Colored Pencil Class:
Supply Checklist
Bring the right tools so your creativity can shine!
Before we dive into the world of vibrant colors and beautiful shading, make sure you’re set up with the right materials.
This list includes artist-grade essentials that will help you grow your skills and avoid frustration.
If you’re unsure about any of these items—or thinking of using a different brand—feel free to reach out before class. Let’s get you set up for success!
1
ARTIST-GRADE COLORED PENCILS
– 48 colors minimum
I highly recommend the Prismacolor Premier Soft Core set. If you plan to use another brand, please email me first so I can make sure it’ll work well for your projects.
Wondering what size set is best for you? Scroll down for a quick guide!
2
GRAPHITE PENCILS
– HB, B, & 2B
These will be used for layout and sketching. Any brand will do.
3
MANUAL PENCIL SHARPENER
A small handheld sharpener will work fine, but if you want crisp tips and smoother sharpening, I recommend something like the Mitsubishi Uni KH-20 Hand Crank Sharpener.
4
ERASERS – Plastic Eraser
& Kneaded Eraser (optional)
A good-quality plastic eraser is a must. Kneaded erasers are optional but helpful, especially for lifting graphite without smudging.
5
DRAFTING BRUSH
Helps keep your artwork clean without smearing it with your hand.
If you can’t find a drafting brush, a clean 1”-2” wide paintbrush or makeup brush with soft bristles will do the trick.
6
RULERS
– Metal & Clear Plastic
-
One metal ruler, at least 12" long
-
One shorter clear plastic ruler for smaller areas and precision work
7
DRAWING BOARD
– approx. 15” x 16”
Any board that fits a 9” x 12” paper is perfect. It helps stabilize your drawing surface whether you’re working at a table or on your lap.
8
REFERENCE PHOTO – Printed in color on letter-sized paper
Please bring a printed photo of what you’d like to draw. Digital references on your phone or tablet are fine for extras, but one physical print is highly recommended for color accuracy and easier viewing.
How to Choose the Right Colored Pencil Set
48
color set
Best For:
Younger Beginner Students
Great For:
Flowers, simple landscapes, and still life (non-metallic)
Avoid If:
You want to draw portraits, animals, or anything involving metallic textures or greyscale tones.
This is a great “starter” set, but it lacks any grey tones—so it quickly becomes limiting if you want to move beyond simple studies.
72
color set
Best For:
Younger tweens, beginner teens & adults
Great For:
Botanical art, animals, simple portraits, vehicles, anime/manga, and most beginner-level work
Avoid If:
You’ve done art before and want to take colored pencils seriously long-term.
This is a solid go-to set for students who want enough range to enjoy class without getting overwhelmed. Highly recommended for first-time colored pencil artists.
132
color set
Best For:
Intermediate & advanced students; beginner adults with prior art experience
Great For:
ALL subjects, including realistic portraits and advanced detail work
Avoid If:
You're a young or brand-new student—it might be too many choices at first.
This set gives you versatility and control. If you’re ready to level up, this is your launchpad into stunning realism.
150
color set
Best For:
Serious students ready to go all in!
Great For:
Literally anything—you’ve got every Prismacolor pencil at your fingertips.
Avoid If:
You're just starting out or easily overwhelmed by too many choices.
This is the full color orchestra. If you're in it for the long haul and want to explore every creative possibility, this is the set to get!