bending over and looking for colored pencils under the table.
If there are no triangular colored pencils in the store, you can buy drawing tools with six pronounced edges. But it is better to refuse to buy colored pencils with a round section. They are only suitable for children with an already formed correct grip of the pencil.
When choosing colored pencils, pay attention to their thickness. It is more convenient for children under three years old to draw with pencils with a thickened wooden body, the diameter of which is about a centimeter. Such a tool will sit firmly in the fingers of the child and will not break if pressed too hard.
Give preference to soft colored pencils. Firstly, it is much easier to draw with them than with solid ones. Secondly, soft colored pencils reproduce brighter ones. And, thirdly, the crumbs will not have to press hard on the pencil in order to draw what they have planned.
The best manufacturers of colored pencils
Poor-quality wood and harmful dyes in the composition of the cores of colored pencils can be the result of frequent breakdowns, faded drawings, damage to drawing paper, and most importantly, a child's bad mood.When choosing colored pencils, do not try to buy the cheapest set. It is better to give preference to products of trusted manufacturers that have proven themselves in modern market stationery and received many positive feedback satisfied buyers.
The best manufacturers of colored pencils are: KOH-I-NOOR, JOVI, Crayola, SILWERHOF, as well as the Siberian Pencil Factory, which produces colored pencils of the Russian Pencil and Siberian Cedar series.
Drawing is a fascinating educational process for children and an addictive hobby for adults. To make pencils a pleasure, it is important to choose the right company. Not all brands offer good quality. Some pencils are too thick, others do not transfer color well, and others break regularly.
We paid attention to the softness of the rod, the price, the completeness of the kits and the light fastness. Based on these parameters and customer reviews, we have collected the top ten. Pencils are based on a core with binders, the quality is influenced by the production method and the selected raw materials. All firms in the ranking sell products in sets, while more expensive ones offer piece goods.
TOP 10 best colored pencil companies
10 Kalyaka-Malyaka
The most popular pencils for young children
A country:
Rating (2019): 4.4
Kalyaka-Malyaka creates goods for kids and first-graders, they are approved by teachers and loved by parents. It is difficult to find cheaper pencils with so many colors and a convenient shape. The body is always thick, short and triangular. The stylus glides easily over paper with no effort required. Bright color remains on the surface, it is easy for children to create wide lines. There are two-sided sets: one end of the pencil is thin, the other is thick.
The manufacturer uses a tree without splinters, safe for kids. The shades in the sets are varied, but there are no acidic, metallic or other creative options. The company prefers natural colors. However, the lead crumbles during sharpening, it is too soft and thick. The choice of colors does not stand up to competition from more expensive brands. The brand is designed for a specific audience and is not suitable for artists and art lovers.
9 Kores
Bright lines without hard pressure
A country: Austria (made in China)
Rating (2019): 4.5
Kores is known for its crisp, vibrant colors. For achievement good result no need to press the pencil, the hand does not get tired. The company produces double-sided sets that are convenient to take to school and put away in a pencil case. Colored pencils for children have a triangular shape for better comfort. The lead is glued with high quality, does not break even when dropped. A sharpener is added to most of the sets, because many pencils have non-standard sizes. Each color can be signed independently. Although parents say that children's creativity there are cheaper options. But fans like the value for money.
The reviews often praise the materials, saying that they are the most durable in this price segment. Leads do not crumble and do not break off. Parents note that the triangular shape is quite comfortable in the hand, although the pencils slip a little. Many are frustrated by the name of the colors in English, children cannot remember them, and the case does not convey the shade correctly. For children under 5 years old, they are not suitable because of the very sharp tips and length.
8 Erich Krause
Inexpensive quality pencils
A country: Russia (produced in China)
Rating (2019): 4.5
Erich Krause offers quality leads that wear out slowly and hardly fade. The palette contains all sorts of colors, nothing limits the artist. The company produces 3 lines: watercolor, soft and trihedral (for children). When shaded with water, the pigment does not lose color, creating the effect of paint without streaks and streaks. The lead can be sharpened with a sharpener or a knife, the material is durable. Adults say they would like to add more subtle shades, as they are all quite bright. But the kids really like it.
