Choosing the right art supplies for students can be challenging with so many options available. The Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set stands out as the best overall for its versatility and complete set of colors, brushes, and palette. For those new to art, the 59pcs Acrylic Paint Set with Easel offers a beginner-friendly experience with essential tools included. Budget-conscious buyers will appreciate the Crayola Colored Pencils for their affordability and quality. However, tradeoffs include balancing price with quality, variety with simplicity, and beginner tools with professional-grade supplies. Keep reading for an in-depth breakdown to help you find the perfect fit for your needs.
Key Takeaways
- The top picks balance quality, affordability, and versatility, making them suitable for a wide range of student skill levels.
- Complete kits with multiple media options tend to be more valuable for students exploring different art forms.
- Professional-grade tools offer better results but often come at a higher price and may be unnecessary for beginners.
- Durability and ease of use are key factors, especially for younger students or those new to art supplies.
- Bulk packs and sets with accessories provide the best value but may include more items than a beginner needs.
| Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set, 36 Colors with Brushes & Palette |  | Best Overall for Versatile, Beginner-Friendly Acrylic Painting | Number of Colors: 36 | Bottle Size: 2oz/60ml | Includes: 12 brushes, 1 palette | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Professional Colored Pencils, Soft Core Pre-Sharpened, 12 Colors |  | Best for Intermediate Artists Needing Reliable, Pre-Sharpened Colored Pencils | Number of Colors: 12 | Lead Type: Soft core | Pre-Sharpened: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Colored Pencils (36 count), Classroom and Art Supplies for Kids & Adults |  | Best for Versatile, Family-Friendly Coloring and School Projects | Quantity: 36 | Suitable for: Kids & Adults | Features: Pre-sharpened, Durable, Vibrant colors | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Construction Paper Bulk Pack (480 Sheets) – 10 Assorted Colors, 9×12, Classroom & Craft Supplies |  | Best for Large-Scale Classroom and Craft Projects | Quantity: 480 sheets | Colors: 10 assorted colors | Sheet Size: 9 x 12 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Artbreezing Acrylic Painting Kit with Art Easel, All-in-One Art Supplies |  | Best for Complete, Portable Art Sets for Beginners and Enthusiasts | Item Dimensions: 15.7 x 13.8 x 3 inches | Item Weight: 3.94 pounds | Paint Tubes: 18 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| KALOUR 18-Piece Professional Sketch Pencil Set with Erasers, Sharpener, and Blending Stump |  | Best for Versatile Sketching and Shading | Number of Pencils: 14 | Hardness Range: 5H to 14B | Includes: Vinyl eraser, Kneaded eraser, Sharpener, Paper blending stump | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Mixed Media Art Set with Art Easel, Complete Art Supplies Kit |  | Best for All-in-One Creative Exploration | Item count: 55 pcs | Paint types: Acrylic, Watercolor | Includes: Brushes, Colored pencils, Drawing accessories, Wooden easel, Notebooks, Drawing board | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 59pcs Acrylic Paint Set with Easel, Brushes, Canvas for Kids and Beginners |  | Best for Beginner and Young Artists | Number of Paints: 24 | Paint Type: Acrylic | Includes: Easel, brushes, canvases, palette, color wheel, apron | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Artecho Oil Pastels Set of 48 Colors (10 x 70 mm) |  | Best for Vibrant Color Blending | Color Count: 48 | Line Size: 10 mm | Material: Oil pastels | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HIFORNY 136 PCS Drawing & Sketching Set with Pencils, Watercolor, Charcoal, Colored Pencils, Sketchbook, Watercolor Book, and Accessories |  | Best for Advanced and Portable Art Creation | Number of Pencils: 136 | Types of Pencils: Charcoal, Graphite, Colored, Watercolor, Metallic, White Charcoal | Sketchbook Size: 6 x 9 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| art supplies for student | Includes |
|---|---|
| Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set | 12 brushes, 1 palette |
| Professional Colored Pencils | — |
| Crayola Colored Pencils | — |
| Crayola Construction Paper Bul | — |
| Artbreezing Acrylic Painting K | Easel, paints, canvases, brushes, apron, palette, palette knife, sketching pencil, eraser, sharpener, storage box |
| KALOUR 18-Piece Professional S | Vinyl eraser, Kneaded eraser, Sharpener, Paper blending stump |
| Mixed Media Art Set with Art E | Brushes, Colored pencils, Drawing accessories, Wooden easel, Notebooks, Drawing board |
| 59pcs Acrylic Paint Set with E | Easel, brushes, canvases, palette, color wheel, apron |
| Artecho Oil Pastels Set of 48 | — |
| HIFORNY 136 PCS Drawing & Sket | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set, 36 Colors with Brushes & Palette
This shuttle art set makes a compelling choice for students seeking a comprehensive acrylic painting experience without the complexity of larger, professional-grade sets. Its 36 highly pigmented colors, including metallic shades, allow for vibrant artwork on various surfaces like canvas, wood, or ceramic. Compared to the Artbreezing acrylic kit, this set offers a more manageable size and includes essential brushes and a palette, making it ideal for beginners and casual artists. However, the quick-drying nature of the paints can challenge those trying to blend colors smoothly, and its limited palette may restrict more advanced color mixing. Overall, this set balances quality and ease of use for students just starting out or working on small projects.
