Finding the right art supplies for students can be challenging, as needs vary from beginner doodles to more serious projects. The Artecho Oil Pastels Set of 48 stands out as the best overall for its vibrant color range and affordability. For those just starting out, the Crayola Super Tips Marker Set offers easy washability and a broad color palette. Meanwhile, the TMOL Deluxe Art Set provides a comprehensive kit for serious learners willing to invest more. The main tradeoffs involve balancing cost against versatility and quality, so continue reading for a detailed breakdown of top picks and what to consider when choosing art supplies for students.
Key Takeaways
- Versatile kits like the TMOL Deluxe Art Set provide value for students who want a wide range of tools in one package.
- Washable markers and glue sticks are essential for younger students or beginners to reduce mess and frustration.
- Quality brushes and pastels make a difference in project finish, but often come at a higher price point.
- Bulk packs of paper and basic tools are best for classroom settings or group projects, offering affordability at scale.
- Choosing the right set depends heavily on the student’s skill level, type of art they pursue, and budget constraints.
| Artecho Oil Pastels Set of 48 Colors (10 x 70 mm) |  | Best for Versatile Creativity and Blending | Number of Colors: 48 | Pastel Diameter: 10 mm | Pastel Length: 70 mm | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Elmer’s All Purpose School Glue Sticks, Washable, Acid-Free, Clear, 7g, 30 Count |  | Best for Classroom Projects and Easy Cleanup | Item Package Quantity: 30 | Item Form: Stick | Color: White | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Super Tips Marker Set (100ct), Washable Fine Point Markers for Kids & Adults |  | Best for Color Variety and Versatile Strokes | Number of Markers: 100 | Color Range: Assorted colors | Washable: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Paint Brushes Set of 24 with Canvas Case – Wooden Handles, Nylon Hair, Professional for Oil, Acrylic, Watercolor |  | Best for Diverse Painting Techniques and Organization | Number of Brushes: 24 | Handle Material: Wood | Hair Material: Nylon | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Caliart 176PCS Art Supplies Sketching Kit with 100 Sheets 3-Color Sketch Book |  | Best for All-in-One Art Creation on the Go | Number of Pieces: 176 | Sketchbook Sheets: 100 | Sketchbook Size: 6″x9″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Hulameda 12pcs Plastic Paint Tray Palettes for Kids and Art Projects |  | Best Compact and Multi-Purpose Palette Set | Material: Plastic | Number of Pieces: 12 | Wells: 10 wells and 1 central reservoir | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Pentel Oil Pastels – 50 Color Set |  | Best for Rich Color and Blending | Number of Colors: 50 | Type: Oil Pastels | Brand: Pentel | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TMOL Art Supplies 175-Pack Deluxe Art Set Drawing Painting Kit with Wooden Case |  | Best Comprehensive All-in-One Art Kit | Number of Items: 175 | Includes: Crayons, acrylic paints, oil pastels, colored pencils, watercolor cakes, brushes, palettes, drawing pencils, sharpener, sandpaper block, eraser, drawing pads | Material: Wooden case, non-toxic art tools | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Colored Pencils (36 count), Classroom and Art Supplies for Kids & Adults |  | Best for Versatile, Everyday Coloring | Quantity: 36 | Suitable for: Kids & Adults | Features: Presharpened, Durable, Vibrant Colors | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Mr. Sketch Scented Markers, 22 Count, Assorted Colors |  | Best for Fun and Creative Expression | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown | |||
| 76 Pack Drawing Set Sketching Kit with 3-Color Sketchbook and Tutorial |  | Best Overall for Versatile Artists and Beginners | Pencils: 76 pieces including charcoal, watercolor, oil-based, graphite, metallic, and woodless | Sketchbook: 3-Color, 6 x 9 inches, 50 pages (white, tan, black) | Additional Supplies: Water brush pen, erasers, blending stumps, paintbrush, pencil pointer, travel case | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| N NOROCME 12 pcs Blending Stumps and Tortillions Paper Art Blenders with Sandpaper Pencil Sharpener |  | Best Value for Precision Shading and Blending | Number of Pieces: 13 | Materials: Premium compressed paper | Includes: Blending stumps, tortillions, sandpaper pencil sharpener | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Construction Paper Bulk Pack (480 Sheets) – 10 Assorted Colors, 9×12, Classroom Art Supplies |  | Best for Large-Scale Classroom Projects and Bulk Use | Quantity: 480 sheets | Colors: 10 assorted colors | Sheet Size: 9 x 12 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Artecho Oil Pastels Set of 48 Colors (10 x 70 mm)
This set of 48 vibrant oil pastels stands out for its high-quality pigments and smooth blending capabilities, making it ideal for students exploring shading, layering, and texturing techniques. Compared with the Crayola Super Tips markers, these pastels offer a different tactile experience, providing rich color application suitable for different mediums, though their bulkier nature and tendency to break require careful handling. The individual sleeves enhance portability and reduce breakage risk, which is a plus for students moving between classes or projects. However, the limited color range can be a drawback for highly detailed work, and the softness means some colors may break if pressed too hard. This pick makes the most sense for students who want a versatile, blendable medium for more expressive or textured art, rather than precise detail work.
