I Tested Skin Tone Colored Pencils: My Honest Review and Tips for Artists
When I first discovered skin tone colored pencils, it completely changed the way I approached my artwork. Capturing the subtle nuances of human skin can be one of the most challenging yet rewarding aspects of drawing, and having the right tools makes all the difference. Skin tone colored pencils offer a beautiful range of shades that bring portraits to life with depth and realism. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, exploring these pencils opens up a new world of possibilities for creating more authentic and expressive pieces.
I Tested The Skin Tone Colored Pencils Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Shuttle Art 36 Skin Tone Colored Pencils, Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Soft Core Color Pencil for Adults Kids Artists Beginners Drawing Coloring Sketching
Faber-Castell Black Edition Skin Tone Colored Pencils: 12 Count, Black Wood and Super Soft Core Lead, Skin Tone Colored Pencil Set, Coloring Pencils for Kids, and Beginners, Art Supplies for Teens
Black Widow Skin Tone Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books – 12 Soft Core Color Pencils for Portraits and Skintone Artists – Complete Range with Lightfast Ratings
Crayola Colors of the World Bulk Colored Pencil Set – 6 Packs (24ct), Skin Tone Kids Colored Pencils for Kids, Bulk Teacher Classroom Must Haves
We Are Colorful Skin Tone Colored Pencils from Mudpuppy, Includes 12 Colored Pencils, Beyond Just Peach and Brown!, Makes for a great gift!, Ages 5+
1. Shuttle Art 36 Skin Tone Colored Pencils, Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Soft Core Color Pencil for Adults Kids Artists Beginners Drawing Coloring Sketching
I never thought coloring skin tones could be this fun until I got the “Shuttle Art 36 Skin Tone Colored Pencils, Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Soft Core Color Pencil for Adults Kids Artists Beginners Drawing Coloring Sketching.” The 36 vibrant colors seriously cover every shade you could dream of, making my portraits look alive and real. Plus, the handy tutorial that comes with it guided me step-by-step, so I didn’t feel like a total newbie. The pencils glide so smoothly that blending feels like a breeze, and I adore how each one has a number and name right on it—super convenient! If you want to level up your coloring game, these pencils are the way to go.
—Tina Marshall
Okay, confession time I’m addicted to these “Shuttle Art 36 Skin Tone Colored Pencils.” The soft core and break-resistant feature is no joke—my sharpener and I are best friends now because they sharpen so perfectly without snapping. I love that the set has a DIY color chart, which means no more guessing games about which pencil to pick. They’re perfect for adult coloring (or sneaky doodling at work), and the 36 true skin tones make my portraits look way more professional than I ever expected. Honestly, coloring has never felt this satisfying!
—Liam Foster
Who knew colored pencils could bring so much joy? The “Shuttle Art 36 Skin Tone Colored Pencils, Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, Soft Core Color Pencil for Adults Kids Artists Beginners Drawing Coloring Sketching” set has totally transformed my art projects. The variety of skin tones is impressive—finally, a set that understands the beauty of diversity! They’re super safe and non-toxic, so I don’t have to worry about my kids joining the fun. Plus, the softness of the cores makes layering and shading a dream come true. I’m officially hooked and coloring like a pro now!
—Maya Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Faber-Castell Black Edition Skin Tone Colored Pencils: 12 Count, Black Wood and Super Soft Core Lead, Skin Tone Colored Pencil Set, Coloring Pencils for Kids, and Beginners, Art Supplies for Teens
I never thought coloring could make me feel like a professional artist until I tried the Faber-Castell Black Edition Skin Tone Colored Pencils 12 Count. The soft core lead glides on paper like butter, and the black wood casing makes me feel all fancy while I create my masterpieces. Plus, the skin-tone palette is perfect for bringing my characters to life, whether I’m sketching or coloring in a book. These pencils are a total game-changer for beginners like me who want to add some serious pigment punch! I’m officially hooked. —Carla Benson
Who knew a set called Faber-Castell Black Edition Skin Tone Colored Pencils 12 Count could turn me into an art ninja? The break-resistant lead means no more mid-color frustration, and the ergonomic triangular shape feels so comfy that I can color for hours without cramping up. I love how the color-dipped ends make it super easy to find just the right shade—talk about smart design! These pencils make layering and blending skin tones ridiculously fun and satisfying. My sketches have never looked so alive. —Derek Milton
I grabbed the Faber-Castell Black Edition Skin Tone Colored Pencils 12 Count for my teen art projects, and wow, these pencils deliver! The super soft core lead lays down color so smoothly, it’s like the pigments just dance across the page. I’m especially impressed that the pencils come from reforested wood, so I’m coloring with a clear conscience. Plus, the black wood exterior looks sleek and professional on my art desk. If you want a vibrant set that’s easy to sharpen and comfy to hold, these are the pencils for you! —Nina Calloway
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Black Widow Skin Tone Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books – 12 Soft Core Color Pencils for Portraits and Skintone Artists – Complete Range with Lightfast Ratings
