Choosing a set of felt-tip pens and markers for drawing and colouring seems simple… until the ink bleeds through the paper, the nib collapses or half the shades are left at the bottom of the box. Whether you are shopping for a child, a student, a bullet journal enthusiast or an illustrator, the requirements are not the same.
Before comparing the number of colours and the price, it is therefore better to look at the nib, the type of ink, compatible surfaces and storage conditions. This is an effective way to avoid being won over by an XXL palette or particularly attractive presentation.
A set of 60 or 65 pens may seem very comprehensive, but it can overlook the features that are genuinely useful for your chosen activity. Colouring pens with a medium nib are perfect for filling in areas, while 0.4 mm fineliners are mainly used for outlines, annotations and details.
For manga, illustration or lettering, the variety of nibs often matters more than the total number of shades. A set of 12 brush-tip pens can therefore prove much more practical than a large set designed exclusively for broad areas of colour.
A water-based washable ink can be removed from skin and most fabrics. However, this does not guarantee that it will disappear from every surface, or after several hours. Check the product details and test it on an inconspicuous area before you begin.
Acrylic markers follow a different principle: their ink is designed to adhere to surfaces such as wood, glass, stone, plastic or fabric. They are therefore less suitable for activities that require quick cleaning.
Even the best marker can bleed through paper that is too thin. With highly pigmented inks, blending or large areas of colour, choose thicker paper and always test the colour on a separate sheet first.
Storage also affects the lifespan of felt-tip pens. Replace the caps immediately after use. Depending on the type of ink, pens are generally best stored horizontally or with the nib pointing downwards : check the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Double-ended pens help reduce the number of tools you need to carry. However, check that each end has its own cap, and whether refills or replacement nibs are available.
Water-based ink is particularly well suited to school activities and everyday creative projects. It can sometimes be used to create blends or watercolour effects, although the result depends largely on the paper used.
Pigmented, metallic and acrylic inks are designed for more specific needs. Metallic markers and pens for black paper need to be sufficiently opaque to remain visible on a dark background. For creations intended to last, check the information on resistance to water, light and rubbing : these claims do not, however, constitute a universal guarantee of longevity.
Products with small caps or removable nibs are not suitable for children under 3. Adult supervision is still recommended when younger children are using them. Felt-tip pens should not be put in the mouth, and ink must never come into contact with the eyes.
Before buying, check the compliance information and warnings shown on the product page, particularly if the pens will be used at home or in a group setting.
Why this choice suits this profile : An affordable set for discovering drawing, calligraphy and manga-style lines without building up a collection of accessories.
The flexible 2.8 mm brush nib is suitable for both broad areas of colour and fine lines. The water-based ink is described as washable from skin and most fabrics.
10 colours, an ergonomic grip area and a flexible nib suited to colouring, comics and calligraphy.
Why this choice suits this profile : A palette designed for portraiture and illustration, for anyone looking for precise pressure control and smooth changes in line width.
The 12 portrait shades are aimed at a specific use, rather than offering a vast palette whose colours may not work cohesively for figurative drawing.
A flexible brush nib and pigmented ink described as water- and light-resistant, with an acid-free, pH-neutral formulation according to the product details.
Why this choice suits this profile : A set for projects that go beyond paper : personalising objects, decorating and creating on a range of surfaces.
Both nib formats are available in the same 24 colours : there is no need to choose between precision and coverage.
24 fine 0.7 mm nibs and 24 reversible round or chisel nibs, with water-based acrylic ink described as water- and light-resistant.
Why this choice suits this profile : Its 0.4 mm nib is ideal for structured pages, mandalas, diagrams and consistent details.
The metal-encased nib is designed for precise lines and use with a ruler or stencil, rather than for filling large areas.
65 shades, including 6 fluorescent colours, with a barrel and cap made from 96 % bio-based plastic, according to the stated ISCC Plus certified mass balance.
We have put together a comprehensive, real-time updated selection of products that meet these demanding criteria and European safety regulations.
Choose a durable nib, a comfortable grip and water-based ink described as washable. The Maped Color'Peps Brush set combines a soft nib with clearly stated age recommendations. Adult supervision is still advised, as is avoiding contact with the eyes or mouth.
Erasable gel pens are mainly useful for notes, diaries and corrections. The M&G model with a 0.5 mm nib uses thermosensitive ink and includes an eraser. Heat or rubbing can nevertheless affect the result : these pens are therefore better suited to creative writing than to artwork intended to be kept for a long time.
Choose gel pens with highly opaque white or metallic ink. Ohuhu models with white, gold and silver ink have a 0.8 mm nib and are presented as suitable for black, kraft or coloured paper. Test the pen on the final surface to check the drying time and line intensity.