If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, ARTnews.com may receive an affiliate commission.
The ARTnews holiday art gift guide has arrived, with art-inspired products for every enthusiast on your list! Whether you’re shopping for an artist, a writer, a hobbyist, or an aesthete, our list of art gifts—both new and perennial favorites—has you covered, with suggestions for everything from art supplies to art-themed apparel and accessories to artists’ limited-edition home goods.
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, ARTnews.com may receive an affiliate commission.
’Tis the season, which means it’s time to start racking your brain for gift ideas. But if your list happens to include artists or art lovers, the choice is a no-brainer: Give them a book on art. Whether it’s an artist bio, a novel, or a sumptuously illustrated catalog, it’s bound to be appreciated (unless you’ve seriously misjudged the recipient’s preferences in art—in which case, it’s the thought that counts). Needless to say, there are thousands of titles out there. To help you make the right choice, we offer our recommendations for the best 2024 art books for giving. (Prices and availability current at time of publication.)
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, ARTnews.com may receive an affiliate commission.
Cyber Monday is over, but you can still find deals on tech accessories and software for artists. Any of the below items would make a great gift for the artist or photographer in your life (or for yourself!). A word of advice: Move fast, as many of these products will sell out quickly. (Prices current at time of publication.)
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Lume Cube 2.0 LED panel
Buy for $84.99 and save 6%
A powerful lighting accessory, the Lume Cube 2.0 is a mini LED panel with a DSLR shoe mount and 1.5 hours of battery life. An excellent gift for photographers, it is tough, waterproof, and—weighing in at a mere 3.5 ounces—extremely portable. It’s simple to use: you can control brightness with just two buttons and toggle between light modes, including a low-light mode for long exposures. It can also be controlled wirelessly via Bluetooth using the mobile app.
Epson EcoTank ET-3850 printer
Buy for $319.99 and save 20%
While it might seem difficult to get excited about a printer, we love Epson’s EcoTank line printers, which save money by using high-capacity, refillable ink tanks instead of ink cartridges. Our tech writer Terry Sullivan says this about the EcoTank: “I have to say that switching to a printer with an ink-tank system, instead of an ink-cartridge system has been one of the best buying decisions I’ve made in all my years of writing about tech gear. Why? In the more than two years I’ve had my own Epson EcoTank (an earlier version of this model), I’ve barely had to think about it and only needed to refill the tanks up once! Otherwise, it has simply worked. I also haven’t needed to fuss with settings, head cleaning, or alignment. Aside from my Amazon Kindle, it’s been one of the most consistently reliable consumer electronics accessories I’ve ever bought.” This versatile model will scan and copy as well as print, and it is now 20% off. So, if your studio needs an office printer, consider an EcoTank.
Zagg Pro Keys wireless keyboards & detachable cases for iPads
Buy for $50.39–$139.99 and save 10–54%
If you’re looking to make your Apple iPad function more like a laptop, getting a wireless keyboard can be, well, key! But before you buy, you’ll want to make sure the keyboard is compatible with your iPad. Zagg offers keyboards compatible with a number of iPad, iPad Pro, and iPad Air models, and they come with or without a trackpad. Just scroll through the drop-down menu to find your model. These keyboards are nicely designed with a detachable case and backlit keys. They also have an impressive battery life—even with a trackpad on, Zagg says their keyboards can hold a charge for up to 3 months.
Canon ImageProGraf Pro-1000 pigment printer
Buy for $999.00 and save $300
Unlike the Epson EcoTank ET-3850 wireless printer, which is best for office tasks, this much pricier 17-inch pigment printer is a great choice for photography or art projects. Like all pigment printers, it produces vibrant color prints, but where it really shines is in printing black-and-white photos. The PRO-1000’s 10-color Lucia Pro pigment ink set includes both photo and matte black inks, producing deeper and more intense blacks that look fantastic on fine art photo paper. And because it has separate nozzles for the two types of black ink, it doesn’t need to switch tanks while printing (a common annoyance), reducing ink waste and saving time. The PRO-1000 also has a dedicated Chroma Optimizer channel that layers on a clear coating for a smoother finish. You can quickly and easily check ink levels, printer status, and other settings on its 3-inch LCD screen, as well.
Wacom ONE 13 digital drawing tablet
Buy for $299.95 and save 25%
From one of the top tablet companies comes this well-balanced model, which is affordable, color accurate, and user friendly. Its 11.6-inch screen is large enough for most projects, has negligible parallax, and is finished with a slightly textured matte film that has a realistic paperlike feel. Because it’s a display tablet, it can be used it like any computer tablet, like an iPad. But it also allows you to tap into the software on your computer. One downside is that it doesn’t offer wireless connectivity like some drawing tablets, but overall, it’s very easy to set up and use. This is a great entry-level tool with a decent-sized screen for a good price.
Adobe Creative Cloud
Pay $29.98 per month for the first year and save 50% (students save 70% the first year)
For many artists, this software suite from Adobe is a must-have, since it offers everything from image- and video-editing software, like Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Premiere Pro, respectively, to motion graphics and animation tools, like After Effects. Not everyone loves the subscription model, but the entire suite is half off for the first year.
Corel Painter 2023 | Professional Painting Software (Mac Download)
$214.99 and save 50%
Although many artists may find all digital tools they need from Adobe, there are alternatives. When used with a drawing tablet or drawing display tablet (which is highly recommended), Corel Painter 2023 allows you to easily sketch, paint, and illustrate on a blank canvas or rework a photograph or digital illustration. It offers many types of brushes, including new Fluid brushes, Thick Paint, watercolors, pastels, oils, acrylics, airbrushes, and more. And right now it’s offered for half the price.
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Peak Design carbon fiber travel tripod
Buy for $539.96 and save $60
If you need a portable tripod, whether you’re shooting star trails at night or portraits at dawn, consider this lightweight, easy-to-use model. The carbon fiber version weighs just 2.8 pounds and has a packing height of 15.2 inches. It can extend to 60.2 inches (with center column raised), and can hold up to a 20-pound camera.
Bambu Lab A1 mini 3D printer
Buy for $349.00 and save 24%
When it comes to 3D printers, models and prices can get very confusing very quickly. But there are a couple of things that set the Bambu Lab A1 mini 3D printer apart, particularly if you’re a novice. Although it’s a budget-priced 3D printer (yes, models under $500 are considered budget models), it still allows you to print in up to four colors. And it’s very easy to set up and operate. Best of all, it is now almost $100 off.
