I Tested Pastel Color Colored Pencils: My Honest Review and Tips for Stunning Artwork

There’s something truly magical about the soft, dreamy hues of pastel color colored pencils that instantly draw me in every time I pick them up. These gentle shades have a way of transforming ordinary sketches into delicate works of art, evoking calmness and subtle beauty with each stroke. Whether I’m layering colors to create smooth gradients or adding a whisper of tint to a drawing, pastel pencils offer a unique blend of versatility and charm that keeps my creativity flowing. Exploring their endless possibilities has become one of my favorite artistic adventures.

I Tested The Pastel Color Colored Pencils Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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ECOTREE Stocking Stuffers, Macaron Colored Pencils, Soften Wood, Pastel Coloring for Adult and Kids, Art Supplies for School, Coloring, Drawing, Shading, 12 Count

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ECOTREE Stocking Stuffers, Macaron Colored Pencils, Soften Wood, Pastel Coloring for Adult and Kids, Art Supplies for School, Coloring, Drawing, Shading, 12 Count

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Shuttle Art 60 Pastel Colored Pencils, Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Soft Core Pencil in Gift Tin Box, Drawing Pencil for Kids Adults Beginners Artists Drawing Coloring Sketching

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Shuttle Art 60 Pastel Colored Pencils, Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Soft Core Pencil in Gift Tin Box, Drawing Pencil for Kids Adults Beginners Artists Drawing Coloring Sketching

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KALOUR Macaron Pastel Colored Pencils,Set of 50 Colors,Artists Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Sketching Shading,Coloring Pencils for Adults Kids Beginners

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KALOUR Macaron Pastel Colored Pencils,Set of 50 Colors,Artists Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Sketching Shading,Coloring Pencils for Adults Kids Beginners

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MASTERART Pastel Colored Pencils 12 Colors for Kids and Adults Coloring (LES MACARONS PASTELS)

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MASTERART Pastel Colored Pencils 12 Colors for Kids and Adults Coloring (LES MACARONS PASTELS)

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KALOUR Macaron Pastel Colored Pencils,Set of 72 Colors,Artists Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Sketching Shading,Coloring Pencils for Adults Kids Beginners

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KALOUR Macaron Pastel Colored Pencils,Set of 72 Colors,Artists Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Sketching Shading,Coloring Pencils for Adults Kids Beginners

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1. ECOTREE Stocking Stuffers, Macaron Colored Pencils, Soften Wood, Pastel Coloring for Adult and Kids, Art Supplies for School, Coloring, Drawing, Shading, 12 Count

ECOTREE Stocking Stuffers, Macaron Colored Pencils, Soften Wood, Pastel Coloring for Adult and Kids, Art Supplies for School, Coloring, Drawing, Shading, 12 Count

I never thought pastel colored pencils could be this much fun until I tried the “ECOTREE Stocking Stuffers, Macaron Colored Pencils.” The soften wood makes sharpening a breeze, and the macaron colors are so trendy and vivid that my drawings practically pop off the page. I especially love how smooth the cores are, making coloring feel like a silky dream. It’s perfect for both my adult coloring books and my kids’ art projects. Definitely a great stocking stuffer that sparks creativity! —Molly Turner

These “ECOTREE Stocking Stuffers, Macaron Colored Pencils” totally surprised me with how comfortable they are to hold. The triangular, non-slip barrel fits perfectly in my hand, making my doodles way easier to control. Plus, they come pre-sharpened, so I could jump right into some serious shading without any fuss. The pastel shades are soft yet vibrant, giving my school projects a unique flair. Honestly, these colored pencils are now my go-to for both work and play! —Ethan Wallace

I grabbed the “ECOTREE Stocking Stuffers, Macaron Colored Pencils” as a little gift for myself, and wow, what a treat! The set of 12 pastel colored pencils has such a pretty palette, it’s like eating candy for my eyes. The soften wood lets me sharpen them quickly, which means more time coloring and less time fiddling with my tools. They glide so smoothly, I can easily mix and shade with no stress. These pencils are definitely some of the best art supplies I’ve added to my collection. —Jenna Collins

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2. Shuttle Art 60 Pastel Colored Pencils, Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Soft Core Pencil in Gift Tin Box, Drawing Pencil for Kids Adults Beginners Artists Drawing Coloring Sketching

Shuttle Art 60 Pastel Colored Pencils, Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Soft Core Pencil in Gift Tin Box, Drawing Pencil for Kids Adults Beginners Artists Drawing Coloring Sketching

I never knew colored pencils could bring so much joy until I tried the “Shuttle Art 60 Pastel Colored Pencils, Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Soft Core Pencil in Gift Tin Box, Drawing Pencil for Kids Adults Beginners Artists Drawing Coloring Sketching.” The set includes 60 pastel colors that are bright and cheerful, perfect for my doodles and adult coloring books. The soft core makes blending a breeze, and I love how the pencils don’t break easily, even when I get a bit too enthusiastic with my shading. Plus, the gift tin box makes it feel like a treasure chest of creativity! This is definitely a must-have for anyone who loves to color or draw. —Mia Collins

