travel colored pencil set

Gear to Go ‘With’: A Colored Pencil Set for the Mountains and Beyond

If you're an artist with big adventure plans but limited pack space, With's colored pencil set just might make it into your permanent kit.

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It’s not difficult to find art supply kits aimed at travelers of all stripes . But often, these kits are just miniaturized versions of full-size supplies. The nods towards packability, accessibility, durability, and clean design can be cursory at best.

That’s a problem Kirk Bierens set out to solve when he launched his travel art supply company With last month.

A lifelong artist , Bierens wants to facilitate the creative drive in others and homed in on the ability to meet that drive at a moment’s notice as the best way to do so. If you’re an artist with big adventure plans but limited pack space, With’s cleverly designed colored pencil set just might make it into your permanent kit.

“It’s very healthy to be creative. It’s therapeutic. And I am trying to give people the ability [to create] anywhere they’re at,” Bierens told me via phone interview from the Big Gear Show , an outdoor trade show this past weekend in Denver.

“You’re stuck somewhere, and you’re like, ‘Oh, I could actually create right now versus surf on my phone.’ To create versus consume,” he continued.

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‘With’ Design and Features

So what makes the With kit any different from rubberbanding a handful of colored pencils together and tossing them into a stuff sack?

Well, the heart of the system is the use of colored lead inserts that pair with a single mechanical pencil. This form serves multiple functions, Bierens explained.

One, it minimizes the space and weight that traditional wood-wrapped colored pencils bring to the party. Two, it means that even as your lead shortens, the tool you’re holding (the mechanical pencil) stays the same size. And three, sharpening the leads doesn’t create nearly as much waste as sharpening traditional pencils would — waste that you’d have to pack out like the good Leave No Trace-loving camper I know you are.

With’s colored pencil kit also includes a sharpener and a two-surfaced eraser. But the real eyecatcher is the clever lead storage system, a slim plastic gizmo that accordions out to display your colors while in use and folds back into a svelte package when you’re done sketching.

All of the tools slide neatly into a waxed canvas bag, complete with a carabiner loop. Not enough travel art sets seem to realize that nobody wants to spend 3 minutes of a 10-minute sketching block rummaging around inside a pack looking for supplies. The ability to clip the With kit to external webbing or pocket on a pack is a crucial win.

Bonus points: With sources the bag fabric from North Carolina and sews and dyes them in-house at the HQ in Grand Rapids, Mich.

The whole kit runs $64 and is available directly from With’s website . Shipping is free in the U.S.

More Than Just Pencils

With is a young brand, but Bierens already has concrete plans to expand into watercolors and markers, two other popular travel art mediums. The details are still a secret, but suffice it to say Bierens and his team are applying the same attention to common problems as they did with the colored pencil set.

Essentially, Bierens told me, he wants With to become the best travel art kit for outdoor adventurers . Or, as he reminded me again and again: anybody, anywhere.

“I’m almost 50,” he said. “If I spend the next 20 or 30 years of my life building a brand that helps people create art anywhere they’re at, I’m happy.”

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Andrew Marshall is a writer, illustrator, and photographer living and adventuring in the Smoky Mountains. His work across all three disciplines has earned Excellence in Craft awards from his colleagues in the Outdoor Writers Association of America for two years in a row.

Born and raised in the southern Appalachians, Andrew recently returned to his beloved home range after 10 years in the American West. He’s relieved to once again have access to a decent pulled-pork barbeque sandwich with South Carolina-style mustard sauce, but the weather is more humid than he remembered. You can find him on the web at www.andrewmarshallimages.com, on Instagram @andrewmarshallimages, or on Twitter @pawn_andrew. Fair warning: social media content is frequently cat-related.  

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Best Colored Pencils And Markers For a Traveling Artist

Creative juices don't have to suffer because you're traveling the world. Capture your inspiration with the best colored pencils and markers.

Spencer Jones • Mar 31, 2023

Inspiration has a way of striking at random. If you’re looking for colored pencils and markers to pack in your suitcase, Travel Noire has some great suggestions.

When you don’t feel like hauling oil paints and brushes, colored pencils and markers are a great substitute. Unlike oil or acrylic paints, you don’t need to worry about needing ventilation, wearing a mask or using an apron to protect your clothes.

Skilled artists can use markers or colored pencils to make art that looks like a painting. Nearly anything is possible with practice and dedication.

Create your next masterpiece with these colored pencils and markers.

Copic Sketch Markers

This pack of markers is perfect for creating a blueprint for your drawing.

The ink is ethanol-based and non-toxic, and the tips are replaceable. Copic Sketch markers have been a favorite of illustrators and other creatives for years, with good reason. Their quality is unmatched.

Each marker has a feather tip on one end and a square tip on the other. This pack of sketch markers includes five variations of neutral grey. There’s also a 0.5-weight multi-liner pen to give your drawing that extra push.

As a suggestion, artists should test these markers out on a small piece of paper first. That will allow you to get a feel for how to blend them. Artists should also consider using a gel pen for an extra bit of razzle-dazzle.

Prismacolor Marker Set

If you’re looking for a marker that allows you to fill broad spaces with vibrant color, you can’t go wrong with the Prismacolor line.

Each marker has a chiseled end, if you need more ink, and a smaller nub for finer details.

You probably won’t need to pack all 72 markers, but they are great to have on hand. The colors are consistent and blend well. They are most compatible with Bristol smooth paper.

Prismacolor Colored Pencils Set

Whether you’re looking to do a quick sketch or a polished drawing, Prismacolor’s colored pencils set can really give your art a professional look. This set has 36 beautiful colors. Unless you apply an inordinate amount of pressure, they won’t break while you’re working on that beautiful landscape or portrait.

Prismacolor colored pencils are best suited for experienced artists.

Reaeon Calligraphy Markers

If you’re into calligraphy, check out Reaeon’s line of calligraphy markers. Take your pick from 34 bright and vibrant colors, including various reds, blues and purples.

These markers are great for aimless doodling in your sketchbook. One side allows you to do brush strokes, while the other has a fine tip. If your child is an aspiring artist, and you want to keep them busy without spending a fortune, the Reaeon markers are an ideal option.

Soucolor Colored Pencil Set

These 72 colored pencils will be delivered to you in an eco-friendly tube that is great for travel. They not only are good for sketching and coloring, but also blend pretty well.

Please note that they are best suited for adults and older children. Some users mention that these are just as good as Prismacolor pencils and cost significantly less. Buy them and judge for yourself.

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The Best Watercolor Travel Sets for Artists Who Love Traveling

Written by Robert S. Brown  / Fact checked by Helen B. Harris

If you are flying 38,000 feet off the ground or on a train running miles away from your hometown, you have the perks of a wanderer: to take delight in bright blue skies, red-orange sunsets, and breathtaking landscapes.

However, for an artist who moves places, every trip is worthwhile when you capture these picturesque sights and draw them in your sketchbook using a brush or pencil. For a vast spectrum of colors and artistic effects, perhaps you go for the best watercolor travel set. But the next question is, what should you look for when choosing a portable watercolor set?