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, ARTnews.com may receive an affiliate commission.
It’s Cyber Monday! Not all (or many) sale items are actually good buys, but we’ve done the research and found real (if sometimes modest) deals on electronics, photography gear, and software. Our recommendations below will help you get a jump on your holiday gift shopping for family, friends, and even yourself. We’ll be updating this page throughout the day, so check back often.
How we pick each product:
Our mission is to recommend the most appropriate artists’ tool or supply for your needs. Whether you are looking for top-of-the line equipment or beginners’ basics, we’ll make sure that you get good value for your money by doing the research for you. We scour the Internet for information on how art supplies are used and read customer reviews by real users; we ask experts for their advice; and of course, we rely on our own accumulated expertise as artists, teachers, and craftspeople.
ON BEST BUY
Canon EOS R100 mirrorless camera, 2-lens kit
Buy for $499.99 and save 40%
While many artists and photographers lust after full-frame mirrorless cameras, there are many excellent mirrorless cameras out there with smaller sensors. Among them is the Canon EOS R100, which has a smaller-than-full-frame APC-C-size sensor. In addition, it has a DIGIC 8 processor, Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus (which is super fast), the ability to fire off a burst of photos at 6.5 frames per second and capture 4K-resolution video up to 24 fps or Full-HD videos up to 60 fps (although at 4K resolution it does have a dramatic 1.5x crop). There are two lenses provided in this kit: an 18-45mm zoom and a 55-210mm zoom. (Just remember that those lenses will be similar to shooting with a 29-73mm zoom lens and an 89-340mm zoom lens, respectively, when you factor in the 35mm-equivalent, 1.6x magnification of the APS-C size sensor.) This is a quality tool for a reasonable price.
ON WALMART
Apple AirPods with charging case (2nd generation)
Buy for $89.00 and save 31%
There is no doubt that the sound quality is better with 4th-generation AirPods. Many, however, prefer the design and fit of the 2nd-generation AirPods, and now you can have them for nearly a third off. These wireless Bluetooth ear buds are easy to set up, and you can seamlessly switch between using them with your iPhone, Apple Watch, Mac, iPad, and Apple TV. You also get more than 24 hours of battery life when they are fully charged.
XGIMI MoGo 2 mini projector with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Buy for $229.99 and save 42%
As an artist, gallerist, or curator, it is helpful to have a mini projector on hand so that you can show examples of videos, films, and even static artworks at a larger scale. With the XGIMI MoGo 2 wireless mini projector, you get a very portable projector that measures just 6.3 x 4.7 x 4.3 inches and weighs only 2.42 lbs. But it doesn’t skimp on performance: The projector is not just rated for 400 ISO lumens and has 25,000 hours of lamp life, but it has smart projector technology (XGIMI’s Intelligent Screen Adaption Technology), which allows you to easily set up and enjoy cinema-like moments without manual adjustment. It also comes with two built-in 8W speakers, which are Dolby compatible, and produces audio that won’t lack for bass frequencies.
ON TARGET
Beats Solo 4 Headphones
Buy for $99.99 and save 50%
If you’re an artist who listens to music or podcasts in the studio, Beats are an excellent choice for on ear–style headphones. They’re ultralight and very comfortable. They’re also reliable, with up to 50 hours of battery life. Plus, they’re versatile: You can listen to lossless audio via USB-C or 3.5 mm audio cable. And they’re easy to use, with one-touch pairing with both iOS and Android.
ON B&H
Nikon D7500 DSLR camera kit with 18-140mm lens
Buy for $896.95 and save 40%
The Nikon D7500 is not only more than seven years old, but it’s a DSLR and not a mirrorless camera. Nevertheless, there’s a lot to like about it. For starters, it has a 20.9-megapixel APS-C-size CMOS sensor that can fire off 8 frames-per-second for up to 100 still photos, and it can capture 4K UHD-resolution video at 30 fps. It also has a large, 3.2-inch, 922,000-dot, swiveling touchscreen display and a native ISO range from ISO 100 to ISO 51,200, which can be expanded to ISO 50 and out to ISO 1,640,000. This deal includes a camera body paired with a Nikon Nikkor AF-S DX 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens, which is similar to shooting with a 27-210mm zoom lens, when you factor in the 35mm-equivalent, 1.5x magnification of Nikon’s DX-format, APS-C-size sensor. And while the D7500 camera body doesn’t offer in-body image stabilization (IBIS), the lens itself has Nikon’s VR technology, which is lens-based image stabilization that in some cases might actually perform better than IBIS.
ON ADORAMA
Nikon Z5 full-frame mirrorless camera kit with 24-50mm zoom lens, 32GB SD memory card, bag, tripod, and accessories
Buy for $1296.95 and save 24%
It may be a few years old and doesn’t have Nikon’s very latest imaging technology, but the Nikon Z5 is still a very capable full-frame, entry-level mirrorless camera. It comes with a 24-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, can fire off 4.5 frames per second in burst mode with autofocus, and has 5-axis in-body image stabilization, for better results in low-light. Filmmakers and vloggers will like that this Z-series camera can capture 4K UHD video capabilities at 30fps and 60fps. It also offers a silent mode, for discreet shooting, and has powerful Eye-Detection autofocus, to ensure subjects’ eyes are always in sharp focus. This kit not only includes a camera body with Nikon’s Nikkor Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 zoom lens, but also other accessories, including a 32GB SanDisk SDHC memory card, a camera bag, a ProOptic filter kit, and a tripod. Overall, it is a great value.
Sony ZV-1F vlogging camera
Buy for $398.00 and save $20%
Sony’s ZV-1F is a newer, upgraded version of its ZV-1, which was primarily designed for YouTubers and vloggers. Here are a few of the differences: The newer model features a fixed 20mm lens (instead of a zoom lens) as well as an improved autofocus system (which has Eye AF technology for detecting faces and eyes). Another difference is that you charge it with a USB-C, which can also be used to power the camera when it is used as a webcam. Like its predecessor, the ZV-1F is a versatile yet easy-to-use camera that takes very good quality videos and still photos. And although it may be a camera focused on vloggers, who will mostly use it for video, it’s also a really solid point-and-shoot still-photo camera.
