When it comes to colored pencils, Caran D’Ache offers a range that suits both artists and hobbyists. Their products are known for quality and versatility, making them a top choice for many. Whether you’re looking for vibrant pigmentation or water-soluble options, there’s something for everyone. But with so many sets available, how do you know which one to pick? Let’s explore the best options to help you make an informed choice.
Caran Dache Luminance Colored Pencil Set of 40 (6901.740)
The Caran d’Ache Luminance Colored Pencil Set of 40 (6901.740) is perfect for artists who demand exceptional quality and lightfastness in their work. These Swiss-made pencils feature California Cedar casings, ensuring durability and comfort while you create. You’ll love how smoothly they blend, burnish, and layer across various surfaces. Each pencil is packed with finely-ground pigments, offering pure and intense colors that resist fading. Weighing just 1.19 pounds and measuring 5 x 1 x 1 inches, this set is portable and easy to store. With a stellar customer rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, it’s a top choice for serious artists.
Best For: Artists seeking high-quality colored pencils with exceptional lightfastness and smooth application for their creative projects.
Pros:
- High lightfastness ensures colors remain vibrant over time, making them ideal for archival work.
- Smooth application allows for easy blending, burnishing, and layering on various surfaces, enhancing creative possibilities.
- Durable cedar wood casing provides comfort and resilience, making them suitable for extended use.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to standard colored pencils may deter budget-conscious buyers.
- Requires a well-sharpened pencil sharpener for optimal performance, which may not be readily available for all users.
- Limited color count in the set may not satisfy artists looking for a broader spectrum of shades.
Caran d’Ache Luminance 6901 Box of 100 Colored Pencils
For serious artists seeking exceptional quality, the Caran d’Ache Luminance 6901 Box of 100 Colored Pencils stands out as the best choice. This set includes 100 richly pigmented pencils, a full blender, and a pencil blender, all designed for smooth application. With a 3.8mm lead, these water-resistant pencils excel in blending, shading, and burnishing techniques. Users rave about their buttery feel and vibrant color payoff, making them perfect for professionals. While they may not be ideal for beginners due to their price, the Luminance series delivers exceptional performance, especially in the red-blue spectrum, justifying the investment for serious artists.
Best For: Serious artists and professionals seeking high-quality, richly pigmented colored pencils for advanced techniques.
Pros:
- Exceptional blending, shading, and burnishing capabilities with a buttery smooth application.
- High pigment concentration results in vibrant colors and excellent color payoff.
- Water-resistant and durable, suitable for a variety of artistic techniques.
Cons:
- Higher price point may not be suitable for beginners or casual users.
- Some users report packaging issues that could affect the overall experience.
- Limited effectiveness in certain color ranges, such as browns, compared to other brands.
CREATIVE ART MATERIALS Caran Dache Supracolor Metal Box Set Of 18
If you’re an artist seeking high-quality colored pencils, the Caran d’Ache Supracolor Metal Box Set of 18 is an excellent choice. These water-soluble pencils feature a soft 3.8mm core, allowing for effortless blending and vibrant color application. With 18 assorted colors, you’ll find everything you need for a diverse range of projects. Made from wax cedar wood, they provide a smooth grip and excellent light resistance. Weighing just 9.6 ounces and compact at 5 x 1 x 1 inches, this metal box set is perfect for artists on the go. Plus, it boasts a stellar customer rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars!
Best For: Artists and hobbyists looking for high-quality, water-soluble colored pencils for versatile and vibrant artwork.
Pros:
- Blendable: The soft, water-soluble lead allows for easy blending and layering of colors.
- High Quality: Made from wax cedar wood, providing a smooth grip and excellent light resistance.
- Compact and Portable: Lightweight and compact dimensions make it ideal for artists on the go.
Cons:
- Limited Color Range: With only 18 colors, it may not satisfy those needing a broader palette.
- Price Point: Higher price compared to basic colored pencil sets may not be suitable for every budget.
- Durability: The soft core may be more prone to breakage than harder pencil leads.