• First of all, a watercolor travel kit should be portable and compact enough to put away in your luggage or pocket. A gawky and bulky watercolor set would be too cumbersome to carry around and probably end up in disarray.
• Furthermore, it is significant to consider what a travel watercolor kit consists of. Besides the color palette, does it include a travel-friendly brush or a sponge? Does it come with a handy carrying bag for hassle-free storage? Although the accessories and tools depend on your preferences and needs, a complete mini watercolor set only delivers the essential tools.
• Another crucial part is the overall quality of colors. A small watercolor set should not present substandard pigment quality and blend- No matter how compact it is or how few the color options are, the pigments should be vibrant, blendable, and lightfast.

Not all artists travel by plane. But if you do, make sure you get a TSA-approved watercolor set. Aside from that, there is much more to learn in this comprehensive guide and review. I will show you the in-depth guidelines, as well as the top-pick products that best suit your artistic demands.

Sakura XNCW-24N

Winsor & Newton 390640

Lightwish MeiLiang

Table of Contents

1. Sakura XNCW-24N Koi Watercolor Pocket Field Sketch Box

2. winsor & newton 390640 cotman water colour paint, 3. lightwish meiliang watercolor paint set, 4. artsy watercolor paint set, 5. meeden 4336971288 watercolor paint set, 6. jerry q art jq-124 watercolor travel pocket set, 7. artistro 432 watercolor paint set, 8. sennelier 10-131605 french artists watercolor travel set, 9. artify ‎4336953153 watercolor field sketch set, 10. winsor & newton 390658 cotman watercolor brush paint set, what to look for when buying watercolor travel sets, what is the most reliable watercolor travel set brand, can you fly with watercolor paint, how do you do a watercolor travel journal, what is included in a watercolor travel set, top 10 watercolor travel set reviews.

From its size to quantity, you can tell that this Sakura Koi watercolor travel kit is thoughtfully curated for painters or artists who love traveling. It features a compact size and sleek design that you can easily fit inside your bag or even your shirt pocket.

Impressively, this small set has the essential tools for basic watercolor painting, with a water brush (refillable) and a half-pan watercolor set.

The colors are formulated to present beautiful and vivid hues. Aside from that, the highly pigmented shades blend well to create a wide range of colors.

Moreover, it uses no ordinary brush; it is a refillable water brush that lets you paint without using a container with water.

Since you can fill it up with water, you can simply take it out of your pocket or bag and are all set for a painting session! You can paint effortlessly even when you are on a plane, on a train, or sitting by the park for Plein air painting.

In addition to that, this kit comes with a detachable pegged palette where you can mix your favorite colors. When you are all done, you can just place it back inside the kit for hassle-free and neat storage.

I also want to emphasize the base pull-down ring at the back of the watercolor set. Although it is just a small detail, I found the ring is quite useful if you want to keep the palette steady as you hold it. While it keeps the watercolor kit from sliding off your palm, the ring also helps you paint comfortably wherever you are.

• Compact and sleek design
• Includes a water brush tip and a detachable mixing palette
• Fits perfectly in bag or shirt pockets
• Highly blendable and pigmented colors
• Has a base pull-down ring for easy holding
• Paint blocks need stronger adhesion to prevent from falling out

For professional quality watercolor set brands, Winsor & Newton is among the ones that always come to mind. The colors deliver high-quality pigments that explicitly showcase your art with vibrant hues and artistic painting effects. Plus, the colors in the palette blend impeccably well.

This pocket watercolor set includes 12 Cotman Watercolors that render good transparency to create beautiful washes. I also noticed that these colors have intense tints and uniform consistency that lend an excellent layout of colors.

Therefore, even though these are half-pan watercolors, there is no need to build the colors to achieve their vividness. A few dabs and strokes can already create rich watercolor tones.

Aside from that, I appreciate the addition of white in the range. Although the white tone of the paper serves as a brilliant backdrop for watercolors, the white pigment can ramp up the drawing or watercolor art with highlights and subtle color mixtures.

All these amazing features come in a small watercolor palette that can fit inside your shirt or bag pocket. The longest side is roughly six inches and just a tad bigger than a card! Even when you open it, the upper side has partitions where you can mix colors.

• A half-pan watercolor pocket set that offers brilliant colors
• Pocket-sized watercolor travel kit for superior portability
• Designed with a mixing palette in the lid
• Includes a small brush
• The brush is too small and slightly difficult to use

The best thing about this MeiLiang traveling watercolor kit is the great color selection that does not break your bank. With just a slight difference from the price of the Winsor & Newton Cotman watercolor paint set, you can indulge in a wider color range with this one.

Right before that, the first thing that caught my attention was the metal case. Contrary to most portable watercolor sets I have seen on the market, this one uses a sturdy case that keeps the pan secure.

Even when you stack in your fully packed luggage, there is no need to worry about breaking or damaging your watercolor palette.

Besides that, the flip cover works as a mixing palette as well. Similar to the Sakura Koi watercolor travel set, this one also has a metal ring under the case for steady and hassle-free painting.

When it comes to the color quality, I must say that it is pretty impressive since they are highly pigmented and fluid. This allows you to create glazing effects and revel in smooth watercolors without any chalky or grainy textures after drying.

Moreover, it features a compact size, perfect for traveling. It is long but has a sleek and slim design that you can easily slip into your pocket or bag.

Another useful addition is the refillable watercolor brush that makes painting a lot easier and mess-free. I can simply take it out and paint it on my watercolor travel journal whenever and wherever I like.

• Offers a wide selection of highly pigmented colors
• Creates beautiful glazing effects that without grainy textures when dried
• Comes in a sturdy metal case
• Slim and sleek design
• Includes a water brush
• The brush has some loose bristles

The highlight of this Artsy Watercolor paint set is the innovative pocket design. The first time I saw it, I did not think it would have 42 colors! This artistic palette comes in different trays that you can fan out to see the vibrant array of assorted colors.

Every tray has color labels at the bottom to help you identify which colors to use. I find this useful since some colors, particularly the orange and red shades, look a bit identical. Thankfully, there are no duplicates in the colors, allowing you to mix and play with various combinations.

Moreover, these beautiful pigments are lightfast and vivid, allowing you to showcase watercolor artworks with their amazing color quality. Mixing the colors is not a problem at all since they are highly blendable. Plus, they dry quickly, preventing any ink pooling and grainy textures.

When you are done painting, you can simply slide each tray back to its palette for storing. This leaves you an ultra-compact and portable watercolor set that you can fit in your shirt or bag pocket.

One of the best things I love about this set is the water brushes. Unlike some portable watercolor paint sets that only have one water brush or paint brush, this one includes three water brushes. They work as backup brushes in case you like mixing a lot of colors or filling up your watercolor journal with your travels.

In addition to that, this set has a sponge where you can dry and clean your brushes after painting.

• Innovative compact design for enhanced portability
• Offers an array of pigmented colors
• Highly blendable and quick-drying
• Includes three water brushes and a sponge
• Intuitive pan display and labels to identify and view all the colors
• Color pans are not replaceable

Comparing this beside the Artsy watercolor paint set, you can see some striking similarities with the innovative pan display, color labels, and even the painting tools. Moreover, it comes at an affordable price range.

If you look closely at these palettes, the differences fall under the brush and color selection. Both have 42 colors but this one has darker tones in neutrals, greens, and blues. When you mix them with water, the colors beautifully blended, presenting rich and artistic watercolor washes.