ON AMAZON
All-new Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (16 GB)
Buy for $129.99 and save 19%
Reading the new Mondrian biography from the road? Amazon says this Kindle is the fastest they’ve made yet, with 25 percent faster page turns. It’s also ultrathin and waterproof, comes with a 7-inch glare free display, and has battery life that can last up to 12 weeks on a single charge. (It charges via a USB-C charger). What’s more, you can easily adjust the screen’s brightness and warmth.
Google Nest 2nd Gen Wired Video Doorbell Camera
Buy for $99.98 and save 44%
If you like to keep an eye on who’s at the door of your home or art studio, you’ll appreciate the features on this Google Nest Doorbell. It has three hours of of video event history, can tell the difference between a person, package, animal, and vehicle, and is compatible with smart devices that work with Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa. It can also connect to the Google Home app. (This model is designed to replace a wired doorbell and requires a compatible chime and transformer, both sold separately.)
Apple AirTag
Buy for $24.00 and save 17%
AirTags aren’t just for luggage! These tracking devices (which use a Bluetooth wireless signal) can help you keep tabs on all sorts of items, from artworks in transit to your plein air painting kit to your phone. Simply AirTag the item you want to track. Then, if you can’t find that item, you can use Apple’s Find My app to locate it. If it’s nearby, you can even play a sound on the built-in speaker by going to the New Items tab in the Find My app.
JBL Tour One M2 Wireless Over-Ear Noise Canceling Headphones (Black), Medium
Buy for $199.95 and save 33%
There’s a lot to like about these versatile noise-canceling headphones. For starters, they have four built-in mics that you can adapt to the surrounding environment, all in real time. You can minimize distractions when you need to focus or lower the the level of noise cancellation so you can hear what’s going on around you, all via the JBL Headphones mobile app on your phone. They also have a very good battery life.
Glocusent 3-Color & 6-Brightness Reading Light
Buy for $17.98 and save 45%
Artists will find lots of uses for this handy reading light, whether you are sketching on a dimly lit train or reading at an outdoor cafe. The light’s arms fit around your neck and are adjustable, so you can get the angle that’s most comfortable for you. It has three color temperature modes—yellow (3000K), warm white (4000K) and cool white (6000K)—and an independent switch for three brightness levels. It also boasts 80 hours of battery life and recharges with a USB-C cable.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 44mm Bluetooth Smartwatch
Buy for $155.24 and save 45%
If you’re the type of artist who likes to keep a watchful eye over not just your schedule, but your workouts, health, and even sleep, a smartwatch, like the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6, is worth the price. It’s easy to use and very versatile. It’s also water resistant.
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL Unlocked Android Smartphone
Buy fo r$849.00 and save 23%
This is the larger of the two Pixel 9 Pro models, and it’s packed with features. It comes with a 6.8-inch touchscreen display and 128 GBs of on-board storage, for keeping and displaying images of art. You can change shutter speeds and focus the camera manually as well as use its Magic Editor to adjust your photos. It also has a Night Sight Video feature, which allows you to take sharp videos in low light.
Canon PIXMA PRO-200 wireless professional inkjet photo printer
Buy for $399.00 and save 33%
This is the older version of the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300, although it’s still an excellent printer and has many of the same specs as the Pro-300. The main difference is that it has only eight color cartridges, instead of nine color cartridges, and the ink is dye based, instead of pigment based. While some photographers prefer a pigment-based system instead of dye-based system—dye being somewhat less archival than pigment—this model offers less expensive alternative. Just like the Pro-300, it can print out 13 x 19-inch color photographs that look fantastic.
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, ARTnews.com may receive an affiliate commission.
It’s Cyber Weekend! Many US retailers have marked down selected wares, including art and craft supplies. To help you parse the offerings, we’ll be tracking some of the best deals on artists’ tools, from pastels to tablets, to give as gifts or to keep for yourself.
We will be updating this page, so check in with us often. A word of advice: Move fast, as many of these products will sell out quickly. (All prices current at time of publication.)
Related Articles
How we pick each product:
Our mission is to recommend the most appropriate artists’ tool or supply for your needs. Whether you are looking for top-of-the line equipment or beginners’ basics, we’ll make sure that you get good value for your money by doing the research for you. We scour the Internet for information on how art supplies are used and read customer reviews by real users; we ask experts for their advice; and of course, we rely on our own accumulated expertise as artists, teachers, and craftspeople.
SAVE ON TECH GEAR AND CAMERAS
This Cyber weekend there’s lots of great tech for artists, collectors, and galleries on sale. Check out our Black Friday deals on electronics, photography equipment, and software, and more here.
SAVE ON HELPING THE PLANET
30% off Terracycle Zero Waste boxes
Terracycle’s Zero Waste Boxes help keep trash that can’t typically be recycled by curbside recycling services out of landfills and incinerators. With a Zero Waste Box for just about anything you can imagine, the company makes it easy to recycle beauty supplies, plastic packaging, coffee capsules, and lots more. Just fill the box, tape it up, and send it back using the prepaid shipping label. Their boxes, however, can be expensive. This weekend, get 30 percent off any box, including this one, which is ideal for art studios and classrooms.
SAVE ON ART-THEMED PUZZLES
20–30% off Pomegranate jigsaw puzzles
Who doesn’t enjoy a good jigsaw puzzle? It’s a great pastime that can relieve stress, and it doesn’t involve a computer screen. And they make a great gift for the puzzle fanatic in your life. The independent publisher Pomegranate faithfully reproduces fine-art masterpieces in its sturdy, well-cut puzzles. Shop puzzles based on works by Georges Seurat, Edward Hopper, Henri Matisse, Faith Ringgold, Alma Thomas, and others, and save up to 30%.
SAVE ON ART GIFTS
Up to 30% off Museum of Modern Art Design Store merchandise
If you are shopping for an art lover in your life, you can’t do much better than the Museum of Modern Art Design Store, which carries exhibition catalogs, artist and exhibition merch, home goods, accessories, and more. Save 20% at checkout on items like this stuffed pumpkin based on a Yayoi Kusama artwork.
