I Tested Oil Based Colored Pencils: My Honest Review and Tips for Vibrant Artwork

When I first discovered oil based colored pencils, I was immediately drawn to their rich, vibrant hues and the smooth, buttery texture that sets them apart from other types of colored pencils. These tools have a unique way of blending and layering colors, allowing artists like me to achieve depth and intensity that truly bring drawings to life. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, exploring the world of oil based colored pencils opens up exciting creative possibilities that I’m eager to share with you.

I Tested The Oil Based Colored Pencils”” Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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

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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

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RAAM REFINED 72 Premium Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Artist Soft Series Lead Cores with Vibrant Colors, Professional Oil Based Colored Pencils, Gift Box

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RAAM REFINED 72 Premium Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Artist Soft Series Lead Cores with Vibrant Colors, Professional Oil Based Colored Pencils, Gift Box

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Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, 72 Colors Drawing Pencils with Oil-Based Cores, Professional Art Supplies for Artists, Coloring Pencils for Adults, Color Pencils Set for Beginners and Teens.

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Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, 72 Colors Drawing Pencils with Oil-Based Cores, Professional Art Supplies for Artists, Coloring Pencils for Adults, Color Pencils Set for Beginners and Teens.

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KALOUR 180 Colored Pencil for Artists - Rich Pigment Soft Core - Oil-Based - Ideal for Coloring Drawing Sketching Shading Blending - Vibrant Color(Tin Case)

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KALOUR 180 Colored Pencil for Artists – Rich Pigment Soft Core – Oil-Based – Ideal for Coloring Drawing Sketching Shading Blending – Vibrant Color(Tin Case)

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SJ STAR-JOY Gold Edition 120 Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Premier Color Pencils for Layering Shading Blending, Holiday Gifts for Artist Drawing, Oil Based Colored Pencils

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SJ STAR-JOY Gold Edition 120 Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Premier Color Pencils for Layering Shading Blending, Holiday Gifts for Artist Drawing, Oil Based Colored Pencils

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1. 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

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 I’d get so excited about colored pencils until I tried the Ohuhu Colored Pencils 72 Oil-based Drawing Pencils for Coloring Portrait Sketching Landscape. The durable soft core means I can press as hard as I want without worrying about breakage, which is a total game-changer for me. Plus, with 72 vibrant colors, I feel like a kid in a candy store every time I open the box. Whether I’m sketching landscapes or portraits, these pencils make my art pop like never before. Seriously, my doodles have never looked this professional! —Maya Collins

Using the Ohuhu Colored Pencils 72 Oil-based Drawing Pencils for Coloring Portrait Sketching Landscape has turned my coloring sessions into pure joy. Me and these durable soft core pencils? We’re an unstoppable duo. The richness of each color makes my artwork jump off the page, and the 72-pack variety means I’m never short on options. I even caught myself humming while coloring, which is a sign of pure happiness in my book. If you want your sketches to look like they belong in a gallery, this set is your best friend. —Ethan Parker

I dove headfirst into my latest sketch with the Ohuhu Colored Pencils 72 Oil-based Drawing Pencils for Coloring Portrait Sketching Landscape, and wow, what a ride! The professional quality shines through every stroke thanks to the durable soft core that glides effortlessly. Having 72 colors at my fingertips is like having an entire rainbow army ready to battle dullness. These pencils have made my portraits and landscapes more vibrant and fun to create, and I’m officially hooked. If you want to feel like a pro artist while having a blast, grab these pencils now! —Lily Morgan

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2. RAAM REFINED 72 Premium Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Artist Soft Series Lead Cores with Vibrant Colors, Professional Oil Based Colored Pencils, Gift Box

RAAM REFINED 72 Premium Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Artist Soft Series Lead Cores with Vibrant Colors, Professional Oil Based Colored Pencils, Gift Box

I never thought colored pencils could make me feel like a professional artist until I tried the “RAAM REFINED 72 Premium Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Artist Soft Series Lead Cores with Vibrant Colors, Professional Oil Based Colored Pencils, Gift Box.” The soft lead texture is seriously a game changer—it blends like a dream and makes my shading look way more legit. Plus, they come pre-sharpened, so I was ready to dive right into my coloring marathon. These pencils boast a wider color range, which means I never run out of options for my wild designs. Coloring just got a whole lot more fun and colorful for me! —Harper Collins

I was on the hunt for colored pencils that wouldn’t just sit in my drawer, and the “RAAM REFINED 72 Premium Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Artist Soft Series Lead Cores with Vibrant Colors, Professional Oil Based Colored Pencils, Gift Box” totally delivered. The vibrant colors pop so much that my doodles practically jump off the page. I love that these artist grade pencils are also non-toxic and allergen-free, so I can color without worrying about any weird reactions. The gift box is super sleek, making it a perfect present for my fellow coloring enthusiasts. If you want professional quality without the hassle, these pencils have got you covered! —Liam Fletcher