The manufacturer does not indicate what kind of wood the colored pencils are made of, saying that the material is safe for the child. The case is enameled in color, although it does not always match. For example, light brown on a mustard yellow pencil. But the drawings are colorful, the paper is not scratched. The colors layer and blend very well. For professionals, these sets are not suitable, as well as for amateurs looking for unique shades. They run out quickly, some leads from one pack are a little harder than they should be (a standard problem with inexpensive brands).
7 Stabilo
Nice sets for kids
Country: Czech Republic
Rating (2019): 4.6
Stabilo produces pencils with three edges, they are comfortable to hold in your hands. The basis of the line is shortened children's sets with a thick lead. Little kids like to leave wide bright lines on paper, although you can’t create masterpieces with such pencils. Leads are soft, sharpen easily and do not break. They are often recommended in place of Maped, which we'll cover in a moment, as it has more skin tones. However, the leads in the same set may differ in softness, showing on paper different result. But color palette Well made, all shades are there.
Users say that it is easy to draw a straight line without gaps with colored pencils, many note the exquisite undertones of blue, green and yellow. Saturation is achieved by the softness of the stylus, although it does crumble a bit when drawing. You can apply color in several layers, changing the intensity. But parents say that small pencils are inconvenient to carry in a pencil case. They are easy to lose and accidentally break.
6 maped
Excellent quality for amateur drawing
A country: France (made in China)
Rating (2019): 4.6
Maped is considered the best firm among inexpensive producers. Pencils convey colors well, do not scratch paper, are not afraid of sharpeners and knives. The lead is strong enough, does not crumble when pressed, although it breaks when dropped. Pencils for children have a trihedral body, the child does not get tired while drawing. Fingers do not slip thanks to varnishing. A large set of 48 colors has all natural shades, several pastels and metallic pencils. We liked the names: kiwi, green jungle, etc. Their children remember much faster than numbers.
Users love the ability to layer color, make fine lines, and fill in large spaces. However, pencils are demanding on the material, they work best on a rough and dense surface. Smooth paper can be scratched. Not all kits are well balanced, there are not enough neutral colors for artists. Pencils are incapable of creating complex transitions, but are great for amateur drawing.
5 Derwent
The best selection of colors in one set
Country: UK
Rating (2019): 4.7
In the middle of the list is Derwent with premium, soft, pigmented pencils. It is a pleasure to draw with them, a colorful result is always obtained. The most popular line is Coloursoft for artists and hobbyists. They paint detailed pictures in different techniques, the image does not fade for many years. Most big set out of 72 pencils it costs 6,000 rubles - more expensive than many competitors. However, in terms of the convenience of sharpening and the reliability of the stylus, it has no equal.
Buyers in the reviews talk about the softness of application and richness of color on any material. The palette of shades will please even professionals, there are not only standard options, but also glitter pencils, watercolors, pastels and metallics. Image does not fade when exposed to light. No wonder Derwent is considered the elite on the market and has supported the brand since 1832. However, they quickly grind off, the price is too high. They are rarely bought for children, and adults scold uneconomical consumption.
4 Crayola
Best Budget Pencils
Country: America
Rating (2019): 4.7
The basis of the Crayola company is inexpensive sets for children and quality lovers at an affordable price. The pencils are slightly thicker than the competition to make them comfortable for the kids to hold. The stylus is large and dense, it is easy for them to make wide bright strokes. No need to put pressure on the paper and swipe in one place several times. The wood is good quality and easy to sharpen. There are sets with retractable lead for children from 3 to 5 years old. Although Crayola pencils cannot draw small details, they are absolutely safe for kids. Other brands sharpen the tips so hard that they can hurt you.
In the reviews, many praise the rods: they last for a long time, it is difficult to break. There are from 6 to 30 pencils in the set, they are not sold individually. Products for the smallest have increased strength, they can be thrown, they are not afraid to step on them. The manufacturer recommends purchasing products for children from 1 year old, buyers say that it is better to wait until 3 years old. The only thing the company lacks is interesting colors. There are only standard ones in the sets, there are no pastel, metallic and many other shades.
