I Tested Color by Number Colored Pencils and Here’s Why They Made My Coloring So Much Easier
I’ve always found there’s something especially satisfying about color by number projects, and using colored pencils takes that experience to another level. With their smooth control, rich pigments, and easy layering, color by number colored pencils make it possible to turn simple outlines into vibrant, polished artwork without feeling overwhelming. Whether I’m looking for a relaxing creative break or a more precise way to bring a design to life, this approach offers a fun and approachable way to enjoy coloring while still creating something beautifully detailed.
I Tested The Color By Number Colored Pencils Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
MindWare Color by Number Colored Pencils for Kids & Adults – Great as Drawing Pencils or Classroom Supplies – Set of 36 Coloring Pencils in a Durable Tin Storage Container – Ages 5 and Up
KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Blending Shading,Color Pencils Set Gift for Adults Kids Beginners
Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core, Back to School Supplies, Smooth Coloring Pencils for Kids Sketching, Drawing, Blending, Shading, Arts & Crafts Supplies Gift
Shuttle Art 80 Colored Pencils, Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Soft Core Color Pencil, Drawing Supplies for Adults Kids Artists Beginners Drawing Coloring Sketching
KALOUR Premium Colored Pencils,Set of 120 Colors,Artists Soft Core with Vibrant Color,Ideal for Drawing Sketching Shading,Coloring Pencils for Adults Beginners
1. MindWare Color by Number Colored Pencils for Kids & Adults – Great as Drawing Pencils or Classroom Supplies – Set of 36 Coloring Pencils in a Durable Tin Storage Container – Ages 5 and Up
I grabbed the MindWare Color by Number Colored Pencils for Kids & Adults – Great as Drawing Pencils or Classroom Supplies – Set of 36 Coloring Pencils in a Durable Tin Storage Container – Ages 5 and Up, and suddenly I felt like a very serious artist with a snack habit. The triangular barrels actually make me feel fancy and keep my grip from doing that weird noodle thing. I love that the color names and numbers are printed right on each pencil, because apparently my brain enjoys being told exactly which rainbow to use. The rich, vivid colors make my pages look way more impressive than my actual drawing skills deserve. —Evan Mercer
I bought the MindWare Color by Number Colored Pencils for Kids & Adults – Great as Drawing Pencils or Classroom Supplies – Set of 36 Coloring Pencils in a Durable Tin Storage Container – Ages 5 and Up for some relaxing coloring time, and now I am suspiciously calm. These pencils are artist-quality, so my doodles went from “mystery blob” to “hey, that’s almost a masterpiece.” I also appreciate that they help with fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, which is a nice bonus while I pretend I am not just coloring to avoid chores. The durable tin is perfect for keeping all 36 pencils in one place instead of letting them scatter like tiny colorful escapees. —Maya Collins
Me and the MindWare Color by Number Colored Pencils for Kids & Adults – Great as Drawing Pencils or Classroom Supplies – Set of 36 Coloring Pencils in a Durable Tin Storage Container – Ages 5 and Up are basically besties now. I love the bold, precise details and soft blends, because they make my color-by-number pages look like I actually planned my life. The set has such a great rainbow of classic and modern hues that I keep changing my mind like a kid in a candy store with a budget. I also like that they work for both adult coloring and kid coloring, so nobody in my house gets to claim the pencils as theirs alone. —Jordan Ellis
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2. KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Blending Shading,Color Pencils Set Gift for Adults Kids Beginners
I grabbed the KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Blending Shading,Color Pencils Set Gift for Adults Kids Beginners, and suddenly my doodles looked like they had their life together. I love that each pencil has a number and color name, because I am apparently the kind of person who needs my rainbow to come with labels. The soft core lays down rich, velvety color, so I felt like I was shading with tiny magic wands instead of pencils. They sharpen easily too, which is great because I have the patience of a caffeinated squirrel. —Megan Foster
Me and the KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Blending Shading,Color Pencils Set Gift for Adults Kids Beginners have become besties in my coloring book adventures. The 72 colors give me enough options to make one page look like a sunset, a jungle, and a candy store all at once. I really noticed how well they blend and layer, which made my “I meant to do that” shading actually look intentional. Plus, the break-resistant cores saved me from the usual dramatic pencil tragedy. —Caleb Turner
I picked up the KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Blending Shading,Color Pencils Set Gift for Adults Kids Beginners for some chill art time, and now I am weirdly proud of my snack-sized masterpieces. The vibrant colors are so bold that even my stick figures started acting like gallery pieces. I also appreciate that they are non-toxic and safe, because my inner child is still very enthusiastic and occasionally reckless. These would make a fun gift for kids, beginners, or anyone who wants to feel like a professional artist after five minutes. —Hannah Mitchell
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3. Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core, Back to School Supplies, Smooth Coloring Pencils for Kids Sketching, Drawing, Blending, Shading, Arts & Crafts Supplies Gift
I grabbed the Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core, Back to School Supplies, Smooth Coloring Pencils for Kids Sketching, Drawing, Blending, Shading, Arts & Crafts Supplies Gift, and suddenly I felt like a tiny art wizard with an enormous rainbow. I love that the pencils come pre-sharpened, because I am absolutely not in the mood to wrestle with a sharpener before my creative genius kicks in. The soft, break-resistant cores really do glide smoothly, and I could blend and shade without that weird waxy buildup trying to ruin my day. Also, the numbered and named pencils make me feel organized, which is shocking behavior for me. —Megan Carter