Caran Dache Pablo Colored Pencil Set of 30 (666.330)
Perfectly suited for artists seeking vibrancy and versatility, the Caran Dache Pablo Colored Pencil Set of 30 (666.330) delivers a rich palette that enhances any creative project. Weighing just 0.95 ounces and measuring 5 x 1 x 1 inches, these wooden pencils feature soft, creamy leads that blend seamlessly without blooming. With an HB degree, you can sharpen them to a fine point for intricate details. Users rave about their excellent blending capabilities and color selection. While some desire more nature colors, the overall quality and longevity make this set a worthwhile investment for both hobbyists and professionals alike.
Best For: Artists and hobbyists looking for high-quality colored pencils with vibrant colors and excellent blending capabilities.
Pros:
- Soft, creamy texture allows for smooth application and easy blending.
- Durable lead that can be sharpened to a fine point, ideal for detailed work.
- Wide color selection with 30 vibrant options suitable for various creative projects.
Cons:
- Higher price point may be a concern for budget-conscious buyers.
- Limited nature colors and darker shades available in the set.
- Occasional reports of damaged packaging upon delivery.
Caran dAche Pablo Colored Pencil Set Of 120
The Caran d’Ache Pablo Colored Pencil Set of 120 stands out as an exceptional choice for artists who demand versatility and quality in their work. With creamy, soft leads that offer superb lightfastness, these pencils excel in shading and mixed media applications. The chisel point design enhances your creative control, while the contoured grip guarantees comfort during long sessions. Weighing just 1.32 pounds and measuring 14.29 x 8.11 x 2.24 inches, it’s easy to store and transport. With a stellar 4.8 out of 5 stars from nearly 900 ratings, this set is a must-have for serious artists.
Best For: Artists seeking high-quality colored pencils for shading and mixed media projects.
Pros:
- Exceptional lightfastness ensures artwork maintains its vibrancy over time.
- Creamy, soft leads facilitate smooth application and blending.
- Contoured grip provides comfort during extended use, enhancing creative control.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to basic colored pencil sets may deter beginners.
- Limited color range in the set might not satisfy all artistic needs.
- Chisel point design may require more frequent sharpening for precision work.
Caran d’Ache 6901 Luminance Colouring Pencils Portrait Assortment (20 Colours)
For artists seeking exceptional quality in their colored pencils, the Caran d’Ache 6901 Luminance Colouring Pencils Portrait Assortment stands out with its smooth, permanent lead. This set of 20 portrait colors offers a high pigment concentration, ensuring bright, intense results. With a 3.8mm lead diameter, these pencils are ideal for mixing, blending, and shading, allowing you to achieve beautiful graduations effortlessly. Water-resistant and highly versatile, they’re perfect for various artistic applications. Plus, their legacy of craftsmanship since 1915 guarantees reliability. With a 4.7-star rating, these pencils are a top choice for both aspiring and professional artists alike.
Best For: Artists, illustrators, and students looking for high-quality colored pencils for portrait work.
Pros:
- High pigment concentration for vibrant and intense colors.
- Smooth, permanent lead ideal for blending and shading techniques.
- Water-resistant, making them suitable for various artistic applications.
Cons:
- Limited to a portrait assortment of only 20 colors.
- Higher price point compared to basic colored pencils.
- Pencil lead may break easily with excessive pressure during use.
Caran dAche Luminance 6901 Clr Pncl Set 76 Artist Rng
Artists seeking high-quality colored pencils will find the Caran d’Ache Luminance 6901 Colour Pencil Set a standout choice. This 76-piece Swiss-made set features finely-ground pigments, ensuring purity and intensity while boasting impressive lightfastness. You can easily blend, burnish, and layer your colors on various surfaces, enhancing your artwork’s depth. Each pencil cap indicates its color, making it simple to organize your tools. Plus, the included two Full Blender-Bright Sticks enhance your blending capabilities. With an impressive customer rating of 4.8 stars, this set is a favorite among artists. Don’t miss the chance to elevate your art with these exceptional pencils!
Best For: Artists looking for high-quality colored pencils that offer excellent blending and lightfastness.
Pros:
- High lightfastness ensures colors remain vibrant over time.
- Finely-ground pigments provide exceptional purity and intensity.
- Includes two Full Blender-Bright Sticks for enhanced blending capabilities.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to standard colored pencil sets.
