Finding the right art supplies for students can be challenging, as options vary widely in quality, versatility, and price. The Pentel Oil Pastels – 50 Color Set stands out as a well-rounded choice for its vibrant pigmentation and ease of use, making it ideal for both beginners and more experienced young artists. For those seeking a comprehensive starter kit, the TMOL Art Supplies Deluxe Art Set with 175 Tools offers an extensive variety of tools in a durable wooden case, perfect for fostering creativity. However, tradeoffs include higher costs and potential overwhelm for newcomers. Continue reading to see how these and other products compare to help you choose the best supplies for your needs.
Key Takeaways
- The best overall art supplies balance quality, versatility, and affordability, with the Pentel Oil Pastels leading due to their color payoff and durability.
- Starter sets like the TMOL Deluxe Art Set are ideal for students ready to explore multiple mediums but may be less suitable for casual or infrequent use.
- Budget options such as Crayola Construction Paper provide excellent value for classroom settings, but may lack the professional finish of higher-end supplies.
- Art supplies that include instructional elements or beginner-friendly features help students develop skills more effectively.
- Choosing supplies tailored to the student’s age and skill level ensures better engagement and less frustration.
| Pentel Oil Pastels – 50 Color Set |  | Best Overall for Vibrant, Blendable Colors | Number of Colors: 50 | Type: Oil Pastels | Brand: Pentel | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TMOL Art Supplies Deluxe Art Set with 175 Tools and Wooden Case |  | Best Value for All-in-One Art Enthusiasts | Paint Type: Acrylic, Oil, Watercolor | Number of Items: 175 | Included Components: Brushes, Palettes, Pencils, Sharpener, Eraser, Drawing Pads | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Prina 76 Pack Drawing Set Sketching Kit with Sketchbook and Tutorial for Artists, Teens, Beginners |  | Best for Beginners and Portable Sketching | Number of Pencils: 76 | Sketchbook Size: 6 x 9 inches | Sketchbook Pages: 50 (30 white, 10 toned tan, 10 black) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Construction Paper Bulk Pack (480 Sheets) – 10 Assorted Colors |  | Best for Classroom Use and Large Projects | Sheets: 480 | Colors: 10 assorted | Sheet Size: 9×12 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Prina 50 Pack Drawing Set Sketch Kit with Sketchbook, Graphite, Charcoal Pencils |  | Best for Versatile, On-the-Go Sketching | Pencils: 15 graphite (H to B), 3 black charcoal, 3 white charcoal | Sketchbook: 6 x 9 inches, 50 pages | Additional tools: Blending stumps, erasers, sandpaper, pastels, art knife | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Artecho Oil Pastels Set of 48 Colors |  | Best Overall for Versatile Art Techniques | Number of Colors: 48 | Pastel Size: 70 mm x 10 mm | Material: High-quality pigments | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Pentel Arts Oil Pastels, 16 Color Set |  | Best Value for Compact, Long-Lasting Art Supplies | Color Count: 16 | Form: Crayon | Ink Color: Multicolor | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct) |  | Best for Classroom Use and Creative Projects | Quantity: 36 colored pencils | Ages: 3+ | Features: Presharpened, durable, soft cores | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Super Tips Marker Set (100ct), Washable Fine Point Markers for Kids & Adults |  | Best for Versatile Coloring and Lettering | Number of Markers: 100 | Colors: Assorted | Washable: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Caliart 176PCS Art Supplies Sketching Kit with 100 Sheets 3-Color Sketch Book |  | Best for All-in-One Portability and Versatility | Number of Pieces: 176 | Sketchbook Pages: 100 | Sketchbook Size: 6″x9″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Soucolor Art Supplies, 192 Pack Deluxe Art Set Drawing Painting Supplies Kit |  | Best for Versatile All-in-One Art Enthusiasts | Number of Pieces: 192 | Includes: Crayons, Colored Pencils, Oil Pastels, Watercolor Paints, Acrylic Paints, Paint Brushes, Canvases, Sketch Pads, Watercolor Paper, Acrylic Pad, Color Wheel, Palette, Eraser, Sharpener | Canvas Size: 8.5×11 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Pentel Oil Pastels – 50 Color Set
This set of Pentel Oil Pastels stands out for its vibrant hues and smooth application, making it ideal for students who want bold, blendable colors. Compared with larger sets like the TMOL Deluxe Art Set, these pastels focus solely on color quality and ease of blending, which benefits those primarily interested in drawing and shading. The acid-free, humidity-resistant formulation ensures artwork lasts without fading or deterioration, a key advantage over cheaper, less durable options. However, since they are strictly pastels, they limit versatility for mixed media projects. This pick makes the most sense for students seeking high-quality, portable pastels for expressive, detailed work rather than multi-medium experimentation.