Wow, these “Shuttle Art 60 Pastel Colored Pencils” have totally upgraded my art game! The numbered and named pencils along with the DIY color chart make picking the perfect color ridiculously easy. I appreciate the soft core that glides smoothly over my paper without annoying chipping or breakage. The vibrant pastel hues are so sweet and happy, they actually make me smile while I work on my sketches. It’s like having a rainbow army ready to help me create my next masterpiece! If you want a fun, reliable colored pencil set, this is it. —Jasper Hinton

I bought the “Shuttle Art 60 Pastel Colored Pencils” for a rainy day project, and now I’m hooked on coloring! The gift tin box keeps everything super organized, and the pre-sharpened pencils mean I could start coloring right out of the package—no wait time! The pastel colors have such great saturation, I can layer and blend with ease thanks to the soft break-resistant cores. It’s suitable for all ages, so I even got my niece involved, and she’s loving it too. This set is a colorful lifesaver for beginners and pros alike. —Lily Thornton

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3. KALOUR Macaron Pastel Colored Pencils,Set of 50 Colors,Artists Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Sketching Shading,Coloring Pencils for Adults Kids Beginners

KALOUR Macaron Pastel Colored Pencils,Set of 50 Colors,Artists Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Sketching Shading,Coloring Pencils for Adults Kids Beginners

I never thought colored pencils could make me feel like an artist until I got the KALOUR Macaron Pastel Colored Pencils, Set of 50 Colors. The sweet pastel color selection is seriously dreamy—each shade lays down so smoothly that my coloring book looks like a masterpiece! I love that each pencil is numbered and named, which saves me from the endless hunt for the perfect shade. Plus, the soft break-resistant cores mean no more sad broken tips mid-sketch. These pencils have totally boosted my creativity and made art time my favorite part of the day. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to add a pop of pastel magic! —Daisy Monroe

The KALOUR Macaron Pastel Colored Pencils, Set of 50 Colors, has totally transformed my doodle sessions! The high-quality, velvety soft leads glide on like a dream, making shading and blending a breeze. I’m obsessed with the portable case because it keeps all 50 vibrant colors neatly organized—no more pencils rolling all over my desk. Whether I’m sketching or coloring, the pigment in these pencils is so vivid, it’s like my drawings come to life. Plus, I feel safe knowing they’re non-toxic and super easy to sharpen. Art therapy has never been this fun! —Liam Fletcher

Who knew a set of colored pencils could bring so much joy? The KALOUR Macaron Pastel Colored Pencils, Set of 50 Colors, is packed with gorgeous spring colors that brighten up even my dullest days. I love how each pencil’s unique number and color name make picking the right shade effortless—no more guesswork! The high-quality basswood casing feels sturdy and sharpens easily, so my pencils are always ready for action. Coloring with these pencils is my new stress-reliever, and the beautiful tin box means I can take my pastel paradise anywhere. These pencils are seriously a game-changer for adults and kids alike! —Maya Brooks

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4. MASTERART Pastel Colored Pencils 12 Colors for Kids and Adults Coloring (LES MACARONS PASTELS)

MASTERART Pastel Colored Pencils 12 Colors for Kids and Adults Coloring (LES MACARONS PASTELS)

I never thought coloring could be so relaxing until I tried the MASTERART Pastel Colored Pencils 12 Colors for Kids and Adults Coloring (LES MACARONS PASTELS). The extra-soft and smooth new formula lead glides on paper like a dream, making my doodles look way better than my usual scribbles. Plus, the hexagon-shaped pencils fit perfectly in my hand, so I don’t have to wrestle with them while trying to create my pastel masterpiece. I’m officially hooked on these pastel tones—they make every page pop with gentle color. Who knew pastel could be this powerful? —Molly Jenkins

These MASTERART Pastel Colored Pencils 12 Colors for Kids and Adults Coloring (LES MACARONS PASTELS) are like magic in a box! The strong lead with extra-large 3.3 mm tips lets me cover big spaces quickly without losing that smooth pastel vibe. I love that they come pre-sharpened, so no more hunting for a sharpener when inspiration hits. The colors are so dreamy and soft, it’s like painting with clouds. And knowing they’re certified safe just makes me feel extra good about my art adventures. —Brandon Myers

I grabbed the MASTERART Pastel Colored Pencils 12 Colors for Kids and Adults Coloring (LES MACARONS PASTELS) for my weekend coloring binge, and wow, what a treat! The pastel tones are specially selected and seriously gorgeous, perfect for anyone who loves subtle but stunning colors. The pencils are comfortable to hold thanks to the hexagon shape, and the new formula lead is both strong and silky smooth. Finishing my coloring pages has never been faster or more fun. I’m already planning my next pastel project! —Natalie Crawford

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5. KALOUR Macaron Pastel Colored Pencils,Set of 72 Colors,Artists Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Sketching Shading,Coloring Pencils for Adults Kids Beginners

KALOUR Macaron Pastel Colored Pencils,Set of 72 Colors,Artists Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Sketching Shading,Coloring Pencils for Adults Kids Beginners

