Finding the right art supplies for students means balancing quality, variety, and affordability. The TMOL Art Supplies 175-Pack Deluxe Art Set stands out as the best overall choice for versatility and value, offering a comprehensive kit suitable for various projects. For those on a budget, the Crayola Colored Pencils deliver reliable color with minimal expense, while the ARTISTRO Acrylic Paint Markers are perfect for more advanced or specialized projects. The main tradeoffs involve choosing between a wide range of tools versus focused, higher-quality items, and balancing cost with durability. Keep reading for an in-depth breakdown to help you select the best supplies for your needs.
Key Takeaways
- The all-in-one art set from TMOL provides unmatched variety, making it ideal for students exploring different mediums.
- High-quality brushes and pastels tend to last longer but come with a higher upfront cost, so budget considerations are key.
- Crayola supplies remain a reliable choice for beginners due to their affordability and consistent color output.
- Bulk packs like construction paper can save money but require careful storage to prevent damage or waste.
- Versatility in markers and paints enhances creative options, especially for students interested in crafts and mixed media.
| TMOL Art Supplies 175-Pack Deluxe Art Set Drawing Painting Kit with Wooden Case |  | Best Overall for Versatile Artists and Students | Number of Items: 175 | Includes: Crayons, acrylic paints, oil pastels, colored pencils, watercolor cakes, brushes, palettes, drawing pencils, sharpener, sandpaper block, eraser, drawing pads | Material: Wooden case, non-toxic art supplies | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Paint Brushes Set of 24 with Canvas Case – Wooden Handles, Nylon Hair for Oil, Acrylic, Watercolor |  | Best for Intermediate to Advanced Painters on the Go | Number of Brushes: 24 | Handle Material: Wood | Hair Material: Nylon | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct) – Classroom and Art Supplies for Kids & Adults |  | Best for Basic Coloring and Educational Art Projects | Quantity: 36 | Suitable for: Kids & Adults | Features: Pre-sharpened, durable, smooth glide | 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 Classroom and Group Projects | Quantity: 480 sheets | Colors: 10 assorted colors | Sheet Size: 9 x 12 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Pentel Oil Pastels – 50 Color Set (PHN-50) |  | Best for Rich, Blended Artwork and Long-Lasting Colors | Brand: Pentel | Recommended Uses: Drawing | UPC: 072512231340 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Artecho Oil Pastels Set of 48 Colors |  | Best for Creative Versatility and Color Intensity | Number of Colors: 48 | Pastel Size: 70 mm x 10 mm | Material: Non-toxic pigments | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| ARTISTRO 36 Acrylic Paint Markers – Paint Pens for Fabric, Rock, Glass, Wood, Molds – Arts & Crafts Gift for Adults, Teens, Kids, Classroom Must Haves & School Supplies |  | Best for Multi-Surface Expressive Detailing | Number of markers: 36 | Tip sizes: 1 mm fine tip, 1–5 mm brush tip | Paint type: Water-based acrylic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
TMOL Art Supplies 175-Pack Deluxe Art Set Drawing Painting Kit with Wooden Case
This comprehensive set stands out for its extensive variety of art tools, making it ideal for students who want an all-in-one option that covers drawing, painting, and mixed media. Compared with the Crayola Colored Pencils or the Pentel Oil Pastels, this kit offers a broader array of supplies, but that breadth can be overwhelming for beginners. The included wooden case adds a touch of elegance and durability, perfect for storage or gifting, yet the sheer number of items might intimidate those just starting out. Its non-toxic, safe materials make it suitable for young artists, while the assortment of paints, pencils, pastels, and accessories supports a wide range of projects. The main tradeoff is the price, which may be higher than simpler sets, but the value lies in its versatility.
Pros:- Includes a vast variety of art supplies in one package
- Sturdy, elegant mahogany wooden case for organization and presentation
- Suitable for all ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced students
- Non-toxic and safe for children and adults
Cons:- Can be overwhelming for students just starting out with limited experience
- Price point may be prohibitive for some budgets
Best for: Students seeking a comprehensive, all-in-one art kit for multiple mediums and skill levels
Not ideal for: Beginners who prefer a simpler, less overwhelming starter set or those on a tight budget
- Number of Items:175
- Includes:Crayons, acrylic paints, oil pastels, colored pencils, watercolor cakes, brushes, palettes, drawing pencils, sharpener, sandpaper block, eraser, drawing pads
- Material:Wooden case, non-toxic art supplies
- Case Material:Mahogany pine wood
- Pad Pages:50-page drawing pad, 24-page acrylic pad
Our verdict“This set is best suited for committed students or educators needing a versatile, all-in-one art supply solution.”