Pros:- Vibrant colors that apply smoothly
- Easy to blend for shading and mixing
- Acid-free and humidity resistant for durability
Cons:- Limited to oil pastel medium, not suitable for all crafts
- No additional tools or accessories included
Best for: Students focused on drawing, shading, and blending who want vibrant, easy-to-use pastels.
Not ideal for: Students looking for an all-in-one art kit with diverse tools or a variety of different media.
- Number of Colors:50
- Type:Oil Pastels
- Brand:Pentel
Our verdict“This set is perfect for students who prioritize high-quality, blendable pastels for expressive artwork.”
TMOL Art Supplies Deluxe Art Set with 175 Tools and Wooden Case
The TMOL Deluxe Art Set offers unparalleled variety, including 175 tools such as paints, pencils, pastels, and brushes, all neatly organized in a sturdy wooden case. Compared with the Prina 76 Pack Drawing Set, this set supports a broader range of techniques and skill levels, making it ideal for teenagers or students who want versatility and all-in-one convenience. The inclusion of multiple paint types and a large number of tools means larger initial investment and potential overwhelm for beginners. Its organizational case helps keep supplies accessible, but the bulkiness limits portability. This set makes the most sense for students or hobbyists eager to experiment across multiple media without buying separate supplies.
Pros:- Includes a wide variety of art supplies for multiple techniques
- Organized in a durable wooden case with removable drawers
- Non-toxic and safe for all ages
- Great for gifting and developing multiple skills
Cons:- Large size and weight may hinder portability
- Some users might feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of tools
- Limited detailed instructions for specific projects
Best for: Students and teens who want a comprehensive, versatile art kit for various mediums and techniques.
Not ideal for: Students with limited space or those seeking a lightweight, portable kit for quick sketches.
- Paint Type:Acrylic, Oil, Watercolor
- Number of Items:175
- Included Components:Brushes, Palettes, Pencils, Sharpener, Eraser, Drawing Pads
- Material:Wood (case)
- Age Range:Adults, Teens, Kids
- Model Name:Deluxe Art Set
Our verdict“This extensive set is ideal for dedicated students ready to explore diverse art forms in one organized package.”
Prina 76 Pack Drawing Set Sketching Kit with Sketchbook and Tutorial for Artists, Teens, Beginners
The Prina 76 Pack Drawing Set delivers a well-rounded collection of pencils, sketchbooks, and accessories tailored for beginners and students. Its variety of high-quality, eco-friendly tools supports sketching, shading, and layering, making it more versatile than basic sets like Crayola Colored Pencils. The included tutorial and portable case encourage self-guided learning and easy transport, but some new artists might feel overwhelmed by the range of options. The sketchbook’s diverse pages (white, tan, black) enhance creative possibilities, though it limits color options for those seeking more vibrant or digital media. This kit is best for students eager to learn foundational drawing skills with a comprehensive, eco-conscious starter set.
Pros:- Wide variety of high-quality pencils and supplies
- Portable case for easy organization and travel
- Eco-friendly and non-toxic materials
- Includes a helpful 7-step drawing tutorial
Cons:- Potentially overwhelming for complete beginners
- Limited color options in the sketchbook pages
- No digital or electronic components included
Best for: Beginners and students looking for an affordable, portable set to develop fundamental drawing skills.
Not ideal for: Intermediate or advanced artists needing more specialized or digital tools.
