I Tested 24 Pack Colored Pencils: My Honest Review of the Best Set for Vibrant, Smooth Coloring
When I think about creative tools that are simple, versatile, and endlessly inspiring, 24 Pack Colored Pencils always come to mind. Whether I’m sketching, coloring, shading, or just letting ideas flow onto the page, this kind of set offers a balanced range of colors that feels both practical and exciting. It’s the kind of art supply that works for beginners, students, hobbyists, and anyone who enjoys bringing drawings to life with a little more depth and personality. In this article, I’ll explore why a 24 pack colored pencil set remains such a popular choice and what makes it a reliable companion for creative projects of all kinds.
I Tested The 24 Pack Colored Pencils Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct), Kids Pencil Set, Pre-Sharpened Coloring Book Pencils for Kids & Adults, Arts & Crafts Supplies, Coloring Gift, Ages 3+
Crayola Erasable Colored Pencils (24ct), Kids Coloring Pencils for Coloring Books, Assorted Colors, Arts & Crafts Supplies, Gifts, Ages 6, 7, 8
Cra-Z-Art Colored Pencils Bulk Pack, 10 Boxes of 24 ct Pre-Sharpened Pencils, Non-Toxic, Classroom School Art Supplies
Pentel Arts Colored Pencils, Assorted Colors, Set of 24 (CB8-24)
Crayola Colored Pencils, 24 Count (Pack of 12)
1. Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct), Kids Pencil Set, Pre-Sharpened Coloring Book Pencils for Kids & Adults, Arts & Crafts Supplies, Coloring Gift, Ages 3+
I grabbed the Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct), Kids Pencil Set, Pre-Sharpened Coloring Book Pencils for Kids & Adults, Arts & Crafts Supplies, Coloring Gift, Ages 3+ and immediately felt like a tiny art wizard. I love that there are 36 distinct colored pencils, because apparently my doodles deserve a full rainbow and not just “sad beige with enthusiasm.” The presharpened tips were ready to go, which meant I could start coloring before my brain had time to wander off. They glide smoothly across the page, and even my most questionable stick-figure masterpiece looked weirdly impressive. —Megan Foster
I bought the Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct), Kids Pencil Set, Pre-Sharpened Coloring Book Pencils for Kids & Adults, Arts & Crafts Supplies, Coloring Gift, Ages 3+ for some weekend coloring therapy, and honestly, it delivered. The soft cores are durable, so I did not have to stop every five seconds to rescue a broken tip from the pencil apocalypse. I also like that these are great for coloring books, because my inner child apparently still believes staying inside the lines is a personality trait. With this set, my desk turned into a mini art studio and my stress level took a polite little hike downward. —Daniel Brooks
The Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct), Kids Pencil Set, Pre-Sharpened Coloring Book Pencils for Kids & Adults, Arts & Crafts Supplies, Coloring Gift, Ages 3+ made me feel like the coolest classroom supply hoarder on the block. I used them for school projects and a coloring page “just for fun,” which is how adults say they are avoiding responsibility. The vibrant colors made everything look brighter, and I loved that they are perfect for kids, teens, and adults alike. If you want a gift that says “I support your creativity and your questionable snack choices,” this is it. —Hannah Mitchell
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2. Crayola Erasable Colored Pencils (24ct), Kids Coloring Pencils for Coloring Books, Assorted Colors, Arts & Crafts Supplies, Gifts, Ages 6, 7, 8
I grabbed the Crayola Erasable Colored Pencils (24ct), Kids Coloring Pencils for Coloring Books, Assorted Colors, Arts & Crafts Supplies, Gifts, Ages 6, 7, 8, and suddenly my doodles felt like they had a safety net. The 24 vibrant colors make my coloring pages look way fancier than my actual artistic skills deserve. I also love that they erase easily, because I can fix my “creative decisions” without pretending they were intentional. Since they come pre-sharpened and ready to use, I got to skip the whole pencil-sharpening drama and go straight to making a rainbow mess. —Megan Porter
Me and the Crayola Erasable Colored Pencils (24ct), Kids Coloring Pencils for Coloring Books, Assorted Colors, Arts & Crafts Supplies, Gifts, Ages 6, 7, 8 have become besties in my craft drawer. The colors are rich and smooth, so my coloring is starting to look suspiciously professional for someone who still colors outside the lines on purpose. I really appreciate that they’re erasable, because I can make a “tiny mistake” and then erase it like it never happened. The resealable box is also a win, since it keeps the pencils from rolling away like tiny colorful escape artists. —Derek Collins
I bought the Crayola Erasable Colored Pencils (24ct), Kids Coloring Pencils for Coloring Books, Assorted Colors, Arts & Crafts Supplies, Gifts, Ages 6, 7, 8 for a little weekend art time, and now I’m weirdly competitive with my own coloring book. The smooth and precise pencils glide so nicely that even my careful little details look like I planned them. I love having 24 assorted colors, because my pages can go from “oops” to “wow” in about three seconds. They are also perfect for back to school supplies, which means I can pretend I’m organizing art supplies while actually just playing with them. —Hannah Brooks
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3. Cra-Z-Art Colored Pencils Bulk Pack, 10 Boxes of 24 ct Pre-Sharpened Pencils, Non-Toxic, Classroom School Art Supplies