Paint Brushes Set of 24 with Canvas Case – Wooden Handles, Nylon Hair for Oil, Acrylic, Watercolor
This set offers a wide range of 24 brush types, making it ideal for students who want to experiment with different techniques across mediums like oil, acrylic, and watercolor. Compared to the Crayola Colored Pencils, which focus on drawing and coloring, these brushes cater to painting projects that demand more precision and variety. The high-quality nylon hair and wooden handles ensure durability and a comfortable grip, though some brushes may require a break-in period before optimal performance. The included canvas case makes transportation easy, but the lack of specific brush sizes might cause some frustration for students needing precise tools. Overall, this set supports skill development but may be less suitable for complete beginners who need pre-selected, simplified options.
Pros:- Includes 24 different brush types for a variety of techniques
- High-quality nylon hair and wooden handles for durability
- Portable canvas case for storage and travel
- Suitable for oil, acrylic, and watercolor painting
Cons:- Lack of specific size labels on individual brushes can cause confusion
- Some brushes may need breaking in for optimal use
Best for: Students who have basic painting skills and want a versatile, portable set for different mediums
Not ideal for: Absolute beginners or younger children who need easy-to-use, basic brushes
- Number of Brushes:24
- Handle Material:Wood
- Hair Material:Nylon
- Included Case:Yes
- Brush Types:Fan, Bright, Detailed, Round, Mop, Angle
Our verdict“This brush set is well-suited for intermediate students seeking a professional-grade, portable collection for multiple mediums.”
Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct) – Classroom and Art Supplies for Kids & Adults
This set provides 36 vibrant, pre-sharpened colored pencils, making it a reliable choice for students who need consistent color quality for coloring books, school projects, or casual art. Compared with the Pentel Oil Pastels, which excel in blending and rich textures, these pencils prioritize ease of use and portability. The durable, pre-sharpened design means less prep time, but the limited color range might restrict more complex or detailed work. These pencils are ideal for beginners and students who want straightforward, reliable coloring tools without the fuss of sharpening frequently. However, serious artists or those working on large, colorful pieces may find the color selection insufficient.
Pros:- Vibrant colors with smooth glide for easy coloring
- Pre-sharpened and durable for long-term use
- Suitable for kids and adults, ideal for classroom or gift
- Lightweight and portable
Cons:- Limited to 36 colors, which may be insufficient for complex projects
- Not ideal for blending or advanced shading techniques
Best for: Elementary and middle school students, or beginners seeking simple, durable coloring supplies
Not ideal for: Advanced artists or students needing extensive color options for detailed projects
- Quantity:36
- Suitable for:Kids & Adults
- Features:Pre-sharpened, durable, smooth glide
Our verdict“This set offers dependable, vibrant coloring tools perfect for basic art activities and classroom use.”
Crayola Construction Paper Bulk Pack (480 Sheets) – 10 Assorted Colors, 9×12, Classroom Art Supplies
This bulk pack delivers 480 sheets of sturdy, colorful construction paper, making it a practical choice for teachers and students working on multiple projects. Compared with the more specialized art supplies like oil pastels or marker sets, this paper emphasizes quantity and variety, supporting large or repeated classroom activities. The 9×12 inch size suits most standard projects, but it may not accommodate larger or more intricate crafts. The vibrant color selection encourages creativity, though the lack of eco-friendly or recycled content might be a concern for environmentally conscious buyers. This pack balances affordability with volume, ideal for busy classrooms or craft groups.
Pros:- Large quantity suitable for multiple projects or classrooms
- Vibrant assortment of 10 colors
- Sturdy, malleable construction paper for various crafts
- Affordable bulk pricing
Cons:- Limited to standard 9×12 inch size, not suitable for larger art pieces
- No mention of recycled or eco-friendly materials
Best for: Teachers and students in classroom settings needing ample, colorful paper for diverse projects
Not ideal for: Artists working on large, detailed, or eco-conscious projects requiring specialty or recycled materials
- 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 pack suits educators and students who need a reliable supply of colorful construction paper for frequent use.”
