Choosing the right art supplies for students involves balancing quality, affordability, and versatility. The Paint Brushes Set of 24 Pieces stands out as the best overall for its variety and durability, ideal for students exploring different mediums. The Soucolor 73-Piece Drawing Kit shines for beginners thanks to its all-in-one design and portability. However, students must weigh the tradeoff between budget-friendly options and higher-end sets that offer better pigment and construction. Continue reading for a detailed comparison of these options and more, tailored to different needs and skill levels.
Key Takeaways
- The top picks balance affordability with the quality necessary for student use, avoiding overly cheap options that may quickly wear out.
- All-in-one kits tend to be best for beginners or students seeking convenience, while dedicated sets suit more serious or advanced artists.
- Durability and ease of use significantly influence the value, especially for younger students or those new to art supplies.
- Color variety and pigment richness vary widely, with premium options offering the most vibrant and blendable hues.
- Storage and portability features are often overlooked but crucial for students who need to carry supplies between classes or art projects.
| Paint Brushes Set of 24 Pieces with Wooden Handles and Canvas Case |  | Best Overall for Versatile Painting Supplies | Number of Brushes: 24 | Handle Material: Wood | Brush Hair Material: Nylon | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Soucolor 73-Piece Art Supplies Drawing Kit with Sketchbook and Portable Case |  | Best for Complete Art Exploration and Versatility | Number of Pieces: 73 | Includes: Sketchbook, coloring book, graphite, colored, watercolor, charcoal, metallic pencils, blending stumps, brushes, sharpener, eraser, art knife | Pencil Types: Graphite, colored, watercolor, charcoal, metallic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Pentel Oil Pastels – 50 Color Set |  | Best for Vibrant, Long-Lasting Color Projects | Number of Colors: 50 | Type: Oil Pastels | Brand: Pentel | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Pentel Arts Oil Pastels, 16 Color Set |  | Best Budget-Friendly Pastel Choice | Number of Colors: 16 | Type: Oil Pastels | Certification: ACMI Certified | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TMOL Art Supplies Deluxe Art Set – Drawing and Painting Kit with 2 Drawing Pads, Acrylic Paints, Colored Pencils, Crayons, and Wooden Case |  | Best for All-in-One Creative Projects and Gift-Giving | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown | |||
| Crayola Construction Paper Bulk Pack (480 Sheets) – 10 Assorted Colors, 9×12, Classroom Art Supplies |  | Best for Large-Scale Projects and Classroom Use | Brand: Crayola | Recommended Uses: Arts, Crafts | UPC: 071662990138 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Elmer’s All Purpose School Glue Sticks, Washable, Acid-Free, Clear, 7g, 30 Count |  | Best for Light Bonding and Mess-Free Art Projects | Item Form: Stick | Container Type: Tube | Viscosity Level: Medium | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Colored Pencils (36 count), Classroom and Art Supplies for Kids & Adults |  | Best for Immediate, Vibrant Color Projects | Quantity: 36 | Suitable for: Kids & Adults | Features: Presharpened, Durable, Vibrant Colors | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Prina 76 Pack Drawing Set Sketching Kit with Tutorial and Sketchbook for Artists |  | Best for Beginners and Skill Development | Number of Pencils: 76 | Sketchbook Size: 6 x 9 inches | Sketchbook Pages: 50 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Caliart 176PCS Art Supplies Sketching Kit with 3-Color Sketch Book |  | Best for Versatile Artists and All Skill Levels | Number of Pieces: 176 | Sketchbook Size: 6″x9″ | Sketchbook Sheets: 100 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Artecho Oil Pastels Set of 48 Colors (10 x 70 mm) |  | Best for Versatile Artistic Expression | Number of Colors: 48 | Pastel Size: 10mm diameter x 70mm length | Material: Oil Pastels | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Paint Brushes Set of 24 Pieces with Wooden Handles and Canvas Case
This set stands out for offering a comprehensive variety of brushes suitable for oil, acrylic, and watercolor projects, making it ideal for students who want a one-stop solution. The natural wood handles provide durability and a comfortable grip, while the nylon hair ensures consistent performance across mediums. Compared to the smaller sets, like the Pentel Oil Pastels, this set’s broad range of brush types supports different techniques, though it lacks specific price info, which could be a concern for budget-conscious buyers. The included canvas case adds portability and organization, which is perfect for students on the go. However, the absence of customer ratings makes it harder to gauge long-term durability or user satisfaction. This set is best for students who want a versatile, all-in-one painting kit that covers multiple mediums.