Pros:- Vibrant, highly pigmented colors including metallic shades
- Includes brushes and palette for a complete set
- Suitable for multiple surfaces and easy to clean
Cons:- Paints dry quickly, making blending difficult
- Limited to 36 colors, which may not satisfy artists needing more shades
Best for: Beginners, students, or hobbyists who want a versatile, easy-to-clean acrylic starter set
Not ideal for: Advanced artists or those needing a broader color range for complex projects
- Number of Colors:36
- Bottle Size:2oz/60ml
- Includes:12 brushes, 1 palette
- Pigments:Rich, highly pigmented
- Toxicity:Non-toxic, ASTM-D4236 compliant
Our verdict“This acrylic set is an excellent choice for students seeking a straightforward, vibrant starter kit that covers basic needs but isn’t designed for complex color blending.”
Professional Colored Pencils, Soft Core Pre-Sharpened, 12 Colors
This set of professional colored pencils stands out for its soft, durable leads that resist breaking, making it suitable for students who want dependable tools for detailed work. Compared to the Crayola 36-color set, these pencils offer a more refined, professional feel, especially for older students or those honing their shading skills. However, with only 12 colors, it falls short for students who require a broader palette for complex artwork or color blending. The pre-sharpened feature is convenient, but the lack of a dedicated storage case adds a layer of inconvenience for portability. This pick suits students ready for more precise, long-lasting colored pencils but not those seeking a comprehensive color collection.
Pros:- Soft, durable leads resistant to breaking
- Pre-sharpened for immediate use
- Good for detailed drawing and shading
Cons:- Limited to 12 colors, restricting variety
- No dedicated storage case for portability
Best for: Middle or high school students focusing on detailed drawing or shading projects
Not ideal for: Younger children or beginners needing a wide color range for diverse projects
- Number of Colors:12
- Lead Type:Soft core
- Pre-Sharpened:Yes
Our verdict“This set offers dependable, pre-sharpened pencils ideal for students focused on precision, but it’s less suited for projects requiring a broad palette.”
Crayola Colored Pencils (36 count), Classroom and Art Supplies for Kids & Adults
This Crayola set delivers a broad, vibrant color range suitable for both kids and adults, making it a flexible choice for educational, creative, and casual projects. Its pre-sharpened, durable design ensures longevity and ease of use, similar to the more professional-looking colored pencil sets, but with a focus on accessibility for all ages. Compared with the more specialized professional pencils, Crayola’s offering trades some shading finesse for vibrant, straightforward color application. The 36 shades are enough for most school and craft projects but may fall short for serious artists needing extensive color options or fine shading capabilities. This set is perfect for family art time or classroom use where ease and durability matter most.
