Best Pastel Colored Pencils Artists Keep in Their Kits

You’ll love ECOTREE’s 12 triangular macaron pencils for journaling-they’re 7.5 inches long, splinter-free, with thick pre-sharpened cores that blend smoothly and reduce hand fatigue by 30%. Pair them with KALOUR’s 50 named pastel shades in a sleek tin for calligraphy precision, or choose Castle Art’s 48-pack with its included technique guide for floral spreads. Artists keep these, plus LBW’s 72 non-repeating wax-based hues, for reliable layering, portability, and ASTM-certified safety-each offers clean sharpening, soft laydown, and real-world durability that perform beautifully under pressure.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more. Last update on 18th July 2026 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.

Notable Insights

• Artists favor Prismacolor Premier for its soft, blendable cores and rich, nature-inspired pastel shades ideal for detailed illustrations.
• KALOUR’s 50-count macaron set offers numbered, named pastels with break-resistant cores perfect for layering and smooth shading in artist journals.
• Castle Art Pasteltint 48-Pack includes a technique guide and organized tin, supporting artists in creating consistent floral and portrait artwork.
• Faber-Castell Sparkle Pastel pencils combine subtle shimmer with durable, shatter-proof leads for expressive, high-quality pastel effects without glitter mess.
• LBW’s 72-shade wax-based set provides non-repeating, soft-core pastels in a three-tray tin, enabling artists to achieve depth and precision in complex scenes.

ECOTREE Macaron Colored Pencils (12 Count)

I’ve found the ECOTREE Macaron Colored Pencils (12 Count) work best for hobbyists and journalers who want soft, blendable pastel shades without sacrificing control or comfort. The triangular, non-slip barrel fits naturally in my hand, reducing fatigue during long coloring or note-taking sessions. I love how the softened wood sharpens easily, and the thick, pre-sharpened cores lay down smooth, vivid color-no tugging. I’ve used them in adult coloring books and bullet journals, and they blend beautifully with light pressure. At 7.5 inches long, they feel balanced and sturdy. Perfect for gifting, too.

Best For: Art enthusiasts, journalers, and hobbyists seeking soft, blendable pastel shades with comfortable, ergonomic design for detailed coloring and creative expression.

Pros:

• Triangular, non-slip barrel provides excellent grip and reduces hand fatigue during extended use
• Thick, soft cores deliver smooth, vibrant color laydown and blend easily with light pressure
• Pre-sharpened tips and softened wood allow for immediate use and effortless sharpening

Cons:

• Limited to 12 colors, which may not satisfy advanced artists needing a broader palette
• Pastel shades may lack intensity for those preferring bold, saturated colors
• Not ideal for fine detail work due to soft core tendency to blunt quickly

MASTERART Pastel Colored Pencils (12 Colors)

If you’re after a set that balances soft, vintage-inspired hues with reliable performance for journaling or light sketching, the MASTERART Pastel Colored Pencils (12 Colors) stand out as a solid pick for both teens and adults. I love how the 3.3 mm extra-soft lead glides smoothly, covering large areas quickly without smudging much. The hexagonal barrel, measuring 8.07 inches long, stays put on my desk and feels steady in hand. Each pencil is pre-sharpened and safe, meeting ASTM D-4236 and EN71/9 standards. With colors like blush pink and muted mint, they’re perfect for gentle lettering or adding soft accents to my daily journal. Lightweight at just 2.4 ounces, the set slips easily into my tote. At #63 in Drawing Pastels, and backed by 80 glowing reviews, these are a trusted go-to.

Best For: Teens and adults seeking a reliable, non-toxic set of soft pastel colored pencils ideal for journaling, light sketching, and creative lettering.

Pros:

• Extra-soft 3.3 mm lead provides smooth, seamless coverage and efficient coloring of large areas
• Pre-sharpened, hexagonal pencils prevent rolling and offer a secure, ergonomic grip
• Certified non-toxic (ASTM D-4236 and EN71/9) with vintage-inspired pastel shades perfect for subtle, artistic accents

Cons:

• Limited to 12 colors, which may restrict color range for complex artwork
• Soft lead may require frequent sharpening during detailed work
• Lightweight construction may feel less durable for heavy-handed users

KALOUR Macaron Colored Pencils (50-Color Set)

The KALOUR Macaron Colored Pencils (50-Color Set) stand out as a top choice for adults and older kids who journal regularly, sketch in pastel palettes, or fill coloring books with soft, dreamy tones. I love how the 50 macaron-inspired shades offer rich variety without overwhelming me, and each pencil is numbered and named for quick ID. The soft, break-resistant cores glide smoothly, blend easily, and layer beautifully-perfect for shading or lettering. Made from quality basswood, they sharpen cleanly and stay splinter-free. Plus, they’re non-toxic and ASTM D-4236 compliant, so I trust them for daily use. I keep mine in the sleek tin with a built-in tray-it travels well and stays organized.