Pros:- Includes a wide variety of brush types for different techniques
- High-quality natural wood handles and durable nylon hair
- Convenient canvas carrying case for portability
Cons:- No specific price information available, making budget assessment difficult
- Lacks customer ratings for long-term durability insights
Best for: Students seeking a complete starter kit for multiple painting styles and portable organization.
Not ideal for: Beginners who need highly specific or high-end brushes, as this set prioritizes variety over premium quality.
- Number of Brushes:24
- Handle Material:Wood
- Brush Hair Material:Nylon
- Included Case:Yes
- Suitable for:Oil, Acrylic, Watercolor
Our verdict“This set is perfect for students wanting a versatile, all-in-one painting tool kit with good organization features.”
Soucolor 73-Piece Art Supplies Drawing Kit with Sketchbook and Portable Case
This 73-piece set appeals to students who want a broad spectrum of art tools in one organized package, making it ideal for aspiring artists or those who enjoy experimenting with different media. It includes everything from graphite and colored pencils to watercolor pencils and charcoal, providing a rich variety compared to the more specialized Pentel Oil Pastels. While the set’s extensive options are excellent for creative exploration, the wide array may overwhelm beginners who prefer a more focused starter. The included sketchbook and coloring book enhance its value for students eager to start practicing immediately. However, the lack of detailed info on pencil hardness or watercolor quality leaves some uncertainty about specific performance. This kit suits students ready to dive into diverse art projects and develop their skills across multiple media.
Pros:- Complete set with a wide variety of art supplies
- High-quality, non-toxic, artist-grade materials
- Portable and well-organized with a durable zipper case
- Includes bonus sketch and coloring books
Cons:- May be too overwhelming for absolute beginners
- Limited info on the specific quality of pencils and watercolor supplies
Best for: Students interested in exploring a variety of art techniques and media with all-in-one convenience.
Not ideal for: Absolute beginners who may feel overwhelmed by the multitude of supplies or prefer high-end, specialized tools.
- Number of Pieces:73
- Includes:Sketchbook, coloring book, graphite, colored, watercolor, charcoal, metallic pencils, blending stumps, brushes, sharpener, eraser, art knife
- Pencil Types:Graphite, colored, watercolor, charcoal, metallic
- Case:Portable zipper case
Our verdict“This comprehensive set is ideal for students eager to experiment across many art forms and media types.”
Pentel Oil Pastels – 50 Color Set
This set is ideal for students who want bold, vibrant colors and smooth blending, making it perfect for expressive shading and mixing. The 50 colors provide a rich palette that supports detailed artwork, especially compared to smaller pastel collections like the Pentel Arts Oil Pastels, 16 Color Set. The oil pastels’ resistance to humidity enhances durability, but since they are limited to paper, canvas, and artboard surfaces, they may not suit projects requiring a broader range of textures or materials. The absence of information about individual pastel durability and the price point makes it harder to assess long-term value. This set works best for students focused on color blending and expressive shading in traditional or mixed media art.
Pros:- Vibrant colors that apply smoothly
- Easy to blend for shading and color mixing
- Resistant to humidity for long-lasting artwork
Cons:- Limited to paper, canvas, and artboard surfaces
- No details on individual pastel durability or longevity
Best for: Students looking for a vibrant, easy-to-blend pastel set for expressive art projects on various surfaces.
Not ideal for: Students seeking a larger or more varied pastel palette for extensive or professional work, as this set is more compact.
