Blick Studio Artists' Colored Pencils

The Blick Studio Artists' Colored Pencils represent a high-standard entry in the Arts & Crafts category for serious illustrators and hobbyists alike. These pencils offer a perfect balance of professional-grade pigment density and exceptional value, making them the best choice for artists transitioning from student sets to archival tools. The wax-based core provides a smooth, buttery application that allows for seamless blending and layering without the heavy wax bloom associated with cheaper alternatives. Produced by Blick Art Materials, these pencils ensure that even high-detail work maintains its vibrance over time due to their lightfast ratings.

Who it's for

This set is designed for creators who prioritize color intensity and durability without the premium markup of European boutique brands.

• Intermediate artists looking for archival-quality materials on a budget.
• Professional illustrators requiring reliable color consistency and high lightfastness.
• Adult coloring enthusiasts who want a more sophisticated blending experience than standard retail pencils.

Key features & specs

How it compares

When compared to premium oil-based pencils or basic school-grade colored pencils, the Blick Studio Artists' Colored Pencils occupy a strategic middle ground. They offer a softer texture than traditional student pencils, which allows for more sophisticated techniques like burnishing and scumbling. Unlike budget-friendly alternatives that often use generic binders, Blick Art Materials utilizes high-concentration pigments that rival the clarity found in top-tier professional sets, though they are slightly more prone to breakage if dropped compared to high-end bonded oils.

What to know before buying

1. The wax-based core is soft, meaning you will need a high-quality manual sharpener to prevent tip breakage.
2. Color matching is consistent across sets, making it easy to replace individual open-stock pencils as you run out.
3. Heavy layering can result in a slight wax bloom, which is easily managed with a fixative spray or by buffing the surface.
4. Check the lightfastness rating printed on each barrel, as specific hues like pinks and violets may vary in longevity.
5. Ensure you are using high-toothed paper to get the most out of the pigment application.

The pigment payoff in these Blick Studio Artists' Colored Pencils is genuinely surprising for the price point, offering a creaminess that usually costs twice as much.

— Verified buyer

Sustainability & ethics

Blick Art Materials demonstrates a commitment to sustainable sourcing by utilizing FSC-certified cedar for the pencil casings, ensuring the wood is harvested from responsibly managed forests. The product is entirely free of animal-derived binders or pigments, qualifying it as a 100% vegan art supply. The packaging is designed to be permanent and recyclable, reducing the waste typically associated with cardboard-only sets.

Frequently asked questions

Are Blick Studio Artists' Colored Pencils vegan?

Yes, these pencils are 100% vegan and contain no animal-derived waxes or pigments. The brand confirms that no animal testing is conducted in the development of the Studio line.

How do they compare to professional oil-based pencils?

These pencils are wax-based, making them softer and easier to blend than oil-based alternatives. While oil-based pencils are harder and hold a point longer, the Blick Studio Artists' Colored Pencils provide faster coverage and easier burnishing.

Is the lightfastness reliable for professional work?

Most colors in the range feature high lightfastness ratings suitable for gallery-quality work. However, users should check the individual star ratings on the barrel for specific fugitive colors like bright magentas.

Can I buy these pencils individually?

Blick Art Materials offers these as open-stock items, allowing you to replace frequently used colors without buying a new set. This makes the system more cost-effective and sustainable over long-term use.