Pros:- Vibrant colors with high-quality pigments
- Easy to blend for various artistic effects
- Portable with individual sleeves to prevent breakage
Cons:- Limited color variety for detailed projects
- Pastels can break if handled roughly
Best for: Students who enjoy experimenting with blending techniques and creating textured effects in drawing and painting.
Not ideal for: Students needing a broad color palette for detailed, precise work or those prone to rough handling, as pastels may break easily.
- Number of Colors:48
- Pastel Diameter:10 mm
- Pastel Length:70 mm
- Material:Non-toxic, high-quality pigments
Our verdict“This set is best suited for students seeking a soft, blendable medium that supports expressive techniques rather than fine detail.”
Elmer’s All Purpose School Glue Sticks, Washable, Acid-Free, Clear, 7g, 30 Count
Elmer’s glue sticks are a staple for classroom and craft projects, offering a smooth, quick-drying, clear bond that is non-toxic and safe for students. When compared with the Crayola Super Tips markers, these glue sticks focus on a different aspect of art—adhesion—making them essential for mounting, paper crafts, and light construction. The 7g size per stick is convenient, but it may be limiting for larger projects, requiring multiple applications. Their water-solubility and non-toxic nature make them perfect for young learners, though they aren’t suited for wet or outdoor environments where water resistance matters. This product is ideal for students working on paper-based projects where neatness and safety are priorities.
Pros:- Smooth, clump-free application
- Dries quickly and clear for neat results
- Non-toxic and safe for children
Cons:- Limited to small projects due to size
- Not water resistant, unsuitable for wet environments
Best for: Students engaged in paper crafts, collage, and light construction projects in classroom settings.
Not ideal for: Students needing a strong, water-resistant adhesive for outdoor or heavy-duty projects, as these sticks are not water resistant.
- Item Package Quantity:30
- Item Form:Stick
- Color:White
- Volume:7 grams per stick
Our verdict“This glue stick set is perfect for young students and classroom use where ease, safety, and quick drying are key priorities.”
Crayola Super Tips Marker Set (100ct), Washable Fine Point Markers for Kids & Adults
This 100-color set of Crayola Super Tips markers offers a broad spectrum of shades suitable for detailed coloring, lettering, and creative projects. Compared with the Caliart sketching kit, these markers excel in providing a wide color range and fine control for line work, though they lack the variety of tools for sketching and shading. The washable, non-toxic formulation ensures safety for kids and ease of cleanup, but the absence of a storage container can lead to misplaced caps or dried-out markers if not stored properly. They are perfect for group activities and classroom projects, providing versatility for both broad strokes and fine details. This set makes the most sense for students focused on coloring, lettering, or group art projects requiring a large palette.
Pros:- Includes a wide variety of 100 colors
- Washable and non-toxic, safe for children
- Suitable for detailed and broad strokes
Cons:- No storage container included
- Markers may dry out if not capped properly
Best for: Students needing a comprehensive, washable marker set for coloring and lettering at school or home.
Not ideal for: Students looking for tools designed for sketching or shading, as these markers are primarily for coloring and fine lines.
- Number of Markers:100
- Color Range:Assorted colors
- Washable:Yes
- Nontoxic:Yes
- Ages:3+
Our verdict“Ideal for students who want a large, versatile palette for coloring and lettering, especially in group or classroom settings.”
Paint Brushes Set of 24 with Canvas Case – Wooden Handles, Nylon Hair, Professional for Oil, Acrylic, Watercolor
This set of 24 brushes offers a wide range of brush types, from fan to detail round, providing ample options for various mediums like oil, acrylic, and watercolor. Compared with the Caliart sketching kit, which emphasizes drawing tools, this set focuses on painting techniques, making it ideal for students who want a comprehensive collection for learning different brush strokes. The wooden handles and nylon hair ensure durability and ease of cleaning, while the included canvas case adds portability and organization. However, the lack of specific size details for each brush can make choosing the right tool challenging, and some brushes may require careful cleaning to maintain their quality over time. This set makes the most sense for students serious about exploring different painting styles with a dedicated set of brushes.
