The 10 Best Art & Drawing Kits

Looking for the best art kits out there for aspiring and experienced artists?

If you want to get into sketching or improve your skills, then buying an art kit is a great choice. Individual art supplies can be expensive, and there are so many to choose from. But an art kit will contain everything you need and tends to be cheaper, too. 

You can find loads of professional drawing kits to choose from. There’s something suitable for everyone, from kids to adults, beginners to pros.

If you’re determined to get better at drawing, it’s worth investing in a quality sketching set. It will stand the test of time and allow you to develop beyond the beginner level. 

In this guide, I’ll share the best drawing sets for adults. Plus, I’ll let you in on my tips for how to choose the right kit for your unique needs. 

Top 3 Products Quick Comparison

Here are the top 3 art kits out there right now. If you’re short on time, then go ahead and grab one of these excellent drawing kits! 

The best overall drawing kit is this fantastic set from Castle Arts. It contains everything you need for drawing and comes in a sturdy, well-organized case.

If you’re ready to blow the budget and go all out, this 96-piece KALOUR set has it all. Not only do you get sketching tools, but also colored, metallic, and watercolor pencils. 

And if you want a small yet high-quality kit on a budget, go for the General’s Essential Tools Kit. It’s a great price for beginners but professionals will love the premium feel of the supplies. Plus, it’s super compact and portable and fits into your pocket. So, you can draw from anywhere.

Buying Guide to the Best Art Kits and Drawing Kits for Adults

There are so many different sketching pencils sets out there. It’s easy to become overwhelmed. Especially when you’re investing a fair chunk of money in professional tools. 

So, let’s take a quick look at how to choose the best professional artist kits for your needs. 

Here are my tips on what to look out for and how to decide which one to buy! 

The Best Pencils for Drawing

What sets an artist sketching set apart from the others are the pencils included. The best set will have a nice range of grades to suit any drawing.

Depending on what you’re working on, you may want a thinner or thicker line. Or the situation may call for light shading or darker areas. 

So, if the set contains a few different pencils, you’ll always find what you need. 

That’s also handy if you’re newer to sketching and not sure which pencil to go for. You can test out the different grades and experiment to see what works best and when. 

Soft graphite pencils apply a darker shade but need sharpening often. They come in useful for sketching larger areas, as you can put down a lot of colors quickly. 

In contrast, a hard pencil produces a neater line. It also tends to be more durable and last longer, with less need for sharpening as you go.

Buying each pencil separately tends to work out more expensive. That’s why it’s such a good idea to go for a drawing and sketching set.

A Quality Sketchpad 

Now you know what you’re looking for when it comes to pencils. But you also need a high-quality sketchbook for all your drawings. 

Using a sketchbook is more practical, as you can take it anywhere. It also keeps your designs safe, so you don’t misplace them as you could do with loose paper. 

There are some gorgeous sketchbooks out there with lovely covers. But the paper quality is most important. 

You can find a paper that is smoother or has more texture, affecting how your drawings look.
When the paper is too smooth, you get very little feedback. But if it’s too bumpy, your lines can look messier, and it changes the appearance of your shading, too. 

You should keep that in mind and take a close look at any sketchpads included in the drawing set. Find out more about what paper to use for sketching here.

Organization & Portability

But it’s not just the supplies included that make an art kit great. You should also look for a well-organized kit so you can quickly find what you need. 

For example, loops or slots for your pencils are useful as they keep your kit neat and tidy. That ensures your pencils won’t all fall out when you open the kit. So it’s much more practical and secure.

The best drawing and sketching set will also protect your tools. It should prevent any breakages and allow you to take them out with you. 

Sometimes, it’s nice to get outside and sketch in the fresh air, taking inspiration from nature. When you buy an art set, you won’t need to worry about how to transport your materials. Just grab it and go! 

Price

Finally, the art kit needs to fit into your budget, so you feel happy with what you’ve bought. You don’t want to regret your decision if you splurge too much! 

