Best Colored Pencils for Craft Projects
Crafting is more than just a hobby—it’s a form of artistic expression that thrives on precision, color harmony, and material quality. Whether you’re designing handmade cards, creating scrapbook pages, or working on mixed media artwork, choosing the colored pencils for craft projects can make or break the final result. But with so many brands and types on the market, how do you know which ones deliver the pigment, performance, and durability your craft demands?
This guide takes a deep dive into the world of colored pencils for crafting, exploring the top options available, what makes them stand out, and how to choose the perfect set for your creative needs. From wax-based to oil-based cores and student-grade to professional-quality, we’ll help you navigate the colorful landscape of art pencils with confidence.
Why Quality Matters in Craft Projects
When it comes to craft projects, especially those involving intricate designs or layered colors, not all colored pencils are created equal. The quality of your pencils affects more than just how vivid the colors appear—it impacts blendability, layering, and how well your artwork stands the test of time.
According to The Art Gear Guide, artist-grade colored pencils are formulated with higher pigment concentrations and superior binders, resulting in richer color payoff and smoother application. These attributes are essential for craft projects that require color depth, fine detail, and a polished finish.
While student-grade pencils may suffice for casual coloring, they often lack the pigment density and structural integrity needed for serious crafting. Investing in quality pencils ensures your work not only looks better but also lasts longer—especially if you’re selling your crafts or giving them as keepsakes.
Types of Colored Pencils: Which Is Best for Crafts?
Colored pencils generally fall into three categories based on their core composition: wax-based, oil-based, and water-soluble. Each type offers unique advantages for crafting, depending on your project goals and preferred techniques.
| Type | Core Material | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wax-Based | Wax binder + pigment | Blending, layering, general crafts | Soft texture, vibrant colors | Prone to wax bloom over time |
| Oil-Based | Oil binder + pigment | Detailed work, longevity | Less bloom, sharp points | More expensive, firmer feel |
| Water-Soluble | Water-activated core | Mixed media, watercolor effects | Versatile, blendable with water | Requires water-safe paper |
For most craft projects, wax-based and oil-based pencils are the go-to choices. They offer excellent control and color payoff without the added complexity of water activation. However, water-soluble pencils can be a powerful tool for crafters who enjoy experimenting with texture and layering effects.
Top Colored Pencils for Craft Projects
Based on expert reviews and user feedback, here are some of the best colored pencils for crafting. These sets are highly regarded for their pigment quality, durability, and ease of use—key factors for successful craft execution.
1. Prismacolor Premier (Wax-Based)
Prismacolor Premier pencils are a staple in the world of creative arts. Their soft, wax-based cores deliver rich, saturated color that blends effortlessly, making them ideal for layering and shading in craft projects. The smooth application allows for seamless color transitions, which is especially useful in card making, journaling, and coloring intricate patterns.
However, due to their softness, these pencils wear down quickly and may break under pressure. They’re best used with a gentle hand and sharpened using a high-quality sharpener to maintain control.
2. Faber-Castell Polychromos (Oil-Based)
Polychromos pencils by Faber-Castell are renowned for their precision and durability. With a firmer, oil-based core, they hold a sharp point longer and resist breakage—perfect for detailed craft work like mandalas or fine lettering. The color lays down smoothly and resists wax bloom, ensuring your crafts maintain their vibrancy over time.
These pencils are also lightfast, meaning they’re less likely to fade when exposed to light, which is crucial for crafts intended for display. While they come at a higher price point, the longevity and quality make them a worthwhile investment for serious crafters.
3. Caran d’Ache Luminance (Wax-Based)
If you’re looking for luxury in a pencil, Caran d’Ache Luminance delivers. These artist-grade, wax-based pencils are known for their exceptional lightfastness and creamy texture. The pigments are incredibly rich, making them ideal for highly detailed or vibrant craft pieces.
They blend beautifully, even on textured paper or unconventional surfaces like wood or fabric. While the cost is steep, their professional-grade quality makes them a favorite among artists and high-end crafters alike.
4. Derwent Coloursoft (Wax-Based)
Derwent’s Coloursoft line offers a happy medium between affordability and performance. These wax-based pencils are softer than most, allowing for easy blending and smooth coverage. They’re especially well-suited for coloring large areas or creating gradient effects in journals and posters.
According to the Art is Fun guide, softer cores like these are preferred for layering and shading, which are common techniques in craft projects. While they may not have the same lightfastness as Polychromos or Luminance, they’re a solid choice for everyday crafting.
5. Arteza Professional (Wax-Based)
Arteza’s professional line of colored pencils offers impressive performance at a budget-friendly price. These pencils have a soft wax core that blends well and provides vibrant color, making them suitable for a wide range of crafts from adult coloring books to mixed media collages.
They may not match the pigment richness of higher-end brands, but for hobbyists or those just starting out, Arteza delivers excellent value and versatility.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Colored Pencils
Beyond brand and core type, several other factors play a role in determining the best colored pencils for your craft projects:
- Lightfastness: Especially important for crafts displayed in sunlight. Look for pencils rated by ASTM D6901 or Blue Wool standards.
- Blendability: The ability to layer and mix colors is crucial for depth and realism.
- Durability: Break-resistant cores and quality wood casings reduce waste and frustration.
- Color Range: A wider palette allows for more creative freedom and precise color matching.
- Surface Compatibility: Some pencils work better on certain papers or materials (e.g., textured cardstock, wood, or canvas).
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Colored Pencils
Even the best pencils need the right techniques to shine. Here’s how to elevate your craft projects using colored pencils:
- Use quality paper: Choose acid-free, heavyweight paper for better pigment adhesion and longevity.
- Layer gradually: Build up color slowly rather than pressing hard—this preserves the tooth of the paper and allows for smoother blending.
- Experiment with solvents: For advanced blending, try using a colorless blender pencil or a solvent like odorless mineral spirits.
- Keep pencils sharp: A fine point ensures precision, especially for detailed designs or small lettering.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Pencil for Your Craft
Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a beginner exploring the world of color, the right pencils can transform your creative process. Prioritize pigment quality, blendability, and durability when selecting your tools. While artist-grade pencils like Polychromos or Luminance may require a larger investment, they deliver professional results that elevate your craft to the next level.
For those on a budget or just starting out, brands like Arteza and Derwent offer accessible options without sacrificing performance. Ultimately, the best colored pencils for craft projects are the ones that align with your artistic goals, preferred techniques, and desired outcomes.
For further reading on colored pencil types and artist-grade quality, visit Art is Fun and The Art Gear Guide.