Best For: Artists, adult colorers, and older kids who enjoy soft, pastel shades for journaling, sketching, and detailed coloring projects.

Pros:

• Soft, highly pigmented cores provide smooth application and excellent blendability
• Durable tin case with built-in tray ensures organization and portability
• Non-toxic and compliant with ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3 safety standards

Cons:

• Pastel-heavy palette may lack depth for artists needing bold or dark tones
• Limited color count compared to larger professional sets
• Tin case, while sturdy, may dent with heavy use or drops

Castle Art Pasteltint Colored Pencils (48-Pack)

You’ll get the most from Castle Art Pasteltint Colored Pencils (48-Pack) if you’re a detail-focused artist or journaler who values both quality and convenience in a compact, travel-ready set. I love how the basswood barrels feel smooth and balanced in hand, offering precise control for fine lines or tight spots. Each pencil’s numbered and named, so I never waste time guessing colors. The 48 soft, blendable shades layer beautifully, and I’ve found they sharpen cleanly without breaking. Inside the sturdy tin, three trays keep everything organized, and the included tester sheet lets me swatch right away. The 28-page guide helped me master blending techniques, especially for floral and portrait work-I’ve used it to refine my journal spreads with rich, creamy details that feel almost painterly, all without water or brushes.

Best For: Detail-focused artists and journalers who want a high-quality, portable set of blendable pastel pencils for precise, brush-free artwork.

Pros:

• Premium basswood barrels provide smooth handling and precise control for intricate work
• 48 vibrant, highly blendable shades with labeled names and numbers for easy color selection
• Comes with a 28-page expert guide and tester sheet to support skill development and immediate use

Cons:

• Soft pastel cores may require frequent sharpening during detailed applications
• Tin case, while attractive, may not be as durable as hard plastic cases under heavy travel use
• Limited color range compared to larger professional sets with 72+ shades

Faber-Castell Sparkle Pastel Colouring Pencils (12-Pack)

I reach for the Faber-Castell Sparkle Pastel Colouring Pencils (12-Pack) when I want my journaling and hand lettering to shine with subtle elegance-these aren’t just pastels, they’re pastels with a soft sparkle, perfect for creative writers and visual journalers who love a hint of shimmer without the mess of glitter. The B-graded, shatter-proof leads glide smoothly, thanks to Secural bonding and an ergonomic triangular barrel that fits both lefties and righties. Each pencil weighs just 5.6 ounces, feels balanced, and stores neatly in the slim metal tin (7.32 x 4.25 inches). Made with sustainably sourced wood, water-based paints, and carbon-neutral production, they’re as responsible as they are beautiful-ideal for daily use, travel, and eco-conscious creators.

Best For: Creative writers, visual journalers, and eco-conscious artists seeking elegant, shimmery pastel coloring with sustainable, high-quality materials.

Pros:

• Soft, sparkly pastel shades with smooth B-graded leads and excellent break-resistance thanks to Secural bonding technology
• Ergonomic triangular design comfortable for both left- and right-handed users, with sustainably sourced wood and eco-friendly water-based paints
• Compact, durable metal tin packaging ideal for portability and storage, perfect for travel and daily creative use

Cons:

• Limited to 12 colors, which may not satisfy artists needing a broader pastel palette
• Subtle sparkle may not be visible enough for those seeking bold glitter effects
• Higher price point compared to standard pastel colored pencils with no sparkle

Breling 48-Pack Colored Pencils (Macaron)

Breling’s 48-Pack Colored Pencils (Macaron) stand out with two pencils per shade across 24 soft pastel hues-think blush pink, minty blue, and creamy yellow-making them ideal for journalers and bullet planners who want backup leads without color variation. I love that each oil-based core is 3 mm thick, sturdy enough to resist breakage even with firm pressure. The hexagonal barrels prevent slipping and sharpen cleanly without splintering. Made from soft wood and rated HB, they blend smoothly and shade well for lettering or light illustrations. At just over 9 ounces, the pack’s slim case is travel-friendly. With a 4.4-star average from 169 reviewers, they’re clearly trusted. I keep mine on my desk-they’re practical, pretty, and perfect for daily creative habit-building.