As I work with these watercolors, I also noticed that they dry quickly and can resist fading as well. Curated with a vast array of colors, this palette allows you to create an endless range of vibrant hues for artistic and colorful artwork.

With regard to its design, this travel watercolor paint set does not fail to impress with its unique palette design. Similar to the Artsy portable watercolor kit, you can fan out the palette and swipe out to different tabs to find the color you need. Aside from that, there are color labels to easily identify the shades.

When you put everything away, it shifts into a lightweight and compact palette that you can slip inside your bag or pocket. Another sweet treat is the addition of four different water brush sizes that you can use for fine to broad applications. Not to mention the addition of a sponge to clean and dry your brushes.

• Ultra-lightweight and compact palette design
• Offers a great selection of pigmented watercolors
• Quick-drying and lightfast colors
• Includes four refillable water brushes in various sizes
• Does not have a hard case or cover to protect the palette

It can be a bit challenging for a beginner watercolor artist to find the best watercolor travel set to start with. With that said, this Jerry Q Art pocket set has the tools an amateur artist needs when traveling and painting with watercolors.

Sifting through the details, this pocket watercolor set features a slim and sleek design for enhanced portability. Once you open the lid, it is pretty awesome to find an array of beautiful colors along with the necessary painting tools. This includes a water brush, a small sponge, and detachable mixing pans.

For a beginner, I bet these tools and color selection are more than enough to start with a watercolor travel journal. Since everything is compact, there is no trouble putting them away in a small pocket in your shirt or bag.

Though it is made of plastic, it is surprisingly sturdy. I also like how the lid closes tightly, keeping the palette secure and protected whenever you travel.

While that already sounds impressive, the colors do not fall short of their quality and performance. The brilliant colors have a nice amount of pigment, revealing a bright and stunning spectrum of colors. Furthermore, these watercolors are highly blendable, making it much easier to create washes and preserve some translucent watercolor effects.

One more thing I noticed is the ceramic calligraphy tray. I did not know what to use it for but I think it would be useful for artists who practice calligraphy art.

• A portable and great quality starting watercolor kit for beginners
• Sleek and slim design for hassle-free transportation
• Brilliant color selection; very pigmented hues
• Highly blendable colors that can create vibrant washes
• Includes a water brush, a calligraphy pan, a sponge, and a removable mixing tray
• No color labels; difficult to find matching watercolor replacements

At first glance, I could already tell that this watercolor paint set would be an exquisite gem. Right from its vibrant mint metal box and dainty artwork details, ARTISTRO did a great job of making this kit to be aesthetically pleasing as possible. I even love the elegant metal lid lock that looks like the one you see on classic musical boxes.

Upon opening the watercolor palette, everything inside is even more fascinating. You can see all 48 vibrant colors arranged into a neat and beautiful layout – ranging from light to dark tones.

On the upper part of the lid is an organized space for the essential painting tools. This includes a water brush pen, a sponge, a drawing pencil, an eraser, a watercolor brush, and a swatch sheet. Plus, there are small watercolor sheets as well. As a beginner, I sincerely do not think there is anything else to ask for!

The palette is a combination of pigmented fluorescents and metallics, rendering unique, vibrant colors. When mixing the colors, I can tell that the watercolors are highly blendable, producing rich washes and artistic textures. Mind you, the binder is thick and a bit gelatinous, causing the watercolors to create grainy or granulated textures and finishes.

With that in mind, some artists might not fancy such grainy textures. However, this allows you to create artistic effects and colors besides smooth and colorful washes. I find this an amazing trick to amplify watercolor artworks. Aside from that, the exclusive water brush pen and original brush make blending and layering effortless.

On the other hand, the size is not as compact and slim as the previous watercolor sets on the list. It is a bit bulky though it can still fit well in your bag. And since it is a metal tin case, it can protect the palette from damages.

• Offers vibrant and pigmented colors that can produce washes
• Creates granulated textures for unique and artistic effects
• Includes essential painting tools for convenient travel painting
• Comes in a sturdy metal tin case for added protection
• Suitable for advanced and professional artists
• Not the ideal option for beginners
• Slightly bulky compared to other compact watercolor sets

I have always been hunting for the best watercolor paints for professionals. But my curious self has always wanted to try other reputable brands other than Winsor & Newton. Thus, Sennelier was my next target, and I am glad I did give it a shot.

I hear a lot of amazing things about this brand, particularly the superb quality of watercolors. However, I admit that the price tag is the least attractive thing. But the question is, what is so special about it? To concur with the reviews and rumors, it was definitely the pigmented colors that I have seen the best so far.

Unbeknownst to many, the highlighted ingredient is honey. This helps preserve the longevity and quality of colors, making them impeccably brilliant and luminous at the same time.

As expected, the colors give off vivid hues that blend nicely in a beautiful shade. Even with simply dampening the colors, it is easy to obtain pigments and render bright washes and representations of what every color should be.

In terms of portability, this half-pan watercolor palette is small and slim, providing an ideal size for traveling. Plus, it comes in a sturdy metal case that secures all the colors.

• Impeccably brilliant and pigmented colors that easily blend
• Creates vivid strokes and washes even with just a few dabs
• Very compact and sleek design for hassle-free storage and travel painting
• Comes in a sturdy metal tin case
• Excellent color longevity
• No brushes included

Another budget-friendly option for watercolor travel sets is this one from Artify. This mini kit gives amateur watercolor artists a chance to try great quality watercolor without breaking their banks. I know for sure because I have seen the quality pigments that produce an imaginative and endless range of colors.

Impressively, the colors blend well and deliver vibrant hues when mixed with water. Therefore, making washes and artistic effects would not be a problem. Aside from that, the watercolors dry quickly, preventing any messy spills that can bleed through paper.

How about the size? I must say that this set is the perfect fit for your pocket whether it is a bag or your shirt. The plastic case is sturdy, securing the palette from any damage.

In addition to its portable and innovative design, I think the removable palette is genius. Not only can you arrange the colors according to your preference, but also reuse and wash them should you ever need to. Plus, the mixing tray is detachable and can be placed anywhere within your reach.

Some artists might not find this a big deal but I was impressed by how thoughtful the manufacturer designed the palette this way. Thus, it can accommodate left and right-hand painters.

Moreover, three brushes and two sponges complete this watercolor travel kit. The ring at the back of the base keeps the palette convenient to hold. Hence, this makes painting and traveling fun and easy to do!

• Removable and customizable mixing tray to accommodate left and right-hand painters
• Compact design
• Includes essential painting tools (three brushes and two sponges)
• Designed with a base ring for comfortable painting sessions
• Some paints break easily when not properly stored

When it comes to Winsor & Newton, I have nothing to expect but satisfying results in terms of color blends and vibrancy. Luckily, this Cotman Watercolor Brush Pen set is not so different from my favorite watercolor sets from this brand.

First of all, the size of this half-pan set ensures hassle-free storage when you are traveling. It is so dainty that you can fit inside your shirt pocket or mini compartments in your bag. When it is closed, it presents an understated yet sophisticated design that you can take out for a quick paint session anywhere you go.

As soon as you open the lid, the upper space provides partitions where you can mix different colors. Afterward, my eyes took me to the color labels that are neatly presented to help you organize and identify colors. Since the pans are replaceable, the color labels are crucial when finding matching shades.