3 Lyra
Slowly consumed, rarely broken
A country: Germany (made in China)
Rating (2019): 4.8
Opens the top 3 of the best Lyra, which has established itself as a quality and reliable brand of pencils. They give a clean and rich light, can outline the contour and shade a large surface. For the base, California cedar wood is used, which is easy to sharpen. The lead does not break. A sharpener has been added to children's kits, professionals prefer to sharpen the tips with a knife. Lyra allows you to draw on paper, cardboard, wood and plastic. Handles small details very well. Children's pencils have the shape of a triangle, which is considered the most convenient. A brush has been added to the watercolor sets.
The brand belongs to the luxury class, the pencils are expensive, they mix well with each other and do not lose color when blurred. There are no toxic shades. Buyers say that the hand does not get tired, you do not need to press hard. However, many children's pencils won't fit in standard sharpeners due to their shape. Some shades are not to be found, especially brown and sand are missing.
2 Koh-i-Noor
The most reliable rod
Country: Czech Republic
Rating (2019): 4.9
Koh-i-Noor started as early as 1790 and has since been regarded as one of the most trusted manufacturers of drawing products. His pencils are soft high quality, are eco-friendly and suitable for artists and hobbyists. The most popular line is Koh-I-Noor Mondeluz in sets from 6 to 32 colors. A special feature is the watercolor stylus: the drawing can be blurred with water, you get the effect of paint. When dry, the pencils work great on small details, suitable for underlining. The product is based on cedar wood, varnished and painted in the right color. They are easy to sharpen and hard to break.
According to the reviews, it is clear that many people draw with pencils and get rich color without hard pressing. The stylus does not scratch the surface, it is easy to shade evenly big leaf. The shades blend well, especially in professional kits. Children's pencils can create a gradient and layer on top of each other. The lead does not crumble or break, even if the product falls to the floor. However soft pencils run out quickly and are expensive.
1 Faber-Castell
The best ratio of price and quality
Country: Germany
Rating (2019): 5.0
The leader of the rating was Faber-Castell, who divided pencils into 3 lines: red for children, blue for artists and green for professionals. All products are made of stained wood, covered with hypoallergenic varnish and numbered. The lead is glued and has a medium hardness to prevent breakage during pointing. The manufacturer has a huge selection of colors, serious attitude to quality and good materials.
Pencils for child drawing have a place to write a name. It is convenient to hold them, because the area below is rubberized, small rubber pimples are formed on it. A good sharpener is added to many sets. However, pencils can also be sharpened with a knife, which is especially useful when drawing thin lines. There are sets with watercolor slates. Such pencils are easily blurred with water, without losing saturation. Sets for the little ones have an anti-slip coating and a triangular section. A huge number of reviews and instructions for use have been published on the Internet. However, the price is too high, especially when buying for a child.
September 1st is coming soon, and like most parents, I'm wondering: what to put in a school bag for a child? What to buy to be both high quality and inexpensive. For example, colored pencils: what color pencils are good, and which not so much? What kind of pencils should I buy for a child, and from the purchase of which it is better to refuse. Let's try to figure it out.
A long time ago, I came to the conclusion that it makes no sense to constantly buy boxes with a lot of pencils. Usually pencils of primary colors - red, yellow, blue and green - wear out faster. Therefore, it makes sense to buy one large box of pencils (12, 24, 36 colors), and then, as needed, supplement it with pencils from sets of 6 colors. Yes and on school lessons, as my experience shows, pencils of 6 primary colors are usually enough.
That is why I decided to arrange a test of pencils from six-color sets. For this purpose, I purchased many boxes of pencils to find out: What pencils are best for kids?
In total, 14 sets of pencils from 13 manufacturers participated in the test.
Above is a video review, below is a review with photos.
Staedtler is represented by two different sets: I bought one specifically for testing, and the other I already had - "Noris Club" pencils I bought my child for school for the past two years, preferring them due to the fact that the manufacturer claims that "... white A protective ring around the lead strengthens the lead and increases its impact resistance. Indeed, for two years, pencils have proven themselves well. They sharpen well, the stylus does not break, and one box was enough for us for the entire academic year.
Pencils were evaluated on several parameters: appearance, softness of drawing, brightness, price, ease of sharpening. In my opinion, these are the main parameters for assessing the quality of children's pencils.
Assessing appearance, I looked at the quality of the stylus, wood, color - what I liked, what I didn’t. I tried to be as objective as possible. Evaluated on a five-point scale. In the photo - a clear result:
And closer pencils and grades:
Softness judged by the way the pencil glides across the paper. Goes "like clockwork" or clings?