SAVE ON ONLINE ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY CLASSES
50% off Master Class memberships (billed monthly) through December 2
You’ve most likely seen one of the commercials for MasterClass, the online education subscription service that gets celebrities from to record tutorials on a wide range of topics from cooking to filmmaking to art. Instructors include musician Alicia Keys, chef Gordon Ramsay, editor and fashion icon Anna Wintour, comedian and actor Steve Martin, and artists Jeff Koons and Futura. For a limited time, you can get 50% off a MasterClass annual membership.
SAVE ON ARTIST’S SUPPLIES AND EQUIPMENT FROM BLICK
Blick is having an in-store holiday sale through December 24, but you can also find great deals online through its cyber sale. Many of the best deals are on student-grade tools and supplies, so if you are on a budget or just starting out, this is an especially good option for you. And don’t just stick to the sale page—there are great deals throughout the site. Here are some bargains that caught our eye.
30% off Da Vinci Casaneo and Cosmotop Spin synthetic brushes, set of four in a gift box
We love Da Vinci’s synthetic watercolor brushes, which are neither too stiff nor frustratingly floppy and feel almost as good as natural bristle brushes. A favorite of experienced watercolor artists, their Cosmotop Spin (synthetic sable) and Casaneo (synthetic squirrel) brushes are pricey, but retain their shape better than other brushes that cost as much. This beautifully boxed set includes two Casaneo and two Cosmotop Spin brushes and makes a luxurious gift for the watercolorist (and vegan!) in your life.
51% off M. Graham artists' watercolors, set of 6, warm and cool, 15 ml tubes
Take 50% off this M. Graham watercolor set in useful colors. M. Graham’s professional-grade paints are remarkably concentrated, incredibly fluid, and easy to use for glazing. Yet they are a relatively thick paint, made in small batches with pure Northwest blackberry honey in addition to gum arabic and glycerin. Honey not only increases moisture to help paint flow off the brush and glide along the canvas; it also allows the paints to rewet beautifully. These paints do not have strong granulation and mix well among themselves and with watercolors from other brands.
36% off Sakura Gelly Roll retractable limited-edition pens, assorted colors, set of 24 with case
Invented in the 1980s, the Gelly Roll is the original gel ink pen and it has only gotten better as Sakura refines it. The ink is smooth flowing, archival, waterproof, and fade-resistant, and comes in a rainbow of colors. This set of medium-point retractable pens in 24 colors would make a great starter set for your favorite budding artist.
Save 72% on Prismacolor Premier dual-ended art markers, assorted colors, set of 72
Prismacolor’s markers strike the right balance between performance and affordability. Suitable for professional use, these implements feature super-vibrant, dye-based alcohol ink that flows with ease. It is very blendable, and you can layer colors to create lifelike effects. Each marker provides both a fine tip and a chisel tip that glide across the page. Use them alone to achieve vivid lines that dry almost instantly, don’t feather, and are smear-resistant when dry. This set of 72 colors will ensure you can always find—or create—the exact shade you envision.
60–66% off sets of Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils in assorted colors
We hereby bestow Prismacolor with the Best All Around award. Finer, higher-end colored pencils might exist, but none can top Prismacolor’s range, approachability, and variety. These blendable, water-resistant pencils come in 12-, 24-, 36-, 48-, 72-, 132-, and (deep breath) 150-piece sets, or you can order your favorites à la carte for not much more than a dollar.
SAVE ON ITEMS FOR THE STUDIO
41% off a Coway Airmega AP-1512HH Mighty air purifier
Keep your studio air healthier and smelling better with a Coway air purifier, which captures allergens like pollen, smoke, and mold spores and also reduces organic compounds.
27% off a Ridgid shop vac
Ridgid shop vacs are well-reviewed wet/dry vacuums ideal for art studios, woodshops, and other workspaces. This powerful, high-capacity 16-gallon model comes with a plethora of attachments and a debris filter.
43% off a Kobalt 24-volt 1/2-in keyless brushless cordless drill (battery, charger, and bag included)
Take 43% off a Kobalt 24-volt drill. Today’s cordless drills are incredibly powerful, handy and versatile, and they’re also easy to hold and carry. This one comes with a soft storage bag, batteries, and charger.
SAVE ON ARTS AND CRAFTS PRODUCTS FROM MICHAEL’S
Michael’s Black Friday sale on art and craft supplies is in full swing, with great deals on everything from beads to framing. And don’t forget the items on Michael’s weekly ad. Pro tip: download the store’s app to easily browse newly released offers. Discounts abound, and a 40% discount on some regularly priced items with code. Here are some of our picks for what to buy:
50% off artist paper pads
Buy one and get one free on most artist paper pads, including drawing, sketching, and watercolor pads from legacy brands like Bienfang, Strathmore, Legion, and Canson (unfortunately, Arches products are excluded from this deal).
Up to 40% off fine art markers, pens, pencils, and other drawing tools
Save up to 40% on drawing tools, including products from beloved brands like Sakura, Prismacolor, Copic, Staedtler, and Sennelier.
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, ARTnews.com may receive an affiliate commission.
Given that works of art can fetch millions, tens of millions, and even hundreds of millions of dollars, the average person who wants to brighten up their place with art may well despair that they’ll never be able to own anything other than a cheap repro of Monet waterlilies. But is it really true that good art is beyond the reach of ordinary mortals? Well, no—you can obtain a quality piece of work that fits your budget and home. Multiples, limited-edition prints, signed originals, and rare, collectible posters are available from a wide range of online sources, including galleries, nonprofits, auction houses, and publishers. And some of these finds can actually accrue in value.
The only problem is that you have to know where to look, and that’s where we come in. Below, we’ve assembled a list of the best sites to find art for your home, priced from $15 (because we do know that “affordable” is a relative concept) to $5,000. If you have empty space on your wall, here’s your chance to fill it.
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, ARTnews.com may receive an affiliate commission.
This month is International Correspondence Writing Month (InCoWriMo), a celebration of putting pen to paper and the perfect time to buy yourself a fountain pen.
Fountain pens may seem like a relic of the past, something charming but antiquated. But fountain pens never really did go out of style; in the last 10 years or so, new fountain pen companies, stores, and reseller websites have sprung up and thrived. Sol James, resident pen expert at Goods for the Study in New York, noted a marked increase in customers coming in looking for fountain pens after the pandemic, which had given people more time to get into at-home hobbies.