As usual, Winsor & Newton did it again with this impressive array of colors. They deliver quality pigments even with just a few dabs, allowing you to create vivid washes and artistic watercolor effects.

Aside from that, the water brush pen is a handy addition to this set. It lets you paint without dipping into the water and start with your painting right away. And since it is refillable, you can simply fill it up whenever you have to. The clear barrel or reservoir lets you know how much water you have used.

• Creates vibrant color blends and watercolor effects
• Designed with color labels for easy identification
• Has a mixing tray to blend colors
• Includes a water brush pen
• Very compact
• Water flows heavily sometimes

Portability and Storage

When looking for a travel watercolor set, it is reasonable to consider whether it is compact enough to put away in your pocket or luggage. Since you will be moving from one place to another, it will not be practical to add some unnecessary weight to your things.

With that said, you must have a portable set that you can easily take out or put away and keep in mind that a complete travel painting kit does not need to be big and bulky. Fortunately, some brands offer foldable watercolor palettes and travel-friendly sizes that you can easily slip into your pocket or bag.

Accessories and Tools

A set consists of a variety of tools and accessories that will provide you with a complete setup for painting on the go. For a watercolor travel set, it should at least include a portable and refillable water brush. Since you will be traveling by air or land, this type of brush dispenses water as you paint, allowing you to paint right on the spot conveniently.

There is no need to fill up a container or cup with water, which can end up quite messy while traveling. Just fill the brush up and you are all set to paint anytime and anywhere you want. Some sets also include a pencil, a sponge to dry the brush, and a paint palette for mixing colors. Others have multiple refillable brushes for versatile applications.

Pigment Quality

Many artists use watercolor because it can spruce up drawings and sketches with an array of vivid colors. Aside from that, it can add unique effects to your artwork, especially if you love working with mixed media.

Therefore, it is important that you have high-quality pigments so as to deliver a vibrant spectrum of colors. No matter how few the color options are, a lightfast and premium quality watercolor palette can exhibit promising results.

Color Selection

The color selection all depends on your preferences and needs. But since watercolor travel sets usually have limited options, it would be better to stick with the primary shades. They typically come in sets of 9 or 12.

Lucky you if you can have more options without comprising the storage properties and portability. Some brands offer more than the usual colors that come in 24, 36, 42, 48, or more packed in a foldable or compact case.

Blendability

Watercolor is among the versatile art media that allows you to mix and blend colors, creating a custom color selection for your artwork. A watercolor travel kit homemade palette usually has that, presenting your favorite shades and mixtures.

A portable or mini travel watercolor palette should also let you do so despite the limited amount and selection of colors. Moreover, the excellent blendability allows you to maximize your palette and achieve your desired color combinations. Hence, you can browse the reviews or test the watercolor set for seamless color gradients.

TSA Approved (Transportation Security Administration)

This is a mandatory factor to consider for those who are planning to fly with their watercolor sets. Airlines provide specific and detailed regulations about the items that you are allowed to bring in a carry-on.

In general, TSA has restrictions on liquid watercolors. Every tube of watercolor paint should be no more than 3.4 ounces, and all wrapped in clear zip-top bags. For dry watercolor palette sets, they are relatively much easier to bring on a plane since they come in compact and convenient sizes.

It is quite hard to tell because there are a lot of amazing brands that offer excellent watercolor travel sets. However, Sakura is by far the most reliable brand for great quality watercolor sets that feature assorted colors and essential tools. Plus, they come at a reasonable price range. But if it is about budget-friendly decent watercolor sets that have a wide array of colors, I would go for MEEDEN.

On the other hand, Winsor & Newton and Sennelier are my favorite brands for professional quality watercolors. They might be relatively more expensive than other brands but they have a reliable lineup of portable watercolor sets that let you paint like a pro.

Yes, you can as long as your watercolor paint palettes and sets do not violate the TSA’s regulations and restrictions. As mentioned, TSA is lenient with dry watercolor travel sets because of their small and convenient size, allowing you to bring them on a carry-on without any trouble.

The first thing you can do is list your itinerary. Jot down where you would go first and the places you would probably pass by. Sometimes, you can be spontaneous and draw the scenes and unforgettable memories you would like to record and remember. Thus, Make sure to bring a travel or portable watercolor journal or drawing book with you.

Like a travel photo journal or album, a watercolor travel journal lets you record memories, events, and beautiful sights, but with a different method – painting. For example, you can paint the dinner or lunch you have had, a beautiful sunset, or even the view from your hotel or train. As you capture these events, you can doodle around your drawings or write what your painting is all about.

Apart from the watercolor palette, a watercolor travel set usually includes a small or a refillable water brush. Although not necessary, some sets have a sponge to dry the brush, small partitions for water (in case water brushes are not available), and additional water brushes for versatile and effortless painting sessions.

Moreover, the tools and accessories in a watercolor set vary from one brand to another. Check the composition of a painting set you will buy to ensure you get the essential tools for your watercolor paintings.

The best watercolor travel set is not just about the portable size but the quality of pigments and essential tools as well. It is quite amazing how you can document everything you see when you travel, and a watercolor travel set helps you do that. This is the reason why you deserve to have the best watercolor kit that can beautifully capture and paint landscapes and even mundane sights when you wander around.

This list has jotted down the top picks for portable watercolor sets on the market. Besides their popularity, the brands mentioned offer reliable and excellent quality watercolor sets that are worth trying. Hope this helps!

Art has always been a part of my life; it influences my upbringing and later my career choice. For me, it is always a part of my parenting technique. So for whichever purpose that you come to art, you can start here with us.

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The Best Colored Pencils

By Laura Fenton

Laura Fenton is a writer and editor whose work focuses on entertaining, crafts, and decorating. She lives in Jackson Heights, Queens, New York.

After considering dozens of colored-pencil sets and spending six hours testing 13 popular sets, including one marathon two-hour session with about 60 kids and parents, we’ve decided that our top pick for someone shopping for their first colored-pencil set is Prismacolor’s Premier Colored Pencils ( 24-count or 72-count ). In our tests, these pencils were among the best at color application, blending, and durability. They lay down rich, vibrant color and are as fun to draw with as pencils from sets twice the price. We recommend these pencils for any beginning colored-pencil artist or coloring-book enthusiast, or even for a serious child artist.

Everything we recommend

Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils (24-count)

The best colored-pencil set for beginners.

These perform as effectively as artist-grade pencils twice the price. They lay down vibrant color, blend nicely, and are easy to sharpen.

Buying Options

Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils (72-count)

More colors, same great pencils.

If you’re willing to pay a little more, this set provides three times as many colors and the same great quality.

Staedtler Ergosoft Triangular Colored Pencils (24-count)

A good pencil set with a better case.

The Staedtler pencils equal our main pick in vibrancy and blending, but they’re more expensive. We think they’re worth it only if you want a standing case.

Budget pick

Prismacolor Scholar Colored Pencils (24-count)

A great student-grade set.

This set comes in a narrower range of colors, and the pencil lead isn’t as buttery. But it’s a good choice for kids and adults who don’t mind the slightly harder lead.

Prismacolor Premier Pencil Sharpener

The best pencil sharpener.

It has a sleek design, is easy to use and maintain, and can put a fine or medium point on most pencils.

