Best Triangular Colored Pencils for Kids Reviewed
When it comes to nurturing creativity in children, the tools they use matter just as much as the activities themselves. Among the many choices in the world of art supplies, triangular colored pencils for kids stand out for their ergonomic design, ease of use, and educational value. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver, choosing the right colored pencils can make a big difference in how children develop fine motor skills and enjoy artistic expression.
This comprehensive review dives into the best triangular colored pencils for kids available today, examining their design, safety, brand reputation, and real-world usability. We’ll also explore user feedback and manufacturing insights to help you make an informed decision.
Why Choose Triangular Colored Pencils Over Round or Hexagonal?
The triangular barrel isn’t just a design gimmick—it serves a functional purpose. For younger children who are still developing their pencil grip, a triangular shape naturally encourages the correct tripod grasp. This ergonomic benefit can lead to better handwriting posture and reduce hand fatigue, especially during long coloring sessions.
Additionally, triangular pencils are less likely to roll off tables, making them ideal for classroom use or home environments where messes are best avoided. They also tend to fit more comfortably in small hands, improving control and precision.
Top Picks: Triangular Colored Pencils for Kids
Based on product reviews, industry insights, and user feedback, here are the top triangular colored pencil sets currently available for kids:
| Brand | Model | Key Features | Recommended Age |
|---|---|---|---|
| Faber-Castell | 12 Triangular Colored EcoPencils | Ergonomic grip, eco-friendly wood, rich pigments | 3+ |
| Giotto | Supermina Triangular | Thick lead, vibrant colors, durable barrel | 4+ |
| Crayola | Twistables Triangular Colored Pencils | No sharpening needed, twist mechanism, safe for travel | 3+ |
| Staedtler | Noris Club Triangular | Break-resistant core, soft color laydown | 5+ |
Faber-Castell EcoPencils: A Leader in Ergonomics and Sustainability
Among the most recommended sets is the Faber-Castell 12 Triangular Colored EcoPencils. These pencils are crafted from reforested wood, making them an eco-conscious choice for environmentally minded parents and educators. They feature a soft, richly pigmented lead that glides easily across paper, ideal for young artists experimenting with color blending and shading.
The triangular shape is not just ergonomic but also practical—it prevents rolling and encourages the correct writing grip. Faber-Castell’s commitment to sustainability and child-friendly design makes this set a standout for both home and classroom use.
Giotto Supermina: Bold Colors and Durability
Giotto is another trusted name in European art supplies, and their Supermina Triangular pencils are a favorite among parents and teachers. Known for their thick, break-resistant cores, these pencils deliver vibrant color with minimal pressure—perfect for younger kids who may press too hard.
The triangular grip is slightly wider than some competitors, which may be more comfortable for children with less hand strength. These pencils also sharpen evenly, reducing frustration and waste.
Crayola Twistables: Safe and Convenient for On-the-Go Creativity
For parents looking for a mess-free option, Crayola’s Twistables Triangular Colored Pencils offer a unique solution. Instead of requiring sharpening, kids simply twist the barrel to reveal more color. The triangular casing ensures a good grip and prevents rolling, while the plastic body makes them ideal for travel or use in public spaces like restaurants or cars.
While not as richly pigmented as some premium brands, Twistables are a practical and safe choice for younger children who are still learning to handle art tools responsibly.
Staedtler Noris Club: A Mixed Reception
Staedtler’s Noris Club triangular pencils have received mixed reviews in online communities. While the brand is known for quality writing instruments, some users on Reddit’s r/ColoredPencils forum noted that these particular pencils lacked the vibrancy and smoothness expected from a Staedtler product. However, others appreciated their durability and affordability.
This variance in user experience highlights the importance of trying different brands to see what works best for your child’s specific needs and preferences.
What to Look for in Triangular Colored Pencils for Kids
When shopping for colored pencils for children, there are several key factors to consider beyond just the shape:
- Lead softness and pigmentation: Softer leads are easier for kids to use and yield brighter colors.
- Barrel thickness: Thicker barrels are easier for small hands to grip.
- Material safety: Look for non-toxic certifications and break-resistant construction.
- Ease of sharpening: A good triangular pencil should sharpen evenly without splintering.
- Eco-friendliness: Sustainable materials and ethical sourcing are increasingly important to many families.
Educational and Developmental Benefits
Using triangular colored pencils can help children develop fine motor coordination, hand strength, and visual-motor integration. These skills are foundational not just for art, but also for writing, math, and everyday tasks like tying shoes or using scissors.
Art educators often recommend triangular pencils for early learners because they support the natural development of the tripod grip, which is essential for proper penmanship. This makes them a valuable tool in both preschool and early elementary settings.
Manufacturing and Supply Chain Considerations
From a manufacturing standpoint, the production of triangular pencils involves specialized barrel shaping and lead centering techniques. Unlike round pencils, which can be mass-produced with simpler dies, triangular pencils require precise shaping to ensure ergonomic consistency and visual appeal.
Brands like Faber-Castell invest in sustainable forestry and closed-loop manufacturing processes, where wood waste is recycled and emissions are minimized. This not only benefits the environment but also ensures long-term material availability and ethical labor practices. You can read more about sustainable pencil manufacturing in industry reports from organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
Final Verdict: Which Set Is Best for Your Child?
Choosing the best triangular colored pencils for kids depends on your priorities—whether it’s color vibrancy, environmental impact, or ease of use. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
- Best overall: Faber-Castell EcoPencils – excellent design, rich color, and eco-friendly materials.
- Best for bold coloring: Giotto Supermina – thick, durable leads with vivid pigmentation.
- Best for travel: Crayola Twistables – safe, clean, and convenient.
- Best budget option: Staedtler Noris Club – affordable with decent performance.
Ultimately, the right set will inspire your child to explore their creativity while supporting their physical and cognitive development. Don’t hesitate to try a few different brands to find the perfect fit for your young artist.
Further Reading
- Faber-Castell Triangular EcoPencils Product Page
- Reddit Discussion on Triangular Colored Pencils
- Forest Stewardship Council – Sustainable Wood Certification
Investing in quality art supplies today can lay the foundation for a lifetime of creativity and learning. Triangular colored pencils are more than just a trend—they’re a smart, thoughtful choice for growing minds and hands.