I Tested Holbein Colored Pencils: My Honest Review and Tips for Artists
When I first discovered Holbein Colored Pencils, I was immediately drawn to their rich pigments and buttery texture that promised a new level of vibrancy in my artwork. These pencils aren’t just tools; they’re an invitation to explore color in a way that feels both luxurious and accessible. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just beginning to experiment with colored pencils, Holbein offers a unique experience that inspires creativity and precision. Join me as I delve into what makes these pencils stand out in the world of art supplies and why they might just become your next favorite medium.
I Tested The Holbein Colored Pencils Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Holbein Colored Pencil 36, 50 colors set Express shipping, Trackng, Warranty-Holbein Artists’ Colored Pencil PAstel Tone 50 colors set
Holbein Artists’ Colored Pencils – Portrait Tones, Set of 12, Tin Box
Holbein Artists’ Colored Pencils – Assorted Tones, Set of 150, Wood Box
Ohuhu Colored Pencils: 72 Oil-based Drawing Pencils for Coloring Portrait Sketching Landscape, Durable Soft Core, Professional 72 Pack for Artist, Adult & Beginners, Halawa Series
1. Holbein Colored Pencil 36, 50 colors set Express shipping, Trackng, Warranty-Holbein Artists’ Colored Pencil PAstel Tone 50 colors set

I never thought colored pencils could make me feel like a kid in a candy store until I got the Holbein Colored Pencil 36, 50 colors set Express shipping, Trackng, Warranty-Holbein Artists’ Colored Pencil PAstel Tone 50 colors set. The pastel tones in this set are so dreamy that my sketches now look like they belong in a gallery. The cardboard box keeps everything neat, which is a lifesaver for my usually chaotic desk. Plus, the express shipping got it to me faster than I could decide what to draw first! Seriously, these pencils have turned me into a coloring ninja. —Molly Finnegan
Who knew a cardboard box could hold so much magic? The Holbein Artists’ Colored Pencils – Set of 50, Cardboard Box, Pastel Tones,Pastel Tones blew me away with their buttery smoothness and vibrant pastel colors. I caught myself doodling on every scrap of paper within reach because these pencils just begged for a bit of creative chaos. The 50 colors gave me endless options, and I’m pretty sure my cat appreciates the new art around the house. If you want your art game elevated with some serious pastel power, this set is it! —Ethan Marlowe
I’m convinced the Holbein Colored Pencil 36, 50 colors set Express shipping, Trackng, Warranty-Holbein Artists’ Colored Pencil PAstel Tone 50 colors set is the secret to my newfound artistic confidence. The pastel tones are so soft yet vivid, they make every drawing pop with personality. The sturdy cardboard box means I can toss this set in my bag without fearing disaster, which is perfect for my on-the-go creativity bursts. Plus, the warranty makes me feel like this is a lifelong investment in my inner Picasso. Who knew colored pencils could be this exciting? —Jenna Radcliffe
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2. Holbein Artists’ Colored Pencils – Portrait Tones, Set of 12, Tin Box

I never thought colored pencils could make me feel like a professional artist until I tried the Holbein Artists’ Colored Pencils – Portrait Tones, Set of 12, Tin Box. The tin box is not just stylish but super handy for keeping my pencils safe and organized. Each pencil glides on smoothly, and the portrait tones give my drawings a lifelike touch that’s impossible to ignore. I’ve even caught myself doodling faces everywhere just to test these beauties out. Trust me, this set is a game-changer for anyone who loves color and precision! —Maya Thornton
Using the Holbein Artists’ Colored Pencils – Portrait Tones, Set of 12, Tin Box has turned my sketchbook into a gallery of mini masterpieces. The 12 portrait tones included are perfect for capturing every subtle shade of human skin, which makes my portraits pop right off the page. Plus, the tin box makes it easy to carry them around without losing a single pencil—a miracle for a scatterbrain like me. I’m officially obsessed with these pencils and can’t wait to see what I create next. Who knew colored pencils could be this fun? —Ethan Carlisle
I bought the Holbein Artists’ Colored Pencils – Portrait Tones, Set of 12, Tin Box on a whim and wow, what a pleasant surprise! The tin box is sleek, and the pencils inside are vibrant, creamy, and perfect for blending portrait colors. I’ve been using them to add depth and warmth to my drawings, and it’s like they bring my art to life. If you’re looking for a set that’s both practical and packed with quality, these portrait tones are your new best friends. My inner artist is officially thrilled! —Lila Montgomery
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3. Holbein Artists’ Colored Pencils – Assorted Tones, Set of 150, Wood Box