- Number of Pencils:76
- Sketchbook Size:6 x 9 inches
- Sketchbook Pages:50 (30 white, 10 toned tan, 10 black)
- Materials:Non-toxic, eco-friendly, ASTM D-4236, EN71
- Included Accessories:Water brush pen, erasers, blending stumps, paintbrush, travel case
Our verdict“Ideal for students starting out in drawing who want a comprehensive, eco-conscious kit that’s easy to carry and learn from.”
Crayola Construction Paper Bulk Pack (480 Sheets) – 10 Assorted Colors
The Crayola Construction Paper Bulk Pack is a practical choice for classrooms and group projects, offering 480 sheets of sturdy, vibrant paper in 10 assorted colors. Compared with the Prina 50 Pack, this bulk set provides a much larger quantity, making it suitable for schools and craft sessions. Its 9×12 inch size is versatile for a variety of projects, from cutouts to collages. However, the limited color palette might restrict project variety for more complex or colorful artwork. The bulk packaging can be cumbersome for small individual projects but excels in providing ample material for large classes or events. This pack makes the most sense for teachers and students needing a reliable, cost-effective supply of basic colored paper.
Pros:- Large quantity suitable for classrooms or groups
- Vibrant assorted colors
- Sturdy and malleable for various craft techniques
Cons:- Limited to 10 colors, less variety for complex projects
- Bulk size less convenient for small or individual projects
Best for: Teachers and students engaged in large-scale projects or classroom activities requiring substantial quantities of colorful paper.
Not ideal for: Students seeking a wide range of colors or more specialized paper types for detailed work.
- Sheets:480
- Colors:10 assorted
- Sheet Size:9×12 inches
Our verdict“This bulk pack is best suited for educational settings or large projects where quantity outweighs color variety.”
Prina 50 Pack Drawing Set Sketch Kit with Sketchbook, Graphite, Charcoal Pencils
The Prina 50 Pack Drawing Set combines a variety of graphite, charcoal, and pastel tools with a multi-color sketchbook, making it a flexible choice for students and artists on the move. Compared with the more extensive TMOL set, this set emphasizes portability and specialized drawing tools ideal for detailed shading and blending. The inclusion of high-quality materials supports a range of styles, but some beginners might find the extensive options daunting initially. The sketchbook, with pages in different tones, encourages experimentation but might limit color vibrancy compared to digital or paint-based media. This set works best for students seeking a comprehensive, portable kit for detailed sketching and shading practice.
Pros:- Wide range of high-quality drawing tools
- Multi-color sketchbook supports various techniques
- Portable case for easy organization and transport
Cons:- Some users may find the variety overwhelming for beginners
- Limited information on sketchbook durability
- No digital tools included
Best for: Students and artists who want a portable, multi-purpose set for detailed drawing, shading, and blending.
Not ideal for: Beginners who might find the variety overwhelming or those seeking digital or vibrant color options.
- Pencils:15 graphite (H to B), 3 black charcoal, 3 white charcoal
- Sketchbook:6 x 9 inches, 50 pages
- Additional tools:Blending stumps, erasers, sandpaper, pastels, art knife
- Materials:Non-toxic, eco-friendly, ASTM D-4236, EN71
- Item Dimensions:11.6 x 7.5 x 1.37 inches
Our verdict“This versatile set is best for students who want a comprehensive, portable kit for detailed and textured sketching.”
Artecho Oil Pastels Set of 48 Colors
This set stands out for its vibrant, high-quality pigments and ease of blending, making it a solid choice for students exploring multiple art styles. Compared to the Pentel Oil Pastels, which offer fewer colors and less variety, the Artecho set provides a broader palette that encourages experimentation. Its portable design with individual sleeves enhances convenience for on-the-go projects. However, being limited to soft oil pastels means it doesn’t suit artists seeking more control or different textures, and colors can blend over time if not stored properly. This pick is ideal for students who want a comprehensive, versatile set that supports multiple techniques without complexity.
Pros:- Vibrant and high-quality pigments
- Easy to blend for various techniques
- Portable with individual sleeves for protection
Cons:- Limited to soft oil pastels only
- Colors may blend over time if not stored properly
Best for: Students who want a versatile, all-around oil pastel set for drawing, shading, and layering.