Although Prismacolor’s Premier Colored Pencils are considered artist grade, we think they’re a great choice for most people—from older elementary-school-age kids to adults—because they’re so satisfying to work with and affordable. They’re also widely available at art-supply stores and online, in case you ever want to replace or add colors. The pencils are well-made and easy to sharpen, and they come in a durable metal box. The 24-count offers enough colors for most beginners, but if you want to expand your palette, the 72-count set is a great upgrade. (You can also buy packs of 36 , 48 , 132 , and even 150 pencils , if you prefer.)

If the Prismacolor Premier set sells out, we recommend getting the 24-count Staedtler Ergosoft Triangular Colored Pencils set. These pencils were equal to the Premier pencils in vibrancy, in the quality of the lead, and in durability. We also prefer the Staedtler packaging—a grooved plastic case that turns into a stand. But these pencils are about 35 percent more expensive (roughly $1.12 per pencil, compared with the Prismacolor Premier 24-count’s roughly 85¢ per pencil). If you want a better case, get this set. Otherwise, we don’t think it offers quite as good of a value for most people.

The 24-count Prismacolor Scholar Colored Pencils set offers good quality at a great price. When we compared this set against the Premier set, the Scholar pencils were almost as good as their artist-grade counterparts, but the lead was firmer and didn’t lay down as smoothly. This set comes in a less comprehensive color range, and the plastic packaging is less durable than the Premier set’s metal case. The pencils in the Scholar set come out to about 55¢ per pencil, so they’re just a bit cheaper than the Premier pencils (85¢ per pencil). But if you want to invest in a bigger set—say, for a kid who wants a lot of colors—those cents can add up, and the Scholar pencils may be the way to go.

If you’re investing in a colored-pencil set, we recommend getting the Prismacolor Premier Pencil Sharpener to keep your pencils pointy. This was our favorite of the five new sharpeners we tested in 2018, and the favorite of our panel of kid testers. It has a small hole for sharpening standard colored (or graphite) pencils, and a larger hole for cutting colored pencils at a shallower angle (as well as for oversize pencils). The integrated shavings container allows you to sharpen without standing over a trash can, and its cover lets you throw it in a bag without worrying about escaped shavings. We think the sleek design will appeal to artists of all ages.

The research

Why you should trust us, who should get this, how we picked, how we tested, our pick: prismacolor premier colored pencils, runner-up: staedtler ergosoft triangular colored pencils, budget pick: prismacolor scholar colored pencils, pencil sharpener: prismacolor premier, the competition.

I have been drawing all my life, but I didn’t realize how wide a range of colored pencils existed (or the passion a colored pencil could inspire!) until I dug in to research the topic. After reading up on favored colored-pencil brands, visiting art stores, and diving deep into blogger reviews, I contacted a group of artists and experts to find out more.

I started my interviews with artist Michael Weisman, who offered insights into the pros and cons of colored-pencil attributes as both an artist and a co-owner of Golden Eagle Artist Supply in East Hampton, New York. I reached out to Meg Nicoll, an art educator at The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art  in Amherst, Massachusetts, and Sean Baptist, an art educator at the  Children’s Museum of the Arts  in New York City. Both artists in their own right, Nicoll and Baptist work with children in an art-studio setting daily. I also corresponded with Erin Misanko, a brand content assistant for Jo-Ann Stores, who helped solidify the other research I had conducted.

A writer and professional crafter for more than 15 years, I have often used colored pencils in my creative work. My crafts have appeared in national publications such as Country Living, Good Housekeeping, and Parents.

Whether you’re embracing the adult-coloring-book craze, buying drawing tools for a creative kid, or embarking on a new medium as a student, this guide identifies the best starter sets to get you doodling. This is not a guide for professional artists or for experienced colored-pencil users looking to upgrade, nor is it a roadmap for a parent buying pencils for a very young child or a teacher looking for bargain sets for a classroom.

All the experts we spoke to, including artists and educators, agreed that a good colored pencil must deliver rich, vibrant color. No matter what the application, vivid color signifies a high-quality pencil, and pale, dull color indicates an inferior option. Colored-pencil “lead” consists of wax or oil mixed with varying proportions of pigments and other binding agents. Higher-quality pencils have more pigment in the colored lead. The highest-quality (and most expensive) pencils are oil-based, while lesser-quality pencils are wax-based (hard wax is the lowest quality, soft wax is better quality).

The best pencils glide easily across the page and lay down color with little effort. Artists we spoke to who worked in colored pencils described a good pencil as one that was a pleasure to use. “You want smooth color that comes out nice and smooth,” said Meg Nicoll, an educator at The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. A cheaper writing utensil is hard against the drawing surface and sometimes even damages the page as the artist is drawing. Easy-to-use pencils also blend more readily than their counterparts; if the lead has too much wax or if the lead is too hard, it will make the color much more difficult to blend. (However, hard pencils can be useful in some instances, such as when you’re outlining, detailing, and lettering.)

The best-quality pencils are also durable and do not break or snap easily; one expert described inferior pencils as “brittle.” The point should sharpen cleanly and easily without the colored lead breaking. Low-quality wood casing is what will cause a pencil to snap, and even when a brand has great color range and lays pigment down nicely, poor durability can be a dealbreaker.

According to the experts we spoke to, there isn’t a minimum number of pencils a person needs, but a set of at least 18 pencils offers a beginner a satisfactory number of colors, and the largest sets (more than 100 pencils) are likely more than the newbie artist requires. The best sets include a range of primary, secondary, and tertiary colors.

Pencils can cost from as little as a few cents apiece up to more than $4 apiece (for a high-end artist-grade pencil) when sold individually in art stores. A price around 75¢ per pencil should indicate a decent quality (though that number can vary greatly depending on the size of the set and the retail outlet). Colored pencils are a tool that will last for years—even decades!—so spending a little more on them is a wise decision. As Cheryl Trowbridge, the art teacher and blogger behind Teach Kids Art, points out on her site : “Colored pencils are different from the paints and markers we use because we typically have them a lot longer. They don’t dry out like markers do, and they don’t get used up as fast as markers and paint do.”

We debated including water-soluble (aka “watercolor”) pencils in our tests. Our interviewed experts, including the art educators, were enthusiastic about these pencils. But even if watercolor pencils are a great addition to an artist’s toolkit, comparing them directly with traditional colored pencils would be nearly impossible. That’s why we didn’t test them for this guide.

To determine which sets we would test, we visited art shops to see which brands appeared repeatedly in trusted stores. We asked our experts for recommendations, and we looked at comparisons of colored-pencil sets on several blogs (including Color with Iris, eBay guides , and Ordinary Lovely ) to see what other testers had found. Finally, we researched customer reviews on the Amazon and Dick Blick websites, weeding out suspiciously positive reviews.

After considering 35 sets, we chose 13 to test. When a brand offered more than one line, we compared the merits of the various lines against one another and in some cases decided not to test multiple lines from one brand.

As a first step in our tests, I opened the packaging and examined the pencils as they arrived, making notes of the brands that came with broken lead or flimsy packaging. I drew with the pencils on sketchbook paper to get a feel for each set. I noted how comfortable they were to hold and how easily they drew on the page. I wrote down notes regarding their positive and negative aspects. Hard? A negative. Vibrant and smooth on the page? Major plus.