Pros:- Vibrant and diverse color selection
- Pre-sharpened and durable for long-lasting use
- Suitable for kids and adults, great for educational and creative projects
Cons:- Limited to 36 colors, not enough for complex shading
- No high-end color blending capabilities
Best for: Parents buying for children or teachers stocking classroom supplies for general use
Not ideal for: Professional artists or students needing a large, nuanced color palette for detailed work
- Quantity:36
- Suitable for:Kids & Adults
- Features:Pre-sharpened, Durable, Vibrant colors
Our verdict“This set offers dependable, vibrant coloring tools perfect for educational and casual use but isn’t tailored for professional shading or complex art projects.”
Crayola Construction Paper Bulk Pack (480 Sheets) – 10 Assorted Colors, 9×12, Classroom & Craft Supplies
This bulk pack of Crayola construction paper provides an economical, high-volume supply for schools and craft groups. Its 480 sheets in 10 vivid colors support a wide array of projects, from cutting and folding to collage work. The sturdy, thick paper ensures durability during handling and glue application, making it ideal for classroom environments. Compared to smaller packs, this large quantity minimizes replacement needs, but the limited color variety might restrict more intricate or multi-colored projects. The sheets are bound in pads, which can be less convenient for individual sheet access, but overall, this set balances affordability with practicality for busy educational settings or large art classes.
Pros:- Large quantity suitable for classrooms and groups
- Vibrant assorted colors
- Heavy-duty, thick paper for durability
Cons:- Limited color variety for complex projects
- Sheets are bound in pads, less convenient for individual use
Best for: Teachers and parents looking for a cost-effective, high-volume supply for classroom projects
Not ideal for: Artists requiring specific or extensive color options for detailed craft work
- Quantity:480 sheets
- Colors:10 assorted colors
- Sheet Size:9 x 12 inches
- Color options:Pink, Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Purple, Brown, Black, White
Our verdict“This bulk construction paper pack is ideal for educators and large groups needing a reliable, affordable supply for everyday projects, despite some color limitations.”
Artbreezing Acrylic Painting Kit with Art Easel, All-in-One Art Supplies
This all-in-one painting kit provides a comprehensive setup, including an adjustable tabletop easel, 18 tubes of acrylic paint, canvases, brushes, and accessories, making it ideal for students eager to explore painting without purchasing separate supplies. Compared to the Shuttle Art set, it offers a more organized, portable package that supports both indoor and outdoor painting sessions. The variety of included items can be overwhelming for complete beginners who may prefer simpler starter options, and larger canvases might be more suitable for advanced students wanting bigger projects. Nonetheless, this kit offers a well-rounded, organized solution for students ready to dive into acrylic painting with minimal setup fuss.
Pros:- Complete all-in-one art set with equipment and supplies
- Portable and organized for easy transport
- Sturdy, adjustable tabletop easel for comfortable painting
Cons:- May be overwhelming for complete beginners due to the variety of supplies
- Some students might prefer larger canvases for bigger works
Best for: Beginners and intermediate students seeking a portable, all-in-one painting kit with an easel
Not ideal for: Complete novices who prefer a minimal introduction or students requiring larger canvases for bigger projects
- Item Dimensions:15.7 x 13.8 x 3 inches
- Item Weight:3.94 pounds
- Paint Tubes:18
- Canvas Size:9″x12″
- Includes:Easel, paints, canvases, brushes, apron, palette, palette knife, sketching pencil, eraser, sharpener, storage box
Our verdict“This comprehensive, portable acrylic painting kit is perfect for students ready to explore painting with everything they need at hand, though it may be too much for absolute beginners.”
KALOUR 18-Piece Professional Sketch Pencil Set with Erasers, Sharpener, and Blending Stump
This set stands out for its broad range of 14 pencils spanning from 5H to 14B, enabling nuanced shading and detailed sketching, making it a step above basic pencil collections. Unlike the smaller, less comprehensive colored pencil sets like Crayola Colored Pencils, this set is tailored specifically for sketching and shading, with no color or digital options. The inclusion of erasers, a sharpener, and a blending stump offers a complete toolkit for developing skills and executing finished drawings. However, its focus on monochrome sketching limits its use for projects requiring color or painting, which might frustrate users seeking a one-stop art supply. This pick makes the most sense for students who want a high-quality, versatile sketching set that supports learning fine shading techniques without the distraction of color options.