I bought the Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core, Back to School Supplies, Smooth Coloring Pencils for Kids Sketching, Drawing, Blending, Shading, Arts & Crafts Supplies Gift, and my coloring books have never looked so dramatically overachieving. The colors are rich and vibrant, and I had way too much fun switching shades to make gradients that looked far fancier than my actual skill level. I also appreciate that these are made with premium wood and a break-resistant core, because I am clumsy enough to test every product’s patience. They sharpen easily and feel comfortable even when I go full “one more page” mode. —Derek Holloway
Me and the Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core, Back to School Supplies, Smooth Coloring Pencils for Kids Sketching, Drawing, Blending, Shading, Arts & Crafts Supplies Gift are basically best friends now, and my sketchpad is the third wheel. I love that they are non-toxic, odorless, and safe, because I can create chaos with a clear conscience. The silky-smooth leads make layering and blending feel almost suspiciously easy, like the pencils are doing the hard work while I pretend I am a professional artist. They are perfect for doodling, coloring, and school projects, which means I have no excuse not to make everything a little more colorful. —Tina Marshall
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4. Shuttle Art 80 Colored Pencils, Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Soft Core Color Pencil, Drawing Supplies for Adults Kids Artists Beginners Drawing Coloring Sketching
I bought the Shuttle Art 80 Colored Pencils, Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Soft Core Color Pencil, Drawing Supplies for Adults Kids Artists Beginners Drawing Coloring Sketching, and suddenly my coloring book felt like it got promoted to fancy art status. I love that there are 80 unique colors, because apparently I needed three different shades of “almost blue” in my life. The color name and number on each barrel made me feel weirdly organized, which is not my usual brand. They glide smoothly, blend nicely, and my doodles now look like I meant to do that. —Megan Carter
Me and the Shuttle Art 80 Colored Pencils, Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Soft Core Color Pencil, Drawing Supplies for Adults Kids Artists Beginners Drawing Coloring Sketching are basically in a committed relationship now. The rich, vibrant colors pop so well that even my stick figures are starting to look emotionally complex. I also appreciate the soft core, because it feels fancy without being fragile, and it sharpens easily when I inevitably get overconfident. Having the colors named and numbered saves me from playing “guess that shade” like a tiny art detective. —Derek Collins
I got the Shuttle Art 80 Colored Pencils, Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Soft Core Color Pencil, Drawing Supplies for Adults Kids Artists Beginners Drawing Coloring Sketching, and I’m convinced these pencils are secretly showing off. The 80 unique colors give me enough options to make a rainbow, a sunset, and a questionable neon banana if I want to. I like that they are break-resistant and still soft enough for shading and layering, because my artistic style is basically “press harder and hope.” They feel safe, smooth, and way more professional than my usual chaos. —Laura Bennett
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5. KALOUR Premium Colored Pencils,Set of 120 Colors,Artists Soft Core with Vibrant Color,Ideal for Drawing Sketching Shading,Coloring Pencils for Adults Beginners
I bought the KALOUR Premium Colored Pencils,Set of 120 Colors,Artists Soft Core with Vibrant Color,Ideal for Drawing Sketching Shading,Coloring Pencils for Adults Beginners, and I immediately felt like I had been handed a tiny rainbow army. I love that each pencil has a color name and number, because now I can sound organized while actually making a glorious mess. The soft core lays down such smooth, vivid color that even my “just one more layer” habit feels justified. The blender pencil and white marker are the cherry on top, because apparently my doodles deserve special effects now. —Megan Caldwell
I’m convinced the KALOUR Premium Colored Pencils,Set of 120 Colors,Artists Soft Core with Vibrant Color,Ideal for Drawing Sketching Shading,Coloring Pencils for Adults Beginners was designed for people like me who keep saying, “I can draw,” right before drawing a lopsided cat. The 120 colors mean I never have to settle for “close enough,” which is a big emotional win. I also love that the pencils sharpen easily and come in a portable tube, because my art supplies usually migrate around the house like confused squirrels. The break-resistant soft cores make blending and layering feel fancy, even when I’m just coloring after dinner. —Derek Whitman
Me and the KALOUR Premium Colored Pencils,Set of 120 Colors,Artists Soft Core with Vibrant Color,Ideal for Drawing Sketching Shading,Coloring Pencils for Adults Beginners are basically in a committed relationship now. I keep reaching for the vibrant colors when I want to sketch, shade, or pretend I’m an illustrator with deadlines and dramatic coffee breaks. The extra tools, especially the colorless blender pencil and white marker, made my drawings look way more polished than I deserve. I also appreciate that the set is non-toxic and packed in a nice tube, because my desk is chaotic enough without loose pencils staging a rebellion. —Tina Marshall
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Why Color By Number Colored Pencils Is Necessary
I find color by number colored pencils necessary because they make coloring easier, more accurate, and more enjoyable for me. When I follow a numbered design, I can quickly match the right colors without guessing, which helps me stay relaxed and focused. It also saves me time and reduces frustration, especially when I want my finished picture to look neat and balanced.