Next I moved on to color testing. To see all the colors on a single page, I sketched out rows on an 18-by-24-inch piece of Bristol paper, a type of paperboard often used for illustrations.

I drew small samples of each color, sketching lightly and holding the pencil at a 45-degree angle at first, and then drawing with more pressure and holding the pencil less horizontal to the page. This exercise produced two color samples—one light in color (the effect you would get when filling a large expanse with lightweight color) and one darker and more saturated. This test was designed to measure several factors in each set: the vibrancy of the colors, the range of colors, and the accuracy of the color representation on the pencil itself versus the page.

At this point, we narrowed the field to nine sets. I then tested those remaining sets on more subtle performance points, namely blending and shading. I gridded out a new piece of Bristol and made test shading and blending samples within each square, noting the differences between the sets. I also tested the pencils on coloring-book pages to ensure that the favored brands worked on this paper stock as well as they did on other papers.

For the second round of testing, we brought the nine top sets to the offices of The New York Times (parent company of The Wirecutter and The Sweethome), where a group of approximately 60 kids and adults tested the pencils. The kids ranged in age from 6 to 14. Beforehand, we shaved the brand names off the pencils (with a vegetable peeler) to eliminate any brand bias.

We set up testing rooms with a full set of each of the unbranded pencils, coloring-book pages, and sketch-paper pages. Each group of testers had approximately 30 minutes with the pencils. We gave the testers a form and asked them to mark their favorites and their least favorites, after which we tallied the results, giving favor to the sets that had the highest ratio of positive votes to negative votes. At the end, we had three top picks, with one seemingly top candidate.

Before finalizing our main pick, I went back and tested the pencils for durability by manually sharpening pencils from each set. I also reviewed our color and blending tests, holding the top three up against one another.

Prismacolor’s Premier Colored Pencils set is our top pick for adults and serious kid artists taking up colored-pencil drawing. The range and vibrancy of colors in this set were among the best in our test group, and the pencils were some of our favorites with which to draw. They were among the most durable in our tests, and they were as pleasant to use as pencils from more expensive sets. You can get them in a 24-pack , which should be enough for most beginners, or a 72-pack that greatly expands your color palette.

When we compared the color samples on the page, the Prismacolor Premier set stood out as one of the top contenders from our initial pool of 13. The colors were vivid, vibrant, and clear. The Prismacolor Premier pencils also offered a better range of colors in all hues, with no category lacking in choices. Some competitors offered a weaker selection of purples or very few pinks; one offered a wide range of reds at the expense of the blues. Judging from customer reviews we read, we think shoppers looking for a larger set will find a nice range in the larger Prismacolor Premier sets, as well.

The Prismacolor Premier pencils also lived up to their promise of a “soft core.” The wax-based lead within the pencils was creamy and easy to lay down on the variety of papers we tested with. The softer lead also allowed for easily blending two colors. By contrast, some of our lowest-scoring sets were hard and did not blend well. Despite the soft lead, the Prismacolor Premier pencils did not make a mess of lead residue on the page, as one of their competitors did. (Note that many of the one-star reviews of this set on Amazon complain about the soft lead. If you know you prefer a hard lead—say, for very detailed, technical drawings—these pencils may not be for you.)

The pencils arrived intact and appeared straight and well-made, unlike one competitor whose lead arrived broken. When we sharpened them, the Prismacolor Premier pencils did not feel overly brittle, and they came to a clean, sharp point. Other pencils we tested broke during sharpening, but the Prismacolor Premier set held strong.

Finally, we considered the value of each set: Among our top three picks, the Staedtler Ergosoft Triangular Colored Pencils set is significantly more expensive (about $1.12 per pencil, as of our latest update), making it less of a value than the others. The Prismacolor Premier sets (about 85¢ per pencil for the 24-pack and 79¢ for the 72-pack) are a little more expensive than our budget pick the Prismacolor’s Scholar Colored Pencils (roughly 55¢ per pencil), but we think the extra few dollars is a worthwhile investment in a higher-quality drawing experience.

While the Prismacolor Premier pencils were our favorite writing utensils, their packaging was not tops on our list. The most common packaging design for premium-grade pencils is a metal box containing a plastic tray with a groove for each pencil within. The Prismacolor Premier 24-pencil set breaks from the norm by offering a deeper box with two stacked smaller trays. This design makes it impossible to see and reach all of your pencils at one time unless you remove a tray, and the trays themselves are made from a flimsy plastic, so they do not lift in and out of the box easily.

Long-term test notes

We continue to stand by the Premier Colored Pencils as our pick for most people. A Wirecutter staffer who is a longtime user of Prismacolor pencils and who bought a fresh pack of them over a year ago says they are still her go-to pencils. “They’re amazing for blending, they’re very easy to use and feel soft on the page as you’re drawing,” she said. “And you can get really bright, intense color out of them.” Wirecutter senior editor Harry Sawyers added, “My oldest kid likes them so much he only sparingly uses them.

Our runner-up is the 24-count Staedtler Ergosoft Triangular Colored Pencils set. Well-liked by our testers, the Staedtler pencils ran neck-and-neck with the Prismacolor Premier pencils in vibrancy, the quality of their wax-based lead on the page, and durability. And we especially liked their convertible case, which turns into a stand to hold the pencils. However, we thought that the significantly higher price of the Staedtler set (roughly 27¢ more per pencil, as of our latest update) made the Prismacolor Premier set the clear winner for value. In addition, some testers were not fond of the Staedtler pencils’ rubberized nonslip grip and triangular design, which also made for slower manual sharpening.

If you’re looking to save a couple of bucks or shopping for a student who might make use of a neon-yellow highlighter pencil, consider Prismacolor’s Scholar Colored Pencils , which in our tests performed nearly as well as the Premier set in vibrancy. The lead on the scholar-grade pencils, which is made from both soft and hard wax, was noticeably firmer and did not lay down as smoothly for our testers. The color range is also less comprehensive than that of the Premier set. The plastic packaging, though a step down from the artist-grade option in durability, folds into a useful stand-up pencil holder—it’s much nicer than the flimsy paper box most student pencils come in.

For a 24-count set, the Scholar pencils are not hugely cheaper than the Premier set (roughly 55¢ per pencil versus 85¢ per pencil), which is why we feel comfortable recommending the Premier set even for serious younger artists. But if you or the child you’re shopping for wants a larger set, such as a 48- or 60-count set, the savings start to add up. On the flip side, the Prismacolor Scholar pencils are almost twice as expensive as student-grade offerings from Crayola, Prang, and Staedtler, but we also found that the Scholar set offers better pigment quality and smoother application, and it’s a better value overall.

If you want a good, reasonably priced sharpener to pair with your new colored-pencil set, we recommend the Prismacolor Premier Pencil Sharpener . For our guide to back-to-school supplies , we spent over four hours researching 12 and testing five new portable pencil sharpeners in 2018. The Prismacolor was our favorite, and it was the standout with our panel of kid testers at the New York Times office (parent company of Wirecutter).

This sharpener has both a small hole for putting a long point on standard graphite writing pencils and a large opening for inserting oversize pencils or cutting standard colored pencils at a shallower angle. The integrated shavings container keeps your hands clean and lets you sharpen without having to stand near a trash can, and its attached cover means you can throw it in a bag or in storage with other art supplies and not worry about getting shavings all over. We also like its sleek design and think it will appeal to artists all of ages.

