Are you a budding artist searching for the best art set to bring your creativity to life? Or, are you a seasoned artist looking to upgrade your art supplies to enhance your artistic abilities? Regardless of your level of experience, choosing the proper art set can make a significant difference in the quality of your artwork. With so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to determine which art set is the best fit for your needs. This article will guide you through the top art sets and help you decide the best for your artistic endeavors.
Top Five Art Sets
- Editor’s Choice: COLOUR BLOCK 152 Piece Wood Box Mixed Media Art Set
- Best Art Set for Beginners: Art Supply 163 Piece-Premium Mega Wood Box Art
- Best Art Set for Drawing: Mont Marte MIXED MEDIA 174-Piece Deluxe
- Best Art Sets for Adults: MEEDEN 148-Piece Deluxe Artist Painting Set
- Best Professional Artist Kits: LUCKY CROWN 83 Piece Deluxe Art Set
Our research, based on four days of data collection from customers and expert reviews on Amazon, Michael’s, YouTube, and other art supply sources, has provided us with many findings. We will present them with detailed reviews of each wooden art set and a buying guide for selecting the best artist kit.
1. COLOUR BLOCK 152 Piece Wood Box Mixed Media Art Set – Editor’s Choice
Features:
- 12 Metallic Pencils
- 24 Colored Pencils
- 18 Watercolor Cakes
- 12x 12mL Acrylic Paint Tubes
- 12 x12ml Watercolor Paint Tubes
- 12 Color Tone Soft Pastels
- 9 Sketching Pencils & 3 Charcoal Pencils
- 3 Polyester Pencil Cases
- 3 Golden Synthetic Brushes, 3 Natural Hair Brushes, 1 Brush Pen, 1 Fine Liner & 1 Plastic Palette
Bonus Tools:
- 2 Metal Palette Knives, 1 Wood Manikin – 5.5 in, 1 Kneaded Eraser, 1 Vinyl Eraser & 1 Two-Hole Metal Sharpener
- 1 Color Theory Instruction A4 Sized Sheet, 1 Color Wheel & 1 View Finder
- 2 Canvases – 8″ x 10″, 1 Watercolor Pad – 12 sheets, 9″ x 12″, 95 Lb. Watercolor Paper, 1 Drawing Pad – 12 sheets, 9″ x 12″, 80 Lb. Drawing Paper
- 1 Deluxe Easel Functioned Wooden Box, with Metal Closures and Durable Leather Briefcase Style Handle
This art set is for the inspired artist and features an extendable easel and treasure art chest in one, providing beauty and extra functionality. This supports canvases up to 24″ in size. The bottom two drawers also have moveable dividers for arranging art supplies. The deluxe mixed media easel art kit suits everyone from adults to teens to beginning artists. It will support their journey of artistic exploration using various art mediums that include watercolor and acrylic paints, soft and oil pastels and watercolors, to metallic pencils. The art set is filled with materials of the highest quality and non-toxic and safe to use painting, drawing, coloring, and sketching art supplies.
Pros:
- The wooden art box doubles as an extendable easel, eliminating the need for separate equipment.
- The easel can support canvas up to 24″ wide.
- Excellent, compact storage and suitable for travel
- Includes additional storage and simplifies packing
- Includes comprehensive art tools
- Create content from the moment the box is opened (all-inclusive set)
Cons:
- The overall weight is 10.6 pounds, which is on the heavier side
- Included paper quality is subpar
- Lack of setup instructions for the easel
- Paint color selection lacks variety
- Pricier than some of its alternatives
2. US Art Supply 163 Piece-Premium Mega Wood Box Art – Best Art Set for Beginners
Features:
- 24 Colored Pencils
- 24 Oil Pastels
- 24 Watercolors
- 60 Wax Crayons
- 2 Artist Brushes
- 2-2B Drawing Pencils
- 1 Pencil Sharpener
- 1 Eraser
- 1 Plastic Ruler
- Locking clasps make this art set ideal for easy transporting
21 Bonus Items:
- Solid Solana Adjustable Wood Desktop Table Easel with Drawer (13-3/8″ Wide x 10-1/4″ Deep x 2″ High, (Adjusts to 11″ High))
- 9″ x 12″ Premium Extra Heavyweight Watercolor Painting Paper Pad, 90 Pound (190gsm) Pad of 24-Sheets
- 5″ x 11″ Premium Hardbound Sketch Book, 70 Pound (110gsm), Book of 80-Sheets
- 5″ x 8.5″ Premium Heavyweight Paper Spiral Bound Sketch Pad, 90 Pound (160gsm), Pad of 30-Sheets
- 15 Piece Multipurpose Brush Set – 11 Short Handle Brushes – #1, #2, #3, #4 & #5 Pony Round, #1, #3 & #5 Bristle Round; 1/2″ Bristle Flat, 1/4″ & 1/2″ Pony Flat & 4 Long Handle Brushes – 2 Pony Round; 4 Pony Flat, 4 & 8 Bristle Flat
- 10-Well Plastic Painting Palette and Color Mixing Wheel
The exclusive deluxe drawing kit is well-suited for a beginner or a first-time set. It includes a solid Solana adjustable wooden desktop table easel with a drawer and a wide array of art supplies for drawing, painting, and more. This art set provides a vast range of materials with the highest quality in a sturdy and attractive wooden case. The case provides ample storage for the art supplies, keeping them organized, and opens flat for easy access. The locking clasps on the case’s exterior make it easy to transport.