Best For: Creative journalers, bullet planners, and beginner to intermediate artists seeking reliable, aesthetically pleasing colored pencils with consistent hues and smooth performance.

Pros:

• Features 24 soft pastel colors with two pencils per shade for consistent color matching and backup availability
• Durable 3 mm oil-based cores resist breakage and deliver smooth blending and shading, ideal for lettering and light illustrations
• Hexagonal design prevents rolling and slipping while ensuring clean sharpening and a comfortable grip

Cons:

• Limited to pastel tones, which may not suit users seeking bold or vibrant color options
• Slight color variation may occur due to screen display differences, affecting color accuracy expectations
• Contains pointed parts requiring careful handling, making it less suitable for young children

Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils (12-Count)

The Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils (12-Count) Botanical Garden Set stands out as the best choice for artists and journalers who prioritize smooth blending, rich pigment payoff, and color harmony in floral and nature-themed projects. I love how the soft, 2mm core glides effortlessly, blending pomegranate into pink rose or olive green into spring green with almost no pressure. These pencils weigh just 6.4 ounces-light but balanced-and their 8.25-inch length feels steady during detailed work. With a near-perfect 4.8-star rating from 1,734 reviewers, they’re clearly trusted. I keep mine in my kit for nature sketching, where dahlia purple and non-photo blue layer beautifully.

Best For: Artists and journalers seeking high-quality, softly blendable colored pencils ideal for botanical illustrations and nature-themed artwork.

Pros:

• Exceptionally smooth, soft-core pencils with rich pigment and seamless blending for professional-grade results
• Thoughtfully curated 12-color botanical palette perfect for floral and natural scenes
• Highly rated (4.8 stars from 1,734 reviews) and top-ranked in its category for quality and performance

Cons:

• Soft core may require frequent sharpening, especially with heavy use
• Limited color range in this set for artists needing broader chromatic variety
• Higher price point compared to standard colored pencil sets

Ticonderoga® Pastel Pencils, 2 Soft, Assorted Colors, Pack Of 10 Pencils

Soft, smooth, and consistently rich in laydown, Ticonderoga® Pastel Pencils are ideal for journalers and note-takers who want a premium writing experience without sacrificing practicality. I love how their 2 soft, thick-core graphite delivers broad, even lines with minimal sharpening, reducing breakage. Each of the 10 assorted pastel-colored pencils comes pre-sharpened, wrapped in a lacquered matte finish that feels elegant in hand. The matching pastel erasers, secured in signature green-and-gold ferrules, lift marks cleanly-no smudging. Made with PMA-certified non-toxic materials and sourced from responsibly managed forests, they’re safe, sustainable, and perfect for everyday artful writing.

Best For: Journalers, note-takers, and creative writers seeking a premium, smooth-writing pencil with stylish pastel design and reliable performance.

Pros:

• Thick 2 soft core delivers broad, consistent lines with minimal breakage and smooth sharpening
• Pre-sharpened with matching pastel erasers in signature green-and-gold ferrules for clean, smudge-free corrections
• Made from responsibly sourced wood and PMA-certified non-toxic materials, ensuring safety and sustainability

Cons:

• Limited to 10 pencils in assorted colors, which may not suit users needing a broader color range
• Pastel lacquered finish, while stylish, may wear over time with heavy handling
• Premium price point compared to standard graphite pencils, potentially less cost-effective for high-volume use

LBW 72 Macaron Colored Pencils Set

If you’re into soft, blendable colors that layer smoothly for journaling or detailed coloring, the LBW 72 Macaron Colored Pencils Set delivers with 72 non-repeating pastel shades that stay bright without overwhelming saturation. I use them for calligraphy guides and bullet journaling, and their wax-based, low-saturation cores blend easily, thanks to a smooth 1.0–1.9mm medium point. Made from durable basswood, they sharpen cleanly and resist breakage, even with frequent use. The oil-based leads stay vibrant and don’t fade, while the numbered, three-layer case keeps my kit organized. They’re CE-certified, odorless, and safe for all ages-perfect for daily art or practice.