- Number of Colors:50
- Type:Oil Pastels
- Brand:Pentel
Our verdict“This set is perfect for students who want a vibrant, easy-to-blend pastel collection for expressive and colorful projects.”
Pentel Arts Oil Pastels, 16 Color Set
This 16-color set offers a compact, affordable option for students new to oil pastels, providing vibrant colors that blend easily. Compared with the 50-color Pentel Oil Pastels, this smaller set is more manageable for beginners or casual users. It’s also ACMI Certified, ensuring safety for all ages, and resistant to humidity for durability. However, the limited color range means students may need to purchase additional pastels for larger or more detailed projects. The smaller palette can restrict artistic variety, but it’s a practical entry point. Without detailed info on individual pastel quality, some may prefer higher-end or larger sets for serious work. This set is best for students exploring oil pastels without a large initial investment.
Pros:- Vibrant colors that blend easily
- Compact and affordable for beginners
- ACMI Certified for safety
- Resistant to humidity for durability
Cons:- Limited to only 16 colors, restricting variety
- May require additional pastels for more extensive work
Best for: Beginner students or casual artists seeking an affordable, easy-to-use oil pastel set with basic color options.
Not ideal for: Artists requiring a broad or professional-grade palette for complex or large-scale projects.
- Number of Colors:16
- Type:Oil Pastels
- Certification:ACMI Certified
Our verdict“This smaller set offers a solid, budget-friendly introduction to oil pastels for students just starting out.”
TMOL Art Supplies Deluxe Art Set – Drawing and Painting Kit with 2 Drawing Pads, Acrylic Paints, Colored Pencils, Crayons, and Wooden Case
This deluxe set makes a strong impression for students who want a diverse collection of art tools in a sturdy wooden case, making it ideal for classroom projects, gifts, or creative experimentation. It includes acrylic paints, colored pencils, crayons, watercolor cakes, and two drawing pads, offering a broad range of media comparable to the Soucolor 73-Piece Art Supplies Drawing Kit. While the variety is impressive, the lack of specific info on the quality of individual tools means some items may be basic or less durable. The wooden case adds elegance and portability, but some users might find it too bulky for small storage spaces. The set’s versatility makes it a good choice for students of all skill levels, but more experienced artists may prefer higher-quality, specialized tools. This set is best suited for students seeking a comprehensive, all-in-one kit for creative projects or as a gift.
Pros:- Includes a wide variety of art supplies for diverse projects
- Organized in a sturdy, attractive wooden case
- Suitable for all skill levels and ages
- Non-toxic and safe for children and adults
Cons:- No detailed info on individual tool quality
- Some may find the set too comprehensive for casual use
- Price not specified, making cost assessment difficult
Best for: Students of all ages and skill levels looking for a versatile, well-organized art set suitable for multiple media types.
Not ideal for: Professional artists or those seeking high-end, specialized tools, as the focus is on variety over premium quality.
Our verdict“This all-in-one art set is perfect for students eager to experiment across multiple media in a portable, organized package.”
Crayola Construction Paper Bulk Pack (480 Sheets) – 10 Assorted Colors, 9×12, Classroom Art Supplies
This bulk set of Crayola construction paper stands out for its generous quantity, making it an ideal choice for teachers or families with multiple students. Compared to smaller packs like the Elmer’s Glue Sticks, which focus on gluing needs, this paper provides a substantial resource for diverse projects. The sturdy, thick sheets and vibrant colors foster creativity, but the heavy weight and standard size limit portability and scope for larger artworks. It’s perfect for classroom settings or craft days at home, where quantity outweighs the need for specialized or larger paper formats.
Pros:- Large quantity of colorful construction paper suitable for multiple projects
- Sturdy and easy-to-handle sheets that resist tearing
- Vibrant colors enhance creative options
- Convenient binding allows quick access
Cons:- Heavy weight makes storage or transport cumbersome
- Limited to 9 x 12 inch sheets, restricting larger project possibilities
Best for: Teachers or parents managing multiple students’ art projects, requiring volume and variety.
Not ideal for: Individual artists or students working on large-scale or mixed-media projects needing bigger or specialty papers.