Brightness. Here, I think, everything is clear from the table. I shaded its cells twice: the first time with the usual pressure, the second - barely touching the paper with a stylus. It often happens that children draw without pressing the pencil; like a good pencil, but it turns out very pale. So I decided to check: what will be the brightness of the picture with a slight pressure? 
I was pleasantly surprised that all pencils draw about the same. Therefore, the range of ratings turned out to be small - from 5 (the brightest) to 3 (slightly inferior in brightness). The main assessment was carried out on the yellow color, because. it turned out to be the most obvious - it is in the shading with yellow that significant differences in brightness are visible.
Price. The test involved sets of pencils, costing from 26 to 230 rubles. The price range was divided into three approximately equal segments, it turned out: from 26 to 61 rubles - this is "five" points, from 65 to 80 - "four", from 94 to 149 - "three". She made an exception for pencils "Faber Castell" - their price (230 rubles) is almost 2 times more than the nearest price competitor, so they were given two points.
Prices are at the time of my purchase. But I must make a reservation - in different time and in different stores, prices can vary significantly: expensive pencils can noticeably lose in price, and cheap pencils can rise in price.
Sharpening. I spent a lot of time and attention on this parameter. It happens: the pencil is wonderful, it draws brightly, it goes easily and softly on paper, but it turns out to sharpen it from the third, or even the fifth time - and it takes a lot of time and nerves (you usually sharpen pencils in a "bunch", not one at a time). Yes, and money, it turns out, is thrown out for nothing - sometimes a third of the pencil goes into shavings.
I tested sharpening at least twice: twice (or more) I broke off the lead of a pencil and immediately sharpened it with an ordinary manual sharpener. In my opinion, it is a manual sharpener that allows you to objectively evaluate the quality of wood and lead. My sharpener is good, not cheap (look in the labyrinth, my-shop), but already old, so stupid - which created additional difficulties and made it possible to more fully assess the quality of the pencil. In addition, I also used a new inexpensive sharpener - it coped better.
A little advice: if pencils sharpen poorly, constantly break, then try to sharpen them not manually, but mechanically or electric sharpener. Both do well - there will be much fewer broken pencils during sharpening.
Until recently, I constantly used a mechanical sharpener (see our sharpener in Labyrinth online stores, my-shop). It is more convenient than usual, but I wanted something even more convenient, so I bought an electric sharpener a couple of months ago - and I am very pleased with the purchase. Since this year, there are two schoolchildren in our family, and pencils are constantly needed for drawing at home. You have to sharpen a lot, and an electric sharpener is a great time saver. 
So, back to testing: the pencil sharpens well if I need to turn it in the sharpener just a few times, while the pencil turns smoothly, not jerkily, and the chips are even. And, of course, after the end of sharpening, the lead should remain in the pencil, and not get stuck in the sharpener.
I sharpened each pencil in a clean and empty sharpener.
Five points were given to pencils, to which I had no complaints: they sharpen evenly and well, the lead does not break off.
Four points - small flaws during sharpening, but in general this process does not cause irritation.
Three points - it did not immediately turn out to sharpen, no pleasure from the process.
Two points - it sharpens every other time, the stylus often breaks.
Zero points - the pencil was sharpened only with a mechanical or electric sharpener. Three attempts to sharpen a pencil with a manual sharpener ended in failure. I will never buy these pencils again!
For clarity, I photographed pencils after sharpening. I sharpened brown pencils, and put the blue ones side by side for comparison - these pencils are from the box. The top pencil got a five for sharpening, the bottom pencil an outsider sharpened with a mechanical sharpener (the manual sharpener never did). 
When sharpening, pencils stand out especially Wopex Noris Color from Staedtler. The wood of these pencils is very dense, and the pencils themselves are significantly heavier than the others. Basically, the tested pencils weighed 5 grams, the Wopex. Noris Color pencil weighed 8 grams. Apparently, therefore, when sharpening them, it is necessary to make more efforts. I considered this a plus, deciding that such a pencil would last longer.
Adding up all the points, I got the final score and built a table with the results, placing the pencils with the highest score in the highest positions. Points scored with pencils in the last column.