At the same time, it’s worth investing in a quality sketching supply kit that will last longer. It could take your artwork to the next level, making it look professional and impressive! 

Drawing kits for adults range from cheap to premium prices. There’s something for everyone in my list below, so have a look and take your pick! 

The Best Art Supplies for Professionals

Arrtx 29 Pieces Professional Sketching & Drawing Art Tool Kit

Best Professional Artist Sketching Set

(Image credit: Arrtx)

This gorgeous sketching kit contains everything you need to create gorgeous drawings. It’s suitable for anyone from beginners, but talented artists will also love this set. 

Within, you get a nice range of sketching pencils. There are 18 different pencils included, from HB right up to 8B. So, this set should have the perfect pencil for any situation and drawing style. 

It also comes with a cutting tool, erasers, and charcoal and paper-erasable pencils.

Not only that, but it’s perfectly organized and keeps your pencils and tools neat and tidy. 

You won’t need to worry about losing your pencils if you’re on the move. Each pencil has its own loop, and there’s a strap to hold it closed.

It also has a unique design that allows you to wear this pencil pouch around your waist. That allows you to work hands-free in your studio or outside, with all your tools within reach.

The pouch itself looks classy and stylish. It’s made from brown faux leather and black canvas material. It’s practical and makes an excellent choice for any artist.

Pros:

• You get a nice range of 18 different graphite pencils
• It also has charcoal pencils, erasable pencils, a craft knife, and erasers
• It holds your tools securely with a popper fastening
• It’s stylish and hardwearing

Cons:

• It doesn’t zip closed

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Amazon

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Castle Art Supplies Graphite Drawing Pencils and Sketch Set

Best Premium Sketching Supply Set with Case

(Image credit: Castle Art)

Castle Arts is a well-known brand for art supplies, and you won’t go wrong with this set. It’s made up to 40 different essential pieces for artists. 

This kit has a fantastic set of pencils that cover the entire range from 5H to 8B. You can use any technique you like – there are no limits when you buy this kit. 

Extra supplies include pastel pencils, blending stumps, a rubber blender, and charcoal. So, you won’t need to add anything else to this comprehensive set.

This set was designed by artists for artists. Every detail improves your drawing experience. So, you can work seamlessly and concentrate on your art. 

One example is the clever pop-up sections for quick access to any of your tools. Working outside can be tricky, but this kit allows you to set up your own mini workspace wherever you are. 

If you’re a dedicated artist, you’ll love this kit for its quality content and thoughtful design! And beginners will appreciate the tutorial included. It’s a great first project while you get the hang of the supplies in the set.  

Pros:

• A great set from a reliable art supply brand
• You get an excellent range of pencils for drawing, sketching, and shading
• It comes in a sturdy, neat case you can use at home or outside
• The design is practical and allows for easy access to each tool

Cons:

• You’ll need to buy a sketchbook as it doesn’t include one

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Amazon

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Bellofy Drawing Kit Artists Supplies

Best Portable Sketching Set with Case

(Image credit: Bello)

If you’re looking for a kit containing everything, go for this great set from Bellofy. It’s an excellent affordable choice for beginners especially.

In this set, you get 12 graphite pencils as well as all the accessories you could need. That includes charcoal, erasers, sharpeners, a pencil extender, and more. Plus, it even comes with a sketchbook, so you don’t need to spend any more money. 

Everything packs away in a tidy case that will protect your pencils. So, it’s easy to grab the set and head out to draw from a cafe, park, or anywhere you like. 

Each item is held in place with a band so that you won’t lose it. That also helps to keep the tips of your pencils sharp and the leads unbroken. 

This kit is compact and suitable for novices or experienced artists alike.

Pros:

• You get a nice range of charcoal and graphite pencils for every style
• It also provides every type of accessory you could need as well as a sketchbook
• It’s practical and compact, so you can take it anywhere
• It packs away neatly in the stylish black zippered case

Cons:

• The sharpener isn’t the best, so  you may want to replace it with another

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Amazon

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Castle Art Supplies 26 Piece

Best Basic Sketching Set

(Image credit: Castle Art)

Castle Arts is another reputable brand that creates superb supplies for artists. And this set won’t disappoint you.