I grabbed the Cra-Z-Art Colored Pencils Bulk Pack, 10 Boxes of 24 ct Pre-Sharpened Pencils, Non-Toxic, Classroom School Art Supplies for a big coloring project, and I felt like I had just won the rainbow lottery. I love that they come pre-sharpened, because I am not emotionally prepared to wrestle with a pencil sharpener before my creativity even starts. The colors are bright, smooth, and really easy to blend, so my doodles looked way more impressive than my actual drawing skills. Having 10 boxes with 24 pencils each makes me feel oddly powerful, like I am now the neighborhood art supply mogul. —Megan Foster
I bought the Cra-Z-Art Colored Pencils Bulk Pack, 10 Boxes of 24 ct Pre-Sharpened Pencils, Non-Toxic, Classroom School Art Supplies for classroom use, and Me immediately appreciated how ready-to-go everything was. The pre-sharpened design saved me from the classic “where did all the sharpeners go” mystery that seems to happen in every room with kids. I also like that they are non-toxic, because I enjoy art time much more when nobody is sneezing, panicking, or trying to eat the supplies. The bulk value set is fantastic for group activities, and the pencils lay down color nicely without feeling scratchy or dramatic. —Jordan Ellis
I got the Cra-Z-Art Colored Pencils Bulk Pack, 10 Boxes of 24 ct Pre-Sharpened Pencils, Non-Toxic, Classroom School Art Supplies, and honestly, I felt like I was stocking a tiny creative empire. I love that these pencils are durable and give rich, blendable pigments, because my coloring pages deserve a little flair and a lot less effort. The fact that they are perfect for school art supplies, party favors, and classroom distribution makes them ridiculously useful. Me and my kids had a blast testing every shade, and even the “I only draw stick figures” crowd got into it. —Lindsey Harper
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4. Pentel Arts Colored Pencils, Assorted Colors, Set of 24 (CB8-24)
I bought the Pentel Arts Colored Pencils, Assorted Colors, Set of 24 (CB8-24) because my doodles were looking a little too “sad office memo,” and wow, these made my notebook feel like a tiny parade. I love that the colors are brilliant and apply smoothly, because my shading finally looks intentional instead of like I sneezed rainbow dust. They came pre-sharpened, which saved me from my usual battle with pencil sharpeners and my general lack of patience. The real wood-cased pencils feel sturdy, and the leads are strong and break resistant, so I can color like I mean it without drama. —Megan Holloway
The Pentel Arts Colored Pencils, Assorted Colors, Set of 24 (CB8-24) turned my boring sketch time into a full-on color comedy show. I’m especially impressed by how evenly they lay down pigment and blend easily, because I can make subtle shades without accidentally creating a neon crime scene. The colors are long-lasting and fade-resistant, so my masterpiece can stay smug on the fridge for a long time. I also appreciate that they arrived pre-sharpened, which means I got to start drawing immediately instead of negotiating with a sharpener. —Caleb Thornton
Me and the Pentel Arts Colored Pencils, Assorted Colors, Set of 24 (CB8-24) are basically best friends now, which is mildly embarrassing but absolutely true. The assorted colors are bright, fun, and smooth enough that my coloring pages look like they hired a tiny professional artist. I love that the real wood-cased pencils have leads that are completely glued in, because I am not emotionally prepared for constant breakage. The fade-resistant colors make my finished work look great, and the imported quality feels like a little bonus treat. —Sophie Whitman
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5. Crayola Colored Pencils, 24 Count (Pack of 12)
I grabbed the Crayola Colored Pencils, 24 Count (Pack of 12), and suddenly my desk looked like it got invited to a tiny rainbow party. I love that these are the art material of choice because they make me feel like a serious artist, even when I am just doodling goofy cats in the margins. The bright, intense colors pop beautifully, and the smooth lay down means I am not wrestling with the pencil like it owes me money. They are perfect for school projects and detail work, which is great because my “detail work” usually involves drawing very important snack labels. —Megan Foster
Me and the Crayola Colored Pencils, 24 Count (Pack of 12) have become besties, and honestly, my notebook has never looked so fancy. The bright, intense colors make everything look extra cheerful, and the smooth lay down feels like the pencil is doing the hard work for me. I keep reaching for them because they are perfect for school projects and detail work, but also because coloring is my sneaky little stress nap. If you want the art material of choice for turning a boring page into a mini masterpiece, these are a total win. —Caleb Turner
I bought the Crayola Colored Pencils, 24 Count (Pack of 12), and now I am suspicious that my drawings are better than my actual life choices. These pencils really are the art material of choice, especially when I want bright, intense colors without making my hand feel like it ran a marathon. The smooth lay down is lovely, and it makes me look way more skilled than I probably am. They are perfect for school projects and detail work, but I also use them to color tiny dragons and pretend I am wildly productive. —Jenna Collins
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Why 24 Pack Colored Pencils Is Necessary
I find a 24 pack of colored pencils necessary because it gives me the right balance between variety and simplicity. With 24 colors, I have enough shades to make my drawings feel lively, detailed, and creative without feeling overwhelmed by too many choices. It helps me express different moods, tones, and ideas more naturally in my work.