Another of the inexpensive pencils I want to note "Kalyaku-Malyaku". At a relatively low cost, pencils showed good results.
This concludes my review. Glad you made it. And it will come in handy more than once, so as not to wonder "what pencils to buy?" and point your finger at the sky, focusing only on price and packaging. And I hope you find this article useful too. So - do not forget to bookmark so that you can use it more than once;)
On this I say goodbye, and ... until we meet again!
Pencil is a very simple drawing material with which artists begin their creative way. Even any kid makes his first lines with a pencil before moving on to more complex material. But not such a pencil and primitive, if you study in more detail. He is able to help the artist create sketches, various illustrations, drawings and paintings. Pencils have their own types and it is important for any artist to be able to choose the right material for their work so that the illustration has a presentable appearance. So let's figure it out how to choose a pencil for drawing?
The principle of the pencil
When a person presses down on a pencil, the rod slides over the paper, and the graphite particles break down into small particles and linger in the paper fiber. Thus, a line is obtained. In the process of drawing, the graphite rod is erased, so it is sharpened. The most familiar way is a special sharpener, you can also use a regular blade. It is important to understand that this method requires special care and preparation in order to avoid cuts. But thanks to the blade, you can make the desired thickness and shape of graphite.
Types of a simple pencil
The basic definition of a pencil is a graphite rod framed in a wood or plastic frame. Simple graphite pencil is of various types. They differ in their degree of hardness.
Human eyes can distinguish a large number of shades of gray, and to be precise - 150 tones. Despite this, the artist must have in his arsenal at least three types simple pencil- hard, medium soft and soft. With their help, you can create three-dimensional drawing. Different degrees of rigidity will be able to convey the contrast, you just need to skillfully handle them.
You can determine the degree of softness of graphite using the symbols (letters and numbers) that are printed on the frame of the pencil. The scale of hardness and softness are different. We will consider three types of notation:
Russia
- T- solid.
- M- soft.
- TM- medium softness.
Europe
- H- solid.
- B- soft.
- HB- medium softness.
- F- middle tone, which is determined between H and HB.
- #1 (B)- soft.
- #2 (HB)- medium softness.
- #2½ (F) Medium between hard and medium soft.
- #3 (H)- solid.
- #4 (2H)- very hard.
It is impossible not to take into account such a moment as the manufacturer. Sometimes, even the same softness of pencils from different manufacturers will differ significantly from each other due to their quality.
A palette of shades of a simple pencil
It is worth noting that the softness of pencils can vary significantly. In other words, softness and hardness are further divided into tonality. The H designation is considered the hardest, while B is the softest. It's not surprising if there are whole sets in the store from 9H (hardest) to 9B (softest).
The most common and popular is the HB pencil. It has moderate softness and hardness, making it easy to sketch. With it, you can enhance dark places, thanks to its light softness.
To enhance the contrast of the picture, it is worth purchasing 2B. Artists rarely use very hard pencils, but this is a matter of taste. This type of pencil is more suitable for drawing schemes or building perspectives for landscapes, because it is almost invisible in the image. It is impossible not to take into account that the high hardness of the pencil allows you to make a smooth transition on the hair or add a barely noticeable tone without fear of darkening.
At the beginning of work, it is worth using a hard pencil, especially if you are not sure about the result of the illustration. A soft pencil is designed to work out the shadows and highlight the desired lines.
Hatching and shading
Regardless of the softness, one must always remember that the pencil must be sharpened sharply. Strokes and lines work best hard pencil due to the fact that the stylus does not quickly become dull, but remains in its pointed shape for a long time. Shading is preferred for a soft pencil, but it is better to draw with the side of the stylus so that the material is applied evenly.
Features of working with a pencil
Do not forget that the pencil lead is a rather fragile thing. Every time a pencil falls to the floor or is hit, its core is damaged or even broken. As a result, it will be inconvenient to draw, because the stylus will crumble or fall out of its wooden frame.
Outcome. The information worth knowing is quite voluminous for a novice artist. But it is very useful, because it will help in creating future masterpieces. Over time, knowledge will automatically suggest which simple pencil is needed in a given situation. Most importantly, don't be afraid to experiment.