- Brand:Crayola
- Recommended Uses:Arts, Crafts
- UPC:071662990138
- Unit Count:480 Count
- Item Weight:5.1 pounds
- Sheet Size:9 x 12 inches
Our verdict“This pack suits educators or families seeking high-volume, colorful paper for classroom and craft activities, despite its bulkiness.”
Elmer’s All Purpose School Glue Sticks, Washable, Acid-Free, Clear, 7g, 30 Count
This set of Elmer’s glue sticks is a reliable choice for basic paper and cardboard sticking tasks, especially when compared with the more comprehensive Prina Sketching Kit. Its quick-drying, washable formula ensures minimal mess and safety for children, but the small 7g size means frequent replacements for ongoing projects. It’s excellent for simple crafts and classroom use where light adhesion suffices, though it falls short for heavy-duty or multi-layered constructions.
Pros:- Easy to apply with quick drying time
- Non-toxic and safe for children
- Removes easily with water for mess cleanup
- Works on a variety of paper and cardboard surfaces
Cons:- Limited to light bonding, not suitable for heavy projects
- Small size requires frequent replacement
Best for: Elementary students and teachers needing easy, mess-free glue for frequent, lightweight projects.
Not ideal for: Students working on heavy, durable constructions or art pieces requiring strong, permanent bonds.
- Item Form:Stick
- Container Type:Tube
- Viscosity Level:Medium
- Water Resistance Level:Not Water Resistant
- Compatible Material:Cardboard, Foam, Paper
- Item Package Quantity:30
Our verdict“This glue stick is ideal for light, everyday arts and crafts for young students, but less suited for demanding projects.”
Crayola Colored Pencils (36 count), Classroom and Art Supplies for Kids & Adults
This set of 36 Crayola colored pencils offers a robust palette for coloring and detailed artwork, making it a versatile tool compared to the more extensive Caliart 176PCS Art Supplies Sketching Kit. The presharpened tips and durable cores mean less prep time and fewer broken leads during use, though the limited color range may require additional sets for complex projects. It’s a solid choice for both beginners and more experienced students who want immediate, reliable color application without the bulk of larger sets.
Pros:- Vibrant, diverse color selection
- Presharpened for instant use
- Resistant to breakage with durable cores
- Suitable for both kids and adults
Cons:- Limited to 36 colors, may require more for complex shading
- No specialized shades or watercolor functionality
Best for: Students or beginners who want a reliable, ready-to-use set of vibrant pencils for everyday coloring and school projects.
Not ideal for: Advanced artists or those needing a broad spectrum of shades for detailed or professional work.
- Quantity:36
- Suitable for:Kids & Adults
- Features:Presharpened, Durable, Vibrant Colors
Our verdict“This set provides immediate, vibrant color options ideal for students and casual artists, though it may need supplementing for detailed work.”
Prina 76 Pack Drawing Set Sketching Kit with Tutorial and Sketchbook for Artists
This comprehensive 76-piece drawing set is designed for students eager to explore multiple techniques, standing out against simpler sets like the Elmer’s Glue Sticks. The inclusion of a step-by-step tutorial and eco-friendly, high-quality materials makes it especially appealing for beginners. However, the wide variety of supplies and limited watercolor options may overwhelm those just starting out or needing specific colors. It’s a versatile starter kit that encourages learning but requires some prior interest in different mediums.
Pros:- Wide variety of pencils and art supplies for multiple techniques
- Portable case for easy organization
- Includes beginner-friendly tutorial
- Eco-friendly, high-quality materials
Cons:- Overwhelming for those new to art with many options
- Limited watercolor pencil colors
- No digital or electronic tools included
Best for: Beginner students or hobbyists looking for a complete, guided introduction to drawing and sketching.
Not ideal for: Advanced artists or students seeking specialized watercolor or digital art tools.
