How Many Colored Pencils Do You Need?

For many aspiring artists and hobbyists, a common question arises: How many colored pencils do I actually need? While the answer may seem simple, it's influenced by various factors, including the type of artwork, the artist's proficiency, and even personal preferences.

The amount of colored pencils you need is anywhere between 12 to 120 pencils, depending on various factors such as your skill level and the complexity of your projects. Beginners might only need a basic set of 12 pencils, while professionals may require upwards of 72 to 120 pencils to cover the full spectrum of their artistic needs.

Understanding Your Needs

The right number of colored pencils isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, understanding your artistic ambitions, current skill level, and the complexity of the projects you intend to undertake can guide you to the perfect set of colored pencils. Whether you're a beginner starting with basic sketching or a professional working on detailed illustrations, the number of pencils you need will differ.

Identify Your Skill Level

1. Beginners: Basic requirements. If you're new to the world of art, a set of 12 to 24 colored pencils is typically sufficient. These pencils will allow you to experiment with basic coloring techniques and simple sketches without overwhelming you with choices.

2. Intermediate Artists: A wider spectrum. As you gain more experience and confidence, you may find that a set of 36 to 48 pencils allows for greater creativity and depth in your work, offering more shades and hues.

3. Professionals: A comprehensive set. For professional artists or those pursuing high-level artistic endeavors, a set of 72 to 120 pencils provides the range and specificity required for detailed work, intricate shading, and precise color matching.

If you're just starting out with colored pencils and don't know which ones to buy, check out this list of the best colored pencils for beginners.

Define Your Project Goals

1. Sketching and Coloring: Basic sets are often suitable for casual sketching and coloring, providing enough variety without complexity.

2. Detailed Illustrations: More advanced illustrations may require a wider color range, so intermediate to professional sets become necessary.

3. Special Projects (e.g., portraits, landscapes): Specialized artwork, such as portraits or landscapes, often requires specific shades and tones, warranting a larger set or even individual colored pencils.

By understanding your skill level and project goals, you can select the colored pencil set that aligns with your artistic journey. Whether you're just starting out or advancing to professional levels, the right set of colored pencils will enhance your creativity and joy in the world of art.

The Basic Set: 12-24 Pencils

A basic set of colored pencils usually consists of 12 to 24 pencils. These sets include primary and secondary colors, along with some essential shades for simple blending and shading. They are perfect for those who are new to drawing or only need pencils for casual use.

1. Who It's For: Hobbyists, casual artists, children

The basic set is ideal for hobbyists, casual artists, and children who are exploring their creativity. It provides enough variety to keep things interesting without overwhelming newcomers with too many choices.

2. Example Projects and Uses

With a basic set, you can:

• Create fun and simple drawings and sketches
• Experiment with basic coloring techniques
• Engage in arts and crafts projects with family and friends

The Intermediate Set: 36-48 Pencils

An intermediate set of colored pencils typically ranges from 36 to 48 pencils. These sets offer a broader array of colors, including various shades and tones that facilitate more advanced coloring techniques. These pencils may also have different softness levels, allowing for more nuanced shading and blending.

1. Who It's For: Serious hobbyists, art students

Intermediate sets are suited for serious hobbyists, art students, or those who wish to explore more complex projects. They provide a bridge between basic coloring and more advanced, professional artistry.

2. Example Projects and Uses

With an intermediate set, you can:

• Work on more detailed and complex drawings
• Explore various shading, blending, and layering techniques
• Create intricate illustrations, such as character design, botanical sketches, or more lifelike portrayals of objects

The Professional Set: 72+ Pencils

The professional set of colored pencils typically starts at 72 pencils and can go up to 120 or more. These comprehensive sets offer an extensive range of colors, shades, and tones, including unique and specialized hues. Often crafted with high-quality materials, professional pencils may come with varying hardness levels, allowing for precision in shading and blending.

1. Who It's For: Professional artists, detailed work

Professional sets are designed for seasoned artists who engage in highly detailed and intricate work. They're also suitable for those who wish to invest in their art practice seriously and demand the best tools for their craft.

2. Example Projects and Uses

With a professional set, you can:

• Create detailed and realistic portraits
• Produce complex landscapes and architectural drawings
• Engage in commercial art projects, such as illustrations for books or marketing materials

Individual Colored Pencils

Beyond the standard sets, colored pencils are also often individually available. These allow artists to further refine their work and add unique touches.

For example, you can buy individual pencils when:

• You need a particular shade not included in your existing set and you don't want to buy a bigger set
  
• A favorite or frequently used pencil wears down
• You want to experiment with a unique type of pencil, like a metallic or a watercolor pencil
• You want to try out a different brand
  

Quality vs. Quantity

1. Importance of Pencil Quality

While the number of pencils is an essential consideration, quality should not be overlooked. High-quality colored pencils offer better pigmentation, durability, and blending capabilities. They can make a substantial difference in the outcome of your art, providing richer colors and smoother textures.

2. Choosing Reputable Brands

Investing in reputable brands often means getting pencils that have been carefully crafted with artists in mind. Brands such as Caran d'Ache, Faber-Castell, and Derwent are known for their quality and consistency. Researching and choosing a well-regarded brand within your budget ensures you get pencils that will serve you well.

3. Balancing Quality and Budget

Quality doesn't always mean breaking the bank. It's about finding the right balance between quality and budget. Sometimes, a smaller set of high-quality pencils is more beneficial than a large set of lower quality. Assessing your needs and researching various options will help you find a set that suits both your artistic requirements and your wallet.

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Luuk Minkman

Full-Time Artist Specialized in Automotive Art

I'm an artist and I draw realistic cars with alcohol markers and colored pencils. I have been doing so for a decade. I'm sharing everything I know about drawing on this blog. On here, you can find all you need to know to learn how you can draw realistic cars and other subjects yourself. Stay updated by following me on Instagram.