Colored Pencils, Markers and Drawing Supplies

Tip size, ink type and the surface you draw on

Marker listings differ in more than color. Dry-erase markers wipe from whiteboards and glossy surfaces, permanent markers bond to plastic, metal and glass, and water-based markers suit paper and washable projects. Tip size matters as much: fine tips around half a millimeter or less suit detail and handwriting, while broad tips cover large areas. Dual-tip brush pens combine a flexible brush end with a fine point and are popular for lettering and illustration.

Pencils and crayons depend on the paper and the artist. Colored pencils layer best on paper with some texture, wax-based crayons suit younger children, and jumbo or washable crayons are easier for small hands and for cleanup. Drawing aids and stylus pens also appear here: a stylus only works with the screens it is built for, so confirm compatibility with your tablet or graphics tablet before buying.

Color counts, safety labels and the age of the artist

Set sizes run from a dozen colors for school use to large assortments for shading and blending. A bigger set gives more choice but can include shades you will never touch, so consider buying a core set and adding individual colors later. For children, the non-toxic marking is useful, but non-toxic does not mean edible: keep markers away from toddlers who put things in their mouths, and prefer washable formulas for clothes and furniture.

Questions about Colored Pencils, Markers and Drawing Supplies

What is the difference between dry-erase and permanent markers?

Dry-erase ink wipes off whiteboards and similar smooth surfaces and should not be used on porous materials. Permanent ink resists water and rubbing and is hard to remove, which suits labeling but needs care around furniture and clothes. Check the label for the surfaces each type is meant for.

Does non-toxic mean a marker is safe to eat?

No. Non-toxic means the product is not expected to cause significant harm when used as intended, not that it is food. Keep markers, crayons and pencils away from children who still mouth objects, and read the age grade on the packaging.

How many colored pencils do I need?

A set of twelve covers the basics for school and casual drawing. Twenty-four or more helps with shading and blending, as there are more shades between light and dark. Beginners can start small and add single colors once they notice which ones they use up.