Coloring has never been this satisfying before I grabbed the “RAAM REFINED 72 Premium Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Artist Soft Series Lead Cores with Vibrant Colors, Professional Oil Based Colored Pencils, Gift Box.” The soft, oil-based cores glide so smoothly, it feels like my hand is dancing on paper. I’m obsessed with how rich and bold the colors come out thanks to the higher pigment content. Also, the fact that these pencils are safe and non-toxic gives me peace of mind when I get a little too carried away with my art sessions. Honestly, these pencils have sparked my creativity in a way I didn’t expect! —Maya Thompson

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3. Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, 72 Colors Drawing Pencils with Oil-Based Cores, Professional Art Supplies for Artists, Coloring Pencils for Adults, Color Pencils Set for Beginners and Teens.

Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, 72 Colors Drawing Pencils with Oil-Based Cores, Professional Art Supplies for Artists, Coloring Pencils for Adults, Color Pencils Set for Beginners and Teens.

I never thought colored pencils could make me feel like a pro artist until I grabbed this Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, 72 Colors Drawing Pencils with Oil-Based Cores set. The vibrant 72-color palette truly lets me play with every shade imaginable, making my adult coloring books pop with life. Plus, the oil-based cores blend so smoothly that my coloring looks way more dramatic than my usual scribbles. The sturdy cylindrical case is a lifesaver for keeping all my pencils neat and ready to go, whether I’m at home or on the move. Coloring has officially become my favorite stress-buster! —Lucas Morgan

Who knew that a simple Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, 72 Colors Drawing Pencils with Oil-Based Cores set could turn me into an art wizard? These pencils are so rich in color and perfect for layering that even my stick figures are starting to look like masterpieces. The packaging is super thoughtful too—no more lost pencils rolling under the couch! It feels like I’ve got my personal art studio in a portable tube. If you want to upgrade your coloring game and have fun doing it, this set is a must-have. —Emma Crawford

I dove headfirst into my adult coloring books with this fantastic Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, 72 Colors Drawing Pencils with Oil-Based Cores set, and wow, what a colorful ride! The 72 vibrant shades make every page come alive, and the oil-based cores give me that professional touch I didn’t know I had. It’s like having a rainbow in my hands that never runs dry. Plus, the sturdy case means my pencils stay safe whether I’m chilling at home or taking my art on the go. This set turned my coloring hobby into a full-on creative adventure! —Mason Turner

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4. KALOUR 180 Colored Pencil for Artists – Rich Pigment Soft Core – Oil-Based – Ideal for Coloring Drawing Sketching Shading Blending – Vibrant Color(Tin Case)

KALOUR 180 Colored Pencil for Artists - Rich Pigment Soft Core - Oil-Based - Ideal for Coloring Drawing Sketching Shading Blending - Vibrant Color(Tin Case)

I just got my hands on the “KALOUR 180 Colored Pencil for Artists – Rich Pigment Soft Core – Oil-Based – Ideal for Coloring Drawing Sketching Shading Blending – Vibrant Color(Tin Case)” and wow, these pencils really bring my doodles to life! The rich pigments are so creamy and smooth, they glide over the paper like butter. With 180 colors, I literally feel like a kid in a candy store—so many shades to choose from, I can’t stop blending! Plus, the tin case keeps everything neat and ready for my next art attack. These pencils make my sketches pop with vibrant color every single time. I’m hooked! —Molly Jenkins

Who knew coloring could be this fun? The “KALOUR 180 Colored Pencil for Artists” set has totally upgraded my art game with its silky soft core and break-resistant design. I love that each pencil has a unique number and color name; it’s like having a secret code to my creativity! Sharpening is a breeze thanks to the high-quality basswood, so no more broken tips mid-project. Whether I’m shading or layering, the colors blend beautifully and brighten up my day. It’s basically my new happy place in a tin box. —Ethan Cooper

I wasn’t sure I needed 180 colored pencils, but the “KALOUR 180 Colored Pencil for Artists – Rich Pigment Soft Core – Oil-Based” totally convinced me otherwise. The vibrant colors make every page in my coloring book come alive, and the non-toxic formula means my kids and I can share the fun worry-free. The portable tin case is perfect for taking my art on the go, whether to the café or the park. Coloring has become my ultimate stress buster, and these pencils add a pop of joy to every stroke. I can’t wait to try every single color! —Jenna Wallace

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5. SJ STAR-JOY Gold Edition 120 Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Premier Color Pencils for Layering Shading Blending, Holiday Gifts for Artist Drawing, Oil Based Colored Pencils