Pros:
- Includes an eraser and plastic ruler
- More straightforward and less complex design, contents, and organization
- Cheaper than alternatives
Cons:
- Weight is 11.6, slightly heavy pounds
- Excludes acrylic paints and metallic pencils
- The easel can support canvas size only up to 13-3/8″ and extends only 11″ high
- The art kit wood quality is low
- Return or exchange is unavailable
3. Mont Marte MIXED MEDIA 174-Piece Deluxe – Best Art Set for Drawing
Features:
- 12 x Acrylic Paint
- 12 x watercolor Paint
- 12 x Oil Paint
- 54 x Oil Pastel
- 42 x Felt Tip Marker
- 34 x Color Pencil
- 2 x Round Brush
- 2 x Flat Brush
- 1 x Pencil Sharpener
- 1 x 2B Pencil
- 1 x 4B Pencil
- 1 x Eraser
This art set is best for all professional and aspiring artists. The multi-tiered case houses a variety of tools needed to create watercolor, acrylic, and colored drawings. A comprehensive assortment of materials in a beautiful, dark-tone wooden case gives you everything needed to create a uniquely beautiful work of art. Pros:
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Includes a variety of pencils
- Includes felt tip markers and enhances the drawing
Cons:
- Requires purchasing a separate easel
- Not all-inclusive with sketch pads, canvas, and brushes
4. MEEDEN 148-Piece Deluxe Artist Painting Set – Best Art Sets for Adults
Features:
- 1-65″ Tall Aluminum Easel
- 1-Solid Beech Wood Table Easel
- 48-22ml Acrylic Paint Tubes
- 24-12ml Watercolor Paint Tubes
- 24-12ml Oil Paint Tubes
- 10-Acrylic Paintbrush Set
- 10-Watercolor Paintbrush Set
- 10-Oil Paintbrush Set
- 2-11×14-inch Stretched Canvas
- 6-8×10-inch Canvas Panels
- 1-9×12-inch Acrylic Pad
- 1-9×12-inch Watercolor Pad
- 1-9×12-inch Oil Pad
- 6-Plastic Palette Knife Set
- 1-Plastic Paint Palette
- 1-Wood Paint Palette
- 1-Color Mixing Wheel
This ultimate art bundle unleashes your imagination and provides the perfect medium for all skill levels. It includes various high-quality art materials such as paints, canvas, and paintbrushes to complement your needs. It comes with everything from a full-size desktop easel to paper pads; everything needed to set up a complete small home art studio. This set eliminates the need to spend time picking different painting products and is more cost-effective than buying items individually.
Pros:
- Ultimate complete art kit including acrylic pads, stretched canvases, and palette knives
- It consists of a full and desktop easel
- High-quality
- Includes multiple palettes
- 100% money-back guarantee
- Great value for beginners
- Full-sized easel accommodates canvases up to 32″
Cons:
- Heavyweight (20.6 pounds)
- More expensive than the other art kits for beginners
- Quality subpar for professionals
5. LUCKY CROWN 83 Piece Deluxe Art Set – Best Professional Artist Kits
Features:
- 1-Portable Wooden Case (13.7″x 3.74″ x 10″)
- 1-Plastic Palette
- 1-Putty Eraser
- 1-Wooden Sharpener
- 1-50 Page Sketchbook
- 8-Acrylic Paints
- 8-Oil Pastels
- 10-Artist Brushes
- 12-Sketching Pencils (B-6B, HB, H-5H)
- 12-Watercolor Cakes
- 28-Watercolor Pencils
This 83-piece deluxe art set includes all the necessary tools for an artist to create beautiful content. It is suitable for beginners and veteran artists, kids and adults alike. This high-quality art set is widely used by students, hobbyists, and professional artists working on craft or construction paper. The art set supplies are non-toxic and 100% safe for kids.
Pros:
- Includes watercolor pencils
- Affordable
- Lightweight (5.65 pounds)
- Non-toxic guarantee
- High quality
Cons:
- Requires separate purchase of an easel
- Limited content (such as acrylic pads, palettes, metallic pencils, etc.)