Pros:- Wide range of pencil hardness for detailed shading
- Includes essential accessories for sketching
- Suitable for all skill levels from beginner to advanced
Cons:- No color pencils or paints included
- Limited to sketching and shading only
Best for: Students pursuing detailed pencil work and shading techniques, both beginners and more experienced artists.
Not ideal for: Those looking for a complete painting or coloring set, since it lacks color pencils or paint supplies.
- Number of Pencils:14
- Hardness Range:5H to 14B
- Includes:Vinyl eraser, Kneaded eraser, Sharpener, Paper blending stump
Our verdict“This set is ideal for students focusing on pencil sketching and shading skills, with a comprehensive range of graphite options.”
Mixed Media Art Set with Art Easel, Complete Art Supplies Kit
This 55-piece kit offers an extensive variety of high-quality acrylic and watercolor paints, brushes, colored pencils, and drawing accessories, making it ideal for students who want a comprehensive, portable art solution. Compared with the more focused sketch set like the KALOUR pencils, this set provides multiple media options, supporting both painting and drawing styles. The included wooden easel and storage make it a practical choice for students who need an all-in-one setup to work indoors or outdoors. However, the large number of supplies can be overwhelming for complete beginners who might prefer more curated starter kits, and some accessories may lack the precision for advanced techniques. This set makes the most sense for students ready to experiment across different media without needing to buy individual supplies separately.
Pros:- Comprehensive set with multiple art supplies
- Portable with secure storage and adjustable easel
- High-quality pigments and durable materials
Cons:- Can be overwhelming for beginners
- Some accessories may lack specialization for advanced users
Best for: Students seeking a versatile, portable art kit suitable for all skill levels and various media types.
Not ideal for: Complete beginners who prefer a smaller, simpler starter set focused solely on one medium.
- Item count:55 pcs
- Paint types:Acrylic, Watercolor
- Includes:Brushes, Colored pencils, Drawing accessories, Wooden easel, Notebooks, Drawing board
- Material:Wood, High-quality pigments
- Suitable for:All skill levels
- Warranty:1 Year
Our verdict“This all-in-one kit is perfect for students eager to explore multiple art forms and media with convenience.”
59pcs Acrylic Paint Set with Easel, Brushes, Canvas for Kids and Beginners
This acrylic set offers 24 vibrant, non-toxic paints, a sturdy beech wood easel, brushes, canvases, and accessories designed specifically for children and novices. Compared with the more detailed HIFORNY set, this kit emphasizes simplicity and safety, making it ideal for young artists developing confidence in painting. Its included easel and protective apron promote a mess-free, engaging experience suitable for classroom or home use. However, the limited to acrylic paints only and the relatively small number of canvases might restrict ongoing projects or more advanced work. This pick makes the most sense for parents or teachers seeking a safe, all-in-one starter kit for young or beginner artists, especially in educational settings.
Pros:- Complete starter set with all essential supplies
- Non-toxic, washable paints safe for kids
- Easy to clean and mess-free with included apron
Cons:- Limited to acrylic paints only
- Number of canvases may be insufficient for large projects
Best for: Beginners, children, and students just starting with acrylic painting in a classroom or home environment.
Not ideal for: Intermediate or advanced artists seeking a broader media range or more extensive supplies for large projects.
- Number of Paints:24
- Paint Type:Acrylic
- Includes:Easel, brushes, canvases, palette, color wheel, apron
- Canvas Size:8″ x 10″ and 5″ x 7″
- Weight:5.99 pounds
- Item Dimensions:15.35 x 9.45 x 5.51 inches
Our verdict“This set offers a safe, straightforward introduction to acrylic painting for kids and beginners with everything needed to start creating right away.”
Artecho Oil Pastels Set of 48 Colors (10 x 70 mm)
This oil pastel set offers 48 rich, vibrantly pigmented colors with a soft texture, ideal for students interested in blending, shading, and layering techniques. Compared with the more comprehensive mixed media kit like the HIFORNY set, these pastels focus solely on color and texture, allowing for smooth, expressive artwork. The individual sleeves and portability make it easy to carry and store, but the softness of these pastels also means they are more prone to breakage if not handled carefully, which could be frustrating for younger users. While the number of colors is ample for most projects, those needing highly detailed or color-specific work might find the set limiting. This makes the most sense for students wanting vibrant, easy-to-blend colors for artistic experimentation.