Pentel Oil Pastels – 50 Color Set (PHN-50)
This set of 50 vibrant oil pastels is well-suited for students interested in creating bold, blendable artwork. Compared with the Crayola Colored Pencils, which excel at precise coloring, these pastels prioritize rich, vivid hues and smooth application for expressive projects. The non-toxic, fade-resistant colors make them a reliable choice for long-lasting art, while the included carrying case enhances portability. The weight of 1.89 kg can be cumbersome for younger students or those needing lightweight supplies, and the focus on drawing means less versatility for other media. Overall, this set emphasizes color richness and blending, great for students ready to explore more dynamic techniques.
Pros:- Vibrant, fade-resistant colors that stay vivid over time
- Smooth application and easy blending for expressive effects
- Includes a carrying case for portability
- Non-toxic and acid-free for safe use
Cons:- Heavy weight may be inconvenient for some users
- Limited to drawing projects, less versatile for mixed media
Best for: Students seeking a versatile, blendable medium for expressive, colorful art projects
Not ideal for: Young children or students primarily working on detailed line work or mixed media that require different tools
- Brand:Pentel
- Recommended Uses:Drawing
- UPC:072512231340
- Manufacturer:Pentel
- Unit Count:50
- Item Weight:1.89 kg
- Included Components:No
- Item Type:Oil Pastel
- Warranty:Limited Lifetime Warranty
Our verdict“This set appeals to students wanting rich colors and blending capabilities for bold, expressive artwork.”
Artecho Oil Pastels Set of 48 Colors
This set of 48 vibrant, high-quality soft oil pastels stands out for students who want rich, blendable colors that suit a variety of techniques like shading and layering. Compared with the Pentel Oil Pastels, which offer more colors but are less versatile for blending, the Artecho pastels excel in ease of use and smooth transitions. However, they are limited to soft oil pastels and lack storage accessories, which could be a drawback for organized use. The individual sleeves help protect each pastel, making them portable and resistant to breakage—ideal for students on the go. While these pastels are great for beginners and experienced artists alike, they may not satisfy those needing a broader range of art media or a complete storage solution.
Pros:- Vibrant and high-quality colors for striking artwork
- Easy to blend, suitable for various techniques
- Portable with individual sleeves for protection and convenience
Cons:- Limited to soft oil pastels, not suitable for all art styles
- No included accessories or storage case, which may reduce portability and organization
Best for: Students seeking a versatile, vibrant medium for drawing, shading, and blending, especially beginners and intermediate artists
Not ideal for: Students focused on mixed media or needing a comprehensive set with storage options, as this set is limited to soft oil pastels only
- Number of Colors:48
- Pastel Size:70 mm x 10 mm
- Material:Non-toxic pigments
Our verdict“This set is perfect for students who prioritize vibrant, blendable colors and portability but don’t need multiple media options or storage features.”
ARTISTRO 36 Acrylic Paint Markers – Paint Pens for Fabric, Rock, Glass, Wood, Molds – Arts & Crafts Gift for Adults, Teens, Kids, Classroom Must Haves & School Supplies
The ARTISTRO 36 Acrylic Paint Markers offer a flexible dual-tip design, making them ideal for detailed work and expressive strokes on a wide range of surfaces, from paper to glass. Unlike the Crayola Colored Pencils, which excel in precision but lack opacity and surface versatility, these markers deliver vibrant, opaque colors that stand out on non-porous surfaces. The pre-activated design means immediate use without pumping, a distinct advantage for quick projects or classroom settings. However, results can vary depending on the surface, and non-porous materials might extend drying times or require multiple coats for full coverage. These markers are well-suited for students and hobbyists who want to experiment across different materials but may be less ideal for projects demanding ultra-fast drying or consistent coverage on darker surfaces.
Pros:- Dual tip design for detailed and broad strokes
- Vibrant, opaque colors suitable for various surfaces
- Pre-activated for immediate use without pumping
Cons:- Results depend heavily on the surface, affecting consistency
- Non-porous surfaces may require longer drying or multiple coats
- Color coverage varies based on material, which could impact project outcomes
Best for: Students interested in expressive, multi-surface art projects, especially those working on crafts and detailed illustrations
Not ideal for: Students seeking fast-drying, highly uniform coverage on porous surfaces or working on large-scale murals requiring extensive coverage
- Number of markers:36
- Tip sizes:1 mm fine tip, 1–5 mm brush tip
- Paint type:Water-based acrylic
- Surface compatibility:Paper, canvas, wood, rock, ceramic, glass, metal
- Standards:ASTM D-4236
Our verdict“These paint markers are a versatile choice for students wanting to add vibrant details across different materials, with some surface-dependent limitations.”