- The set may be overwhelming for beginners due to the number of colors.
- Limited availability in some regions may hinder access for potential buyers.
Caran d’Ache Colored Pencils, Oil-Based
Caran d’Ache Oil-Based Colored Pencils stand out for their exceptional quality, making them an ideal choice for both budding creators and seasoned artists. With a set of 12 vibrant colors, you’ll enjoy a fine point type that allows for precise detailing. Their 2.8mm lead guarantees smooth application while maintaining durability. Plus, these pencils are crafted from sustainably sourced wood and biodegradable ingredients, reflecting a commitment to the environment. Whether you’re a child discovering coloring or an adult exploring your artistic side, these high-grade pencils offer a pleasant drawing experience, earning an impressive average rating of 4.5 stars from users.
Best For: Children new to coloring and adults seeking casual use, as well as professional artists of all skill levels.
Pros:
- Vibrant colors that enhance artwork and provide a lively coloring experience.
- Soft lead that allows for smooth application and easy blending.
- Environmentally friendly production, using sustainably sourced wood and biodegradable materials.
Cons:
- Limited to a set of 12 colors, which may not satisfy those needing a broader palette.
- Some users may find the fine point too delicate for heavy-handed drawing.
- Higher price point compared to standard colored pencils, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.
Caran dAche Box of 12 Colours LUMINANCE 6901™
With their professional quality and exceptional lightfastness, the Caran d’Ache Box of 12 Colours LUMINANCE 6901™ pencils are perfect for anyone seeking reliable and vibrant color. Made from premium FSC certified cedar wood, these pencils feature a creamy lead that delivers maximum covering power. Their 3.8 mm diameter allows for clean, precise lines, making them ideal for detailed work. Plus, you can easily blend and layer colors, or combine them with SUPRACOLOR Soft Aquarelle and PABLO pencils for versatile mixed media effects. Each pencil is clearly labeled with its color number and name, ensuring you always know what you’re using.
Best For: Artists and illustrators seeking high-quality, vibrant color pencils for detailed and mixed media artwork.
Pros:
- Exceptional lightfastness ensures longevity and durability of artwork.
- Creamy lead allows for smooth application and maximum covering power.
- Versatile compatibility with other pencil ranges for a variety of artistic techniques.
Cons:
- Limited color range with only 12 pencils in the box.
- Higher price point compared to standard colored pencils.
- May require a specific sharpener due to the thicker diameter of the pencils.
Creative Art Materials Caran Dache Luminance Colored Pencil Set of 80
For those seeking unparalleled quality in colored pencils, the Creative Art Materials Caran D’Ache Luminance Colored Pencil Set of 80 stands out as a top choice. This set includes 80 vibrant, lightfast pencils, along with 2 blenders and 2 Grafwood graphite pencils, all beautifully housed in a wooden gift box. Weighing just 1 pound, these pencils offer smooth application and excellent blending capabilities. While they’re less suited for fine details compared to other brands, their pigment quality and durability make them a favorite among artists. Priced around $250, you’ll find this investment worthwhile for your artistic endeavors.
Best For: The Creative Art Materials Caran D’Ache Luminance Colored Pencil Set of 80 is best for professional artists and enthusiasts who prioritize high-quality, vibrant colors and blending capabilities in their artwork.
Pros:
- High lightfastness ensures colors remain vibrant over time.
- Smooth application with finely-ground pigments that blend easily.
- Beautifully packaged in a wooden gift box, making it ideal for gifting.
Cons:
- Less suited for fine detail work compared to other brands like Faber-Castell Polychromos.
- Some users reported issues with duplicates in the set, indicating potential quality control concerns.
- At around $250, it may be considered expensive for casual users or beginners.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Caran D’Ache Colored Pencils
When choosing Caran D’Ache colored pencils, you’ll want to contemplate several key factors. Think about the type of pencil that best suits your style, the range of colors available, and their lightfastness ratings. Price and how well they blend and layer can also greatly impact your artistic experience.
