Best Oil Based Colored Pencils Bulk Sets for Artists
For artists who demand precision, durability, and vivid color payoff, few tools rival the performance of oil based colored pencils bulk sets. Whether you’re a professional illustrator, a fine artist, or a mixed-media enthusiast, choosing the right oil-based pencil set can dramatically influence the quality and longevity of your work. With their rich pigmentation, smooth layering, and resistance to wax bloom, oil-based pencils are becoming the preferred medium for serious creatives.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top bulk sets available, compare popular brands, and highlight what makes oil-based pencils a smart investment for artists looking to elevate their craft.
Why Oil-Based Colored Pencils Stand Out
Traditional colored pencils are often made with either wax or oil as a binder for pigments. While wax-based pencils are widely used and affordable, they come with a common drawback—wax bloom. This white, cloudy residue can appear over time, dulling vibrant colors and requiring maintenance. Oil-based pencils, on the other hand, eliminate this issue entirely.
Here are the key advantages of oil-based colored pencils:
- Rich, vibrant pigmentation that holds up over time
- Excellent blendability without the smudging of pastels
- Resistance to wax bloom, ensuring color permanence
- Compatibility with oil mediums for painterly effects
According to Jerry’s Artarama, the vegetable oil binder allows for smoother color application and consistent shading, making them ideal for professional-grade work where detail and longevity matter.
Top Oil-Based Colored Pencil Bulk Sets for Artists
When shopping for oil-based colored pencils in bulk, it’s important to consider the quality of the core, the blendability, and the range of colors. Below are some of the most recommended sets currently available.
| Brand | Set Size | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Faber-Castell Polychromos | 12 to 120 | High lightfastness, buttery layering, professional quality | Fine artists, illustrators |
| Posca Oil-Based Set | 36 | High opacity, oil paint-like finish, blendable | Mixed media artists |
| Marco Renoir | 24 to 100 | Affordable, smooth application, good pigmentation | Students, hobbyists |
| Lyra Rembrandt Polycolor | 12 to 72 | Consistent texture, strong pigment load, lightfast | Professional designers |
In-Depth: Posca Oil-Based Colored Pencil Set of 36
Among the rising stars in the oil-based pencil market is the Posca Oil-Based Colored Pencil Set of 36. Designed for artists who want the look and feel of oil paints without the mess, these pencils offer a unique combination of features that make them ideal for both experimentation and finished work.
Key highlights of the Posca set include:
- Oil-paint-like finish when blended with oil mediums
- High opacity for solid color application
- Lightfast pigments that resist fading over time
- Excellent blendability for smooth gradients and shading
The set is particularly well-suited to mixed media projects. Artists can combine Posca’s oil-based pencils with acrylics, watercolors, or even ink to create complex textures and layered effects. This versatility makes them a valuable addition to any artist’s toolkit.
Brand Comparison: Polychromos vs. Marco Renoir vs. Posca
Choosing between top brands can be tricky, especially when each offers distinct advantages. Let’s break down the differences between three popular choices: Faber-Castell Polychromos, Marco Renoir, and Posca.
- Faber-Castell Polychromos: Widely regarded as the industry standard for oil-based colored pencils. Their high lightfastness rating and consistent core strength make them ideal for archival-quality work. However, they come at a premium price.
- Marco Renoir: A more budget-friendly option, Marco Renoir pencils deliver surprisingly good performance for their price. They lack the lightfastness certification of Polychromos but are excellent for practice and casual work.
- Posca: Positioned as a creative alternative, Posca pencils shine in mixed media settings. Their oil-rich core mimics the behavior of oil paints, offering a unique tactile experience and visual result.
For a detailed comparison of oil-based pencil brands, including Marco Raffine and Lyra, see this helpful breakdown from Scribo Creative.
How to Choose the Right Bulk Set for Your Art Practice
When buying oil-based colored pencils in bulk, consider the following factors to ensure you’re investing in the right tools for your needs:
- Color Range: Larger sets offer more flexibility, especially for portrait or landscape work where subtle color shifts matter.
- Lightfastness: If you sell your art or display it, opt for pencils with high lightfast ratings to prevent fading.
- Core Strength: A strong core resists breakage during sharpening and heavy pressure, especially important in detailed work.
- Blendability: Look for pencils that layer well without creating muddy tones. This is crucial for building depth and texture.
Also, think about your working style. Do you prefer tight realism? Go for precision pencils like Polychromos. Do you enjoy expressive, painterly effects? Then Posca might be your best pick.
Bulk Buying Tips: Studio and Classroom Considerations
If you’re outfitting a studio or art classroom, buying oil-based colored pencils in bulk can save costs and ensure consistency across projects. Here are some tips for sourcing in volume:
- Buy from verified distributors to ensure authenticity and quality control.
- Look for OEM or wholesale options if you’re a retailer or instructor outfitting multiple students.
- Check for student-grade vs. professional-grade labels—some brands offer both tiers with price and performance differences.
- Request sample sets before committing to a large order, especially from lesser-known brands.
Also, keep in mind storage and handling. Oil-based pencils tend to be softer than wax-based ones. Store them flat and away from heat to avoid warping or breakage.
Techniques to Maximize Your Oil-Based Pencils
Oil-based colored pencils open up a world of creative possibilities. Here are a few techniques to get the most from your bulk set:
- Layering: Build up colors gradually using light pressure. Oil-based cores allow for multiple layers without wax resistance.
- Burnishing: Use a colorless blender or light pencil to polish layers into a smooth, unified finish.
- Solvent Blending: Apply a small amount of mineral spirits or turpentine to dissolve pigment and mimic watercolor or oil paint effects.
- Mixed Media Integration: Combine with acrylics, gouache, or ink for rich, multi-dimensional artwork.
Experimentation is key. The more you explore the medium, the more you’ll appreciate its depth and versatility.
Final Thoughts: Investing in Quality Pays Off
For artists serious about their craft, investing in a high-quality oil based colored pencils bulk set is a decision that pays long-term creative dividends. Whether you’re producing gallery-ready pieces or engaging in expressive sketching, oil-based pencils provide the control of traditional drawing tools with the richness of paint-based media.
From the professional-grade consistency of Faber-Castell Polychromos to the experimental flexibility of Posca’s oil-based set, there’s a bulk option for every budget and artistic goal. As the market continues to grow, artists have more choices than ever to find the perfect match for their vision.
Remember to consider not just the price tag, but the performance, longevity, and compatibility with your workflow. The right pencil set can transform your process—and your results.