- Number of Pencils:76
- Sketchbook Size:6 x 9 inches
- Sketchbook Pages:50
- Materials:Non-toxic, eco-friendly, ASTM D-4236 and EN71 standards
Our verdict“Ideal for beginners seeking a comprehensive, guided start in drawing and sketching, despite some potential for initial overwhelm.”
Caliart 176PCS Art Supplies Sketching Kit with 3-Color Sketch Book
The Caliart 176-piece set offers an extensive array of tools, from graphite and colored pencils to watercolor and metallic options, making it a step up from the Crayola Colored Pencils for more diverse projects. Its portable case and included 3-color sketchbook support artists of various levels, but the sheer variety can be daunting for beginners, and some pencils may require frequent sharpening. If you want a comprehensive set that covers multiple mediums without needing multiple separate tools, this kit is a strong choice.
Pros:- Complete range of art tools for various techniques
- Portable case for organization and travel
- Includes a versatile 3-color sketchbook
- Suitable for all skill levels and ages
Cons:- Overwhelming options for beginners unfamiliar with multiple mediums
- Some pencils may need frequent sharpening
- Limited detailed beginner instructions
Best for: Intermediate to advanced students and artists who want a versatile, all-in-one set for drawing, shading, and experimenting with different mediums.
Not ideal for: Beginners who prefer a smaller, more straightforward set or those new to art who might feel overwhelmed by the variety.
- Number of Pieces:176
- Sketchbook Size:6″x9″
- Sketchbook Sheets:100
- Pencil Types:graphite, colored, watercolor, charcoal, metallic
- Additional Tools:blending paper stumps, water brush pen, erasers, sharpener
Our verdict“This expansive set suits dedicated students and artists seeking a comprehensive toolkit, although beginners may find it a bit overwhelming at first.”
Artecho Oil Pastels Set of 48 Colors (10 x 70 mm)
This set of 48 vibrant oil pastels stands out for its bright pigments and smooth blending, making it a strong choice for students who want to explore different techniques without breaking the bank. Compared to the Pentel Oil Pastels with 50 colors, the Artecho set offers a slightly larger variety of hues, which is beneficial for creating colorful, layered artwork. However, the softness that makes blending easy also means they can smudge or break if handled roughly, a concern for younger students or those new to pastels. The individual protective sleeves add durability during transport, but the soft texture can lead to accidental breaks if not stored carefully. Overall, this set provides a solid balance of quality and value, especially for students eager to experiment with color blending and mixed media, though it may not be ideal for fine, detailed work or rough handling.
Pros:- Vibrant, high-quality pigments for rich, bold colors
- Easy to blend, suitable for various techniques
- Portable with protective sleeves for each pastel
Cons:- Pastels may break if not handled carefully
- Limited color range for intricate, detailed work
- Soft texture can smudge or leave fingerprints
Best for: Students seeking a wide range of vibrant colors for blending and mixed media projects, especially beginners and hobbyists.
Not ideal for: Students requiring highly detailed, fine-line work or those prone to rough handling, as the soft pastels can break or smudge easily.
- Number of Colors:48
- Pastel Size:10mm diameter x 70mm length
- Material:Oil Pastels
- Line Size:10 millimeters
- Hardness:Soft
- Style:Round
- Additional Features:Easy blending, non-toxic, suitable for beginners and professionals
Our verdict“This set is best suited for students who want vibrant, versatile pastels that support experimentation and blending, accepting some fragility for quality and color richness.”
How We Picked
Our evaluation focused on performance, build quality, versatility, and value for students at varying skill levels. We prioritized sets that offer a good balance of essential tools, durability, and ease of use, particularly for young or beginner artists. Products were ranked based on their overall usability, the range of included supplies, and their ability to support different mediums like drawing, painting, and crafting. Cost-effectiveness was also a key factor, ensuring options fit a range of budgets without sacrificing critical features. This approach helps ensure each product serves a specific student need, from beginners to more advanced young artists.Factors to Consider When Choosing Art Supplies For Students
Selecting art supplies for students requires considering several factors that influence both the learning experience and the longevity of tools. It’s important to match the supplies to the student’s age, skill level, and artistic interests. Budget considerations are key, but investing in quality can foster better results and reduce frustration. Understanding specific needs, such as portability or a focus on certain mediums, helps narrow choices. Below are key factors to examine when choosing the right supplies for your student.Skill Level and Age
For younger students or beginners, simplicity and safety take priority. Look for kits with non-toxic, washable materials and fewer complex tools. More advanced students may benefit from professional-grade supplies that allow for technique development and experimentation. Tailoring the set to the skill level prevents frustration and encourages ongoing interest in art projects.