Not ideal for: Advanced artists seeking a wider range of textures or more durable pastel types like hard or pastel pencils.
- Number of Colors:48
- Pastel Size:70 mm x 10 mm
- Material:High-quality pigments
- Safety:Non-toxic
Our verdict“This set is perfect for students looking for a colorful, easy-to-use oil pastel collection that supports experimentation.”
Pentel Arts Oil Pastels, 16 Color Set
Compared with the Artecho set, the Pentel 16-color set offers a more compact, budget-friendly option with fade-resistant, smooth-blending colors suitable for students focused on basic shading and layering. Its smaller color range may limit detailed projects, but the included carrying case makes it highly portable and convenient for students on the move. The Pastels’ resistance to humidity reduces smudging, yet the limited palette means students might need additional supplies for more complex work. This set suits beginners or those who prefer a simple, durable option for everyday art practice without sacrificing color quality.
Pros:- Vibrant, fade-resistant colors
- Smooth application and easy blending
- Resistant to humidity for longer-lasting art
Cons:- Limited to 16 colors, restricting detail
- Pastels may need fixative to prevent smudging
Best for: Beginners or students needing a compact set for casual or school projects.
Not ideal for: Advanced artists or students requiring a broader palette for detailed, multi-color artwork.
- Color Count:16
- Form:Crayon
- Ink Color:Multicolor
- Line Size:2mm and above
- Additional Features:Blendable, Acid-free, Resistant to humidity
- Item Dimensions:3.31 x 0.63 x 6.75 inches
- Item Weight:9.07 g
Our verdict“This set is well-suited for students seeking a durable, portable palette for basic art exercises and practice.”
Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct)
This set excels in delivering vibrant, presharpened pencils built for durability and ease of use, making it ideal for students and young artists. Unlike oil pastels, these colored pencils are more precise for detailed drawings and coloring, though their limited color range might not satisfy more advanced users needing extensive shading options. The presharpened design saves time, and the soft cores facilitate smooth coloring, but they lack blending or waterproof features, making them less suitable for mixed-media projects. This product makes the most sense for elementary or middle school students, or anyone seeking a reliable, straightforward coloring tool for daily use.
Pros:- Vibrant, suitable for various projects
- Presharpened and durable for long-term use
- Great for kids and classroom activities
Cons:- Limited to 36 colors, not enough for detailed shading
- No blending or waterproof features
Best for: Students and kids needing easy, reliable coloring tools for school projects and casual art.
Not ideal for: Advanced artists requiring extensive color options or blending capabilities for complex illustrations.
- Quantity:36 colored pencils
- Ages:3+
- Features:Presharpened, durable, soft cores
Our verdict“This set is perfect for young students or beginners who want easy access to vibrant, reliable coloring pencils.”
Crayola Super Tips Marker Set (100ct), Washable Fine Point Markers for Kids & Adults
This set makes the most sense for students who enjoy a wide palette of colors and need markers suitable for various techniques, from coloring to lettering. Compared with the limited color range of colored pencils, these markers offer a vast assortment, which encourages experimentation and more vibrant results. The washable feature ensures easy cleanup, making it ideal for younger students or classroom environments. However, the fine tips limit broad strokes, and markers may run out more quickly with heavy use. It’s best suited for students who want a broad color spectrum for creative activities, but not for projects requiring wide strokes or watercolor effects.
Pros:- Wide variety of 100 colors for versatility
- Washable, easy to clean from skin and fabrics
- Suitable for both kids and adults
Cons:- Markers may run out quickly with frequent use
- Limited to fine point tips, no broad options
Best for: Students or children needing a large variety of colors for coloring, lettering, and craft projects.
Not ideal for: Artists needing broad tips for large-area coloring or watercolor effects, or those seeking long-lasting markers for professional work.
- Number of Markers:100
- Colors:Assorted
- Washable:Yes
- Nontoxic:Yes
- Ages:3+
Our verdict“This marker set is ideal for students seeking a broad color range for creative projects and easy cleanup.”