Pros:- Includes a wide variety of brush types
- High-quality wooden handles and nylon hair
- Portable canvas case for organization
Cons:- Lack of detailed size specifications for each brush
- Some brushes may need careful cleaning to prevent damage
Best for: Students who want a versatile, professional-grade brush collection for multiple painting mediums and techniques.
Not ideal for: Beginners or students primarily interested in drawing or sketching, as the focus here is on painting brushes.
- Number of Brushes:24
- Handle Material:Wood
- Hair Material:Nylon
- Includes:Canvas brush case
Our verdict“This set is best for students committed to developing their painting skills across different mediums with a professional-quality collection.”
Caliart 176PCS Art Supplies Sketching Kit with 100 Sheets 3-Color Sketch Book
This extensive kit combines 176 drawing supplies with a 100-page, multi-colored sketchbook and a portable case, making it ideal for students who want a comprehensive, ready-to-go art solution. Compared with the Artecho oil pastels, this kit covers a broader range of sketching and shading tools, offering versatility for different art styles. The high-quality pencils, charcoal, and colored options support detailed work and shading, while the included sketchbook with white, tan, and black pages expands creative possibilities. The case facilitates easy transport, but the sheer variety can be overwhelming for beginners, and some accessories’ durability isn’t specified. This kit makes the most sense for ambitious students looking for an all-in-one set for sketching and shading anywhere.
Pros:- Wide variety of drawing tools and accessories
- High-quality, pre-sharpened pencils with labels
- Portable, lightweight case with multiple sketching options
Cons:- Variety may be overwhelming for beginners
- Durability of some accessories isn’t specified
Best for: Students who want a comprehensive, portable set of sketching tools for practice and projects at home or on the go.
Not ideal for: Absolute beginners who may feel overwhelmed by the variety or those seeking a simple starter kit.
- Number of Pieces:176
- Sketchbook Sheets:100
- Sketchbook Size:6″x9″
- Sketchbook Paper Types:White, Toned Tan, Black
Our verdict“This all-in-one kit is perfect for students eager to explore multiple drawing techniques with a portable, organized set.”
Hulameda 12pcs Plastic Paint Tray Palettes for Kids and Art Projects
This set of 12 plastic palettes stands out for its lightweight, durable design, making it ideal for young students and casual artists who need a portable solution. Compared with larger or more complex palettes like the TMOL Deluxe Art Set, these trays are simple and easy to handle, though they lack the variety of tools and storage options. Their stackable nature saves space, and the multiple wells support small projects or experiments. However, the plastic material may stain or warp over time, especially with frequent use or heavy paints, and the small wells limit their use to minor projects. This pick makes the most sense for students seeking affordable, portable palettes for basic projects and art classes.
Pros:- Sturdy and durable plastic construction
- Lightweight and easy for children to handle
- Stackable for space-saving storage
- Multi-purpose use for painting and decorating
Cons:- Limited to small-scale projects due to size
- Plastic material may stain or warp over time
- No individual well lids for color separation
Best for: Elementary and middle school students or hobbyists needing simple, portable palettes for small-scale painting and crafts.
Not ideal for: Serious artists or those working on larger, more detailed projects who require larger, more durable palettes with individual well lids.
- Material:Plastic
- Number of Pieces:12
- Wells:10 wells and 1 central reservoir
- Wells Depth:0.4 inches
- Wells Width:1.2 inches
- Center Width:3 inches
- Total Width:6.3 inches
- Color:White
Our verdict“This set offers a practical, budget-friendly option for young students or casual artists focused on small projects and portability.”
Pentel Oil Pastels – 50 Color Set
This 50-color set of Pentel oil pastels offers vibrant hues that blend effortlessly, making them a favorite for students exploring shading and color mixing. Compared to the more extensive TMOL art set, these pastels focus solely on color application quality, though they lack the variety of tools and surfaces available in larger kits. Their long-lasting, humidity-resistant properties ensure art remains vibrant over time, and they perform well on paper, canvas, or artboard. Still, they are strictly artistic tools and not suited for industrial or commercial uses. This set is ideal for students who want high-quality, blending-friendly pastels for expressive, colorful artwork.
Pros:- Vibrant colors that blend easily
- Long-lasting and resistant to humidity
- Suitable for various surfaces like paper, canvas, and artboard
Cons:- Limited to artistic use, not for industrial purposes
- No additional tools or accessories included
Best for: Middle school and high school students working on detailed, layered art projects involving shading and blending.
Not ideal for: Beginners or younger children who might find the pastels too fragile or intense, or those needing a broader variety of art supplies in one set.