Versatility and Medium Compatibility
Consider whether the supplies support multiple mediums, such as pencils, pastels, and paints. Sets that include a variety of tools can inspire experimentation and help students discover their preferred art style. However, more specialized kits might be better for students focusing on a specific medium, avoiding unnecessary clutter and expense.
Durability and Quality
Durability matters greatly when supplies are used frequently or carried around. Cheaper materials often break, fade, or dry out quickly, leading to repeated replacements. Investing in slightly higher-quality tools can improve results and make the learning process more satisfying, especially for students progressing beyond basic techniques.
Budget and Value
While affordability is essential, extremely cheap supplies often compromise on quality. Look for sets that offer the best balance of cost and features, such as a good range of colors, sturdy brushes, or smooth drawing pencils. Sometimes, investing a bit more upfront saves money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Portability and Storage
For students who need to carry supplies to classes or art clubs, portable kits with organized compartments are invaluable. Durable cases and lightweight designs prevent damage and make setup quicker. Consider whether the set includes a storage solution that keeps supplies accessible and organized, especially for younger students.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose art supplies suitable for a beginner student?
For beginners, focus on simple, non-toxic, and washable supplies that are easy to handle. Kits designed for beginners often include basic tools like pencils, erasers, and paints in a manageable range, reducing overwhelm. Investing in a versatile starter set encourages exploration without the frustration of missing essential tools, helping students build confidence as they develop their skills.
Are professional-grade art supplies necessary for students?
Professional-grade supplies are not essential for most students, especially beginners. While they offer richer colors and better durability, lower- to mid-range products are often sufficient for learning basic techniques and fostering creativity. As students advance, upgrading to higher-quality tools can support their growth, but initial purchases should prioritize ease of use and safety.
What is the best way to store art supplies for students?
Effective storage solutions depend on the student’s needs. Portable cases with multiple compartments keep supplies organized and protected during transport, which is ideal for students attending classes or art clubs. For home use, sturdy drawers or labeled containers can help maintain order and make supplies easily accessible, encouraging consistent practice and organization habits.
How much should I spend on a beginner art kit?
For beginners, a budget of $20 to $50 generally provides a good range of quality supplies without unnecessary extras. Focus on kits that include essential tools like pencils, erasers, paints, and brushes, rather than highly specialized or professional-grade items, which may be overwhelming or unnecessary at early stages. Remember, a well-chosen starter kit can inspire a student’s continued interest in art without breaking the bank.
When should I consider upgrading art supplies for a student?
Upgrading makes sense when a student demonstrates consistent interest and skill development, and the current supplies no longer meet their needs. Signs include difficulty achieving desired effects, frequent breakage, or outgrowing beginner sets. Upgrading to higher-quality tools can enhance results and motivate ongoing practice, but it’s best to do so gradually and based on the student’s specific focus and commitment.
Conclusion
For parents of young or beginner students, the Soucolor 73-Piece Drawing Kit offers a comprehensive, portable solution that encourages exploration. Those seeking a durable, versatile set for more serious learning may prefer the TMOL Art Supplies Deluxe Art Set with its wide range of tools. Budget-conscious shoppers will find value in the Crayola Construction Paper Bulk Pack and Elmer’s Glue Sticks for craft projects. For advanced students or those with specific medium preferences, investing in higher-end options like the Artecho Oil Pastels or Caliart Sketching Kit can significantly improve results. Ultimately, selecting the right supplies depends on the student’s age, skill level, and artistic goals, with options available across all levels to nurture creativity effectively.
