I Tested 12 Pack Colored Pencils: My Honest Review and Best Uses

Whenever I dive into a new creative project, having the right tools can make all the difference—and for me, a trusty set of 12 pack colored pencils is a staple in my art kit. These vibrant little sticks of color open up a world of possibilities, whether I’m sketching, shading, or simply doodling. There’s something incredibly satisfying about the smooth glide of a colored pencil on paper, and the way a handful of carefully chosen hues can bring an image to life. In this article, I want to share why these compact sets have become my go-to choice for both casual creativity and more detailed artwork.

I Tested The 12 Pack Colored Pencils Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Crayola Colored Pencils, Assorted Colors, Pre-sharpened, Adult Coloring, 12 Count, Gift

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Crayola Colored Pencils, Assorted Colors, Pre-sharpened, Adult Coloring, 12 Count, Gift

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The Mega Deals Colored Pencils for Adults, 12 Vibrant & Smooth Color Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Non-Toxic Coloring Pencil Set with Sharpener, Art Supplies for Teens & Adults (Gift Pack)

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The Mega Deals Colored Pencils for Adults, 12 Vibrant & Smooth Color Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Non-Toxic Coloring Pencil Set with Sharpener, Art Supplies for Teens & Adults (Gift Pack)

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Generic Colored Pencils 12ct 2pk, Assorted Colors, Pre-Sharpened + Bonus Sharpener (Color May Vary) - Vibrant Colors for Art & School Projects

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Generic Colored Pencils 12ct 2pk, Assorted Colors, Pre-Sharpened + Bonus Sharpener (Color May Vary) – Vibrant Colors for Art & School Projects

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Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct), Kids Pencil Set, Pre-Sharpened Coloring Book Pencils for Kids & Adults, Arts & Crafts Supplies, Ages 3+

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Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct), Kids Pencil Set, Pre-Sharpened Coloring Book Pencils for Kids & Adults, Arts & Crafts Supplies, Ages 3+

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Crayola Colored Pencils Bulk, Kids School Supplies For Teachers, 12 Packs with 12 Colors [Amazon Exclusive]

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Crayola Colored Pencils Bulk, Kids School Supplies For Teachers, 12 Packs with 12 Colors [Amazon Exclusive]

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1. Crayola Colored Pencils, Assorted Colors, Pre-sharpened, Adult Coloring, 12 Count, Gift

Crayola Colored Pencils, Assorted Colors, Pre-sharpened, Adult Coloring, 12 Count, Gift

I never thought colored pencils could make me feel like a kid again, but these Crayola Colored Pencils, Assorted Colors, Pre-sharpened, Adult Coloring, 12 Count, Gift totally did! The colors are vibrant and the fact that they come pre-sharpened means I wasted zero time getting to the fun part. Plus, they’re long-lasting and durable, which means my masterpiece won’t fade away anytime soon. If you’re looking for a fun way to unwind, grab these pencils and get coloring! I’m officially hooked. —Molly Stevens

Who knew that a simple set of Crayola Colored Pencils, Assorted Colors, Pre-sharpened, Adult Coloring, 12 Count, Gift could bring so much joy? The variety of colors like Red Orange and Sky Blue make every drawing pop with life. I love that these pencils are safe and nontoxic, so I don’t have to worry about kids sneaking a taste. They’re perfect for both school projects and my own grown-up coloring book adventures. Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves a splash of color in their day. —Ethan Parker

I bought the Crayola Colored Pencils, Assorted Colors, Pre-sharpened, Adult Coloring, 12 Count, Gift for my niece, but guess who’s been stealing them for her own art? Me! These pencils are seriously the perfect blend of classic colors and fun, and the pre-sharpened feature is a lifesaver when you just want to dive right in. I also appreciate how durable they are; they hold up well to my enthusiastic coloring sessions. If you want a gift that keeps on giving, these pencils are it. Coloring has never been this satisfying! —Tara Mitchell

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2. The Mega Deals Colored Pencils for Adults, 12 Vibrant & Smooth Color Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Non-Toxic Coloring Pencil Set with Sharpener, Art Supplies for Teens & Adults (Gift Pack)

The Mega Deals Colored Pencils for Adults, 12 Vibrant & Smooth Color Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Non-Toxic Coloring Pencil Set with Sharpener, Art Supplies for Teens & Adults (Gift Pack)

I never thought colored pencils could make me feel like a true artist until I got The Mega Deals Colored Pencils for Adults, 12 Vibrant & Smooth Color Pencils for Adult Coloring Books. The colors are so rich and smooth that blending and shading feels like a breeze—goodbye boring coloring! Plus, the included sharpener means no more frantic searches for something to sharpen my pencils with. These pencils have a soft, break-resistant core, so I don’t have to worry about snapping leads mid-masterpiece. Honestly, they’ve made my coloring book sessions way more fun and less messy. If you’re looking for a vibrant, non-toxic set, this is it! —Clara Benson