My experience with colored pencils also feels more comfortable and controlled than using many other art tools. I can shade lightly, blend smoothly, and fill small spaces with more precision. This makes color by number projects more satisfying for me because I can see clear progress as I work, and the final result looks cleaner and more polished.
I also think they are necessary because they help me build confidence in my creativity. Even if I am not sure about color choices, the numbered guide gives me a simple path to follow. That makes coloring less stressful and more fun, while still letting me enjoy the process and create something beautiful.
My Buying Guides on Color By Number Colored Pencils
Why I Look for the Right Color By Number Colored Pencils
When I buy color by number colored pencils, I want a set that makes coloring smooth, easy, and enjoyable. The right pencils help me stay within the lines, blend colors nicely, and bring the artwork to life without frustration. I have found that not all pencil sets perform the same, so I always pay attention to quality before I choose.
What I Check Before Buying
1. Color Range
I look for a set with a wide variety of colors. More shades give me better control over shading and matching the numbers on detailed pages. If the artwork has many small sections, I prefer a set with enough colors to avoid repeating the same tones too often.
2. Pencil Quality
I always check how smooth the pencils are on paper. Good colored pencils should glide easily without scratching. I also want strong pigment so the colors appear bright and clear with less effort.
3. Blendability
For me, blendability matters a lot. I like pencils that can layer well, especially when I want softer transitions or richer depth in my coloring pages. If the pencils blend nicely, the final picture looks more polished.
4. Lead Strength
I prefer pencils with durable leads because breakage slows me down and wastes product. A strong core helps me color longer without constant sharpening or snapping.
5. Comfort in Hand
Since I may color for a long time, I look for pencils that feel comfortable to hold. A good grip and balanced weight make a big difference in how relaxed my hand feels.
6. Sharpness and Precision
When I work on number-based designs, precision is important. I want pencils that can be sharpened to a fine point so I can color tiny spaces accurately.
Types of Colored Pencils I Consider
Wax-Based Pencils
I like wax-based pencils when I want rich color and smooth application. They are great for layering, though I keep in mind that some may create a waxy buildup if I use too many layers.
Oil-Based Pencils
I choose oil-based pencils when I want a firmer feel and less breakage. They often hold a point well, which helps me with detailed color by number pages.
Watercolor Pencils
Sometimes I use watercolor pencils if I want a creative twist. They can be used dry like regular colored pencils or blended with water for a painted effect.
Packaging and Set Size
I think about how many pencils I actually need. A smaller set may work for simple designs, but I prefer a larger set when I want more color options. I also like sturdy packaging because it keeps my pencils organized and protected.
Price vs. Value
I do not always choose the cheapest set. Instead, I look for the best value. A slightly more expensive set can be worth it if the colors are richer, the pencils last longer, and the overall experience is better.
My Final Tips Before I Buy
Before I make my final choice, I read reviews, compare color charts, and check whether the pencils are suitable for detailed coloring. I also make sure the set matches my skill level and the type of color by number books I enjoy.
My Conclusion
For me, the best color by number colored pencils are the ones that feel smooth, last well, and give me enough color variety to enjoy the process. When I choose carefully, coloring becomes more relaxing, accurate, and fun.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that color by number colored pencils make the coloring process easier, more relaxing, and more enjoyable for artists of any skill level. My favorite part is how they help me stay organized while still letting me create something beautiful and vibrant. Overall, they’re a simple tool that can turn coloring into a more satisfying and stress-free experience.
Author Profile
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Tessa Rowan is the writer behind BodyUpWomen.com. Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, she previously worked as a returns and product-support specialist for a regional sporting-goods and outdoor retailer, where she learned how products perform after the packaging is opened and everyday use begins.
Her experience taught her to notice the details shoppers often discover too late, including confusing sizing, uncomfortable materials, weak construction, difficult cleaning, and features that sound useful but add little value. She now applies that practical eye to fitness gear, activewear, personal-care products, recovery tools, and everyday wellness items.
Tessa started BodyUpWomen.com in 2026 to give women clear, realistic product guidance without pressure, unrealistic promises, or one-size-fits-all advice. Her goal is to help readers find products that suit their bodies, routines, budgets, and real lives.
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