This kit ticks the right boxes if you’re looking for a starter drawing set. Within, you’ll find graphite pencils, charcoal sticks, and charcoal pencils. They range from soft and grainy to hard and sharp.

You can create any kind of drawing with these tools. Each item has been carefully chosen to complement the others. For example, the medium-specific sharpener works well with these pencils.

The pencils apply smoothly to the page and feel nice in hand. The grades are accurate, making it easy to choose which pencil to use at any time.

The main downside to this set is that it doesn’t come in a durable case. But for this price, it’s well worth the value, and the products won’t disappoint. 

Pros:

• An excellent starter set
• It comes with a good range of pencils, charcoal, and accessories
• The products feel premium

Cons:

• It doesn’t include a sturdy case, so you’ll need to buy something to store your supplies

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Amazon

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Sela Art-54 Pcs professional Art Pencil Set

Best Art Kit for Students and Aspiring Artists

(Image credit: Sela Art)

If you want a professional art kit that really does have it all, opt for this one! Not only does it have graphite pencils, but much more beyond that. 

You also get colored pencils, metallic pencils, and even watercolor pencils. The sky’s the limit with these supplies. Nothing is holding you back from what you can create other than your imagination.

It’s a fantastic budget option for anyone who wants to experiment with art and find their style. You can learn to sketch as well as a draw with colored pencils and try new things. 

It all comes neatly packed in a gorgeous case that makes it easy to keep your pencils tidy. The case is clearly labeled, so you know what goes where.

Due to the wide range of supplies, this set is on the large side. So, it may not be the best choice if you want to carry it around with you. 

And while you don’t get as many accessories as in other sets, that’s not a deal-breaker. The pros of this outstanding kit far outweigh any cons. 

Pros:

• This set contains 54 supplies, making it great value for money
• It also has colored, watercolor, and metallic pencils
• You can try out different styles of art when you buy this set
• The case keeps everything neat, tidy, and organized

Cons:

• It’s not as compact, and you don’t get many accessories

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72PCS Drawing & Art Supplies Kit

Best Budget Art Kit

(Image credit: H & B)

This kit comes with even more pencils to choose from, with 72 in total. That includes 12 each of watercolor, metallic, graphite, and colored pencils. You’ll be spoilt for choice if you buy this kit! 

It also has almost every accessory you could think of, all at a professional-grade level. Plus, they’ve thrown in a sketchbook, making this set a thoughtful present for anyone creative. 

Beginners can get started with this set, but it will grow with you as you develop your skills. Even experienced artists and pros can get a lot out of this kit. 

The zip-up case is hardwearing and allows you to keep your supplies tidy. Despite the range, it’s deceptively compact, so you can also draw on the go. 

Pros:

• A fantastic range of all sorts of colored and graphite pencils
• It has excellent professional accessories
• You also get an A5 sketchbook so you can start drawing right away
• Suitable for both beginners and advanced artists 

Cons:

• You may want to buy another larger sketchbook too

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Amazon

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KALOUR Premium Drawing Pencil Set

Best Affordable Large Art Set

(Image credit: Kalour)

Sometimes, a small, compact set is enough. But other times, you want to have the full range of supplies to pick from! If that’s the case, then you should go for this huge 96-piece set. 

It looks gorgeous, with 72 amazing coloring pencils as well as 12 graphite pencils. Plus, a whole selection of charcoal and other drawing accessories. 

You won’t believe how many pencils fit into the compact, stylish black case. You can unfold an extra layer within to reveal even more supplies. The smart design makes it easy to pop this kit in a bag for creating on the go.

These pencils are hard to beat as they blend and layer up flawlessly. The cores are just the right soft yet resistant to breakages, so they last longer.