- Less color variation
Buying Guide
Types of Art Sets
If you’re looking to buy an art set, it’s essential to know that there are several different types. The most common types include drawing sets, painting sets, sketching sets, and mixed media sets.
Drawing sets
Drawing sets typically include a range of pencils, erasers, and paper. They’re great for artists who like to create detailed, precise drawings with a lot of shading and texture.
Painting sets
On the other hand, painting sets are ideal for those who want to work with paints, whether watercolors, acrylics, or oils. These sets usually include brushes, colors, and a variety of surfaces to paint on.
Sketching sets
Sketching sets are similar to drawing scenes but typically include fewer supplies and are intended for more casual, quick sketches. They may consist of pencils, erasers, and a small sketchbook.
Mixed media sets
Finally, mixed media sets are great for artists experimenting with different materials and techniques. They might include a combination of drawing and painting supplies and other materials like markers or pastels.
When choosing an art set, you must consider what type of art you’re interested in creating and your skill level and budget. With some research and thoughtful consideration, you’ll find an art set perfect for your needs.
Essential Supplies
If you want to get started with art or are an experienced artist who needs to refresh your supplies, a sound art set is a must-have. But what exactly should be included in an art set? The essentials include various pencils, erasers, sharpeners, paintbrushes, paints, canvases, and paper.
For drawing, you’ll want a range of pencils, including graphite, charcoal, and colored pencils, as well as a good eraser and pencil sharpener. If you’re into painting, you’ll want to make sure your art set includes a variety of paint brushes for different techniques and a selection of paints in different colors and textures. Canvases or paper are also essential to have on hand, as they provide the surface for your artwork.
But what about other supplies, like markers, pastels, or ink? The truth is, it all depends on your preferred medium and art style. The guide might recommend specific brands or types of each supply based on your needs, but ultimately, the choice is up to you.
When building your own art set, start with the essentials and add supplies as you go. As you experiment with different materials and techniques, you’ll discover what works best for you and what you truly need in your art set. So don’t be afraid to try new things and have fun with your art supplies!
Quality vs. Quantity
When buying art supplies, there’s often a trade-off between quality and quantity. While it can be tempting to go for the most significant art set with the most stores, it’s also essential to consider the quality of those supplies.
Here are some factors to consider when weighing quality vs. quantity in your art set:
Quality:
- High-quality art supplies are often more expensive but can last longer and produce better results.
- Better-quality paper, for example, will hold up to watercolor paints better than cheaper paper, which can warp or tear.
- High-quality paints or markers will have more vibrant colors and better pigmentation, allowing for more detailed and refined artwork.
- Quality art supplies can also be more versatile, allowing for a broader range of techniques and effects.
Quantity:
- Buying a large art set with many supplies can be a good value, as it usually includes various tools and materials for a lower price.
- Quantity can also be helpful if you’re starting with art and want to experiment with different supplies and techniques.
- Having a wide range of colors and materials on hand can be helpful for quick sketches or experiments.
Ultimately, it’s up to the individual artist to decide whether quality or quantity is more important. However, many art supply guides advise prioritizing high-quality, long-lasting supplies over sets with lower-quality collections that might not hold up over time. Investing in higher-quality supplies can lead to more satisfying and refined artwork in the long run if you can afford it.
Skill Level
When choosing an art set, it’s essential to consider your skill level as an artist. Different locations will better suit beginners, intermediate artists, or advanced artists. Here are some key features to look for in art sets based on your skill level:
Beginner:
- Simple, easy-to-use supplies are essential for beginners just starting with art. Look for art sets with a basic range of collections like pencils, erasers, and paper.
- Instructional materials like instructional books or online tutorials can be helpful addition to beginner art sets.
- Beginner art sets should also include supplies that are forgiving, like erasable pencils, to help make the learning process less frustrating.
Intermediate:
- As you progress in your art skills, you’ll want to invest in higher-quality art supplies to refine your techniques and create more sophisticated artwork.
- Look for art sets with a more comprehensive range of supplies, like various paint brushes, different paper types, and higher-quality paints or markers.
- Instructional materials may still be helpful for intermediate artists who want to continue to learn and grow.
Advanced:
- Advanced artists will want to look for art sets that include professional-grade supplies to achieve the best possible results.
- Look for high-quality, archival-grade papers, professional-grade paints or markers, and advanced tools like palette knives and airbrushes.
- Advanced artists may also want to invest in more specialized sets, like sets designed for a specific type of painting or drawing.
Your correct art set will depend on your preferences, budget, and skill level. By considering these factors and looking for sets that include the supplies and tools you need, you can find an art set to help you create the best artwork.
Portability
Portability is essential if you’re looking for an art set for use on the go or for travel. Here are some key features to look for in art sets that are easy to take with you:
Compact size:
- Look for art sets that are compact and easy to pack in a bag or suitcase.
