How to choose a art supplies
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
Start with a small, well-chosen kit of basic, non-toxic materials, pencils, erasers, crayons or markers, a few brushes, and mixed-media paper, rather than a giant set of low-quality items. Focus on safety, ease of use, and versatility for the child’s age and skill level.
What basic art supplies do beginners really need?
For a child or absolute beginner, the essentials are surprisingly few. A set of graphite pencils in a couple of hardnesses, a vinyl eraser, a sharpener, a box of crayons or washable markers, a small watercolor set, a couple of brushes (a round and a flat), and a pad of mixed-media or drawing paper will cover drawing, coloring, and painting. Avoid giant sets with dozens of tiny pieces, they overwhelm kids and often sacrifice quality. Instead, look for items that are known to be durable and easy to hold. Many parents and art teachers recommend starting with brands like Crayola or Faber-Castell for crayons and markers, and Strathmore or Canson for paper. The real goal is to let a beginner explore without frustration. Good-quality pencils that don’t snap, markers that don’t dry out instantly, and paper that doesn’t tear when erased all make the process more enjoyable.
How to choose safe and non-toxic art supplies for kids?
Safety is the first concern for children’s art supplies. Look for the “AP” (approved product) seal from the Art & Creative Materials Institute, which certifies that the product is non-toxic and safe for human use. Many products also carry the “ASTM D-4236” standard label. Avoid anything that simply says “safe” without third-party testing. For toddlers and preschoolers, choose only washable, water-based formulas in markers and paints. Oil-based pastels, solvent-based markers, and fixative sprays are not suitable for young children. Also inspect for small parts, chalk or crayon pieces that could be a choking hazard. Remember that “natural” or “eco-friendly” doesn’t automatically mean non-toxic. Some natural pigments are actually toxic. Stick to reputable brands and approved labeling. If in doubt, read online reviews from other parents or consult the ACMI’s list of approved products.
What’s the difference between crayons, markers, and colored pencils?
Crayons are the most tactile and forgiving medium for young children. They’re waxy, lay down in thick strokes, and don’t require sharpening. However, they can be hard to layer or blend precisely. Markers, especially washable ones, offer bright, vibrant color with smooth application. They’re great for bold areas but can bleed through thin paper and are harder to control for fine details. Colored pencils give the most control and are excellent for older beginners who want to shade and layer. They require sharpening and a bit more hand pressure. Watercolor pencils combine both: you can draw with them and then activate the pigment with a wet brush. For a beginner, a mix of crayons or markers (for quick fun) and a small set of colored pencils (for detail work) is a good balance. Avoid oil pastels unless the child is at least eight and ready for messiness, they stain and can be toxic.
Should you buy a big set or individual supplies?
A pre-packaged art set can be convenient for a gift, but the quality in big sets is often inconsistent. Many large kits include tiny tubes of paint, thin paper, and cheap brushes that frustrate rather than inspire. Individual items from trusted brands typically offer better performance per dollar. If you do choose a set, look for one from a company known for art supplies (like Copic, Faber-Castell, or Prang) rather than a generic toy brand. Also check that the set avoids redundant items: a 50-count marker set with 30 shades of blue is less useful than a well-chosen 12-color set with distinct hues. For a beginner, we recommend buying a few core items separately: a pad of drawing paper, a pack of graphite pencils, a box of 24 crayons or 12 washable markers, a watercolor set with a brush, and a good eraser. That’s far more effective than a 200-piece kit that costs the same but includes barely usable supplies.
How to pick the right paper for different art projects?
Paper is not one-size-fits-all. Drawing paper is typically smooth and lightweight (around 60–90 lb weight), good for pencils and crayons. For markers, use paper that is labeled “marker” or “bristol”. it prevents bleeding. Watercolor requires much thicker paper, at least 140 lb (300 gsm), to withstand moisture without buckling. Newsprint pads are cheap but poor for final work because they yellow and tear easily. They’re fine for practice sketching. Mixed-media paper falls in between: it handles light washes and dry media both. Many beginners start with a spiral-bound mixed-media pad, which works for most early projects and keeps everything in one place. Avoid glossy paper or printer paper for anything except pencil tests. Glossy surfaces repel paint and marker ink badly. If in doubt, ask at an art supply store or read product descriptions carefully for recommended media.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best art set for a 5-year-old?
For a 5-year-old, choose a set of non-toxic, washable markers (8 to 12 colors), a box of sturdy crayons, a pad of large-format drawing paper, and maybe a watercolor tray with a thick brush. Avoid tiny pieces or sharp tools. Brands like Crayola and Melissa & Doug are commonly recommended by parents.
Are washable markers worth it?
Yes, if the child is under eight or tends to color on furniture, walls, or skin. Modern washable formulas remove easily from most surfaces with just water. The trade-off is that they may dry out faster than permanent markers, so cap them tightly after use.
How many colors do I really need?
For most beginners, 12 to 24 colors is plenty. Too many choices overwhelm and don’t improve creativity. A quality 12-color set with distinct colors (primary, secondary, plus earth tones) teaches color mixing better than a huge set of similar shades.
Can I use regular printer paper for watercolor?
Not successfully. Printer paper is too thin and will buckle, tear, or disintegrate with water. Use at least 140 lb watercolor paper. For casual practice, you can buy a student-grade watercolor pad, which is much more affordable than artist-grade sheets.
What does “non-toxic” really mean?
Non-toxic means the product contains no substances known to cause acute or chronic health issues when used as intended, as certified by a third-party body like ACMI or ASTM. It does not mean the product is edible or safe for ingestion. Always supervise young children.
Should I get oil pastels or chalk pastels for a beginner?
Chalk pastels are less messy and easier to blend, but they are dusty and can be brittle. Oil pastels are richer in color but harder to clean up and can stain. For a beginner under age eight, stick to chalk pastels or skip pastels entirely and use crayons instead.