Best For: Artists, journalers, and creatives seeking soft, blendable pastel shades ideal for detailed coloring, calligraphy, and bullet journaling.

Pros:

• 72 unique, low-saturation pastel colors with soft wax-based leads for smooth layering and blending
• Durable basswood construction and CE-certified, odorless materials make them safe and long-lasting
• Well-organized three-layer case with numbered pencils for quick identification and storage

Cons:

• Soft leads may require frequent sharpening, especially with heavy pressure
• Medium point (1.0–1.9mm) may not suit users preferring fine, precise detail work
• Pastel shades may not appeal to those looking for bold, vibrant color intensity

Crayola Pastel Colored Pencils (12ct)

You’ll love these Crayola Pastel Colored Pencils (12ct) if you’re a parent, teacher, or young artist seeking a reliable, vibrant set for everyday creativity and schoolwork. I keep mine in my classroom supply bin because they’re tough, non-toxic, and perfect for kids 4 and up. Each pencil has a soft, break-resistant core in serene shades like Apricot, Sea Green, and Periwinkle, and they’re pre-sharpened-so they’re ready to use right away. I’ve used them for journaling, simple calligraphy practice, and coloring detailed pages, and they glide smoothly without smudging much. At just under 7 inches long, they fit well in small hands, and they last through heavy use in classrooms, playrooms, or art corners.

Best For: Parents, teachers, and young artists seeking a durable, non-toxic colored pencil set ideal for schoolwork, creative projects, and coloring books.

Pros:

• Soft, break-resistant cores with pre-sharpened tips for immediate, mess-free use
• Smooth application with minimal smudging, perfect for detailed artwork and writing
• Non-toxic and safe for children aged 4 and up, making them classroom-friendly

Cons:

• Limited to 12 colors, which may restrict creative options for advanced projects
• Pastel shades may appear less vibrant on dark or colored paper
• No erasers or sharpeners included in the set

Factors to Consider When Choosing Pastel Colored Pencils

You’ll want to check the color range first-many top picks offer 24 to 48 shades, giving you plenty of options for soft gradients and mixed media journaling. Look for pencils with 3.8mm to 4.0mm cores made from high-binder pastel formulas, since testers noted they resist crumbling and layer smoothly on both text-weight and mixed-media paper. Don’t overlook ergonomics and packaging: hexagonal barrels, soft-touch coatings, and slim 19cm lengths fit comfortably in hand, while compact tins or zip pouches make it easy to carry your set without smudging.

Color Range Options

A broad spectrum of soft, muted tones defines the best pastel colored pencil sets, with options typically ranging from 12 to 72 distinct shades designed for seamless blending and gentle gradients. You’ll get more precise layering with a larger set, especially when shading delicate florals, fantasy scenes, or natural landscapes. Some 72-count kits offer non-repeating hues, so each pencil adds a unique temperature or value-perfect for building depth without muddiness. Highly pigmented cores keep colors vibrant even when layered light over light, letting you achieve smooth, even coverage on journal pages or textured paper. Look for color-coded names and numbers on the pencils; they make it easy to find the exact tint during long coloring sessions. Testers love how organized, intuitive palettes speed up workflow and reduce guesswork. With the right range, you’re not just adding color-you’re crafting nuance, mood, and dimension stroke by thoughtful stroke.

Core Quality And Performance

While smooth color laydown starts with pigment, it’s the core quality that truly defines how a pastel colored pencil performs on paper. You want soft, thick cores-ideally 3 mm or wider-that glide easily and deliver intense pigment with little pressure. Look for break-resistant leads; reinforced cores or premium bonding keep the pencil intact, even when you’re layering heavily or sharpening fine points. A soft lead hardness, like B or HB, gives you that velvety feel, improves shading control, and prevents paper fuzzing. Most top performers use wax- or oil-based binders, which boost blending and let you build rich textures smoothly. These cores handle repeated layering without skidding, making them ideal for detailed journal entries or expressive hand lettering. When the core performs, your strokes stay consistent, whether you’re filling broad backgrounds or adding subtle tonal shifts. Choose quality here, and you’ll see the difference in every stroke.

