Joybuy Insights

Drawing and colouring supplies: how to choose the right materials for every use

Buying drawing and colouring supplies can quickly become expensive: colours that are too similar, nibs that wear out or ink that bleeds through the pages… For families, students, journaling enthusiasts and artists alike, the sheer number of products available makes comparing options far from easy.

Before filling your basket with gel pens, felt-tip pens or coloured pencils, there are three particularly common pitfalls you can avoid:

  • Relying solely on the number of colours: a large palette cannot make up for an uncomfortable grip, shades that are too similar or an unsuitable nib.
  • Confusing durability with versatility: a product designed for paper will not necessarily be suitable for glass, wood or fabric.
  • Overlooking the surface: the thickness and texture of the paper have a direct impact on the finish, smudging and ink show-through.

Criteria to check before buying

1. The nib and the type of stroke you want

Choose a nib that matches the activity:

  • A fine 0.5 mm nib is suitable for details, annotations and journaling accessories.
  • A 0.7 mm nib produces a more pronounced line, ideal for everyday writing and colouring.
  • A chisel nib generally lets you vary the line width, making it practical for pastel highlighters and creating headings.
  • A brush nib is well suited to lettering, gradients and more expressive illustrations.
  • Double-ended markers, with a brush tip paired with a chisel or fine nib, help reduce the number of tools you need to carry.

For young children, a thick barrel and a durable nib make pens easier to hold. Always check the recommended age and whether any small parts are present.

2. Ink, pigment and drying time

Water-based ink is often suitable for notebooks, school drawings and journaling. However, its performance can vary depending on the paper used. Quick-drying gel pens help prevent marks when your hand passes over the writing, but it is best to test them on a similar sheet before getting started.

For coloured pencils, focus instead on the following:

  • the hardness and durability of the lead;
  • whether you can build up layers;
  • the type of binder, wax or oil;
  • the storage solution provided, which can help reduce the risk of breakage.

Soft pastels offer a powdery texture that blends easily, but they also create dust and should be stored flat. To preserve your artwork, you may wish to use a suitable fixative, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Acrylic markers require a few additional checks: opacity, compatible surfaces, drying time and nib cleaning. On smooth surfaces, always test adhesion in an inconspicuous area.

3. The surface and care

Thin paper may allow some felt-tip ink to show through. For intensive colouring, choose thicker paper or paper specifically designed for markers. With watercolours, gouache and pastels, the texture of the paper also affects colour blending and the final result.

A few simple habits can help extend the life of your supplies:

  1. Recap felt-tip pens and highlighters after every use.
  2. Store gel pens horizontally when recommended on the product page.
  3. Clean marks from washable surfaces promptly.
  4. Keep pastels and pencils away from moisture and heat.
  5. Shake acrylic markers with their caps on, then prime the nib on a test sheet if necessary.

For children under 3, avoid products containing small parts. Adult supervision is still recommended for activities involving nibs, ink or dust.

Which selection is right for your needs?

The following products meet a range of needs, including creative school supplies, detailed drawing, craft activities and journaling accessories. Their features are presented based on the information available on each product page.

Recommended for : Beginners on a budget
Maped Jungle Fever Pencil Case 12 Felt-Tip Pens + 12 Pencils

Maped Jungle Fever – case of 12 felt-tip pens and 12 pencils

Why this choice suits this profile : this set contains 12 felt-tip pens and 12 coloured pencils in a compartmentalised case. It is an ideal way to get started with drawing or school activities, with a well-balanced assortment that avoids the need for multiple purchases.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The contents are clearly specified, avoiding the need to buy two types of tool separately. The minimum recommended age is 3 years; however, young children still require supervision.

Main benefit and key features

24 pieces, an organised case and colours suitable for drawing, colouring and school activities.

Recommended for : Premium users
Faber-Castell Wooden Case Polychromos Colour Pencils Set of 48

Faber-Castell Polychromos – wooden case of 48 coloured pencils

Why this choice suits this profile : this wooden case of 48 oil-based pencils is aimed at users looking for an extensive palette, layered colouring and protective storage.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The contents specify 48 shades and 3.8 mm leads secured using the SV bonding process. The case helps prevent losses and makes organisation easier.

Main benefit and key features

A palette of 48 colours, a break-resistant lead and a wooden box suitable for storage in the studio or for transport.

Recommended for : Specific uses and intensive users
WRITECH Retractable Gel Ink Pens 0.5mm

WRITECH – retractable 0.5 mm gel pens

Why this choice suits this profile : these eight retractable gel pens with fine tips are suitable for colour-coded notes, journaling, sketching and long writing sessions.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The 0.5 mm tip is clearly specified, while the retractable mechanism means there is no cap to lose. However, testing the pens on the paper you intend to use is still recommended.

Main benefit and key features

Eight colours, a fine tip, a button described as silent on the product page and a triangular barrel that feels comfortable in the hand.

Recommended for : Creative activities with children
Jar Melo Scratch Art Notes Set Rainbow

Jar Melo Scratch Art Notes – rainbow set

Why this choice suits this profile : these 130 pre-cut sheets of scratch art paper, supplied with a wooden stylus, offer an activity without felt-tip pens or paint, at home, in the classroom or on the go.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The number of sheets and their 8.9 × 8.9 cm format are clearly specified. There is no need to guess the quantity from the packaging.

Main benefit and key features

130 sheets, a black scratch-off surface and a rainbow-coloured layer. Flat storage is recommended to help prevent warping.

Looking for more options ?

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

Frequently asked questions about drawing and colouring supplies

What equipment do you need to get started with drawing?

A small assortment is usually enough: coloured pencils, colouring felt-tip pens, an eraser, a pencil sharpener and suitable paper. For journaling, add a few gel pens and pastel highlighters. An art kit for children may be suitable for younger users, provided you check the recommended age and safety warnings.

How can you stop felt-tip ink from bleeding through the pages?

Place a scrap sheet underneath the page before colouring. Also test the chosen nib, as absorption depends on both the ink and the paper weight. Claims such as ‘no smudging’ or ‘does not bleed through’ should be treated as usage guidance, not as a guarantee that applies to every surface.

How long should you keep your creative supplies?

It depends on how they are stored and how often they are used. Recap felt-tip pens, keep gel pens away from heat and put pencils back in their case. Acrylic markers and soft pastels require particular care: the former may dry out around the nib, while the latter are vulnerable to knocks and moisture.