Joybuy Insights

Artistic colouring pens and markers: how to choose the right set for your creative practice

A set of artistic colouring pens and markers can quickly become cumbersome if the nibs, ink and colours do not suit your needs. Between oversized assortments, claims of long-lasting performance and markers promoted as versatile, some purchases disappoint from the very first session.

Buyers in France regularly fall into three traps:

  • Confusing the number of colours with versatility: a well-stocked set cannot replace a fine nib, a brush nib or ink suited to the surface.
  • Neglecting the paper: water-based ink may be perfectly suitable for drawing and bullet journalling, but can bleed through thin paper after several applications.
  • Underestimating storage: pens that are not properly capped or are stored in the wrong position may deliver less consistent results, even when the manufacturer claims to use anti-drying technology.

To buy with confidence, it is therefore best to examine the nib, ink type, set format and compatible surfaces.

Technical criteria to check before buying

1. The nib should suit the way you work

Fine-tip pens of around 0.4 mm are suitable for outlines, annotations, maps and mandala details. Medium nibs, measuring approximately 0.7 to 1 mm, produce more visible lines, making them practical for colouring, headings and filling small areas.

Brush pens offer a variable line width depending on the pressure applied. They are particularly well suited to lettering, gradients and more expressive strokes. Dual-tip markers generally combine a fine nib with a brush or broad nib: a practical way to reduce the number of tools you need to carry, although their barrels can sometimes be bulkier.

For calligraphy, check that the set contains genuine calligraphy pens with calibrated nibs, rather than simply decorative pens with two ends. Both the finish and the handling can be very different.

2. The ink determines the finish and care requirements

Water-based ink pens are very common for drawing, colouring, notes and bullet journalling. They are generally easy to use and can create watercolour effects on sufficiently thick paper. It is still essential to check whether the ink is described as ‘washable’, ‘permanent’ or ‘water-resistant’, depending on your project.

Acrylic markers deposit a more opaque colour, particularly on wood, glass, ceramic, stone or canvas. Always test them on an inconspicuous area: adhesion and ease of cleaning can vary from one surface to another. Permanent markers are also not suitable for every surface or every school-related use.

For creations on dark paper, metallic gel pens can be used to add gold, silver or white highlights. Their fine nib is ideal for details, but allow the ink to dry thoroughly before layering other colours.

3. The set and storage matter just as much as the colours

A rigid case or metal tin protects the nibs and makes organisation easier. For sets intended for bullet journalling, a colour chart also makes it easier to identify shades quickly and avoid duplicates.

Recap the pens carefully after every session. Storing them horizontally is often recommended to maintain a consistent ink flow. For children over 3 years old, check the recommended age on the packaging, keep caps out of reach of younger children and prioritise supervised use.

Our selection based on how you plan to use them

Recommended for : Beginners on a budget
STABILO Pen 68 ColorParade Premium Felt-Tip Pens

STABILO Pen 68 ColorParade Premium Felt-Tip Pens

Why this choice suits this profile : With its 20 colours, this set provides a versatile foundation for drawing, colouring, mandalas and your first bullet journalling projects. Its rigid case can be reused every day.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its 1 mm bullet nib helps you avoid choosing an assortment without a clear purpose, while the water-based, odourless ink and case support well-organised everyday use.

Main benefit and key features

20 shades, 1 mm nib, odourless water-based ink, ColorParade case and barrel made from 96 % certified ISCC PLUS bio-based plastic.

Recommended for : Premium stationery enthusiasts
STABILO Pen 68 ARTY Premium Coloring Felt Pens

STABILO Pen 68 ARTY Premium Coloring Felt Pens

Why this choice suits this profile : Fans of extensive palettes get 65 colours in a metal tin designed for easy organisation and transport.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The complete palette reduces the risk of running out of shades, while the metal tin protects the pens better than soft, poorly organised storage.

Main benefit and key features

65 colours, 1 mm M nib, odourless water-based ink and an anti-drying function claimed to last for up to 24 hours without the cap.

Recommended for : Specific uses and intensive users
Ohuhu Maui Series Dual Tip Brush Pens

Ohuhu Maui Series Dual Tip Brush Pens

Why this choice suits this profile : Creators who switch between precision, colouring, drawing and calligraphy benefit from two nibs per pen and a palette of 60 numbered colours.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The 0.4 mm fineliner nib complements the 1 to 6 mm brush nib: one set covers both fine details and broad strokes, without the need to buy multiple products.

Main benefit and key features

60 colours, colour chart, five replacement nibs and water-based ink designed to blend on suitable paper.

Recommended for : Creators working on a range of surfaces
Sharpie Acrylic Markers, Fine Tip

Sharpie Acrylic Markers, Fine Tip

Why this choice suits this profile : This set is designed for personalisation projects, creative hobbies and drawing on surfaces such as wood, metal, ceramic, glass or canvas.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details specify the compatible surfaces and state that the ink is water-based acrylic; testing it beforehand is still recommended on delicate or treated surfaces.

Main benefit and key features

12 assorted colours, fine tip, opaque finish and the option to layer shades, in line with the manufacturer's guidance.

Looking for more options ?

We have put together a complete, real-time updated selection of products that meet these demanding criteria as well as European safety standards.

Frequently asked questions about artistic pens

Which pens should you choose for a bullet journal ?

For writing, drawing borders and creating small illustrations, pair STABILO point 88 fineliners in 0.4 mm with water-based colouring pens. Test them on a less visible page to check that the ink does not bleed through the paper.

What is the difference between brush pens and dual-tip markers ?

A brush pen has a flexible nib designed to vary the line thickness. A dual-tip marker generally combines two uses, such as a fine nib and a brush nib. This configuration is practical for lettering and drawing on the go, but each nib must be capped carefully.

How can you extend the usable life of a set ?

Replace the caps immediately, store the pens horizontally when recommended by the manufacturer, and keep them away from heat and direct sunlight. For acrylic or permanent markers, protect your work surface as well: stains can be difficult to remove.