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Watercolour pencils let you draw dry, then transform your strokes with a damp brush. This versatility appeals to families and artists alike, but not all sets are created equal depending on how you plan to use them. A child doesn’t need a wooden box of 120 shades, while an illustrator might find a smaller assortment too limiting.
Before you place an order, it’s worth avoiding three common pitfalls:
For children’s colouring pencils, a thick lead and an easy-to-hold body help prevent breakage from enthusiastic pressure. Chunky ergonomic pencils, like certain Maped or STABILO Woody models, use a larger format and a grip suited to little hands.
Professional colouring pencils typically favour a finer lead, better for detail, hatching and gradients. The Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer sets feature a 3.8 mm water-soluble lead, while the STABILO Woody range has an XXL 10 mm core. These two formats are in different leagues: precision on one side, coverage and durability on the other.
A watercolour pencil is worked dry first, then with a damp brush. To stop the paper from buckling or tearing, choose watercolour paper or, failing that, a paper that’s thick enough. There’s no need to soak the page: several light layers usually give you more control than a single drenching.
The STABILO Woody 3-in-1 wax pencils can be used as colouring pencils, wax crayons or watercolour pencils. They offer more coverage and a wider lead than a standard artist’s pencil. They can also be used on card, glass, plastic, metal or ceramic. On smooth, non-porous surfaces, marks can be wiped away with a damp cloth.
A set of colouring pencils should be judged on what’s actually inside: number of shades, a suitable sharpener, a brush included, and a storage solution. Pastel tones are especially useful for portraits, delicate illustrations and backgrounds. For beginners, a classic colour assortment will often be more versatile.
Also check the recommended age and any warnings. Sharpened pencils have points, and small accessories can pose a risk for young children. The products shown here are not intended for children under 3 years old, unless stated otherwise on the packaging. For younger children, adult supervision is strongly recommended.
Why this suits this profile: With 12 jumbo pencils, this set is aimed at children just starting to colour at home or school. The chunky format makes it easy to grip, without a load of extra accessories.
With 12 colours, the assortment is simple enough for a first purchase. The ergonomic body also avoids the difficulties of pencils that are too thin.
100% FSC wood, wide lead and a 12-piece cardboard box.
Why this suits this profile: This set lets you switch from bold colouring to a watercolour effect with the same tool. The brush and dedicated sharpener are included so you can get started straight away.
The 3-in-1 function covers three clearly defined uses: wax for coverage, pencil for drawing, and water for blending colours.
18 pencils, XXL 10 mm core, brush and sharpener included; can be used on multiple surfaces.
Why this suits this profile: This set is designed for experienced hobbyists who want a broad palette, durable storage, and a precise transition between dry drawing and washes.
The compartmentalised wooden box makes it easy to organise the 48 shades and protects the pencils between sessions.
3.8 mm water-soluble lead, acid-free pigments and a 48-colour assortment.
Why this suits this profile: Fans of layering, detail and dry blending may prefer this oil-based formula. Please note, these are not watercolour pencils.
The distinction between oil-based and water-soluble formulas helps you avoid choosing a product that doesn’t match your intended technique.
48 colours, a 3.8 mm break-resistant lead and a compartmentalised wooden case.
The Maped Color’Peps pencils in pastel shades are another interesting option for creating soft gradients. Their triangular body and 24 pastel hues work well for both school colouring and creative projects. For smaller assortments, the STABILO Woody range is available in sets of 6, 10 or 18 pieces, as well as a duo version.
We’ve put together a full, real-time selection of products that meet these exacting criteria as well as European safety regulations.
Start by drawing dry on suitable paper. Then add a little water with a brush, working in small areas. Rinse the brush between colours to avoid muddying the shades.
Kept away from moisture, heat and direct light, the pencils can last for several years. A suitable sharpener, reasonable pressure and a well-closed box all help to reduce breakage and premature wear.
Yes, certain models are specially designed for children, particularly jumbo pencils and the STABILO Woody range with their wide lead. However, always check the recommended age on the packaging, the presence of any small accessories, and the supervision guidelines before use.