Best Art Pencils from Top Stores

Updated October 11, 2026

Compare the best art pencils from top stores in one place.

Art pencils range from $14.95 up to $160, covering colored, watercolor, oil and graphite varieties. Many sets use high-quality pigments, water-soluble cores or soft graphite for blending and shading.

Look for lightfast pigments in colored pencils, a smooth water-soluble core for watercolor work, and a firm graphite core for detailed drawing. Wood casings are common, but some premium sets use recycled or eco-friendly materials.

Consider the number of colors, the presence of a built-in sharpener, and whether the pencils are pre-wound for consistent thickness. A good art pencil set offers a balance of vibrant color, blendability and durability for different techniques.

Questions

Are water-soluble pencils the same as watercolor pencils?

Yes, they dissolve in water to create washes similar to watercolor paints.

What is lightfastness in colored pencils?

Lightfastness measures how well colors resist fading when exposed to light.

Do I need a special sharpener for oil pencils?

A standard sharpener works, but a rotary sharpener can give a finer point for oil pencils.

Can I use graphite art pencils for writing?

Graphite pencils are softer and may be too dark for regular writing, but they work for sketching.