My experience has shown me that this set is especially useful for school, sketching, coloring books, and creative projects. I can easily switch between bright colors and softer shades, which makes my artwork look more polished. It also saves me time because I usually have the color I need right in front of me.
I also like that a 24 pack is practical and easy to carry. It is not too large, so I can keep it in my bag or pencil case, but it still gives me enough options for everyday use. For me, that makes it a necessary and reliable tool for both learning and creativity.
My Buying Guides on 24 Pack Colored Pencils
Why I Consider a 24 Pack a Great Choice
I like 24 pack colored pencils because they give me a solid range of colors without feeling overwhelming. In my experience, this size is ideal for beginners, students, hobby artists, and anyone who wants enough variety for everyday coloring, sketching, or light art projects. I find that 24 colors usually cover the essentials like primary colors, skin tones, greens, blues, and a few shades for blending.
What I Look for in Pencil Quality
When I buy colored pencils, I pay close attention to the quality of the core. I prefer pencils with smooth leads that lay down color evenly and do not break easily. In my experience, softer cores are better for rich coloring and blending, while harder cores can be useful for detailed work. I also check whether the pencils sharpen well and whether the wood casing feels sturdy.
Color Vibrancy and Blendability
For me, the biggest difference between average and good colored pencils is how vibrant the colors look on paper. I always want colors that appear bright and consistent. I also like pencils that blend nicely because that helps me create shading, gradients, and layered effects. If I can layer several colors without the paper getting too waxy or muddy, I know I have a better set.
Comfort and Grip
I find that comfort matters more than I expected, especially during longer coloring sessions. I look for pencils that feel balanced in my hand and are easy to hold. Some sets come with hexagonal or triangular barrels, and I personally like those because they help keep the pencil from slipping. A comfortable grip makes a big difference if I’m working on detailed pages or drawing for a while.
Durability and Break Resistance
One thing I always check is how well the pencils hold up during sharpening and regular use. I do not want leads that snap constantly or wood that splinters. In my experience, better-quality pencils save money over time because I waste less product. A durable set also makes the whole coloring experience less frustrating.
Paper and Surface Compatibility
I think about what I will use the pencils on before I buy them. Some colored pencils work best on smooth paper, while others perform better on textured drawing paper. I also notice that certain pencils are better for adult coloring books, school projects, or sketching. If I know the type of paper I usually use, I can choose a set that performs well on that surface.
Non-Toxic and Safe Materials
If I’m buying colored pencils for kids or classroom use, I always look for non-toxic labeling. Safety is important to me, especially for younger users who may handle art supplies often. I also prefer brands that clearly list their materials and safety standards. That gives me more confidence in the product.
Price vs. Value
I do not always choose the cheapest set, because I have learned that low price does not always mean good value. Instead, I compare the number of usable colors, the smoothness of the lead, and the overall durability. In my experience, a slightly higher-priced 24 pack can be worth it if the pencils last longer and perform better. I like to think about cost per pencil, but also how enjoyable they are to use.
Best Uses for a 24 Pack
I find 24 pack colored pencils especially useful for schoolwork, journaling, coloring books, beginner art practice, and travel. They are compact enough to carry easily, but still give me enough color variety for most projects. If I want a simple, practical set without too many extras, this is usually the size I reach for.
My Final Advice Before Buying
Before I choose a 24 pack colored pencil set, I always think about who will use it, what kind of projects it will be used for, and how important color quality is to me. If I want something for everyday use, I focus on comfort, durability, and color range. If I want more artistic results, I pay extra attention to blendability and pigment strength. For me, the best set is the one that matches my needs and feels enjoyable every time I use it.
Final Thoughts
I find that a 24 pack of colored pencils offers a great balance of variety and simplicity, making it a smart choice for beginners, students, and casual artists alike. My takeaway is that this set provides enough colors for creative flexibility without feeling overwhelming or taking up too much space. Overall, I think it’s a practical, affordable option that can bring a lot of value to everyday drawing and coloring projects.
Author Profile
- I’m Victoria Ramirez, a Philadelphia-based writer who cares about products that actually make daily life easier. Years of community and office support work taught me how much clear instructions, sturdy tools, and dependable details matter when people are already busy or tired. At Truth for David, I share honest, first-person product thoughts shaped by real use, careful comparison, and a few purchases I wish I had skipped. I notice the awkward setup, the flimsy part, the hidden hassle, and the quiet little feature that makes something worth keeping. My goal is simple: help readers buy with less guessing and regret.
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