- Number of Colors:50
- Type:Oil Pastels
- Brand:Pentel
Our verdict“This set provides high-quality, blendable pastels perfect for serious students focused on color techniques and shading.”
TMOL Art Supplies 175-Pack Deluxe Art Set Drawing Painting Kit with Wooden Case
This extensive 175-piece art set excels for its wide variety of supplies, including paints, pencils, pastels, brushes, and drawing pads, all stored in a sturdy wooden case. Compared with the simpler Crayola colored pencils or scent markers, this set offers a broader range of media, supporting multiple techniques and skill levels. Its organized case makes it convenient for students to keep supplies accessible and portable. However, the sheer volume of tools can be overwhelming for beginners, and the lack of specific case dimensions makes it hard to judge portability. This kit is best suited for serious students or budding artists ready to explore different media without needing to purchase additional supplies. It’s less ideal for casual users or those with limited space or budget.
Pros:- Wide variety of art supplies for diverse techniques
- Organized in a sturdy, attractive wooden case
- Suitable for all skill levels and ages
- Non-toxic and safe for children and adults
Cons:- No specific size or dimensions of the case provided
- Some users may find the quantity overwhelming for casual use
Best for: Intermediate to advanced students or young artists who want a comprehensive, all-in-one kit to experiment with various art forms.
Not ideal for: Young children or absolute beginners who may find the quantity intimidating or the assortment confusing to use effectively.
- Number of Items:175
- Includes:Crayons, acrylic paints, oil pastels, colored pencils, watercolor cakes, brushes, palettes, drawing pencils, sharpener, sandpaper block, eraser, drawing pads
- Material:Wooden case, non-toxic art tools
Our verdict“This deluxe set offers an all-encompassing collection for dedicated students eager to explore multiple art media.”
Crayola Colored Pencils (36 count), Classroom and Art Supplies for Kids & Adults
This set of 36 vibrant Crayola colored pencils offers a reliable option for both classroom projects and personal art. Compared with larger sets like the 100-count Crayola Super Tips markers, these pencils are more manageable for younger students or casual users. Their pre-sharpened tip ensures immediate use, and their durable construction resists breakage during repeated sharpening. While their color palette is versatile, the limited 36 shades may require additional sets for complex or highly detailed work. They excel in providing consistent color and ease of use, making them suitable for students developing foundational coloring skills. This set is best for students seeking dependable, everyday colored pencils for school, homework, or casual art.
Pros:- Vivid and diverse color selection
- Presharpened and durable for long use
- Suitable for both kids and adults
- Easy to handle for young beginners
Cons:- Limited to 36 colors, which may be insufficient for complex projects
- Not as convenient for large-scale coloring as marker sets
Best for: Elementary students and casual artists needing reliable, easy-to-use colored pencils for daily practice and school projects.
Not ideal for: Advanced artists or those working on highly detailed, color-intensive projects requiring a broader color range.
- Quantity:36
- Suitable for:Kids & Adults
- Features:Presharpened, Durable, Vibrant Colors
Our verdict“This set provides dependable, vibrant coloring options ideal for elementary and casual use, with room to expand for more advanced work.”
Mr. Sketch Scented Markers, 22 Count, Assorted Colors
This 22-pack of Mr. Sketch scented markers offers bold colors and a fun sensory twist, making it highly appealing for younger students and casual crafters. Their large, easy-to-hold chisel tips enable broad strokes, and the assortment of scents can inspire more engaging activities. Compared to the more extensive marker sets like Crayola Super Tips, these provide fewer colors but excel in adding a playful element that encourages creativity. The non-toxic, AP-certified formula ensures safety for children over 3 years old, though the limited color palette might restrict detailed work. This set is best suited for children who love expressive, sensory-rich art activities and playful projects.
Pros:- Scented markers that inspire creativity
- Non-toxic and safe for children
- Large, easy-to-hold chisel tip
- Vivid, bold colors
Cons:- Limited to 22 colors, which may restrict detailed work
- Only suitable for children over 3 years old
Best for: Kids over 3 years old who enjoy fun, casual coloring and craft projects that benefit from scent and bold color impact.
Not ideal for: Older students or artists seeking a broad color range for detailed or precise artwork, as only 22 colors are included.
Our verdict“This set offers a fun, sensory-rich coloring experience perfect for young children and casual projects, though it lacks the variety for detailed art.”
