Joybuy Insights

Faber-Castell Coloured Pencils in 2026: Which Set Should You Choose for Your Practice?

Choosing Faber-Castell coloured pencils is not simply a matter of counting the shades displayed on the box. Between the Black Edition, Polychromos, watercolour pencils and sets designed for children, the lead composition, ergonomics and storage solution can genuinely transform the everyday drawing experience.

The Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer’s selection is based on announced, verifiable features: composition, format, pencil count, lead type, storage solution and intended audience. Here are the criteria to consider before placing your order, along with several sets suited to very different uses.

Common pitfalls before buying

1. Confusing colour count with versatility

A set of 72 pencils obviously offers more shades, but it can quickly become cumbersome for a student who carries their supplies every day. Conversely, a box of 12 colours is a good starting point, but may require more blending to achieve subtle gradients.

The right choice depends mainly on how you draw:

  • 12 to 24 shades: everyday drawing, colouring, exploration or an affordable gift;
  • 36 to 48 shades: illustration, portraits, landscapes and projects requiring a broader range of nuances;
  • 72 to 100 shades: an expansive palette, creative workshops or regular, demanding practice.

2. Relying solely on the “break-resistant” claim

A pencil’s durability depends on the formulation of its lead, but also on transport conditions, the pressure applied and the quality of the sharpener. The Black Edition pencils featured here are described as having break-resistant leads. The Polychromos pencils, meanwhile, use a 3.8 mm lead manufactured with an SV bonding process, according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

These features reduce the risk of breakage during use, but do not make the pencils unbreakable. A rigid case and stable storage therefore remain valuable, especially in a schoolbag or when travelling.

3. Buying a box without checking the storage solution

A metal tin effectively protects pencils during transport and keeps the shades neatly organised. A cardboard wallet is lighter and less bulky, but absorbs impacts less effectively and offers less protection for the tips. In a studio or on a desk, a wooden box can be a durable solution, although it is generally more substantial.

Features to check before ordering

Lead type: wax, oil or water-soluble

Coloured pencils for drawing can produce very different results depending on their formulation:

  • The Black Edition pencils are presented as offering intense pigments, smooth application and excellent blending potential.
  • Polychromos pencils feature an oil-based lead. Their texture is described as creamy, making them well suited to layering and resistant to water. They are particularly suitable for details, hatching and colour transitions.
  • Faber-Castell Colour Grip pencils are water-soluble: apply the colour dry, then activate it with a damp brush.
  • Grippy pencils designed for young children are described as suitable for use as coloured pencils, wax crayons or watercolour pencils.

Water-soluble does not mean identical to watercolour paint. For convincing results, you also need suitable paper and good control over the amount of water applied.

Barrel shape and ergonomics

A triangular barrel prevents the pencil from rolling across the table and can help position the fingers more comfortably. Colour Grip ranges add a Soft-Grip area described as non-slip. For children, Grippy models combine a 10 mm lead with a triangular barrel designed for smaller hands.

For adults who draw during extended sessions, comfort in the hand and the weight of the case deserve just as much attention as the advertised pigment intensity.

Safety and recommended age

Pencils have pointed tips, and some sets include small parts such as a sharpener. Product listings indicate that they are not suitable for children under 3 and recommend adult supervision for younger users. These products are designed for drawing and colouring, not for putting in the mouth.

Which selection suits your profile?

FOR: Budget-conscious beginners
Faber-Castell Colour Pencils Black Edition, 12 Pieces in Tin Case

Faber-Castell Black Edition, 12 pencils

Why choose it: A compact format for discovering drawing, getting started with colouring or adding to a pencil case without collecting unnecessary shades.

How it avoids the pitfall

The metal tin protects all 12 pencils and avoids committing to an overly broad palette from the outset.

Key advantages

Pigments described as intense, smooth application and leads advertised as break-resistant.

FOR: Colour enthusiasts who value organisation
Faber-Castell Colour Pencils Black Edition Tin 24x

Faber-Castell Black Edition Tin, 24 pencils

Why choose it: A well-balanced combination of variety, portability and organisation for detailed colouring as well as personal projects.

How it avoids the pitfall

With 24 shades, you get a versatile palette without paying for a much larger collection.

Key advantages

Metal tin, consistent application, easy layering and break-resistant leads according to the product listing.

FOR: Illustrators and regular users
Faber-Castell Polychromos 36 crayons

Faber-Castell Polychromos, 36-pencil set

Why choose it: A range designed for illustration, detail work and layering, thanks to its oil-based lead.

How it avoids the pitfall

The product listing specifies the oil-based formulation, 3.8 mm lead and SV process: concrete details that say far more than a simple promise of intense colours.

Key advantages

Pigments advertised as lightfast, a break-resistant lead and a well-organised Atelierbox case.

FOR: Children and creative activities
Faber-Castell Grippy 16 crayons avec taille-crayon

Faber-Castell Grippy, 16-pencil set

Why choose it: A set with an extra-thick lead, triangular barrel and sharpener for a child’s first colouring sessions.

How it avoids the pitfall

With its 10 mm lead and triangular shape, it prioritises a comfortable grip over highly detailed work.

Key advantages

An advertised 3-in-1 function, a formula that washes out of most fabrics at 40 °C and a sharpener included.

Looking for more options?

We have brought together an up-to-date selection of products that meet these criteria and the applicable safety recommendations in France and the European Union.

Black Edition, Polychromos or Colour Grip?

For versatile everyday use, Black Edition coloured pencils are available in boxes of 12, 24, 36 and 100 pieces. The 100-shade set is advertised with a 3.3 mm lead, triangular barrel and pre-sharpened pencils.

Professional coloured pencils, such as the Polychromos range, are better suited to users who want to explore layering, detail work and long-lasting colour retention. The 48-piece wooden case places greater emphasis on presentation and studio storage.

Colour Grip pencils add a watercolour function and a Soft-Grip area. They can be suitable for school, sketchbooks or a variety of creative activities, provided you use paper that can withstand moisture.

Maped sets are also an appealing option for families: Color’Peps Classic offers 72 colours in a triangular barrel, while Color’Peps Infinity uses a composition advertised as 100% lead, with no sharpener required.

Frequently asked questions

Are Polychromos pencils water-soluble?

No. Their oil-based lead is described as water-resistant. For a watercolour effect, it is better to choose Faber-Castell Colour Grip or the Grippy 3-in-1 models.

How long does a coloured pencil set last?

It depends on how often you use it, the pressure applied and how frequently the pencils need sharpening. A break-resistant lead can reduce waste, but a suitable sharpener and storage away from moisture remain essential.

Which set should you choose as a gift?

A set of 24 or 36 pencils in a metal tin is a versatile choice for both drawing and colouring. For a child, check the recommended age, barrel shape, lead thickness and whether a sharpener is included.