- Close sets are usually designed to be small and lightweight, making them easy to carry around.
Lightweight supplies:
- Art sets designed for portability often feature lightweight supplies that are easy to carry.
- For example, look for sets with watercolor pencils or markers instead of heavy paint tubes.
Protective cases:
- When traveling with your art supplies, you must protect them from damage.
- Look for art sets that come in protective cases to keep your supplies safe and organized.
- Some art sets come with complicated or padded cases; others may have built-in storage compartments to protect the supplies.
Multipurpose supplies:
- When traveling, having supplies that can serve multiple purposes is often helpful.
- Look for sets that include versatile supplies, like sketching pencils that can be used for drawing or writing or watercolor pencils that can be used for painting or drawing.
Ultimately, the proper art set depends on your preferences and needs. By considering portability and looking for sets that include lightweight, versatile supplies and protective cases, you can find an art set that’s easy to take.
Price Range
When shopping for an art set, you must consider your budget and what features are most important to you. Here are some art set options at different price points, along with what you can expect to get for your money:
Budget-friendly:
- If you’re looking for an affordable art set, many available options still offer a range of supplies.
- Look for sets with essential supplies like pencils, erasers, and paper, without too many extras.
- These sets may not include the highest-quality supplies, but they are an excellent option for beginners or those on a tight budget.
Mid-range:
- You can expect higher-quality supplies and a more comprehensive range of options for a mid-range art set.
- Look for sets that include a variety of brushes, paints, markers, and high-quality paper or canvas.
- These sets may also come with instructional materials or a more comprehensive range of colors.
Higher-end:
- If you’re a serious artist or want the best possible quality, higher-end art sets are the way to go.
- Look for sets that include professional-grade supplies like high-quality paints or markers, archival-grade paper or canvas, and a wide range of specialized tools.
- These sets may also come with instructional materials or specialty supplies, like airbrushes or palette knives.
Regardless of your budget, there are art sets available that offer good value for your money. By considering your needs and looking for groups that include the supplies and features that are most important to you, you can find an art set that will help you create beautiful artwork without breaking the bank.
FAQ
What is included in an art set?
An art set typically includes a variety of art supplies, such as pencils, pens, markers, paints, brushes, erasers, sharpeners, and more. The exact contents can vary depending on the brand and type of set.
How do I choose the suitable art set for me?
Consider your experience level, the medium you want to work with, your budget, and the projects you want to create. Look for sets that have the necessary supplies and are appropriate for your skill level.
What is the difference between student-grade and professional-grade art sets?
Student-grade art sets are generally more affordable and suitable for beginners or those on a tight budget. Professional-grade art sets are higher quality, more expensive, and designed for artists with more experience who require the best materials for their work.
How much should I expect to spend on an art set?
The cost of an art set can vary widely, from less than $10 to several hundred dollars. Consider your needs and budget, and look for groups with a good balance of quality and affordability.
What are the best brands of art sets?
There are many great brands of art sets, including Prismacolor, Winsor & Newton, Faber-Castell, and Derwent, among others. The best brand for you may depend on your personal preferences and needs.
Are there any specific types of art sets for different mediums (e.g., drawing, painting, sketching, etc.)?
Yes, many art sets are explicitly designed for different mediums, such as drawing, painting, sketching, and more. Look for groups that include the supplies you need for your preferred medium.
Can I customize my own art set by buying individual art supplies separately?
You can create your own custom art set by buying individual supplies separately. This allows you to tailor your set to your specific needs and preferences.
What are the essential art supplies that every art set should include?
The essential art supplies vary depending on the medium, but some common ones include pencils, erasers, paper, paints, brushes, and canvases.
How do I properly care for my art supplies to make them last longer?
Proper care depends on the specific supplies, but generally, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep them clean and avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures or rough handling.
Final Verdict
After thoroughly examining and evaluating various art sets, we have determined the best art set available in the market. The COLOUR BLOCK 152 Piece Wood Box Mixed Media Art Set is our top pick for the best art set.
This art set stands out from the rest due to its exceptional quality, versatility, and affordability. It comes with a wide range of art supplies, including pencils, markers, pastels, paints, and brushes, all neatly organized in a beautiful wooden box.
We recommend the Art Supply 163 Piece-Premium Mega Wood Box art set for beginners. This set contains all the essential tools and supplies beginners need to start their artistic journey.
We recommend the Mont Marte MIXED MEDIA 174-Piece Deluxe art set for those primarily interested in drawing. This set contains extensive drawing supplies, such as pencils, charcoal sticks, erasers, and other mixed media tools like paints and pastels.
In conclusion, the COLOR BLOCK 152 Piece Wood Box Mixed Media Art Set is our top pick for the best art set, but other terrific options are available depending on your specific needs and preferences.
