10 Best Coloring Pencils 2025 in the UK

The Castle Art Supplies 120 Colouring Pencils Set is designed for adult artists, professionals, and colorists looking for a wide array of colors. This set features a remarkable range of 120 colors, providing a comprehensive palette for creative expression. The pencils are arranged in color families and come neatly organized in a durable tin box, making it easy to select and store them. Each pencil is named, numbered, and color-coded, which simplifies finding the right shade.

One of the set's standout features is its soft core, which allows for a smooth, buttery laydown. This makes blending and layering effortless, suitable for various surfaces like paper, wood, and canvas. The pencils are described as having a fine core hardness, which is protective against crumbling or breaking, even under pressure. This durability is crucial for artists who desire reliability during extended use.

Castle Art Supplies enjoys a solid reputation, backed by a broad customer base. The included fold-out tutorial is a unique addition that can help users improve their skills, making this set not only a tool but also an educational experience. Ergonomically, the medium point and standard size make the pencils comfortable for most users, although those with specific ergonomic needs might want to test them beforehand. This set is well-suited for adult artists and hobbyists who value a vast color range and smooth coloring capabilities. It is less ideal for those who have specific ergonomic preferences.

The Faber-Castell Tin Of 24 Polychromos coloring pencils are a versatile choice for artists, students, and hobbyists alike. Known for their high-quality, soft oil-based core, these pencils offer vibrant color laydown, which is ideal for a variety of projects ranging from professional artwork to casual coloring books. They feature a 3.8 mm thick lead, allowing for broad strokes and smooth blending, making them particularly suited for those who enjoy creating gradients and textures in their drawings.

A standout feature is the pencils' superb lightfastness, which means your artwork will remain colorful and vivid over time without fading—a crucial consideration for those looking to create lasting pieces. Additionally, these pencils are water-resistant and smudge-proof, enhancing their utility for mixed media artists or those who prefer a more polished finish.

The set of 24 colors provides a decent range for beginners or those focusing on specific projects, though professional artists might find the need to supplement with additional colors from the larger available set of 120. The pencils are housed in a durable tin, making them easy to store and transport.

In terms of ergonomics, the contoured grip ensures comfort during long drawing sessions. However, some users might find the pencils slightly heavier due to the stainless steel material, which can be a consideration for extended use.

Faber-Castell’s strong brand reputation further adds to the appeal, providing assurance in terms of quality and durability. With a high customer satisfaction rating, these pencils are well-regarded among various age groups and skill levels. While they might be on the pricier side compared to other brands, their performance and longevity offer excellent value for serious artists.