Caliart 176PCS Art Supplies Sketching Kit with 100 Sheets 3-Color Sketch Book
This comprehensive kit is designed for students who want a complete drawing set in one portable package. It includes a wide range of pencils, erasers, brushes, and accessories, along with a 3-color sketchbook that supports different shading and coloring techniques. Compared to the individual-focus products like the Crayola colored pencils or oil pastels, this kit offers a broader array of tools, making it suitable for diverse projects, from sketching to shading and even watercolor. Its organized case makes it perfect for students on the go, though the multitude of options might overwhelm beginners or those seeking simple supplies. This set suits students who want a versatile, all-in-one kit for varied artistic pursuits.
Pros:- All-in-one comprehensive art set
- Portable and organized in a travel case
- Includes a variety of high-quality pencils and accessories
Cons:- Some beginners may find the variety overwhelming
- Limited color options in the sketchbook
- Pencils may require frequent sharpening
Best for: Students interested in sketching, shading, and multi-technique projects needing an organized, portable kit.
Not ideal for: Advanced artists who prefer specialized, high-end tools or students who only need basic supplies.
- Number of Pieces:176
- Sketchbook Pages:100
- Sketchbook Size:6″x9″
- Sketchbook Paper Types:White, Toned Tan, Black
- Pencil Types:Graphite, Colored, Watercolor, Charcoal, Metallic
- Included Accessories:Erasers, sharpeners, blending tools, water brush pen, travel case
Our verdict“This set is best for students seeking a complete, portable art kit to explore multiple techniques with ease.”
Soucolor Art Supplies, 192 Pack Deluxe Art Set Drawing Painting Supplies Kit
This 192-piece set stands out for its extensive variety, making it ideal for students who want a comprehensive toolkit for experimenting across different mediums. Compared with the TMOL Art Supplies Deluxe Art Set, it offers a broader selection of paints, pastels, and canvases, but the sheer volume might be overwhelming for beginners who prefer a more streamlined starter kit. The organized wooden case enhances portability and keeps supplies accessible, yet it doesn’t include detailed tutorials, so students may need additional guidance to fully utilize the set. While the high-quality materials support both beginners and more experienced artists, the limited number of canvases and the extensive options mean learners might spend extra time choosing supplies and figuring out what to focus on first.
Pros:- Extensive variety of art supplies covering paints, pencils, pastels, and more
- High-quality materials suitable for both beginners and experienced artists
- Organized wooden case for easy storage and portability
- Great gift option for budding artists or hobbyists
Cons:- Can be overwhelming for beginners due to the sheer number of options
- Limited number of canvases included may restrict larger projects
- Lacks detailed instructions or tutorials for newcomers
Best for: Students seeking a complete, high-quality art set that covers multiple mediums and allows for creative flexibility at home or in a studio.
Not ideal for: Absolute beginners who prefer a simple starter set without feeling overwhelmed by the wide array of supplies or those who need instructional guidance included.
- Number of Pieces:192
- Includes:Crayons, Colored Pencils, Oil Pastels, Watercolor Paints, Acrylic Paints, Paint Brushes, Canvases, Sketch Pads, Watercolor Paper, Acrylic Pad, Color Wheel, Palette, Eraser, Sharpener
- Canvas Size:8.5×11 inches
- Pad Weight:300gsm
- Sketch Book Pages:30
Our verdict“This set makes the most sense for students who want a comprehensive, versatile kit and are comfortable navigating a large collection of supplies.”
How We Picked
I evaluated these art supplies based on performance, usability, build quality, and overall value. Priority was given to products that offer reliable color payoff, ease of use, and durability for students at different skill levels. I also considered the variety of tools included, as well as cost-effectiveness—balancing affordability with quality. Products were ranked to serve different needs, from beginners to more dedicated young artists, ensuring a helpful mix for a wide range of buyers.Factors to Consider When Choosing Art Supplies For Students
When selecting art supplies for students, it’s important to balance quality, versatility, and budget. The right supplies can inspire creativity without overwhelming or frustrating young artists. A thoughtful purchase considers the student’s age, skill level, and specific interests, ensuring they get tools that foster confidence and skill development. Avoiding overly complex or cheap options helps maintain motivation and produce better results.Age and Skill Level
Choosing supplies suited to the student’s age prevents frustration and encourages growth. Younger students benefit from washable, easy-to-handle tools like washable markers and crayons, while older students can handle more complex mediums such as oil pastels or detailed sketching sets. Matching the complexity of supplies to their skill level helps avoid discouragement and supports skill development.
