Choosing the Right Crayons or Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books

Introduction

Starting your journey into the world of adult coloring books? The quality of the crayons or colored pencils you use can significantly impact the enjoyment of your coloring experience. Whether you're an experienced artist or a complete beginner, choosing the right tools is crucial. In this article, we will explore the best options for both colored pencils and crayons, helping you make an informed decision.

Colored Pencils

Colored pencils are a versatile choice for adult coloring enthusiasts, offering vibrant colors, rich texture, and excellent blending capabilities. Here are some top picks to consider:

Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils

Pros: Soft leads, vibrant colors, and excellent blending capabilities. Cons: Can be expensive and may break easily.

Faber-Castell Polychromos

Pros: Oil-based, highly pigmented, and offers excellent lightfastness. Cons: Higher price point.

Derwent Coloursoft

Pros: Soft texture, easy to blend, and rich colors. Cons: May require more pressure to apply color.

Crayola Colored Pencils Professional Series

Pros: Affordable and decent quality for beginners. Cons: Not as vibrant as professional brands.

Crayons

Crayons, while less common for detailed adult coloring, still have their place. They are easy to use and portable. Here are a couple of options:

Crayola Twistables Crayons

Pros: Easy to use, no sharpening needed, and portable. Cons: Limited blending capability compared to colored pencils.

Sakura Cray-Pas Expressionist Oil Pastels

Pros: Rich colors, smooth application, and good for blending. Cons: More akin to oil pastels than traditional crayons.

Tips for Choosing

Consider Your Style

If you prefer detailed work, colored pencils may be the better choice. For larger areas, crayons or pastels can work well. Consider the complexity and detail of the coloring pages you plan to use to determine which tool is best for you.

Test Before Committing

It's advisable to try out a few different brands to see which you prefer in terms of texture and color payoff. This will help you fine-tune your preferences before investing in a full set of either colored pencils or crayons.

Blending Tools

If you choose colored pencils, consider having blending tools like blending stumps or odorless mineral spirits to enhance your coloring experience and achieve smoother tones.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preferences and the specific coloring books you plan to use. Experiment with different tools to find what works best for you. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting out, the right tools can make a significant difference in your coloring journey.

Enjoy your coloring!