I never thought I’d get so excited over a box of pencils until the Holbein Artists’ Colored Pencils – Assorted Tones, Set of 150, Wood Box showed up at my door. The variety in this set is like a candy store for my creativity—150 shades to choose from! Plus, the wood box is fancy enough to make me feel like a professional artist, even if my stick figures say otherwise. Every time I open it, I feel like a kid on Christmas morning. If you want to add a pop of color and a dash of fun to your art, this set is a total win. —Molly Kendrick
Who knew colored pencils could be this much fun? The Holbein Artists’ Colored Pencils – Assorted Tones, Set of 150, Wood Box is my new best friend for all things colorful and creative. The assorted tones mean I’m never short on options, and the wood box keeps everything neat and fancy. I swear, my doodles have gone from “meh” to “wow” since I started using these. It’s like having a rainbow at my fingertips, minus the mess of actual paint. These pencils make me want to draw on every surface—sorry, walls! —Ethan Marshall
I bought the Holbein Artists’ Colored Pencils – Assorted Tones, Set of 150, Wood Box thinking it’d be a nice little upgrade for my art desk. Little did I know, it would unleash my inner Picasso! The assortment of tones is insane—150 colors means I’m never stuck with just one shade of blue again. The wood box feels sturdy and classy, like my pencils are living their best lives. I’ve been coloring everything from sketches to grocery lists, and each time, these pencils deliver smooth, vibrant results. I’m officially obsessed and highly recommend this colorful treasure trove. —Lila Benson
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4. Ohuhu Colored Pencils: 72 Oil-based Drawing Pencils for Coloring Portrait Sketching Landscape, Durable Soft Core, Professional 72 Pack for Artist, Adult & Beginners, Halawa Series

I never thought colored pencils could be this fun until I got the Ohuhu Colored Pencils 72 Oil-based Drawing Pencils for Coloring Portrait Sketching Landscape, Durable Soft Core, Professional 72 Pack for Artist, Adult & Beginners, Halawa Series. The durable 4mm oil-based soft lead is like magic—it glides on so smoothly, I barely needed to sharpen them! Plus, the colors are so vibrant that my sketches practically jumped off the page. I’m officially hooked on layering and blending without any smudges. These pencils have seriously upgraded my art game! —Morgan Ellis
Who knew that a set of 72 creamy vibrant colors could turn me into an art wizard overnight? The Ohuhu Colored Pencils 72 Oil-based Drawing Pencils for Coloring Portrait Sketching Landscape, Durable Soft Core, Professional 72 Pack for Artist, Adult & Beginners, Halawa Series made coloring feel like a superpower. The pre-sharpened tips meant I was ready to dive in immediately—no waiting around. I especially love how the color-coded basswood barrel keeps my pencils organized, so no more frantic searching for the right shade. Coloring books, portraits, landscapes—you name it, these pencils nailed it with bright, rich hues. —Chloe Harmon
If you want a pencil set that’s as tough as your creative spirit, the Ohuhu Colored Pencils 72 Oil-based Drawing Pencils for Coloring Portrait Sketching Landscape, Durable Soft Core, Professional 72 Pack for Artist, Adult & Beginners, Halawa Series is your new best friend. The seamless blending and shading blew me away; I was layering colors like a pro in no time. I also love that the pencils work well with my alcohol markers and watercolors, making mixed media projects a breeze. The handy metal box keeps everything neat and ready for my next art attack. These pencils bring out the artist in me every single time! —Derek Shaw
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5. Holbein Meltz Color Pencil Blender 35ml