If you’re feeling generous, buy this set for yourself or a loved one. It’s sure to be loved for years to come!

Pros:

• The largest set on this list 
• It provides an excellent selection of drawing supplies
• You can create stunning designs in black and white and in color
• It comes in a sturdy and practical case

Cons:

• The sharpener breaks leads easily, so you may want to buy a replacement for it

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Amazon

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Norberg & Linden Drawing Set

Best Small Art Kit with Sketchpad

(Image credit: Norberg & Linden)

While there’s a time and place for a large drawing set, this one’s for you if you want to get back to basics. And by basics, I don’t mean cheap or low-quality. 

This Norberg & Linden kit contains the essentials you need to create spectacular drawings. It provides eight graphite pencils, a specialist pencil, and three charcoal pencils. 

You also get two sharpeners, two types of erasers, and three charcoal sticks. But most importantly, every single item is of the highest quality that even the pros will love.

The 100-page sketchbook gives you plenty of space to get creative. It will take you a long time to fill up these pages, and your sketches will look great. The paper is premium, smudge-resistant, and erasable.  

This set is compact and comes packaged in a cardboard box. But if you want a more durable case, you’ll need to buy that separately.

If you’re looking for a minimalist yet premium set, this one is the right choice for you! 

Pros:

• This sketching set is perfect for beginners or experienced artists 
• It pares it back to the basics and contains very high-quality products 
• You get a 100-page spiral-bound sketchbook

Cons:

• It doesn’t come in a portable case 

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General’s Drawing Class Essential Tools Kit

Best Minimalist Art Kit

(Image credit: General)

Looking for a cheap set for budding artists? Maybe you just want to try your hand at sketching? Then, this 13-piece set is all you need.

You can snap this kit up for a bargain and learn to draw. This set proves that you don’t need to spend a lot of money to get started with this hobby! 

And although it’s very affordable, you get a good range of mediums to try out. That includes charcoal pencils, graphite pencils, compressed charcoal, and pastel sticks. Add in a sharpener and a kneaded eraser, and you’re good to go. 

Needless to say that this kit is super compact and could even fit into a pocket. It’s perfect for getting out into nature and drawing what you see.

Pros:

• It’s ideal for beginners or anyone who wants just the essentials
• This set is very low cost – great for beginners
• You get a range of mediums in this set to try out different techniques
• It’s very portable, small, and lightweight

Cons:

• You’ll need to buy a sketchbook and potentially a case for your supplies

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Blick

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Prismacolor Premier Art Kit

Best Colorful Art Kit

(Image credit: Prismacolor)

Last but not least is this gorgeous little set from Prismacolor. If you need more color in your life, you’ll love this set. 

All in all, it contains 34 pieces. That includes 12 premium colored pencils in beautiful, light-resistant pigments. So, you can draw vibrant illustrations to brighten up your day. 

You also get 12 watercolor pencils, allowing you to create watercolor-style paintings. They’re more practical and versatile than paints, so you can use them wherever you are. Just add a little water for the full effect! 

Six art markers and a bunch of accessories finish off the set. If you want to branch out from simple sketches, go for the Prismacolor Premier art kit. You won’t regret it! 

Pros:

• This set is for anyone who loves color
• You can create amazing artwork with colored pencils, watercolor pencils, and art markets
• It contains 34 drawing supplies 

Cons:

• The case isn’t the sturdiest one out there, but it looks fun! 

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Blick

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The Wrap Up

A drawing and sketching kit is a great addition to any artist’s supplies. It makes an excellent gift for a friend (or for yourself!) 

Drawing kits combine excellent materials, often at a lower price than individual items. It takes all the stress out of choosing your tools, so you can start sketching! 

Plus, an art kit makes it simple to find whatever you need. It’s simple and practical to carry with you for getting creative when you’re out and about, too. 

Browse through my reviews and let me know which one is your favorite in the comments! Then, hop over and follow me on Pinterest. I’ll keep you updated with the best tools, tips, and reviews for creative people.

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