For effective drawing, you need to choose only the best colored pencils, which can be watercolor or pastel. In this ranking, we analyzed the advantages and disadvantages of the most popular instruments On the market. After studying them, you can choose the most high-quality, good and suitable option for you. The TOP is based on real reviews buyers.
There are hundreds of companies on the market offering stationery and school products. Among them, Czech, Austrian, German, English manufacturers hold the first places. They offer the highest quality products, but mostly here in question about premium tools.
- is a German company that manufactures pencils, pens and other office supplies. She also has quality products for professional artists. Its products have a durable lead, protected from breakage by special technology, are environmentally friendly and safe, and also stand out from competitors with a convenient shape. Products do not roll off the table, which is very important, as this distracts the child's attention and does not allow him to concentrate properly.
- Derwent is an English company for the production of stationery, which began its work in 1832. Her products are created for both professional artists and amateurs, including children. Pencils are sold in cardboard, wooden and metal packages, so they are often bought as a gift. They are easy to find in the store and the reviews about them are mostly positive. The goods of this company are chosen both for students of ordinary and art schools.
- Koh i Noor is a Czech manufacturer of stationery and products for schoolchildren. The company was founded in 1790. His colored soft pencils are considered good because they are of high quality, are environmentally friendly and are suitable for both amateurs and professional artists. They are made from natural rubber. Products are distinguished by the hardness of the rod, which eliminates its breakage even under pressure. They are relevant for drawing both thin and thick lines, depending on the chosen model.
- Lyra- pencils of this company are distinguished by ease of use due to the fact that they do not roll off the table, they are easily sharpened and their rods slowly lose their sharpness. The company's products are premium and have bright colors that can be easily mixed with each other. He has quality colored pencils in stock at a good price. They last a long time, almost never break even with careless handling and are easy to use.
- Cretacolor is an Austrian company that produces high-quality pencils from environmentally friendly materials. She takes care of environment, creating products that are safe for her and humans. There is a product for both artists and amateurs, including schoolchildren. Her tools give a beautiful effect on paper and are easy to use even for non-professionals. They are sold in many stores and show excellent sharpness.
- - brand colored pencils have a solid lead, which increases their service life. It is convenient to draw with them due to the practical shape and non-slippery body. They are made from environmentally friendly materials. The brand has both sets and piece sales, which allows you to choose the most necessary colors. It is very convenient that these shades on paper can be easily combined if necessary.
Rating of colored pencils
To compile this TOP, we took into account many criteria, but first of all, we took customer reviews as a basis. Here are the parameters we paid attention to:
- Value for money;
- Availability at cost;
- Availability in stores;
- Sold individually or in a set;
- The number of pencils in the set;
- color depth;
- Ease of use;
- The possibility of shading;
- What kind of paper should be used;
- Type - pastel or watercolor;
- Ease of sharpening;
- Blunting speed;
- Lead thickness;
- Can be used by both amateurs and professionals.
A special parameter for the selection of suitable nominees for inclusion in this rating of the best colored pencils was the ratio of their price and quality, since high cost does not always guarantee perfection.
The best colored watercolor pencils
Such pencils have advantages and watercolor paints. Most often they are bought for professional or novice artists. If it is possible to purchase such a product that is not cheap, then this will be an excellent option for children who are far from this type of creativity.
These pencils are considered one of the best among colored pencils, as they draw brightly, richly and with high quality. They are easy to use, do not rub fingers, are slowly consumed. Such a stationery is universal, as it allows you to blur the color, creating beautiful effects. They are easy to erase from paper, so even if the child paints the wallpaper, there will be nothing particularly terrible.
Advantages:
- Acute;
- Neat shape;
- Price availability;
- Clear strokes;
- The presence of a brush;
- Easily sharpened.
Flaws:
- Not a great selection of colors.
Derwent Color Soft
These colored pencils are made in the UK and are sold in a set of 48 colors. Their wide range helps to draw in a variety and spectacular way, ranging from still lifes to landscapes. Numerous shades make it possible to make soft transitions. These pencils are considered one of the best colored pencils due to the fact that they fit comfortably in the hand, which does not get tired of holding them even for a long time. They are sold in a metal box that protects them from mechanical damage.
Advantages:
- Draw softly;
- Do not smear;
- Easily sharpened;
- High quality;
- Long;
- Slowly consumed.
Flaws:
- High price.