The fan base is also shifting. While collectors have long sustained the luxury fountain pen market (the Wall Street crowd has kept Fountain Pen Hospital in business since 1946), new and younger enthusiasts are often drawn to the “gadget” quality of the pens, opting for more affordable, modern-looking implements.
For more about fountain pens, along with a list of pens we recommend for beginners, read on.
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, ARTnews.com may receive an affiliate commission.
Looking for a gift for an artist friend or a child in art school? Here is a list of a dozen things we think every artist, whether they work in traditional media or a less conventional medium, should keep on hand, along with our with our recommendations for specific products culled from past reviews. Many make quite affordable gifts, and even if the recipient already has a well-stocked studio, a really good tool is always appreciated. Consider combining a few items to make a useful kit. (Prices current at time of publication.)
Related Articles
Please note that these tools are for general use. You can find our reviews of more specialized materials and tools here.
How we pick each product:
Our mission is to recommend the most appropriate artists’ tool or supply for your needs. Whether you are looking for top-of-the line equipment or beginners’ basics, we’ll make sure that you get good value for your money by doing the research for you. We scour the Internet for information on how art supplies are used and read customer reviews by real users; we ask experts for their advice; and of course, we rely on our own accumulated expertise as artists, teachers, and craftspeople.
1. PAPER
There are innumerable types of artists’ papers on the market. Smooth-surfaced processed paper is probably the best for sketching with pen or pencil. A good mixed-media pad is the most versatile and comes in handy in most situations.
ARTnews Recommends: Strathmore 500 Series Heavyweight Mixed Media Pads
Acid- and lignin-free, this 100% cotton paper has a slightly textured vellum surface. Each gluebound pad contains 12 sheets of natural white paper.
Budget Pick: Canson XL Series Mix Media Pad
Buy: Canson XL Mix Media Pad,9″X12″ Side Wire 2-Pack $34.35Bright white and thick, Canson’s mixed-media paper takes dry media, from pencils to charcoal, very well. You have to exercise more caution, though, with wet media such as watercolors and ink, as the surface can warp with too much liquid.
2. PENCILS
Wooden or mechanical, soft lead or hard, pencils are vital components of any artist’s arsenal. Both sets below come with a sharpener and eraser.
ARTnews Recommends: Tombow Mono Drawing Pencil Set
Buy: Tombow 51523 MONO Drawing Pencil Set, Assorted Degrees, 12-Pack. Professional Quality Graphite Pencil Set with Eraser and Sharpener $22.59If you’ve ever known the special frustration that accompanies a pencil that won’t sharpen evenly, you’ll appreciate the inverse joy of finding a pencil that does. From Japanese artist supply company Tombow, these pencils feature precisely centered lead cores that are adhered to the cedar wood barrel. Cedar wood is hard, so it shaves away cleanly and smoothly, exposing a sharp point. This set contains 12 pencils in degrees from a soft 6B to a hard 4H.
Another Option: General’s Semi-Hex Graphite Drawing Pencils
Buy: General Pencil 497BP Semi-Hex Graphite Drawing Pencils 4/Pkg-HB, 2B, 4B, & 6B, HB 2B 4B & 6B $8.65With a hexagonal shaft made of hard cedar painted dark blue, the pencils in this soft-grade set of four range from HB to 6B.
3. PENS
The most practical type are pens with pigment-based ink that will not bleed or run if liquids are spilled on it or if watercolors or other paints are applied after the ink has dried. Many artist pens come in a range of tip sizes.
ARTnews Recommends: Sakura Pigma Micron Pens
Buy: Sakura of America 3 Piece Set Pen, Black $8.43Designed in the early 1980s as an inexpensive delivery system for their patented pigment-based ink, Sakura’s Pigma Micron pen, with its familiar beige barrel and gear-shaped top, remains the best-quality disposable drawing pen in its class. Permanent, fade resistant, chemically stable, bleed free, and run-proof once dry, Sakura’s archival-quality Pigma ink makes the Micron the go-to tool not only for artists, but for anyone concerned with preserving their work. This set comes with three pens, each with a different fine to medium-fine tip size: 0.1mm, 0.3mm, and 0.5mm.
A Great Alternative: Le Pen
Behold LePen, a longtime favorite of pen geeks. Unlike our other choices, this super-slim, fine-line marker comes in only one weight (0.3mm in technical-pen speak). However, if you’re a writer who gets attached to a particular kind of pen, or a draftsman who needs only one line width for your work, this just might become your new favorite implement. The midrange nib size is useful for writing and drawing, but be warned—the ink, though a strong black, is not waterproof. This pack contains four pens.
4. WORK LIGHT
The best work lights let you control the brightness and distribution of light on your desk or workstation. Some LED lamps allow you to adjust the color temperature to give you warmer or cooler light.
ARTnews Recommends:
Buy: Luxo LC2FEWT LC 22W Circline Fluorescent with 14W CFL Task Light, 30″ Powder-Coated Arm with External Springs, Weighted Base, White, Silver/PewterWe are fans of the original Luxo Combination Task Lamp, which holds both a 22W circular fluorescent bulb and a 14W compact fluorescent bulb that can be used together or individually. The spring-balanced arm extends to 45 inches, and the angle of the head can be adjusted in any direction, for getting the best light possible on your work.
Budget pick: IKEA Forså Work Lamp
This enormously popular task lamp takes an E14 LED bulb (sold separately) is available in turquoise (actually a cool gray), beige, and nickel-plated finishes, the last suiting its bulbous retro styling. While not as sturdy as the Luxo, the Forså also has a spring-loaded arm with three different hinges, as well as an adjustable head. Those who dislike edge clamps will like its heavy base.
5. BRUSHES
These can be divided into brushes best suited for drawing lines, for applying colors, and for creating gradations and shading, so a mix of widths and tip styles is recommended. Excellent synthetic alternatives to animal hair can be found, many of which are applicable to a range of uses.
ARTnews Recommends: Princeton Velvetouch Series 3950 Synthetic Brush Set
Truly all-purpose brushes, Princeton’s synthetic brushes can be used for acrylic, oil, or watercolor paints. This set of four short-handled brushes includes a #4 round brush, a #8 long round brush, a 3/8-inch angle shader, and a 3/4-inch wash brush.
Budget Pick: Blick Essentials Craft Value Brush Set
If you tend to go through a lot of brushes, or just need a wider variety without breaking the bank, consider this set of 25 brushes in all shapes, sizes, and bristle types, most of which, with care, can be used with a range of media.