The 24-count Marco Raffiné Colored Pencils set tested well and presents a good value. Its colors were a little less vivid and buttery than those of our top picks, and the packaging was less durable than our picks’.

A good budget option for kids, the Prang Groove Colored Pencils 24-count set was a value at $8 at the time we tested, but the lead was not as soft and vibrant as that of our top picks. Not all of our testers liked the unique grooved design, which is meant to make these pencils easy to grip.

The 24-count set of Crayola’s Colored Pencils did not rank well in my testing of vibrancy or blending, but our child and adult testers turned in numerous favorable reviews of this ubiquitous and affordable brand.

We don’t recommend the Derwent Coloursoft 24 set to a beginning colored-pencil user: To our eyes, the included colors seemed like they were geared toward a fine artist, with more muted, lifelike tones (more browns than in any other set). The intended professional audience is also reflected in a higher price.

While the color was deep in our tests, the range of colors in the oil-based Faber-Castell Polychromos Color Pencils felt a bit muted and heavily weighted toward neutrals. The very high price knocked this 24-count set out of consideration as a top pick.

The Caran D'ache Pablo Color Pencils did not score well on several counts: The smaller size of this set, 18 pencils, resulted in a more limited range of colors, including no pink or flesh tones, which are hard hues to blend. Color range aside, these pencils ranked in the middle of the pack in our testing, but with a high price, they did not present a good value.

We included the Blick Studio Artists' Colored Pencils in our initial test round but eliminated them because their lead crumbled easily and left a mess of lead dust on the page.

If you know a kid who prefers a fat pencil, you might consider the 18-count Lyra Super Ferby Unlacquered Triangular Giant Colored Pencils set. But most of our older-kid and adult testers found these larger-circumference pencils awkward to hold and the smaller range of colors limiting.

Loew-Cornell’s Simply Art Colored Pencils  were some of the most affordable pencils in our test group, but their price reflected the quality: We found these pencils to be too hard, with more pale color than the competition.

Michael Weisman, co-owner of Golden Eagle Artist Supply , interview

Meg Nicoll, art educator, The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art , interview

Sean Baptist, teaching artist, Children’s Museum of the Arts , interview

Erin Misanko, brand content assistant, Jo-Ann Stores , interview

Robert A. Sloan, Robs Art guide to Colored Pencils , eBay , January 5, 2008

Theresa, The Great Colored Pencil Comparison (or Are All Colored Pencils Created Equal?) , Ordinary Lovely , August 16, 2015

Meet your guide

Laura Fenton

Further reading

These Classic Colored Pencils Will Make You Want to Color Again

by Sri Rain Stewart

People of all ages love the color and quality of our top-pick Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils .

Is Dixon’s Ticonderoga Truly ‘The World’s Best Pencil’? We Don’t Think So.

by Sarah Witman

Dixon’s Ticonderoga is an iconic pencil. But we’ve found that despite its reputation and branding, it’s not the best you can buy.

The Best Pencils for Writing and Schoolwork

Whether you’re filling in Scantron bubbles or doing the Sunday crossword, the Palomino Golden Bear #2 Pencil (Blue) should be your writing implement of choice.

The Best Mechanical Pencils

by Melanie Pinola

These mechanical pencils lay down precise lines and are comfortable to hold and nice to look at.

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Best Colored Pencil Sets in 2023

• By Steve Spears
• Updated: January 17, 2023

Do you remember television before color sets came out? Then why imagine drawing without colored pencils? From elementary school through adulthood, colored pencils are perfect for expanding the imagination by adding shading, blending and layering. They provide dreamy hues that show the true depth of creation. Plus, they’re just plain fun. If you’re shopping for a colored pencil set for students of any age, consider these options.

For any age

Don’t let the brand name Crayola fool you – these aren’t crayons. This set has 120 pencils with no repeat colors. That means you have your pick from classic colors, nostalgic neon shades and even soft pastels for more subtle creations. Crayola got its start in 1885 creating industrial pigments and colorants for barns and car tires. Their signature product – wax crayons – were first sold in 1903. Buy Now: Crayola Colored Pencils, Bulk School Supplies For Kids And Adults

Crack-resistant

Ready for a little bit of history to go with your art? The use of wax-based colored pencils dates back to the Golden Greek Age. Artists loved these because they were resistant to decay. It wasn’t until the early 20th century that colored pencils were mass-produced and within reach of regular families. This set from Prismacolor has 72 wood pencils with a soft, thick core. The hues include such interesting colors as ginger root, pale vermillion, poppy red and Copenhagen blue. Buy Now: Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils

Tin storage case

This set from Amazon Basics might not offer the dizzying variety of colors of its competitors, but we’re betting you’ll still find exactly what you need in this 48-pencil set. This is a good set for beginning artists but doesn’t have the “lightfastness” – or resistance to UV rays – that some more premium brands offer. The pencils are easily resharpened and ready for hours of drawing. Buy Now: Amazon Basics Premium Colored Pencils

Includes a tutorial

These soft-touch pencils from Castle Arts come in 72 hues that are organized into color families so the pencil you need is easier to find. These pencils were designed to work on paper, canvas, wood and even eggshell (if you dare – maybe boil them first?). They’re also super durable and less likely to have the leads break. Buy Now: Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils Set

Smart organization

If you combine the strong points – no pun intended – of all the competing colored pencil sets, you end up with this collection from Soucolor. The pencils here have soft leads that are easy to sharpen. They don’t fade, break, crack or crumble. They’re made of an odorless material but one note of caution: because of their size, they are a choking hazard and thus aren’t recommended for those under 3 years of age. Buy Now: Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books

Plastic barrels

These 50 pencils from Crayola are different because the color core is contained in a plastic barrel. Just twist the barrel and the color center pops up. That means no sharpening is required – a nice perk for younger artists. The brand Crayola has evolved over the last century to become a real pop culture institution. Crayons became common items handed out to children at restaurants and hotels. In 1998, Crayola Crayons were inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame. Buy Now: Crayola Twistables Colored Pencil Set

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Moscow (Architecture Skyline)

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• Moscow State University: The tallest of Moscow's Seven Sisters, it's been housing the State University since 1953, being the tallest educational building in the world with its 240m of height.
• Zuev Workers' Club: Projected by Ilya Golossov to be a recreational center for factory workers, its construction was finished in 1929 and it's still a reference in Constructivist architecture.
• Spasskaya Tower: Overlooking the Red Square, this clock tower on the Kremlin's walls was built by Milanese architect Pietro Antonio Solari back in 1491, and once the Kremlin's main entrance.
• State History Museum: The State History Museum complex has been open since 1872, and houses many artifacts, varying from pre-historical relics to artworks acquired by the old royalty.
• Mercury City Tower: The 5th tallest builing in Russia and Europe overall, this 338m tall skyscaper in the International Business Center stands out for its copper glass façade and spiky shape.
• Bolshoi Theater: First opened in 1825, it's home of the internationally renowned classical ballet company, and premiered works of composers such as Tchaikovsky and Shostakovich.

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Claudia Looi

Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations

By Claudia Looi 2 Comments

Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.

Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.

Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.

The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Moscow subways are very clean

To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow.   Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.

The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:

1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station  is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.

2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Revolution Square Metro Station

3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.

Arbatskaya Metro Station

4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.

Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.

Kievskaya Metro Station

6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station  was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.

Novoslobodskaya metro station

7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.

Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station

8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.

Mayakovskaya station

One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station

9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.

10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.

January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am

An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂

December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?

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One-time purchase: $16.99 $16.99 ( $16.99 $16.99 / Count) FREE delivery: Tuesday, April 30 on orders over $35.00 shipped by Amazon. Ships from: Amazon Sold by: Katelia Beauty

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4 in 1 Makeup Pen - Refillable Makeup Pen for Easy Travel - Portable Makeup Set with Colored Eyeliner, Brow & Lip Liner & Highlighter - Cruelty-Free Beauty, Paraben-Free Makeup Pen

( $16.99 / Count )

( $6.99 / Count )

Purchase options and add-ons

About this item.

• Multi-Purpose Marvel - Amp up your beauty routine with Katelia Beauty Touch Up 4-in-1 Makeup Pen. Showcasing itself as a supreme colored eyeliner, brow liner, lip liner, and highlighter - a single makeup pen that streamlines your beauty routine.
• Travel-Friendly Solution - Simplify your travel makeup with our compact 4-in-1 makeup pen. Its travel-friendly design fits snugly in your purse, making it your ideal travel makeup pen for on-the-go touch-ups. The perfect travel makeup kit all in one.
• Seamless Application - Indulge in easy, breezy beauty with our makeup stack that's comfortingly effortless to apply and erase. Refillable makeup pen, with a handy twistable core for a unique makeup application.
• Durable and Kind - Our long-lasting, waterproof makeup pen withstands the day's stresses without a smudge. Plus, its vegan, cruelty-free, and paraben-free formulation shows love to your skin and the planet. Create a subtle beauty look or full glam!
• Streamline Your Makeup - Eliminate clutter with our makeup stick. This Touch Up 4-in-1 Makeup Pen condenses your makeup bag and speeds up your routine, offering colored eyeliner set and much more in one product.

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Product Description

Product details

• Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5 x 1 x 1 inches; 0.63 ounces
• UPC ‏ : ‎ 196852478903
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Katelia Beauty
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0BCF755NF
• #769 in Eyebrow Color

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Videos for this product.

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Customer Review: Great for your purse

Customer Review: CUTE LITTLE AMAZING PRODUCT IN PEN FORM!

Elizabeth Espinoza

Beauty tool for a busy life on the go!

How To Touch Up Your Makeup!

Katelia Beauty

How To Use Our Makeup Pen!

4 essential shades in 1 product!

Touch Up 4-in-1 Makeup Pen by Katelia Beauty

4-in-1 Touch Up Makeup Pen

Important information, safety information.

For external use only.

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Customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the ease of use, texture, and color of the makeup. They mention that it's easy to use, perfect for quick makeup touch ups, and the colors are amazing. They are also happy with portability. However, some customers have reported issues with smoothness and durability. Opinions are mixed on performance and quality.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers find the makeup pen easy to use and convenient. They say it has a lot of pigment and it applies smoothly. Customers also say it's perfect for quick makeup touch ups.

"...in my purse other than my phone and this pen and it was PERFECT for quick makeup touch ups ...." Read more

"This is a convenient item . Great for going out touchups in a small bag.The white doesn’t work well. Not enough pigment. To light." Read more

"Awesome idea and super convenient . However, there’s not much product and I am unable to find replacements." Read more

"...worry about having to pack all of my make up and it makes it more convenient for me . I will totally buy again." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the color of the makeup. They mention that the colors are better, creamier, and brighter. The eyeliner is surprisingly pigmented and creamy, and it doesn't tint. The quality of each color is amazing, and the product applies smoothly. It appears to match their lip and brows perfectly.

"...The highlighter is a dream. The brow liner is super pigmented as well! I sometimes apply this to my bottom lash line and it works great...." Read more

"...The lip liner is a nice neutral, the eye liner and brow filler are great . Haven't used the highlighter yet but am sure I will like it as well...." Read more

"...But the colors are really nice " Read more

" I like the colour options . Eyeliner, lip liner and brow liner work well, but are no super long lasting (especially on the lips)...." Read more

Customers find the makeup pen great for traveling and convenience. They say it's easy to carry and convenient for moms on the go.

"... Great to keep in your purse !" Read more

" very easy to carry and super nice on skin." Read more

"I love love this product! This makeup pen is so convenient for moms on the go , or just people with ADD,ADHD OR FOR SOMEONE THAT MISS PLACES..." Read more

"Easy to use and handy for my purse ." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the texture of the makeup. They mention that it's pigmented, creamy, and soft.

"...The eyeliner is surprisingly so pigmented and creamy . I think the lip liner is the perfect pink nude lip color for everyday wear...." Read more

"very easy to carry and super nice on skin ." Read more

"...brow pen: product is super soft so you have to make sure to have a light hand when drawing your hair strokes...." Read more

"...Then I realized that the colors here better, creamier and brighter !!Thank youuuuWould definitely order again" Read more

Customers are mixed about the quality of the makeup pen. Some mention it's an amazing product with a cool idea, while others say it'd break easily. The quality is poor and the pen feels cheap.

"...The color of the highlighter is also very unflattering and not natural. Each pen kept crumbling when I was trying to put it on...." Read more

"...The product is honestly amazing and deserves recognition and here’s why…The eyeliner is surprisingly so pigmented and creamy...." Read more

"it works but there’s not really anything in it . i get it it’s supposed to have enough for touch ups but i ran out immediately...." Read more

"...eyeliner shadow, lip pencil and eyebrow pencil is by far the best created makeup tools . I wish I had though of this myself." Read more

Customers are mixed about the performance of the makeup. Some mention it's convenient and works well, while others say it didn't work as well as they thought it would.

"...Great for going out touchups in a small bag.The white doesn’t work well . Not enough pigment. To light." Read more

"I like the colour options. Eyeliner, lip liner and brow liner work well , but are no super long lasting (especially on the lips)...." Read more

" Does not work the way it shows it was not worth the money" Read more

"The product is easy to use and super useful " Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the smoothness of the makeup. They mention that it smudges throughout the day, and that it comes with dirt on the brush.

"Formula: I made a wing line and the black SMUDGED ALL OVER MY EYE AREA !..." Read more

"Nice product but it smudges and doesn't have much of the refill , have to keep twisting" Read more

"...like it's a bit TOO creamy. also, it stains so if you're gonna line your lips i suggest filling it in as well so that when your lip product..." Read more

"One of my pens arrived with broken/potentially used and the makeup smudges so much !" Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the durability of the makeup. They mention that it wears out fast, and the pen keeps crumbling.

"...Each pen kept crumbling when I was trying to put it on. Especially the highlighter, I got pieces in my eye!Product:..." Read more

"...Eyeliner, lip liner and brow liner work well, but are no super long lasting (especially on the lips)...." Read more

"...You can only get so much of the eye liner that it doesn’t last long as other eyeliner products...." Read more

"...stuck when you push some of the shades down, and the makeup just doesn’t last that long . It also smudged throughout the day." Read more

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