76 Pack Drawing Set Sketching Kit with 3-Color Sketchbook and Tutorial
This comprehensive drawing set stands out for its extensive variety of pencils and accessories, making it ideal for students who want a complete introduction to different art mediums. Unlike the ArtECHO 48-color pastel set, which specializes in color but lacks drawing tools, this kit offers a broader suite of supplies, including charcoal, watercolor, metallic, and graphite pencils. The included tutorial supports beginners in developing skills, while the portable case ensures easy transport between classes or outdoor sketching. The main tradeoff is that the sheer number of options could overwhelm casual users or those seeking only basic supplies, and the limited color options in the sketchbook may restrict certain art styles. Still, for students looking to explore multiple techniques in one package, this set provides exceptional value and flexibility.
Pros:- Wide variety of high-quality pencils and accessories for diverse techniques
- Includes a versatile 3-color sketchbook suitable for different art styles
- Portable case keeps supplies organized and easy to carry
- Comprehensive tutorial supports skill development
Cons:- Can be overwhelming for casual or very young users due to its size
- Limited color options in the sketchbook restrict certain projects
Best for: Students who want a versatile, all-in-one drawing kit that supports experimentation and skill-building.
Not ideal for: Beginners who prefer minimal, straightforward supplies or those with limited space for large sets.
- Pencils:76 pieces including charcoal, watercolor, oil-based, graphite, metallic, and woodless
- Sketchbook:3-Color, 6 x 9 inches, 50 pages (white, tan, black)
- Additional Supplies:Water brush pen, erasers, blending stumps, paintbrush, pencil pointer, travel case
- Standards:ASTM D-4236, EN71
- Unit Count:1
Our verdict“This set is perfect for students seeking a complete, flexible drawing kit to explore multiple art forms and improve skills.”
N NOROCME 12 pcs Blending Stumps and Tortillions Paper Art Blenders with Sandpaper Pencil Sharpener
This set excels for students focusing on detailed shading and smooth blending, offering a selection of high-quality tools that outperform basic erasers or single-sized blenders like the Crayola Colored Pencils. Compared with the larger, more comprehensive kits like the TMOL Deluxe Art Set, this targeted set keeps things simple and affordable while delivering professional-grade results. The multiple sizes of blending stumps and tortillions enable precise work on both broad areas and fine details, and the included sandpaper sharpener maintains the tools’ effectiveness. However, beginners might need some practice to master blending techniques, and the set’s focus on just blending and sharpening means it won’t replace full art supply kits for more varied projects. For students dedicated to refining shading skills, this set offers excellent value and quality.
Pros:- High-quality, durable compressed paper blending tools
- Multiple sizes for detailed and broad shading techniques
- Includes a handy sandpaper pencil sharpener for maintenance
- Effective for smooth shading and subtle transitions
Cons:- Requires some practice to master effective blending techniques
- Limited to blending and sharpening, not suitable for broader art projects
Best for: Students who want to improve their shading, blending, and fine detail work with high-quality, easy-to-use tools.
Not ideal for: Young beginners or students seeking a complete art set, since it only covers blending and sharpening, lacking other supplies.
- Number of Pieces:13
- Materials:Premium compressed paper
- Includes:Blending stumps, tortillions, sandpaper pencil sharpener
- Sizes:Multiple
Our verdict“This set is designed for students aiming to develop precise shading skills with reliable, professional-quality tools.”
Crayola Construction Paper Bulk Pack (480 Sheets) – 10 Assorted Colors, 9×12, Classroom Art Supplies
This bulk pack offers an economical solution for teachers and students involved in large projects or frequent craft activities. Its high quantity of 480 sheets and a bright, assorted color palette make it stand out against smaller packs like the Caliart Sketching Kit, which focuses more on individual art exploration. The sturdy 9×12-inch sheets are versatile for a wide range of projects, from cutouts to collages, but lack the variety of textures or specialized papers that advanced students might desire. The primary tradeoff is that the uniform size and limited color palette may restrict more detailed or color-specific projects, while the bulk size could be excessive for individual students or small classrooms. Still, for high-volume needs, this pack provides excellent value and durability.
Pros:- Large quantity suitable for classrooms and repeated use
- Vibrant, assorted colors provide creative flexibility
- Sturdy paper supports various art activities
- Cost-effective for bulk purchasing
Cons:- Lacks variety in sheet sizes and specialized textures
- Limited color palette for projects requiring specific hues
Best for: Classroom teachers or students who need large quantities of colorful, sturdy paper for diverse projects and crafts.
Not ideal for: Students working on specialized art projects requiring different sheet sizes or textures, or those with limited storage space.
- Quantity:480 sheets
- Colors:10 assorted colors
- Sheet Size:9 x 12 inches
- Color List:Pink, Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Purple, Brown, Black, White
Our verdict“This bulk pack is a practical choice for educators and students who need abundant, colorful paper for multiple projects and activities.”