6. STRAIGHT-EDGE RULER
Not just for architects and draftspeople, a long straight-edge ruler has infinite uses in the studio, from guiding cutting knives to drawing long, straight lines.
ARTnews Recommends: Starrett Straight-Edge Aluminum Rule
Buy: Starrett Straight Edge Aluminum Rule – Ideal for Schools, Shops, Metal Workers and Wood Workers – 48″ Length, 2″ Width, .125″ Thickness, 1/8″, 1/16″ English – ASE-48 $28.67Even on a student’s budget, there’s no excuse for not getting yourself a high-quality tool with Starrett’s durable, affordable, 48-inch-long, straight-edge ruler. Made from anodized aluminum, it has a hole for hanging, which is the best way to prevent warping.
Pair Your Straightedge with a Drafting Triangle (Again, Not Just for Draftspeople): Westcott C-Thru Professional Triangles
Westcott’s smoke-tinted professional-grade triangles feature beveled inking edges to prevent smears, and a cut-out center for easy lifting.
7. NOTEBOOK
Helpful for jotting down notes, sketching out ideas, or even making presentations, notebooks come in a wide range of formats and sizes.
ARTnews Recommends:
Buy: Rhodia 118742C – Black Rigid Notebook – A5 – Lined – 192 pages – Ivory Clairefontaine Paper 90 g/m – Bookmark, Elastic Closure – Faux Leather Cover – Rhodiarama Collection $24.75If you know your notebooks, you know that Rhodia’s have a cult following—and for good reason. They are bound with high-quality, smooth European paper that is ideal for taking fountain pen ink. The legacy brand, in business since 1934, offers options in a wide range of formats and sizes, including this hardcover journal with a rigid faux-leather cover, inner pocket, and blank pages.
Budget Pick: Muji Recycled Paper Double-Ring Plain Notebook
Popular with architects, artists, and designers, Muji’s super-affordable spiral notebook is bound with 80 sheets of 8.3-by-5.8-inch blank recycled paper. Available in buff or dark grey.
8. CUTTING TOOL
Some artists still use single-edge razor blades, but we recommend something with a handle, for safety’s sake. A good utility knife should be one you want to reach for over and over again. Deploy it for general everyday tasks, like opening cardboard boxes and slicing tape, or more specialized projects in the studio, like cutting canvas panels or trimming fabrics. When choosing a knife, it’s important to think not only about sharpness but also comfort and security. We’ve done the research for you; check out our favorites below.
ARTnews Recommends (For Heavy Work): Olfa Snap-Off Blade Utility Knife
The first thing to know about Olfa’s knife is that it’s loaded with an extremely sharp blade. Just one stroke is needed to slice smoothly thoroughly a cardboard box. The carbon steel metal also stays sharp for a very long time, but when you’re ready for a new one, simply snap off the blunt end to reveal a fresh edge: The knife is loaded with a long blade divided into eight 8mm sections. These are rigid, thin to provide precision, and highly resilient.
We Also Like (For Fine Work): X-Acto #1 Knife Set
No art or craft studio is complete without at least one X-Acto knife for precise cutting. X-Acto’s standard #1 knife is the go-to knife when it comes to finicky cutting, and this set comes with one handle plus three #11 blades, one #10, one #16, and one #17 blade.
9. TAPE
Multipurpose artist’s tape is always useful. But you’ll also need a stronger tape for general use.
ARTnews Recommends (Artist’s Tape): Blick Artist Tape
Formulated with a positionable adhesive, this artist’s tape won’t leave residue or tear your paper. It’s also easy to write on and comes in six colors, making it ideal for labeling.
We Also Like (Gummed Tape): Kraft Paper Tape
Eco-friendly and forming a stronger, longer-lasting bond with cardboard than than plastic packing tape, water-activated gummed paper tape is gallery and museum preparators’ choice for packing art, as well as for sealing the backs of frames.
10. GLUE
Artists use many different types of adhesives, but here are two basics that every studio should have.
ARTnews Recommends (PVA): Lineco Neutral PH Adhesive
Polyvinyl acetate, or PVA, is just another term for white glue. A rubbery synthetic polymer with adhesive properties, polyvinyl acetate emulsion is PH neutral, water-soluble, and dries clear. It’s perfect for woodworking, bookbinding, handicrafts, and wallpapering. It’s also useful for sizing a porous medium such as canvas or wood or sealing a finished collage—just cover the surface in a layer of polyvinyl acetate. For projects using very thin paper, PVA can be diluted with one part water to three parts glue. For all these gluing, sealing, and priming tasks, PVA is handy to keep around. Lineco’s version is buffered and has excellent “lay flat” properties.
Another Option (Epoxy): Gorilla 2-Part Epoxy
It’s never a bad idea to keep epoxy in your home or studio. The most common consumer-grade epoxies are two-part epoxies, which keep the resin and hardener separate until it’s time to use them. For jobs that require you to hold the pieces together, a quick-set epoxy is the best choice. Gorilla’s dispenser is fitted with two syringes and a plunger that dispenses both liquids at once in equal amounts out of separate nozzles. The result is a clear, super-tough epoxy that sets in just five minutes and cures in about a day.
11. SCISSORS
We can’t emphasize enough how important it is to have a good pair of scissors. It’s nearly impossible to list all the various uses for a pair around the studio, but everyone knows the specific frustration of using dull, weak, or uncomfortable ones.
ARTnews Recommends: Kai 8-Inch Dressmaking Shears
Buy: Kai 5210 8-inch Dressmaking Shears (N5210) $15.99Japanese scissors are supposed to be the best (thanks to the country’s long tradition of blade making), and Kai’s are ultrasharp and beautifully balanced. Plus, they’re comfortable to hold and come in versions for both right- and left-handed users.
Also a Good Option: Fiskars “The Original” 8-Inch Orange-Handled Scissors
“The Original” is in the name because just about everybody remembers when these orange scissors were ubiquitous fabric cutters in American households. They don’t feature soft grips or titanium-coated blades, but these industry standards prove that good design sometimes matters just as much as cutting edge (sorry) innovations.
12. TOOL KIT
Almost every artist, regardless of what medium/media he or she works with, will eventually need a set of common household tools. You never know when you may have to assemble a frame, hang a work of art, or nail an installation setup together.