Pencil Type Selection
Choosing the right type of Caran D’Ache colored pencils can greatly influence your artistic process and the final outcome of your work. Consider the different pencil types available: oil-based for rich color saturation, water-soluble for versatile wash effects, and wax-based for smooth applications. The lead diameter, typically between 2.8mm and 3.8mm, affects precision—thinner leads are great for detail, while thicker ones allow broader strokes. If longevity matters, opt for the Luminance series, known for high lightfastness. For a smooth blending experience, choose soft leads like those in the Supracolor or Luminance sets. Ultimately, your choice between permanent and water-soluble leads will shape your artwork’s final appearance and style.
Color Range Availability
A wide array of color ranges is available in Caran D’Ache colored pencil sets, making it crucial to pick one that matches your artistic vision. You can choose from sets that offer 12, 18, 30, 40, 76, or even 100 colors, depending on your specific needs. Each set boasts vibrant, intense shades, with some tailored for portrait work that includes a selection of skin tones. Plus, every pencil is marked with its color name and code, making it easy for you to identify and organize your materials. The high-quality pigments guarantee purity and intensity, enhancing your blending and layering capabilities. This versatility allows you to create stunning artwork that truly reflects your creativity.
Lightfastness Ratings
Understanding lightfastness ratings is essential for artists who want their work to stand the test of time. These ratings indicate how well a colored pencil resists fading when exposed to light, with higher ratings showing better durability. Caran d’Ache pencils typically follow ASTM D6901 standards, ensuring reliable lightfastness that meets professional needs. When choosing your pencils, look for those with a lightfastness rating of 4 or higher on a scale of 1 to 5, especially for pieces intended for display. Pencils with exceptional lightfastness often use finely-ground pigments known for their purity and UV resistance, resulting in vibrant, long-lasting colors. Prioritizing lightfastness can help preserve the integrity of your artwork over time.
Price Considerations
When it comes to selecting Caran d’Ache colored pencils, price plays an essential role in your decision-making. These pencils are a premium option, with prices ranging from around $25 for smaller sets to over $250 for larger collections. Remember, the cost reflects their high-quality materials, including finely-ground pigments and sustainable cedar wood, which enhance performance and longevity.
When evaluating price, consider the value of lightfastness and blending capabilities, often superior in higher-priced sets. This makes them ideal for professional artists. While the initial investment may seem significant, the durability and quality can lead to long-term savings by minimizing replacements. Keep an eye out for discounts to snag better deals on these high-end art supplies.
Blending and Layering
Investing in high-quality Caran d’Ache colored pencils not only enhances your artwork but also opens up a world of blending and layering possibilities. These pencils are renowned for their exceptional blending capabilities, allowing you to create smooth shifts between colors. With finely-ground pigments, you can layer effectively without your colors getting muddy, making them perfect for detailed techniques. The 3.8mm lead diameter offers a sturdy point that sharpens to a fine tip, facilitating intricate blending. You’ll also appreciate the creamy consistency, which aids in burnishing and provides a polished finish. Plus, the high lightfastness guarantees your blended colors stay vibrant and won’t fade over time, preserving the integrity of your artwork.
Lead Quality and Durability
Lead quality and durability are essential factors to take into account when choosing Caran d’Ache colored pencils. With a lead diameter of 3.8 mm, these pencils provide a fine point for detailed work while staying robust enough for repeated sharpening. They’re crafted with premium materials, featuring soft, creamy leads that allow for smooth application and blending without excessive breakage. Many of these pencils offer high lightfastness ratings, ensuring your colors remain vibrant and fade-resistant over time. The finely-ground pigments contribute to their durability, delivering excellent coverage and enabling effective layering. Users appreciate that the leads can withstand pressure during application, enhancing their longevity and performance across various artistic techniques.
Packaging and Presentation
Packaging and presentation play an essential role in your experience with Caran d’Ache colored pencils. You’ll find that many sets come in beautifully crafted wooden gift boxes, making them perfect for gifting or display. The clever design often includes foam inserts, which keep the pencils secure and protected during transport and storage. You’ll appreciate the clear labeling on each pencil, showing both the color name and code for easy identification. Some sets even combine colors with blenders or graphite pencils, adding value and versatility. However, be mindful of quality control issues; reports of duplicate colors within some sets highlight the importance of checking the contents before committing to a purchase.