Derwent Coloursoft colored pencils do not stain your hands, they can be used to draw both thin lines and bolder ones.
This option is suitable for both adults and children over 5 years old. Such watercolor pencils feel free to buy at kindergarten both girls and boys. It is also a great choice for art school students. Their body is cedar, pleasant to the touch, not slippery and resistant to mechanical stress. The lead has a diameter of 3.8 mm, so it allows you to make lines thin and neat. They are good not only to draw, but also to decorate. They work great on both paper and cardboard.
Advantages:
- Convenient cardboard packaging with a handle;
- Acute;
- Czech production;
- 36 pencils in a set;
- Saturated colors;
- Create a unique watercolor effect.
Flaws:
- Not cheap.
According to reviews, these colored pencils are good because they can be used effectively for drawing a wide variety of subjects, from portraits to landscapes.
The best pastel colored pencils
The peculiarity of these pencils is to sell them both individually, 1 piece, and in a set. On average, it includes 12 pieces. Usually products are made from cedar, so they are safe for humans, including children. This ranking includes three best set pastel pencils.
…I bought Lyra Rembrandt Polycolor colored pencils for a child in art school. The drawings are beautiful, professional, bright ...
Expert opinion
Lyra pencils are made from eco-friendly materials based on cedar. They easily fit on paper, as they have oil base Suitable for both children and adults. They are inherent high degree light fastness and different colors are well mixed here within one set. By the way, the shades here are deep and rich. According to customer reviews, it is convenient that they can be purchased separately. In total, the collection has 72 colors, both dark and light with medium.
Advantages:
- Rich color palette;
- Convenient to use;
- Reminiscent of soft pastel crayons;
- Do not smear on paper;
- Thick, hard lead;
- Not slippery surface.
Flaws:
- Not suitable for fine lines.
Cretacolor Fine Art Pastel
This is a set of professional colored pencils for drawing portraits, still lifes and landscapes. It includes 24 shades that give a soft, pastel, velvety touch. This option is great for long-term drawing. small parts due to the high-quality stylus and a convenient round shape. The coating is easily smeared with water, which allows you to get a bright artistic effect.
Advantages:
- Big set;
- Bright and saturated colors;
- Color rod diameter 3.8 mm;
- Easily mix with each other, which gives scope for imagination;
- Good density;
- Easy to use, no need to press hard.
Flaws:
- Require the use of textured paper to hold the pastels;
- It must be combined with fixative varnishes.
These are the best colored pencils in the ranking of inexpensive ones, and despite this, their quality is quite high. They are chosen both for use in ordinary and in art schools, although, of course, this is not at all a professional level. They are sold in a set of 12 pieces. and made from environmentally friendly materials. The strokes are easily shaded, which allows you to make them smooth and beautiful. They do not contain toxic substances, which makes the use of such products safe.
Advantages:
- Availability in stores;
- Not thick;
- Draw softly;
- Slowly wear down;
- Easily sharpened;
- Do not crumble;
- Solid base.
Flaws:
- Not a great selection of colors.
Pencils from the Crayola brand allow you to draw faces, plants and other objects in detail and competently. As a result, they turn out to be “live”, saturated and bright.
Which colored pencils are better to buy
For children under 3 years old, it is best to choose pencils with three edges, since a child at this age does not yet know how to correctly position his fingers. Such models are convenient due to the fact that they do not roll off the work surface. For those over 3 years old, you can buy hexagonal products, but it is desirable that they have a thicker lead, as it can break as a result of strong pressure. It is more convenient for a child to draw with pencils marked "M", meaning their softness.
Here is what is best to choose from colored pencils, depending on the situation:
- Pencils from Faber-Castell are ideal for writing portraits.
- Thin lines and details are best drawn with tools from Derwent.
- Experienced artists are more comfortable and better at working with Koh i Noor
- The Lyra Rembrandt Polycolor set is ideal for creating landscapes.
- If you need to draw a still life, you should pay attention to the Cretacolor Fine Art Pastel model.
- to kindergarten and regular school for drawing lessons, you can safely take with you goods from Crayola.
This video contains good advice concerning the choice of colored pencils:
When choosing the best colored pencils, attention should be paid to both their quality and effectiveness of application. That is, the picture in the end should be beautiful, bright, with deep colors.