ARTnews Recommends (For Household Use): Apollo Tools 39-Piece Hand Tool Set
Buy: Apollo Tools Original 39 Piece General Household Tool Set in Toolbox Storage Case with Essential Hand Tools for Everyday Home Repairs, DIY and Crafts Red/Black – DT9706 $20.49This kit features an 8-ounce claw hammer, pliers, tape measure, utility knife, bit driver plus 20 bits, screwdrivers, hex keys, scissors, and more, all in a compact storage case.
We Also Like (For Crafting): Garrett Wade 26-Piece Crafts Kit
This 26-piece basic kit includes all you need for small crafts work, including bench vise, hand vise, clamps, caliper, picks, probes, tweezers, flat and needle-nose pliers, and a polished mini steel anvil.
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, ARTnews.com may receive an affiliate commission.
Amazon’s second Prime Day event of the year, Prime Big Deal Days, began Tuesday at midnight PST and will run through 11:59 pm PST tonight. Over those 48 hours, Amazon is offering thousands of deals across all shopping categories, including art supplies and equipment.
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To take advantage of most these deals, though, you have to be an Amazon Prime subscriber. Amazon Prime costs $14.99 a month. Its benefits include faster shipping on Amazon orders, discounts at Whole Foods, and access to Amazon’s streaming entertainment. As an alternative, you can pick up a free 30-day trial of Prime here in time to shop the sale.
See below for great deals on some of our favorite art materials and tools, and don’t forget to check out discounts on electronics and other equipment for the studio here. Many of these deals are lightning deals, lasting only a few hours. These products go fast, so the time to snap them up is surely now.
***NEW TODAY*** Staedtler Mars Lumograph Graphite Sketch Set
Buy for $6.62 and save 34% with a Prime membership (LIGHTNING DEAL!)
Serious artists will appreciate that Staedtler has softer and harder pencils than most other high-quality lines, but for the traveler or casual sketcher, this compact set of 6 pencils in popular hardnesses, with eraser and sharpener included, is ideal. We note that Lumograph pencils, some of our favorite pencils, are sturdy, consistent, and smooth.
***NEW TODAY*** Handmade Watercolor Paper, 50 sheets, various sizes
Save up to 36% with a Prime membersip (LIGHTNING DEAL!)
These packs of textured, deckle-edged paper from India would make a handsome gift for any artist or craftsperson. Choose from five sizes, from 6×4″ to 16×12″ (the discounts grow smaller as the sheet size gets larger).
***NEW TODAY*** Neenah Card Stock
***NEW TODAY*** Pilot B2B Refillable Gel Pen, Blue, Pack of 12
Buy for $13.96 and save 49% with a Prime membership
Pilot’s beloved G2 pens stand out for the life span of their ink cartridge, which is quite lengthy compared with the competition, and for ink that lays down smoothly without skipping or smearing. The company’s B2P pen, in addition to using the same ink, has a sturdy barrel made of 89% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles. The pen’s point advances and retracts with a solid click of the end cap button, and its ribbed grip provides comfortable handling (though it is not as comfortable as the G2’s rubberized version). The pen comes with a G2 0.7-millimeter cartridge and is refillable with G2 ink cartridges, making it a doubly environmentally friendly choice. (12-packs of black pens are also on sale as well as replacement cartridges in blue and black.)
***NEW TODAY*** Chandler Hearvy Duty Glue Gun
Buy for $17.97 and save up to 52% with a Prime membership
If you are looking for a quality glue gun, Chandler Tool’s 100-watt model is a stand-up choice—literally. This hot glue gun’s calling card is its flat base, making it easy to pick up and set aside; no need to tip the gun onto a wire stand or lay it flat on your table. It comes in six colors (all of them on sale), and its insulated, no-drip nozzle keeps the glue hot and your fingers unscathed. Each gun comes with a dozen 7/16-inch glue sticks.
***NEW TODAY*** Uniball Signo 207 Impact Stick Rollerball Gel Pen, 1.0 mm, Black, 12-Pack
Buy for $15.63 and save 55% with a Prime membership (LIGHTNING DEAL!)
From our very favorite line of gel pens, the Uniball Signo 207 Impact Stick features the Signo’s legendary smooth-flowing, acid-free, fade- and water-resistant ink. The 1.0 mm nib delivers a bold line, and the padded grip makes for comfortable writing.
***NEW TODAY*** Aykasa Collapsable Storage Crates (Small and Medium)
Buy for $9.95–$22.95 and save 23%–29%
Most artists are cursed with an abundance of supplies and the responsibility of keeping everything organized. These collapsible, stackable plastic crates in 50 dreamy colors (most of which are on sale) will hold it all and liven up any studio or home at the same time. They can be coordinated for easy customization and fold up flat when they aren’t needed. Note that the large size is not on sale.
***NEW TODAY*** Zebra bLen Retractable Gel Pen, 2-Pack
Buy for $5.35 and save 26% with a Prime membership
A collaboration between the venerable Japanese pen manufacturer Zebra and Japanese-Canadian designer Sato Oki, this pen isn’t just a beautiful object—it’s been engineered to provide a smooth, comfortable writing experience. It’s loaded with fast-drying gel ink and has a rubber grip to prevent hand fatigue. And it is refillable. This pack contains 2 pens.
Arrow Electric Staple Gun Kit
Buy for $39.99 and save 33% with a Prime membership
If your work involves a lot of stapling, invest in a corded staple gun! This one, from noted manufacturer Arrow, will see you through, whether you are a painter, carpenter, upholsterer, or craftsperson.
40-Roll Washi Tape Set
Buy for $6.64 and save 34% with a Prime membership
Washi tape is one of those things you don’t think you need . . . until it proves addictive. Simply called masking tape in Japan, this decorative, low-tack tape replicates the patterns and textures of traditional Japanese washi—a handmade paper made from the bark of shrubs such as mulberry, or kozo and painted or printed in intricate designs. While this tape is thinner and less adhesive than better brands, this set of 40 rolls in assorted colors is ideal for school projects or playtime.
Brother PE535 Embroidery Machine
Buy for $284 and save 25% with a Prime Membership
This is a great deal on a great beginner embroidery machine. It has a 4-by-4-inch embroidery hoop, perfect for small projects like patches, and boasts 80 preloaded designs and 9 built-in fonts, making it very easy to jump right into embroidery. The PE535 has a USB port that allows for you to easily upload your unique designs and a large LCD touchscreen so you can preview them first. Note that this machine only does embroidery. It is not a sewing machine.