Pros:- Vibrant, richly pigmented colors
- Smooth texture ideal for blending and shading
- Portable with protective sleeves
Cons:- Soft pastels can break easily
- Limited to 48 colors which may restrict highly detailed work
Best for: Students exploring color blending and expressive techniques in drawing and mixed media.
Not ideal for: Artists requiring a broad range of shades for precise, detailed projects, or those preferring hard pastels for fine lines.
- Color Count:48
- Line Size:10 mm
- Material:Oil pastels
- Shape:Round
- Hardness:Soft
- Additional Features:Non-toxic, portable, versatile
Our verdict“These oil pastels are perfect for students wanting vibrant colors and smooth blending for expressive artwork and experimentation.”
HIFORNY 136 PCS Drawing & Sketching Set with Pencils, Watercolor, Charcoal, Colored Pencils, Sketchbook, Watercolor Book, and Accessories
This extensive set includes 136 professional-grade pencils, charcoal, colored pencils, and two dedicated sketchbooks, making it ideal for serious students or artists who want a portable, all-in-one kit. Unlike the smaller, more specialized sets like the Professional Colored Pencils, this collection offers a broad spectrum of tools, supporting multiple techniques and mediums in one case. The large variety can be overwhelming for casual users or beginners who might prefer a focused starter pack. The durable nylon case adds convenience for on-the-go work, but some accessories may be redundant for more experienced artists who already own similar tools. It makes the most sense for students with a serious interest in drawing and mixed media, needing portability and variety.
Pros:- Wide variety of professional tools and media
- Portable, durable nylon case
- Includes sketchbooks and accessories for on-the-go art
Cons:- Can be overwhelming for newcomers
- Some accessories may be redundant for experienced artists
Best for: Students and artists seeking a comprehensive, portable set for diverse drawing and sketching projects.
Not ideal for: Beginners or casual hobbyists who prefer simpler, less extensive kits, or those focusing solely on one medium.
- Number of Pencils:136
- Types of Pencils:Charcoal, Graphite, Colored, Watercolor, Metallic, White Charcoal
- Sketchbook Size:6 x 9 inches
- Sketchbook Pages:50
- Watercolor Book Pages:12
- Watercolor Paper GSM:300
- Case Dimensions:12″ x 8.74″ x 2.75″
- Material:Nylon
Our verdict“This set is suited for ambitious students and artists looking for a complete, portable toolkit to support diverse creative pursuits.”
How We Picked
These products were evaluated based on a combination of performance, ease of use, build quality, value for money, and versatility. We prioritized supplies that suit a range of skill levels, from beginners to more experienced students, ensuring each has a clear role. The ranking also considers how well the items balance cost with quality, as well as their ability to foster creativity without overwhelming new users. Sets with comprehensive accessories or multiple media options were favored, but we also highlighted simpler, more affordable options for budget-conscious buyers. Ultimately, the goal was to identify supplies that empower students to experiment and learn effectively while offering good long-term value.Factors to Consider When Choosing Art Supplies For Students
When selecting art supplies for students, it’s important to consider several key factors to ensure you choose items that match their skill level, interests, and budget. Art supplies should be easy to handle, durable, and versatile enough to support different projects. Avoid buying overly complex or expensive tools for beginners, as they can be discouraging or unnecessary. Instead, focus on quality basics that promote confidence and creative exploration. Think about how much space you have, the types of art your student wants to pursue, and how much you’re willing to invest in their artistic journey.Skill Level and Ease of Use
For young or new artists, simplicity and ease of use matter most. Look for supplies with comfortable grips, minimal setup, and forgiving results. Advanced students may prefer professional-grade materials that offer richer colors and finer control. Matching the complexity of the supplies to the student’s skill prevents frustration and encourages growth. Consider starter sets for beginners that combine essential tools, and upgrade to more sophisticated options as skills develop.