Versatility and Mediums
Look for supplies that allow experimentation with different media—such as pencils, pastels, markers, and paper types—so students can discover their preferences. A well-rounded set can serve multiple projects, saving money and space. However, overly broad kits with low-quality tools may dilute focus; prioritize quality over quantity to ensure meaningful learning experiences.
Durability and Build Quality
Durability matters because students will often carry supplies around or use them frequently. Cheaper tools tend to break or wear out quickly, leading to frustration. Investing in well-made products, like sturdy cases or high-quality pencils, can pay off by lasting through multiple projects and encouraging consistent practice.
Budget and Value
While it’s tempting to buy the cheapest options, investing a bit more in quality supplies often yields better results and more enjoyment. Consider the long-term value—higher-quality products tend to perform better, last longer, and motivate students to practice more. Balance your budget with the need for durability and performance to avoid wasting money on low-quality tools that quickly become unusable.
Instructional and Beginner-Friendly Features
Supplies that include tutorials, guides, or are specifically designed for beginners can accelerate skill development and confidence. For students just starting out, easy-to-use features like washable markers or pre-sharpened pencils make a noticeable difference. These thoughtful touches can turn art time from frustrating to fun, fostering a lasting interest.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose art supplies suitable for my child’s age?
Selecting art supplies based on age involves considering safety, ease of use, and the ability to handle different mediums. For younger children, look for washable, non-toxic, and chunky tools that are easy to grip. Older children and teens can explore more complex supplies like oil pastels, fine liners, and sketchbooks, which support more detailed work. Matching the supplies to their developmental stage encourages confidence and minimizes frustration.
Are professional-grade art supplies worth the extra cost for students?
For students who show serious interest or are developing advanced skills, investing in professional-grade supplies can be worthwhile. These tools provide richer colors, better blending, and longer-lasting durability, which can significantly improve the learning experience. However, for casual or beginner use, mid-range options often suffice and can be more budget-friendly without sacrificing too much quality.
Should I buy a large set or individual supplies for a student?
Large sets offer variety and convenience, especially for beginners who want to explore different mediums without multiple purchases. However, they often include many low-quality items that may not perform well. Buying individual, higher-quality supplies tailored to specific interests or projects can lead to better results and less waste. Consider the student’s focus and skill level when balancing set size and quality.
What should I look for in a sketchbook for students?
A good sketchbook for students should have thick, quality paper that handles various mediums like pencils, charcoal, and pastels. Spiral-bound options are more flexible for students who want to work comfortably across pages, while stitched binding offers durability. Size depends on the student’s workspace and project scope, but generally, a 9×12 inch sketchbook balances portability with ample drawing space.
How can I encourage a student to take care of their art supplies?
Teaching students proper care and storage of their supplies fosters responsibility and prolongs their usability. Encourage them to keep supplies organized in cases or containers, clean brushes after use, and avoid rough handling of delicate tools like pastels or sharpened pencils. Making art supplies a special, organized part of their routine helps them appreciate their tools and develop good habits.
Conclusion
For parents and educators seeking a versatile, reliable choice that suits most students, the Pentel Oil Pastels – 50 Color Set offers excellent value with vibrant colors and ease of use. Those looking for a comprehensive starter kit to foster exploration might prefer the TMOL Art Supplies Deluxe Art Set despite its higher price. Beginners or casual users should consider budget-friendly options like the Crayola Construction Paper or Crayola Colored Pencils, which deliver good results without a steep investment. For advanced students or those with specific interests, investing in higher-end or specialized supplies can make a noticeable difference in their creative journey.