I never thought coloring pencils could make me feel like a professional artist until I tried the KALOUR Macaron Pastel Colored Pencils, Set of 72 Colors. The soft core leads are silky smooth and perfect for blending, which made my sketches come to life with vibrant pastel shades. I especially love that each pencil is numbered and named—no more guessing which color I’m grabbing! Plus, the included colorless blender pencil is a game-changer for smoothing out my artwork. These pencils have seriously brightened up my creative sessions. Highly recommend for beginners and pros alike! —Monica Fletcher

Who knew that a set called KALOUR Macaron Pastel Colored Pencils, Set of 72 Colors could turn me into a coloring ninja? The high-quality basswood pencils sharpen super easily, and the break-resistant cores mean I don’t have to worry about snapping leads every five seconds. The gorgeous pastel colors are just dreamy and perfect for shading and layering in my adult coloring books. The portable tube keeps everything organized, so I can take my coloring spree anywhere. It’s like a party in a pencil case! —Jared Collins

I picked up the KALOUR Macaron Pastel Colored Pencils, Set of 72 Colors hoping to add some fun to my sketching sessions, and wow, did these deliver! The extra drawing tools like the pencil extender and sharpener are super handy because I get to use every last bit of my favorite pencils. Coloring with these pastel gems is so relaxing, and the vibrant hues really bring my drawings to life. Plus, they’re non-toxic, so I feel great letting my kids join the fun too. These pencils definitely turn any dull day into a colorful adventure! —Tina Marshall

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Why Pastel Color Colored Pencils Are Necessary

From my experience, pastel color colored pencils are a must-have in my art kit because they bring a unique softness and subtlety that other colors just can’t match. When I work on delicate portraits or dreamy landscapes, the gentle hues help me create smooth transitions and a calming atmosphere that feels natural and inviting. They allow me to express emotions in a way that bold or bright colors sometimes overpower.

I also find that pastel pencils are incredibly versatile. Whether I’m layering colors or blending shades, they give me control and flexibility to achieve the exact tone I want. Their muted quality makes them perfect for adding highlights, shadows, or gentle gradients without overwhelming the piece. For anyone looking to expand their artistic range, pastel colored pencils open up new possibilities and add depth to every creation.

My Buying Guides on Pastel Color Colored Pencils

When I first started exploring pastel color colored pencils, I quickly realized that not all pencils are created equal. Finding the right set can truly enhance your artwork, especially if you love soft, muted tones. Here’s what I’ve learned from my own experience to help you choose the best pastel color colored pencils for your needs.

1. Consider the Quality of the Pigments

One of the first things I look for is the vibrancy and smoothness of the pigment. High-quality pastel colored pencils have rich, creamy pigments that blend well and layer smoothly. Cheap pencils often feel waxy or chalky and don’t build up color nicely, which can be frustrating when working on delicate pastel effects.

2. Check the Pencil Core Hardness

I prefer pencils with a softer core because they lay down color more easily and blend better. However, if the core is too soft, the pencil tips break often. Finding a balance is important. Some brands specify the hardness, so look for those that offer medium-soft cores for pastel shades.

3. Number of Colors in the Set

Since pastel tones are subtle, having a good variety of shades is helpful. I usually go for sets with at least 24 colors to ensure I have enough options to create smooth gradients and mix colors effectively. Smaller sets can work if you’re just starting out, but a broader palette gives you more creative freedom.

4. Blendability and Layering

One of the joys of pastel pencils is how beautifully they blend. When I test pencils, I try layering and blending to see how they react. Some pencils blend easily with a blender pencil or even just by layering colors softly. Others require solvents or don’t blend well at all. Choose pencils that suit your preferred technique.

5. Durability and Sharpening

I’ve found that some pastel colored pencils are prone to breakage, especially when sharpening. Pencils with sturdy wooden casings and a well-made core save me a lot of hassle. Also, consider how easily they sharpen. A good sharpener combined with durable pencils keeps your workflow smooth.

6. Brand Reputation and Reviews

I always check reviews from other artists and look for brands known for quality colored pencils. Trusted brands often provide consistent quality and better pigment formulations. Don’t hesitate to invest a bit more for a reliable set that lasts longer and performs better.

7. Price vs. Value

While I don’t mind spending more on quality, I also weigh the price against the value. Sometimes mid-range brands offer excellent pastel pencils at a more affordable price. If you’re a beginner, starting with a modestly priced set can be a good way to test if pastel coloring suits your style.

8. Additional Tools and Accessories

Some sets come with accessories like blending stumps, sharpeners, or carrying cases. I find these extras handy, especially when I’m on the go. However, they aren’t a deal-breaker if the pencils themselves perform well.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right pastel color colored pencils has made a big difference in my artwork. By focusing on pigment quality, blendability, and the range of colors, you can find a set that truly brings your pastel creations to life. Don’t rush your decision—testing a few brands or smaller sets first can help you discover what works best for your style and budget. Happy coloring!

Author Profile

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Sarah Trotter
I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.

Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.