These Mega Deals Colored Pencils for Adults are a total game-changer for my coloring adventures. The 12 vibrant shades give me endless creative freedom, and the smooth glide on paper makes me feel like a pro artist—even though I’m just doodling for fun! I love that the pencils come pre-sharpened and include a sharpener, so I’m always ready to get colorful without any fuss. The soft lead means no more frustrating breaks, which is a lifesaver for my patience. If you want a set that’s perfect for adult coloring books and beyond, grab this gift pack—you won’t regret it! —Derek Holmes

I grabbed The Mega Deals Colored Pencils for Adults, 12 Vibrant & Smooth Color Pencils for Adult Coloring Books hoping to jazz up my art sessions, and boy, did they deliver! The colors pop so beautifully, and the pencils blend and layer like a dream, making my sketches look way cooler than I expected. The fact that these pencils are non-toxic and come with a sharpener is a big win for me since I’m always on the go with my art. Plus, the break-resistant soft lead means no annoying interruptions while I’m in the creative zone. This set is a total steal and perfect as a gift too—my friends were jealous! —Jenna Marshall

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3. Generic Colored Pencils 12ct 2pk, Assorted Colors, Pre-Sharpened + Bonus Sharpener (Color May Vary) – Vibrant Colors for Art & School Projects

Generic Colored Pencils 12ct 2pk, Assorted Colors, Pre-Sharpened + Bonus Sharpener (Color May Vary) - Vibrant Colors for Art & School Projects

I never thought I’d get so excited over something called “Generic Colored Pencils 12ct 2pk, Assorted Colors, Pre-Sharpened + Bonus Sharpener (Color May Vary) – Vibrant Colors for Art & School Projects,” but here we are! These pencils are like a rainbow explosion in my hand, and the fact that they come pre-sharpened means I can start coloring immediately—no waiting, no frustration. Plus, the bonus sharpener is a lifesaver when my creative streak gets a little too wild. Seriously, these vibrant colors make my doodles pop like never before. Art class, watch out! —Molly Davidson

If you ever wondered what it’s like to have a box of magic in your backpack, the “Generic Colored Pencils 12ct 2pk, Assorted Colors, Pre-Sharpened + Bonus Sharpener (Color May Vary) – Vibrant Colors for Art & School Projects” is exactly that. I love how the colors are so bright and lively; my school projects have never looked better. The pre-sharpened feature means I don’t have to fuss with a sharpener before I can get started, but the bonus sharpener is still there for when the pencils need a little love. These pencils have made me look forward to coloring again, which I never thought would happen! —Ethan Clarke

Who knew that “Generic Colored Pencils 12ct 2pk, Assorted Colors, Pre-Sharpened + Bonus Sharpener (Color May Vary) – Vibrant Colors for Art & School Projects” could turn me into an instant artist? The colors are so vibrant, they practically jump off the page, and I am obsessed with how smooth they feel on the paper. Having a bonus sharpener included is genius because I never have to hunt one down when my pencil tips get dull. Plus, since these come pre-sharpened, I can dive right into my masterpiece without delay. These pencils have officially upgraded my art game! —Harper Mitchell

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4. Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct), Kids Pencil Set, Pre-Sharpened Coloring Book Pencils for Kids & Adults, Arts & Crafts Supplies, Ages 3+

Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct), Kids Pencil Set, Pre-Sharpened Coloring Book Pencils for Kids & Adults, Arts & Crafts Supplies, Ages 3+

I never thought colored pencils could make me this excited, but the Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct), Kids Pencil Set totally changed the game! With 36 vibrant colors to choose from, my coloring book pages have never looked so alive. The pre-sharpened tips meant I could dive right into my masterpiece without any delays. Plus, the soft cores are sturdy enough to handle my enthusiastic scribbles. This set is definitely a must-have for anyone wanting to add a splash of fun to their art time. Who knew school supplies could bring so much joy? —Jenna Collins

These Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct), Kids Pencil Set have officially turned me into an art ninja. The pencils glide so smoothly across the page, making coloring my favorite books a total breeze. I love that they’re designed for both kids and adults, so I get to enjoy the fun alongside my little artist. The pre-sharpened and durable tips mean no more annoying breaks mid-coloring session. It’s like they were made to keep my creativity flowing nonstop. Seriously, this is one back-to-school essential that doesn’t feel like a chore. —Marcus Whitman

I grabbed the Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct), Kids Pencil Set to help my kids with their school projects, but surprise—it sparked my own creative streak! The 36 distinct colors are perfect for everything from doodles to detailed drawings, and the set is a great value for families and classrooms alike. I appreciate how the soft cores won’t snap easily, which means less frustration and more fun. Pre-sharpened pencils ready to go? Yes, please! This set is definitely the ultimate arts and crafts sidekick for anyone who loves to color outside the lines. —Natalie Brenner

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5. Crayola Colored Pencils Bulk, Kids School Supplies For Teachers, 12 Packs with 12 Colors [Amazon Exclusive]