Edding 400 1.0 mm Permanent Markers, 10 Colors
Buy for $10.90 and save 36% with a Prime membership
From the German company Edding come these high-quality, fine-line permanent markers. Use them to make labels, sign work, or in any situation where you want a line similar to that of a standard ballpoint pen. The fast-drying ink won’t smear, fade, or wash away and the pen can can write on a variety of surfaces, including cardboard, wood, plastic, metal, and glass. This set brings you 10 brilliant colors.
Buy: edding 400 permanent marker – set of 10 colors – fine round nib 1 mm – waterproof, quick-drying, smear-proof pens – for cardboard, plastic, wood, metal, glass and fabric $14.77
Plantactic Biodegradable Raffia Ribbon
Buy for $5.11 and save 36% with a Prime membership
Because Christmas. In red, green, and natural.
Pilot G2 Gel Pens, Bold Point, 1 mm
Buy for $18.57 and save 43%
One of our favorite pens, in one of our favorite point sizes. This is a pack of 14 bold-point pens in 12 bold colors. (Or choose a single-color pack of 14 bold-point pens in black, blue, red, or navy—we are fond of the navy, which approximates classic fountain-pen blue—also on sale.) G2 pens are refillable, and so better for the planet. A great gift for writers and journal keepers.
AT-A-GLANCE Large 2024 15-Month Monthly Planner
Buy for $15.32 and save 32% with a Prime membership
Planners sell out fast, so take advantage of the discount on this no-nonsense, wire-bound planner dated from January 2024 to December 2024. The 1 9/16-by-1 5/8-inch boxes provide ample space for deadlines and reminders, and there are extra pages for notes. We love that it lays flat and features super-smooth paper that resists bleeding from inky pens.
rOtring 800 Mechanical Pencil, 0.5 mm
Buy for $32.40 and save 29% with a Prime membership
Never requiring sharpening, mechanical pencils let you work for hours without distraction. With its solid all-metal construction and retractible lead sleeve, this covetable fine-point mechanical pencil is a thoughtful gift for the architect or draftsperson in your life.
Pentel Arts Pocket Brush Pen
Buy for $11.95 and save 43% with a Prime membership
Ideal for travel, this durable pocket brush pen is designed for calligraphy and brush painting but is also suitable for quick sketches. Because the pen uses cartridges, the ink flow is smooth and consistent. Cartridges are loaded with pigment ink that is both fade and water resistant, and this set includes one refill.
Waterman Expert Fountain Pen
Buy for $49.72 and save 44% with a Prime membership
This popular pen, made in France, makes a great gift for writers. Add a bottle of Waterman ink (also on sale) for a truly elegant presentation. (The rather more expensive fine-nib version of this pen is also on sale here.)
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If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, ARTnews.com may receive an affiliate commission.
Are you curious about colored pencils as a medium? Has your child graduated from crayons and looking for something a little more grown-up to color with? Then a set of good-quality student-grade colored pencils is a must. It can be overwhelming finding the right one, however, as many colored pencils are geared toward pros. But for those just starting out, regardless of their age, pencils for beginners—while not necessarily lightfast—will suffice. Read on for our top picks of starter sets, which all come with at least two dozen colors.
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How we pick each product:
Our mission is to recommend the most appropriate artists’ tool or supply for your needs. Whether you are looking for top-of-the line equipment or beginners’ basics, we’ll make sure that you get good value for your money by doing the research for you. We scour the Internet for information on how art supplies are used and read customer reviews by real users; we ask experts for their advice; and of course, we rely on our own accumulated expertise as artists, teachers, and craftspeople.
ARTnews RECOMMENDS
Prismacolor Scholar Art Pencils, Set of 24
These student-grade pencils from the biggest name in colored pencils sit at the top of our list for many reasons. First, they are economical, at a little more than 50 cents a pencil. Secondly, they deliver rich, blendable color that can lay down lightly or intensely. Their cores are softer than Prismacolor’s premier line of colored pencils, allowing students to practice blending colors, but they nevertheless resist breakage. This set also comes in a durable plastic case that opens to double as an upright holder you can stand on your desk.
WE ALSO LIKE
Derwent Academy Colored Pencil Sets
These rather highbrow sets may not be an intuitive buy for little artists, but it cinches the next spot on our list for a few reasons. First off—and this is a big one—these pencils come in a sturdy tin, so you can bid farewell to flimsy, dirty cardboard boxes. The pencils themselves are simply gorgeous: brilliantly hued 3.3-millimeter leads in a glossy black casing, finished with correspondingly colored ends. They’re a worthy purchase for the whole family. Because Derwent’s colored pencils are a step up from our first pick, expect to shell out a little more for these 12- and 24-pencil sets. Are they worth every penny? You bet.
EDUCATORS’ CHOICE
Sargent Art Color Pencils
Sargent Art’s colored pencil set is a budget-friendly choice that is especially good for pre-k or elementary students. They don’t require a lot of pressure to create marks, but the cores can withstand a good amount of force should kids push down hard. The colors may not be as vibrant as others on our list, but the tips glide across paper and are capable of producing sharp, crisp lines. This set of 36 colors offers enough hues for all but the most ambitious budding artist.
ALSO CONSIDER
Lyra Rembrandt Polycolor Oil-Based Colored Pencils and Sets
If you want a set that is slightly more sophisticated but still suitable for students and beginners, we recommend Lyra’s pencils. They feature oil-based cores densely loaded with pigments that disperse effortlessly over paper with no wax buildup. Vibrant and blendable, the pencils offer good lightfastness, with ratings for each color printed inside the included tin.
A GREAT ALTERNATIVE
Prang Duo-Color Colored Pencil Sets
Yes, this is a two-in-one pencil. No, it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but the novelty of a double-ended pencil is sure to thrill your little ones. These used to be the holy grail at crafting parties and in elementary school art class. Now, they can be yours in sets of 6, 12, or 18. You have to admit, two colors for the price of one is a darn good deal. Of course, each color will be half the length of a full-size colored pencil; consider these a creative and economical option if you’ve never known the sad sight of a totally whittled-down Sky Blue.