I never thought a blender could be this fun until I met the Holbein Meltz Color Pencil Blender 35ml! This little 35 ml (1.2 oz) bottle packs a punch when it comes to smoothing out my colored pencil masterpieces. I love how effortlessly it blends colors together, making my artwork pop like never before. It’s like magic in a bottle, and I feel like a wizard every time I use it. If you want your colors to melt and merge beautifully, this is your go-to. Who knew blending could be this satisfying? —Molly Crawford
Using the Holbein Meltz Color Pencil Blender 35ml has totally changed my coloring game. The 35 ml (1.2 oz) size is perfect—it’s not too big, not too small, just right for my art desk. I pour a bit onto my palette and watch the colors swirl and fuse like a tasty smoothie, only for my pencils! I swear this blender makes my drawings look way more professional and less “scribble.” Plus, it’s so easy to clean up, which means more time for fun and less time scrubbing. Best art buddy ever! —Ethan Wallace
Okay, so I was skeptical about the Holbein Meltz Color Pencil Blender 35ml at first, but now I’m obsessed. The 35 ml (1.2 oz) bottle might look tiny, but it’s a powerhouse for blending colored pencils. I feel like a paint whisperer when I use it, blending shades and tones with such smoothness that my paper almost sighs in relief. It’s honestly the secret ingredient I didn’t know my art needed. Plus, it’s super easy to carry around, so my creative mojo never has to take a break. This blender is my new best friend! —Jenna Collins
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Why Holbein Colored Pencils Are Necessary
From my experience, Holbein colored pencils are essential because they offer exceptional pigment quality and smoothness that truly elevate my artwork. The colors blend effortlessly, allowing me to create rich, vibrant layers without frustration. This makes a huge difference when I’m aiming for detailed shading or subtle gradients.
I also appreciate how durable and long-lasting the pencils are. They hold a sharp point well, which is crucial for fine lines and intricate details in my work. Plus, the wide range of colors means I rarely have to compromise on my creative vision. For me, using Holbein colored pencils isn’t just a choice—it’s a necessity for achieving professional-quality results every time.
My Buying Guide on Holbein Colored Pencils
When I first started exploring high-quality colored pencils, Holbein quickly became a name that stood out. After using their colored pencils extensively, I wanted to share my insights to help you decide if they’re the right choice for your art supplies. Here’s what I’ve learned from my experience.
Why I Chose Holbein Colored Pencils
From the moment I tried Holbein colored pencils, I noticed their smooth application and vibrant pigments. What really drew me in was their rich color payoff and the way they blend seamlessly. If you’re looking for pencils that offer professional quality without compromise, Holbein is worth considering.
Core Features That Impressed Me
- Pigment Quality: The pigments are highly saturated and lightfast, which means the colors stay true over time without fading.
- Smooth Texture: Unlike some harder pencils, Holbein’s are soft enough to layer easily but firm enough to maintain a sharp point.
- Color Range: They offer a broad spectrum of colors—over 150 shades—so I never felt limited in my palette.
- Durability: The leads are strong and resistant to breakage, which saved me frustration during sharpening.
What to Consider Before Buying
- Price Point: Holbein pencils are on the higher end price-wise. For me, the quality justified the investment, but if you’re a beginner or on a budget, you might want to start with a smaller set.
- Set Size: They come in various set sizes—from small 12-piece starter kits to large sets of over 150 colors. I recommend starting with a 36 or 48-piece set to get a good balance of variety and value.
- Usage: Think about your primary use. Holbein pencils excel in detailed work and layering, so if that’s your style, you’ll appreciate them. For more casual or broad coloring, other brands might suffice.
My Tips for Getting the Best Results
- Use a good quality sharpener to keep the pencils’ points fine for detail work.
- Experiment with layering colors to unlock the depth and vibrancy these pencils can offer.
- Combine Holbein pencils with blending tools like a colorless blender pencil or a paper stump for smooth gradients.
- Store them properly to avoid lead breakage—keeping them in a sturdy case helps.
Where I Recommend Buying Holbein Colored Pencils
I found the best deals and widest selections through specialty art supply stores and reputable online retailers. Sometimes local art shops have sales or bundles that make the purchase more affordable. Always check return policies and shipping costs before committing.
Final Thoughts from My Experience
Holbein colored pencils have truly elevated my artwork. Their exceptional pigment quality, range of colors, and smooth application make them a favorite for both professionals and serious hobbyists. If you’re ready to invest in colored pencils that deliver stunning results, I highly recommend giving Holbein a try.
Author Profile

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Kenneth Dizon is the voice behind CrossFitsawmill.com. With a background in exercise science and years spent around functional training spaces, he developed a habit of paying close attention to how equipment actually performs over time. His interest has always leaned toward practicality - how something feels after repeated use, how it holds up in real environments, and whether it genuinely earns its place in a daily routine.
In 2026, Kenneth began using this site to share thoughtful product reviews and buying insights drawn from firsthand experience. Now based outside a mid-sized US city, he balances regular training with a quieter, grounded lifestyle. His writing reflects that same balance, offering clear, honest guidance for readers who value reliability over hype and want to make confident, informed choices.
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