Versatility and Media Compatibility
Supplies that support multiple media—such as watercolor, acrylics, and colored pencils—offer more creative freedom. Sets that include diverse tools help students experiment across different styles without purchasing multiple individual products. However, overly broad kits can be overwhelming and expensive, so prioritize versatility with a manageable selection. Think about the types of projects your student is interested in, and choose supplies that align with those pursuits for better engagement and skill development.
Durability and Quality
Investing in durable, well-made supplies ensures that students don’t get frustrated with tools that break or don’t perform well. Cheaper, low-quality options may save money upfront but often require replacement sooner, increasing long-term costs. Professional-grade materials tend to last longer and produce better results, making them worth considering for dedicated young artists. Always check reviews or brand reputation to gauge durability and consistency, especially for items like brushes, pencils, and paints that undergo frequent use.
Budget and Value
Balancing cost with quality is key. While it’s tempting to buy the cheapest supplies, they often lack durability or produce subpar results. Conversely, premium tools can be expensive without necessarily being better for a beginner. Sets that offer good value—such as bulk packs or multi-item kits—are ideal for students who want variety without overspending. Consider what’s essential for your student’s current skill level and future needs, then invest accordingly.
Storage and Organization
Having a dedicated space to keep supplies organized makes a big difference in maintaining their condition and accessibility. Look for sets that come with storage cases, palettes, or compartments, especially if your student is working in a shared or limited space. Proper organization encourages regular practice and prevents supplies from getting lost or damaged. Simpler storage options work well for younger students, while more advanced artists might prefer customizable or portable storage solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are professional art supplies necessary for a student just starting out?
Not necessarily. While professional-grade supplies can produce better results and last longer, they are often more expensive and may overwhelm beginners. Starter kits with basic quality materials are usually sufficient for those exploring art for the first time. As skills improve, investing in higher-quality tools can be a good next step. For now, focus on supplies that are easy to use, forgiving, and create enjoyable experiences, which help foster a lasting interest in art.
What should I prioritize when buying art supplies for a young student?
For young students, safety, durability, and ease of use should be top priorities. Look for non-toxic, washable options that are sturdy enough to withstand frequent handling. Simpler sets with fewer, well-chosen items reduce overwhelm and help them develop foundational skills. As they progress, you can gradually introduce more complex and diverse supplies tailored to their growing interests and abilities.
Is it better to buy a complete art set or individual supplies?
Complete sets often offer better value and convenience, especially for beginners or students exploring different media. They come with a variety of tools and accessories, reducing the need for multiple purchases. However, if your student has specific preferences or is advanced, buying individual high-quality supplies tailored to their needs might be more effective. Consider your budget and the student’s current skill level to decide which approach works best.
How do I choose between acrylics, watercolors, and pencils for a student?
The choice depends on the student’s age, interest, and skill level. Pencils are great for beginners and detailed work, while watercolors and acrylics introduce students to painting and color mixing. Acrylics tend to be more forgiving and faster to dry, making them suitable for younger students or quick projects. Watercolors require more control and patience but offer unique effects. Consider starting with versatile basic supplies in multiple media to help students discover their preferred style.
How much should I spend on art supplies for a student?
The budget varies based on the student’s age and commitment. For casual or young students, affordable starter kits or basic sets can be enough, typically under $30. More serious or advanced students may benefit from investing $50–$100 in quality supplies, which last longer and produce better results. Remember, the goal is to balance cost with durability and usability, avoiding overspending on items that won’t be used often or are unnecessary at the current skill level.
Conclusion
For those just starting out or shopping on a budget, the Crayola Colored Pencils or 59pcs Acrylic Paint Set with Easel offer excellent value and ease of use. More experienced students or those seeking a comprehensive toolkit will find the Mixed Media Art Set with Easel or HIFORNY 136 PCS Drawing & Sketching Set better suited to their needs. For older or dedicated young artists, investing in higher-end options like the Artbreezing Acrylic Painting Kit can provide professional results and long-term satisfaction. Ultimately, selecting the right supplies depends on the student’s skill level, interest, and your budget, but with the right tools, they can develop their talents and enjoy the creative process.
