It’s not clear when the first colored pencils came about, according to Staedtler founder Johann Sebastian Staedtler invented a colored oil pastel pencil in 1834. The early 20th century saw companies like Faber Castell, Caran D’ache & Berol producing more & more. Today they are being used by artisans everywhere to create their works of art with several different types available suitable for children & adults on whatever level. If you would like to know more about different types of colored pencils then check out our Ultimate Pencil Brands Guide.
Stabilo Woody 3 in 1
The Woody combines a pencil, watercolor & wax crayon. They are ideal for children’s small hands & are very durable as the lead is wrapped up in a wooden barrel making them less susceptible to the breakages often experienced with traditional crayons.
Other Woody benefits
- High opacity on dark backgrounds
- 10mm lead is 8 times thicker than a standard pencil
- Ability to write on a variety of smooth surfaces including, boards, glass & metal
- Safe to sharpen using Stabilo Woody Pencil Sharpener
- Environmentally friendly using 100% PEFC certified wood
- Available in a rainbow of 18 popular colors individually or in packs of 6, 10 & 18.
Bruynzeel Sakura Design 8805
These top-quality colored pencils have a thick core increasing color production. Popular with artists for their ability to be applied several colors together. These pencils are available individually in a wide range of 50 colors & in assorted boxes of 12, 24 & 48.
Aquarel watercolor pencils can be used wet or dry. They shouldn’t however be emerged in water just moistened. This type of pencil is versatile & when wet the color intensifies although this is more noticeable with stronger colors than say pastels as paler shades have less pigment. If you are looking to brush up on your technique you will find a mine of information on Coloured Pencil Topics. We also have a handy guide on how to sharpen colored pencils without the lead breaking that you may find useful
Staedtler Karat Aquarell
These watercolors are available in tins of 12, 24, or 60 pencils. Designed with Staedtler’s characteristic triangular barrel, the 3mm diameter break-resistant leads are easy to sharpen & they are made of wood from sustainably managed forests.
Colored pencil art is practiced around the globe so it’s no surprise that a number of groups exist, all of which seem to have common aims, to connect & support local artists as well as promote colored pencils as a fine art medium. One such group is the UKCPS where members have access to a forum, regular magazine & workshops.
So, whether you’re a beginner thinking about taking up a new hobby or want to learn how to perfect existing skills there are plenty of places to look. Another thing to take into consideration is what to do when your pencils are too small? There is a simple solution which is a pencil extender. Check out our guide to the 10 best pencil extenders which will help you hold the pencil comfortably when it is too small for your hand.