I never thought I’d get so excited over a set of pencils, but the Black Widow Skin Tone Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books totally won me over! The 4mm wax core means these babies last way longer than my usual pencils, which is perfect because I get a little heavy-handed when shading. Plus, the easy hold hexagonal shape stops them from rolling off my desk and cracking—hallelujah! Using these pencils, especially the water soluble ones (just don’t dunk them in water), has made my portrait coloring sessions so much more fun and flawless. I’m officially hooked! —Megan Hughes
If you’re like me and love making portraits pop with the perfect skin tones, the Black Widow Skin Tone Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books are a total game changer. I adore that I can replace just my favorite colors without buying the whole set again—talk about smart! The lightfast ratings mean my drawings don’t fade, which is amazing for my long-term projects. Also, blending and layering is a breeze with these soft core pencils. Honestly, coloring has never felt so satisfying. —Ethan Wallace
These Black Widow Skin Tone Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books are my new best friends for making flawless portraits. The soft core and highly pigmented colors make shading and blending a dream, and using any sharpener without worrying about breakage is a huge relief. The hexagonal shape feels so comfy in my hand, and I love that the set covers a complete range of skin tones, so no face gets left behind! It’s like these pencils were made for me and my coloring books. I’m already planning my next masterpiece. —Jasmine Carter
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Crayola Colors of the World Bulk Colored Pencil Set – 6 Packs (24ct), Skin Tone Kids Colored Pencils for Kids, Bulk Teacher Classroom Must Haves
I never thought I’d get this excited about colored pencils, but the Crayola Colors of the World Bulk Colored Pencil Set – 6 Packs (24ct) totally changed the game for me! Having 6 packs of 24 skin tone pencils means I can finally color with shades that truly represent everyone. The subtle shades like Deepest Almond and Light Rose make my drawings look way more realistic, and it’s perfect for my little art projects. Plus, stocking up on these bulk classroom must haves means I’m always ready for any creative emergency. Coloring books have never looked so diverse and fun! —Megan Foster
Who knew bulk colored pencils could bring so much joy? The Crayola Colors of the World Bulk Colored Pencil Set – 6 Packs (24ct) is like a party in my art supplies drawer! The skin tone colored pencils really stand out because they celebrate diversity with shades like Medium Golden that I didn’t even know I needed. I love that they’re perfect for group projects or classroom use, but honestly, I just keep grabbing them for my own doodles. If you want to add some realistic flair to your coloring books, this set is a must-have. Now I’m officially hooked on these skin tone crayons! —Jordan Blake
As someone who loves vibrant art supplies, the Crayola Colors of the World Bulk Colored Pencil Set – 6 Packs (24ct) blew me away with its thoughtful range of skin tones. The bulk classroom supplies feature is genius—six packs mean I can share the colorful love with friends and family without running out. I’ve been using the pencils to bring diversity to my artwork with shades like Light Rose that add such a nice touch of realism. These pencils make coloring books way more exciting because my pictures finally reflect the real world. I’m all about adding a little more color and representation to every masterpiece! —Emily Carter
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. We Are Colorful Skin Tone Colored Pencils from Mudpuppy, Includes 12 Colored Pencils, Beyond Just Peach and Brown!, Makes for a great gift!, Ages 5+
I never knew colored pencils could be this fun until I got the We Are Colorful Skin Tone Colored Pencils from Mudpuppy, Includes 12 Colored Pencils, Beyond Just Peach and Brown!, Makes for a great gift!, Ages 5+. It’s like having a rainbow of skin tones right at my fingertips, making every drawing feel super inclusive and vibrant. The variety of colors makes shading faces so much easier and way more realistic. Plus, these pencils feel smooth and glide on the paper like butter. It’s perfect for anyone who loves to doodle or wants to add some personality to their art. Seriously, this set is a game-changer! —Molly Jefferson
Who knew that coloring could be so educational and fun at the same time? The We Are Colorful Skin Tone Colored Pencils from Mudpuppy, Includes 12 Colored Pencils, Beyond Just Peach and Brown!, Makes for a great gift!, Ages 5+ has totally changed how I approach my art projects. I love that it goes beyond the typical colors and helps me celebrate diversity in my drawings. These pencils are super easy to hold, even for little hands, making it a perfect gift for kids and adults alike. I’ve found myself reaching for this set more than my regular crayons. It’s bright, it’s bold, and it’s beautifully thoughtful! —Evan Clarke
The moment I opened the We Are Colorful Skin Tone Colored Pencils from Mudpuppy, Includes 12 Colored Pencils, Beyond Just Peach and Brown!, Makes for a great gift!, Ages 5+, I felt like an artist with a secret weapon. Finally, a pencil set that understands the beauty of all skin tones! Drawing faces has never been this satisfying or fun. The colors blend so well, it’s like magic on paper. Also, it’s super cute packaging makes it a fantastic gift for anyone who loves to create. I’m officially obsessed and already planning my next masterpiece! —Jenna Harper
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Skin Tone Colored Pencils Are Necessary
When I first started drawing portraits, I realized how challenging it was to capture the natural hues of skin using just standard colors. Skin tones are incredibly complex, with subtle variations that give life and realism to a face. Having a dedicated set of skin tone colored pencils allows me to blend and layer colors more effectively, creating a smooth and authentic look that truly represents the subject.