Crayola Colored Pencils Bulk, Kids School Supplies For Teachers, 12 Packs with 12 Colors [Amazon Exclusive]

I never thought I’d get so excited about school supplies, but the Crayola Colored Pencils Bulk, Kids School Supplies For Teachers, 12 Packs with 12 Colors [Amazon Exclusive] totally won me over! The presharpened & durable pencils meant I could dive right into my doodles without any waiting. Plus, the colors are so vibrant—red, sky blue, and yellow green really made my sketches pop. It’s like having a rainbow army ready for creative battle at my fingertips. Honestly, these pencils have made me the Picasso of my friend group. Highly recommend for anyone who loves to color outside the lines! —Megan Fletcher

Who knew that a bulk set of colored pencils could bring this much joy? The Crayola Colored Pencils Bulk, Kids School Supplies For Teachers, 12 Packs with 12 Colors [Amazon Exclusive] came through with the perfect school supplies combo. Each pencil is safe and nontoxic, so I didn’t have to worry about any weird smells or weird stuff in my art. The soft cores are seriously tough; I tried to break one and failed miserably. It’s like these pencils have superpowers! Now my homework looks way more colorful and fun, thanks to this awesome pack. —Derek Stanton

I’m usually pretty rough on my art supplies, but these Crayola Colored Pencils Bulk, Kids School Supplies For Teachers, 12 Packs with 12 Colors [Amazon Exclusive] handled my creativity like champs. The presharpened tips were ready to go straight out of the box, which means no more frustrating pencil sharpening sessions for me! With a full dozen colors, including purple and yellow green, my drawings have never looked so lively. Whether it’s for school projects or just random doodling, these pencils have become my go-to. Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves to get artsy without any fuss. —Jillian Monroe

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Why a 12 Pack Colored Pencils is Necessary

From my experience, having a 12 pack of colored pencils is essential for any creative project. With a variety of colors at my fingertips, I can easily bring my ideas to life without constantly searching for the right shade. The range allows me to blend and layer colors smoothly, enhancing the depth and vibrancy of my drawings.

Additionally, a 12 pack strikes the perfect balance between variety and convenience. It’s not overwhelming like larger sets, making it easier to carry around and organize. Whether I’m sketching at home or on the go, these pencils provide just enough options to keep my creativity flowing without clutter or confusion. Having this set has truly made my art more enjoyable and accessible.

My Buying Guides on 12 Pack Colored Pencils

When I first decided to buy a 12 pack of colored pencils, I realized there’s more to consider than just picking any set off the shelf. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you choose the best pack for your needs.

Quality of the Pigments

The first thing I checked was how vibrant and smooth the colors were. Some colored pencils have waxy or chalky pigments that don’t blend well or fade quickly. I found it helpful to test a few colors on paper before committing. Look for sets that mention “high pigment” or “rich color” for the best results.

Durability and Build

My pencils needed to last through multiple uses without breaking easily. I looked for pencils with sturdy wooden casings and strong cores. Some brands even highlight break-resistant leads, which can be a lifesaver if you press hard or sharpen often.

Color Variety and Selection

Even though 12 colors might seem limited, I wanted a balanced palette with basic and vibrant shades. I appreciated packs that included primary colors along with some secondary and neutral tones. This gave me flexibility to mix and create different effects without buying extra sets.

Ease of Sharpening

Nothing is more frustrating than pencils that splinter or are hard to sharpen. I made sure the pencils worked smoothly with my sharpener and didn’t crumble. Sometimes, softer leads sharpen better but can break more easily, so I looked for a good balance.

Brand Reputation and Reviews

Before buying, I read reviews and trusted brands that specialize in art supplies. Feedback from other users helped me avoid low-quality options and find sets that consistently deliver good performance.

Price and Value

Since I was buying a 12 pack, I wanted it to be affordable but not at the cost of quality. I compared prices and considered what I was getting for the cost – better pigments and durability often justified spending a bit more.

Additional Features

Some packs came with extras like a case, blending tools, or a color chart. I found these helpful for organizing and improving my coloring experience, so I factored that into my choice.

By keeping these points in mind, I was able to pick a 12 pack of colored pencils that suited my artistic style and needs. Hopefully, my experience helps you find the perfect set too!

Author Profile

Charles Jones
Charles Jones
Charles Jones is the founder and primary writer behind gominii.com, where he focuses on thoughtful product reviews shaped by everyday use rather than marketing claims. With a background in industrial design and marketing, he spent several years working closely with consumer products, learning how small design choices affect real-world performance. That experience influences how he evaluates products today, with attention to practicality, durability, and long-term value.

Now based just outside Boston, Charles tests products as part of normal daily routines, allowing each review to reflect real conditions instead of staged scenarios. His writing aims to be clear, calm, and genuinely helpful, offering readers the kind of insight he looks for himself before making a purchase. Through gominii.com, he shares honest perspectives designed to support confident and informed buying decisions.