How We Picked
To evaluate these art supplies, I prioritized performance, durability, and versatility, ensuring each product offers real value for students. Cost-effectiveness was a major factor, but I also considered the quality of materials and ease of use, especially for beginners. Products were ranked based on their suitability for various skill levels, the range of creative options they enable, and overall build quality. This approach ensures the selected picks balance affordability with the potential to support ongoing artistic growth for students of all ages.Factors to Consider When Choosing Art Supplies For Students
Choosing art supplies for students involves understanding several key factors that influence both the creative experience and the long-term value of the tools. It’s important to balance initial cost with quality, especially since some supplies need to withstand frequent use and handling. Consider the student’s age, skill level, and the types of projects they enjoy. The right supplies can foster confidence and inspire creativity, but purchasing the wrong items may lead to frustration or waste. Here are some essential considerations to guide your decision:Quality vs. Budget
Higher-quality supplies often last longer and perform better, but they come at a higher price. For beginners or casual users, budget options can be sufficient, but for students committed to developing their skills, investing in durable, reliable materials pays off over time. Strike a balance by selecting essential high-quality items and supplementing with more affordable basics.
Range of Mediums
Consider whether the student prefers drawing, painting, or mixed media. A versatile set that covers multiple mediums encourages experimentation without the need for multiple purchases. However, a specialized set tailored to one medium can offer better performance and ease of use for those focused on a specific art form.
Age and Skill Level
For younger or less experienced students, simple, non-toxic supplies like crayons and washable markers are ideal. Older or more advanced students benefit from professional-grade tools such as high-quality pastels, brushes, and paints, which support more detailed work and technique development.
Storage and Portability
Students often need supplies that are easy to carry and store. Compact sets or cases help organize materials and prevent damage, especially for students who take art supplies to school or classes. Larger kits should include a sturdy, organized container to keep everything accessible and in good condition.
Supplier Reputation and Safety
Choose brands with a reputation for safety and consistent quality, especially for younger students. Non-toxic materials, especially in paints and markers, are essential for peace of mind and safe creative play or practice. Reading reviews and checking certifications can help avoid products that may contain harmful substances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are more expensive art supplies worth the extra cost for students?
Generally, higher-priced art supplies tend to be more durable, better performing, and easier to work with, which can significantly enhance the learning experience. For students who are serious about developing their skills or exploring more advanced techniques, investing in quality tools is worthwhile. However, for beginners or casual hobbyists, budget-friendly options can suffice without compromising the creative process.
What should I prioritize when buying art supplies for a young student?
Safety, ease of use, and affordability are the main priorities for young students. Non-toxic, washable, and sturdy supplies help ensure a safe and frustration-free experience. Starting with simple, colorful tools like crayons and washable markers allows young artists to build confidence before moving on to more complex materials.
How many supplies do I need to start a basic art kit for students?
A well-rounded starter kit should include basic drawing tools (pencils, erasers), a set of colored pencils or markers, some paints or pastels, and a variety of paper or canvas. The exact quantity varies depending on the student’s age and interests, but focusing on quality over quantity ensures the essentials support ongoing creativity without overwhelming space or budget.
Is it better to buy individual supplies or complete sets?
Complete sets are often more cost-effective and convenient, especially for beginners or students just starting out. They provide a variety of tools that encourage experimentation. However, for more advanced students, purchasing individual, high-quality items tailored to specific projects can deliver better results and longer-lasting tools.
What should I avoid when buying art supplies for students?
Avoid low-quality, non-toxic supplies that might contain harmful chemicals or produce poor results. Cheap, poorly made brushes or paper can frustrate students and hinder their progress. Also, steer clear of overly complicated sets that include unnecessary tools, which can overwhelm beginners and lead to wasted money.
Conclusion
For parents and educators seeking the best overall value, the TMOL Art Supplies 175-Pack Deluxe Art Set offers an excellent mix of variety and affordability. Beginners or casual users will appreciate the simplicity and reliability of Crayola Colored Pencils, while more serious students or those exploring specific media might opt for higher-end options like Pentel Oil Pastels or ARTISTRO Acrylic Paint Markers. For those on a tight budget, selecting basic, safe supplies ensures a positive experience without overspending. Meanwhile, advanced users or dedicated young artists should look for durable, professional-grade tools that support ongoing skill development. Tailoring your choice to the student’s age, interests, and commitment level makes all the difference in fostering lasting creativity.