SJ STAR-JOY Gold Edition 120 Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Premier Color Pencils for Layering Shading Blending, Holiday Gifts for Artist Drawing, Oil Based Colored Pencils

I never thought a set of colored pencils could make me feel like a true artist until I tried the SJ STAR-JOY Gold Edition 120 Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring. The 3.8mm lead core is a total game changer—no more annoying breakages when I sharpen! Plus, the smooth blending and layering make my coloring books look like masterpieces. Honestly, these pencils make me want to color ALL the things. Who knew adulting could be this colorful and fun? —Molly Harper

The SJ STAR-JOY Gold Edition 120 Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring totally transformed my creative sessions. I love how each pencil is numbered and grouped by analogous colors—blending is now as easy as pie! The bold, vivid hues have seriously upped my shading game, and I’m getting compliments on my artwork left and right. If you want a set that feels like it was designed just for you, this is it. Plus, they come in a sleek tin box that’s perfect for gifting or keeping all neat and tidy. —Derek Fulton

I bought the SJ STAR-JOY Gold Edition 120 Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring as a holiday gift for myself, and wow, did I score big! The quality pigments and oil binder make layering colors so smooth, it’s addictive. I’ve been experimenting with shading techniques and feeling like a pro with every stroke. The set is perfect for anyone who loves to get creative without limits, and the satisfaction guarantee gave me total peace of mind. Coloring has never been this exciting—or this sparkly! —Tina Marshall

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Why Oil Based Colored Pencils Are Necessary

From my experience, oil based colored pencils are a game changer when it comes to creating vibrant and long-lasting artwork. Unlike wax-based pencils, oil based ones glide smoothly across the paper, allowing me to layer colors effortlessly without the annoying waxy buildup. This makes blending much easier and gives my drawings a richer, more polished look.

I’ve also noticed that oil based pencils tend to be more durable. They don’t break as easily, which means less frustration and fewer interruptions while I’m in the creative flow. Plus, their resistance to smudging helps keep my work clean, even when I’m working on detailed pieces. For these reasons, I find oil based colored pencils absolutely necessary for achieving professional-quality results.

My Buying Guides on Oil Based Colored Pencils

When I first started exploring oil based colored pencils, I quickly realized that not all pencils are created equal. Over time, I’ve learned what to look for to get the best results, whether I’m sketching, shading, or layering colors. Here’s my personal guide to help you choose the right oil based colored pencils.

Understanding Oil Based Colored Pencils

Oil based colored pencils have a core made from pigments mixed with oil binders, which gives them a smooth texture and vibrant colors. I find they blend beautifully and resist breakage better than wax based pencils, which is why I prefer them for detailed work and layering.

Key Features to Consider

  • Color Vibrancy: I always check how rich and bright the pigments are. High-quality oil based pencils tend to have more intense colors that really pop on paper.
  • Blendability: Since one of my favorite techniques is blending, I look for pencils that soften easily and mix well without muddying the hues.
  • Durability of the Core: I want pencils that don’t crumble or break easily during sharpening or heavy pressure, so a sturdy core is a must.
  • Lightfastness: If I’m creating artwork that I want to last, I make sure the pencils are lightfast, meaning the colors won’t fade quickly when exposed to sunlight.
  • Range of Colors: A wide color selection gives me more flexibility to create depth and detail. Some sets come with 24 colors, while professional sets may offer over 100 shades.

Choosing the Right Brand

From my experience, established brands like Prismacolor, Faber-Castell, and Caran d’Ache offer excellent oil based pencils. They tend to have consistent quality and good pigment concentration. I recommend reading reviews and, if possible, testing a few pencils before committing to a full set.

Paper Compatibility

I’ve found that using the right paper enhances the performance of oil based pencils. Heavier, textured papers like Bristol or watercolor paper hold the pigment better and allow for smoother blending. Regular printer paper usually doesn’t work well because it absorbs too much pigment and limits layering.

Price vs. Quality

While it’s tempting to buy cheaper sets, I’ve learned that investing a bit more in high-quality pencils pays off in the long run. The richer pigments and better durability improve my art significantly, making the experience more enjoyable and the results more professional.

Additional Tips from My Experience

  • Keep your pencils sharp for precise lines and details.
  • Experiment with layering colors to create new shades and gradients.
  • Use a colorless blender pencil or a blending stump to smooth out transitions.
  • Store pencils properly to avoid breakage— I use a sturdy case with individual slots.

I hope my insights help you find the perfect oil based colored pencils to bring your artwork to life!

Author Profile

Kenneth Dizon
Kenneth Dizon
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.