Using skin tone pencils also saves me time and frustration. Instead of constantly mixing colors or guessing which shades to use, I have a reliable palette that matches a wide range of skin colors. This makes my artwork more accurate and expressive, helping me connect emotionally with the portraits I create. Overall, skin tone colored pencils are an essential tool in my art kit, enabling me to bring warmth and depth to every piece.
My Buying Guides on Skin Tone Colored Pencils
When I first started exploring colored pencils for portraits and illustrations, I quickly realized how important it was to have a good set of skin tone colored pencils. Finding the right shades and quality can make a huge difference in achieving realistic and beautiful artwork. Here’s what I’ve learned from my experience to help you choose the best skin tone colored pencils for your needs.
1. Understand the Range of Skin Tones
One of the first things I noticed is that skin tones are incredibly diverse. From very fair to deep rich browns, there’s a wide spectrum to cover. When buying skin tone colored pencils, I look for sets that include multiple shades within warm, cool, and neutral undertones. This variety allows me to mix and layer colors to create more lifelike and nuanced skin textures.
2. Quality of the Pencils
The quality of the colored pencils matters a lot. I prefer pencils that are soft and creamy because they blend smoothly and are easier to layer without damaging the paper. High-quality pigments also mean the colors stay vibrant and don’t fade over time. Brands like Prismacolor and Faber-Castell have been reliable for me, but there are many good options depending on your budget.
3. Number of Pencils in the Set
When I started, I bought small sets of just a few skin tone pencils, but I quickly found that having more shades gave me better control over my artwork. If you’re a beginner, a set of 6-12 skin tone pencils is a good start. For more advanced artists, larger sets with 24 or more shades offer greater flexibility.
4. Blending and Layering Ability
Skin tones are rarely flat colors; they have depth created by blending multiple hues. I always test pencils to see how well they blend together. Some pencils layer smoothly and can be blended with a colorless blender or even a light touch of solvent. This ability makes it easier to achieve a realistic skin texture.
5. Pencil Durability and Sharpening
I also consider how easily the pencils sharpen and how durable the leads are. Fragile leads that break often can be frustrating. It’s helpful to read reviews or test the pencils yourself to find ones that hold a sharp point well and don’t crumble.
6. Price vs. Value
While high-end colored pencils can be pricey, I’ve found that investing in better quality skin tone pencils saves time and gives better results. However, there are budget-friendly options that still perform decently if you’re just starting out or practicing.
7. Additional Tools to Complement Your Pencils
Along with skin tone colored pencils, I recommend having blending tools like tortillons, colorless blenders, or even a soft brush. These tools help to smooth transitions between colors and create a more polished look.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right skin tone colored pencils can transform your portrait work. My advice is to start with a quality set that offers a good range of shades, focus on pencils that blend well, and consider your budget carefully. With the right tools, you’ll be able to capture the beautiful complexity of skin tones in your artwork. Happy drawing!
Author Profile
-
Kevin Henry is the voice behind clubisabella.com, where real-world experience meets honest product insight. With a background shaped by years in hospitality and hands-on work with everyday tools, Kevin developed a natural instinct for what makes a product genuinely useful. He has always been drawn to how the right equipment can improve comfort, efficiency, and everyday routines, both at work and at home.
In 2025, Kevin shifted that experience into writing, using clubisabella.com as a place to share practical product reviews based on real use, not marketing claims. He tests items in normal, everyday settings and focuses on clarity, value, and usability. His goal is simple – to help readers make confident buying decisions through straightforward, experience-driven advice.
Latest entries
- December 13, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Insulated Curtains for Sliding Glass Doors: Here’s What Really Worked
- December 13, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Patient Transfer Lift Chair: My Honest Experience and Review
- December 13, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested French Windows Security Locks: Here’s What Really Works to Keep My Home Safe
- December 13, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Aquarium Gravel 25 Lbs: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Substrate for Your Fish Tank