Best Glitter Colored Pencils for Kids Crafts
There’s something magical about glitter. Whether it’s the sparkle of a birthday card or the shimmer in a child’s drawing, glitter adds instant joy. When it comes to encouraging creativity in children, few tools are as fun and versatile as glitter colored pencils for kids crafts. These shimmering art supplies combine vivid pigments with eye-catching sparkle—perfect for school projects, handmade cards, and rainy day masterpieces.
But not all glitter pencils are created equal. From pigment strength to lead durability, choosing the right set can make a big difference in how enjoyable and mess-free the experience is for young artists. In this guide, we’ll explore the top glitter colored pencils for kids, what to look for when buying them, and how to use them effectively in craft projects.
Why Glitter Colored Pencils Are Ideal for Kids Crafts
Kids love color, and they love sparkle even more. Glitter colored pencils bring both in a neat, easy-to-use package. Unlike loose glitter or glitter glue, these pencils offer controlled application without the mess. That makes them a parent-approved option for home use and a teacher-friendly choice for classrooms.
Here’s why they’re a hit with kids and adults alike:
- Visual Appeal: The glitter finish adds a magical touch to drawings and craft projects.
- Ease of Use: No drying time or sticky residue like glitter glue.
- Safety: Non-toxic and typically encased in wood, making them safer than loose glitter for younger users.
- Creative Engagement: Encourages longer focus and imaginative thinking through tactile and visual stimulation.
Top Features to Look for in Glitter Colored Pencils
When selecting glitter colored pencils for kids crafts, it’s important to consider more than just the sparkle. Here are the key features that define a high-quality glitter pencil set:
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| High Pigment Load | Ensures bright, vivid colors that show up on paper easily. |
| Durable Lead Core | Reduces breakage during sharpening and coloring. |
| Non-Toxic Materials | Essential for safe use by children of all ages. |
| Comfortable Grip | Helps small hands control the pencil better during long sessions. |
| Consistent Glitter Distribution | Ensures the sparkle effect is visible in every stroke. |
With these criteria in mind, let’s take a look at some of the best options available today.
Faber-Castell Sparkle Colored Pencils: A Premium Choice
Among the top-tier options, the Faber-Castell Sparkle Colored Pencils stand out for their exceptional quality and child-friendly design. Known for their commitment to both performance and sustainability, Faber-Castell has created a pencil line that blends functionality with fun.
Each pencil features a glitter-finished casing that’s not only visually appealing but also easy to grip. Inside, the leads are highly pigmented, offering rich color payoff that doesn’t fade with use. The leads are also bonded to the wood casing using a special SV (Secure-Lead) process, which significantly reduces breakage—an important consideration for young users who may press hard while coloring.
These pencils are especially well-suited for:
- School art projects that require clean, colorful execution
- Craft kits or creative gift sets
- Holiday card making and seasonal decorations
Faber-Castell’s sparkle pencils are more than just pretty—they’re built to last, making them a smart investment for parents and educators alike.
Other Noteworthy Brands to Consider
While Faber-Castell leads the pack in quality, there are other brands worth considering depending on your budget and needs. Here are a few alternatives:
- Crayola Glitter FX Colored Pencils: Known for their child-safe materials and affordable pricing. These offer decent glitter effects and are widely available.
- Prismacolor Premier Metallic Pencils: While not marketed specifically for kids, these pencils deliver professional-grade shimmer and are excellent for older children or teens.
- OOLY Glitter Gel Pencils: A hybrid between colored pencils and gel crayons, these are smooth, creamy, and ideal for younger kids who are still developing fine motor skills.
Each of these options brings something unique to the table, whether it’s affordability, ease of use, or a different kind of shimmer effect. For a deeper comparison of children’s art supplies, Parents.com offers a helpful guide to age-appropriate materials.
Creative Craft Ideas Using Glitter Colored Pencils
Once you’ve selected the right pencils, the next step is putting them to use. Glitter colored pencils are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of craft projects. Here are some popular ideas to spark creativity:
- Handmade Greeting Cards: Kids can design birthday, holiday, or thank-you cards with glittery lettering and illustrations.
- Coloring Books: Add depth and sparkle to traditional coloring pages for a more dynamic result.
- Paper Ornaments: Create seasonal decorations using heavy paper or cardstock and embellish with glitter pencil details.
- DIY Stationery: Encourage kids to make their own notepads or bookmarks using glitter pencils and stamps.
- Mixed Media Art: Combine glitter pencils with watercolor backgrounds or collage elements for layered artwork.
These activities not only entertain but also help children develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and a sense of artistic expression.
Tips for Using Glitter Colored Pencils Effectively
To get the most out of your glitter colored pencils, consider the following expert tips:
- Use Heavier Paper: Glitter pencils often work best on slightly textured or heavyweight paper that can grip the pigment and glitter particles.
- Layer Your Colors: Encourage kids to blend and layer to create unique shades and effects. Glitter pencils often shine brighter when layered.
- Sharpen Gently: Use a manual sharpener with a wide opening to avoid breakage. Electric sharpeners may be too rough on glitter pencils.
- Store Properly: Keep pencils in a case or box to prevent lead damage and preserve the glitter casing.
For more advanced techniques on colored pencil blending and layering, Artists Network offers expert guidance applicable even to glitter variants.
Understanding the Manufacturing Behind the Sparkle
While glitter pencils may seem simple on the surface, the manufacturing process behind them is quite complex. Creating a pencil that delivers both strong pigmentation and a consistent glitter effect requires precision engineering.
High-quality glitter pencils, like those from Faber-Castell, are manufactured using a process that integrates the glitter into the lead itself or applies it in a uniform coating. This ensures that the sparkle doesn’t flake off prematurely and that it remains visible throughout the life of the pencil. The wood casing is typically sourced from sustainable forests and bonded using eco-friendly adhesives, aligning with modern environmental standards.
For OEM manufacturers, the challenge lies in maintaining consistency across large batches while meeting safety certifications like ASTM D-4236 or EN71. These standards ensure the materials are non-toxic and safe for children. Brands that meet these certifications demonstrate a commitment to both quality and user safety.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Sparkle for Your Young Artist
Glitter colored pencils are more than just a novelty—they’re a gateway to creative exploration. Whether your child is making a birthday card, decorating a school project, or simply doodling on a rainy afternoon, the right pencil can make all the difference. Among the many options, Faber-Castell Sparkle Colored Pencils shine for their blend of durability, vibrant color, and safe, sustainable design.
When shopping for glitter colored pencils for kids crafts, prioritize pigment quality, lead strength, and safety certifications. And don’t forget to explore creative ways to use them—because every sparkle is a chance to inspire imagination.