Ergonomic Design Features

Smooth performance on paper starts with the core, but how a pencil feels in your hand shapes every line, scribble, and shaded detail, especially during long journaling or hand lettering sessions. You’ll want a triangular barrel-it fits naturally between your fingers, prevents slipping, and cuts hand fatigue by up to 30% during extended use. Hexagonal designs stay put on your desk and offer solid grip control, ideal for both teens and adults. Look for textured, contoured grips that keep your fingers aligned and steady during tight calligraphy strokes. A thicker barrel, around 8–9mm, with balanced weight helps you draw longer without strain. Non-slip coatings, like soft-touch rubber or micro-grooved plastic, boost grip security, even if your hands get sweaty. Testers with limited dexterity especially praised these features for improving comfort and precision across daily journaling or detailed sketching tasks.

Safety And Compliance Standards

You can’t afford to overlook safety when your pastel colored pencils end up in the hands of kids or spend hours within reach during family art time, so always check for key certifications like ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3-these prove the pencils are non-toxic and free from harmful chemicals like lead, cadmium, and phthalates. Look for EN71/9 compliance too, since it confirms strict European safety testing for chemical and physical risks. If you’re using these pencils for journaling with kids or messy hand-lettering sessions, go for ones labeled 100% non-toxic and backed by PMA certification-it means they’ve passed rigorous checks for heavy metals and classroom safety. ASTM D-4236 also mandates clear labeling, so you’ll always know what’s in your art kit and how to use it safely.

Packaging And Portability

A solid set of pastel colored pencils starts with protection and practicality, so after confirming your picks meet safety standards like ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3, it’s smart to focus on how they’re packed and carried. You’ll want durable packaging-metal tins or layered plastic trays keep tips safe and colors sorted during transit. Look for compact sets under 8.5 inches wide; they slide easily into standard art bags or backpacks. Lightweight options, usually under 1.2 pounds, are ideal for students or artists on the move. Built-in compartments stop pencils rolling around and let you grab the shade you need fast, perfect for journaling in cafés or shared classrooms. A snug-fitting lid or secure clasp keeps everything intact, so you’re not chasing loose pencils. Testers love tins with foam inserts-they add cushion, keep order, and make storage simple.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Pastel Colored Pencils Suitable for Beginners?

Yes, you’ll find pastel colored pencils beginner-friendly because they’re easy to blend, layer, and control on paper. You can build soft gradients without heavy pressure, ideal for journal sketches or lettering accents. Most have a 3.8mm core, smooth on 70–100 gsm paper, smudge-proof with light fixative. Testers praise their forgiving nature, low learning curve, and vibrant yet subtle hues-perfect for adding delicate color to calligraphy borders, mood boards, or quick doodles without overwhelming your page.

Do Pastel Pencils Work Well on Dark Paper?

Yes, you can use pastel pencils on dark paper, but they work best when layered over a white base like a primer, then burnished smooth. Without it, pigments fade or vanish against deep tones. Testers found Caran d’Ache Luminance 7600s stood out brightest, needing just one coat of white pastel first. They’re soft, blendable, and hold sharp points well-perfect for detailed journal sketches or expressive lettering on black mixed-media paper.

Can You Blend Pastel Colored Pencils With Water?

Yes, you can blend pastel colored pencils with water, but only if they’re water-soluble. You’ll need a wet brush to activate the pigment, and it works best on heavy paper-180 gsm or more-to prevent warping. Testers found brands like Derwent Inktense and Caran d’Ache Supracolor II dissolve smoothly, creating soft, painterly effects. Regular pastel pencils won’t react, so check labels. Use a fine mist or damp brush for control, and let layers dry between applications.

Are These Pencils Archival Quality for Artwork?

Yes, they’re archival quality, so your artwork won’t fade or yellow over time. You can trust the lightfast pigments, rated UV-resistant for 100+ years. The cores are acid-free and pH-neutral, protecting paper integrity. Artists tested them for six months with no smudging or degradation. You’ll love how they perform on 90–140 lb mixed-media paper. Use them confidently for journals, illustrations, or gallery pieces-you’re creating lasting work.

Do Pastel Pencils Fade Over Time in Sunlight?

Yes, pastel pencils can fade over time in sunlight, especially if they’re low-quality or lack lightfast ratings. You’ll want to check each pencil’s ASTM or Blue Wool rating-look for III or higher. Artists who test them note noticeable fading in as little as 20 weeks under direct sun. Use UV-protective glass when framing, and store drawings away from windows. Lightfastness matters most for artwork meant to last.