Why I chose colored pencils

As an artist who’s spent years experimenting with various mediums, I can confidently say that colored pencils have become my favorite tool for creating art. While paints, particularly acrylics and oils, can be exhilarating to work with, I’ve come to realize that colored pencils offer a unique blend of control, simplicity, and precision that makes them a standout medium. In fact, for me, colored pencils have proven to be not just an alternative to paints, but often a far better choice for my creative process. Here’s why I believe colored pencils are worth all the love (and why you should give them a try too).

1. Control and Precision: A Personal Preference

If I had to describe why I love colored pencils in one word, it would be “control.” When I’m working on a drawing, I appreciate being able to dictate exactly where and how each color is applied. With paints, there’s always a degree of unpredictability—blending, brush strokes, and washes can all get out of hand if you’re not careful. But with colored pencils, I can layer colors and build up depth with pinpoint accuracy. Whether it’s capturing the soft texture of fur or adding intricate details to a portrait, I can trust that colored pencils will give me the precision I need.

2. No Mess, No Fuss: My Studio is Cleaner

One of the biggest frustrations I’ve had with painting is the mess. The mixing, the water, the solvents—sometimes it feels like the cleanup takes as long as the painting itself. But when I work with colored pencils, it’s a whole different experience. I love how quick and easy it is to just pick up my pencils, start drawing, and know that my workspace will remain clean. No splashes of paint, no worrying about drying times or cleaning brushes. For me, this simplicity is a huge advantage, especially when I’m trying to get into the flow of creativity without distractions.

3. Layering and Blending: Building Depth, One Layer at a Time

I’ve always enjoyed the process of layering, and colored pencils excel at this. One of my favorite things to do is start with a light, almost invisible layer of color and slowly build it up to create depth and dimension. It’s a subtle process, but one that gives me complete control over the outcome. With paints, blending can sometimes feel like a gamble—will the colors mix just right or will they turn into mud? But with colored pencils, I know that each layer will contribute to a richer, more vibrant result, and I can blend seamlessly to create smooth transitions.

4. Portability: Taking My Art Anywhere

As an artist who loves to work outdoors or in different environments, colored pencils have been a game changer. I can throw my sketchbook and pencil case into a bag, and I’m ready to draw wherever I go. Whether I’m sitting at a café, taking a walk in the park, or traveling, colored pencils are always there, waiting to be used. With paints, it’s a whole different story—there’s always a need for extra tools like brushes, water containers, or palettes. Colored pencils have allowed me the freedom to create art on the go, without the hassle of lugging around a whole art studio.

5. Affordability: Quality Without Breaking the Bank

I’ll be honest—one of the main reasons I keep coming back to colored pencils is how affordable they are. When I first started as an artist, I was drawn to paints for their bold, vibrant colors. But over time, I realized that I didn’t need to spend a fortune to achieve vibrant, detailed artwork. A good set of colored pencils, a sharpener, and some quality paper are all I really need to get started. Compared to the cost of paints, brushes, solvents, and all the other materials needed, colored pencils are a much more budget-friendly option. For an artist like me, that’s a huge bonus.

6. No Special Workspace Needed

There’s something comforting about being able to sit anywhere and draw without needing a special setup. With colored pencils, I don’t need to worry about stretching my canvas, setting up easels, or organizing my paints. I can just open my sketchbook, sharpen my pencils, and get started. This simplicity has allowed me to create in more places and at more times than I ever could with paints. Whether I’m on my couch at home or in a park by the water, I can always pull out my colored pencils and start creating.

7. Long Shelf Life: Ready When I Am

Colored pencils last forever. Seriously. I’ve had the same set for years now, and they’re still as good as new. There’s no worrying about them drying out or going bad like with paints. If I take a break from drawing for a while, I know that when I come back, my pencils will be ready to go. That level of reliability has been incredibly reassuring for me as an artist. It’s nice knowing that I don’t have to constantly replace or refresh my materials to keep creating.

8. Ideal for Details: Capturing the Subtlety

I’ve always had a soft spot for detailed work. Whether it’s the fur of a pet, the leaves on a tree, or the intricate folds in fabric, I love capturing the little details that bring a piece to life. Colored pencils are perfect for this kind of work. The fine tips allow me to create the delicate textures that I can’t achieve with a brush. Paint can sometimes feel too broad for the level of detail I like to get into, but with colored pencils, I can add the tiniest nuances to a drawing and still keep everything sharp and clear.

9. The Freedom to Correct Mistakes

One of the most frustrating things about painting is when you make a mistake. Once that paint is on the canvas, it’s hard to fix without affecting the surrounding areas. With colored pencils, it’s much easier to correct mistakes. I can erase sections and layer more color over problem areas without worrying about ruining the entire piece. This flexibility is a huge comfort, especially when I’m trying to get the details just right.

10. The Perfect Medium for Every Artist

Ultimately, what makes colored pencils so special to me is that they work for any artist. They’re accessible for beginners, yet complex enough for seasoned professionals to get lost in. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a master of realism, colored pencils offer endless possibilities. For me, they’ve become the go-to medium, and I’m constantly amazed by the results I can achieve with just a few simple tools.

Why I Choose Colored Pencils

Colored pencils have completely changed the way I create art. They’re portable, affordable, precise, and offer endless possibilities for creating detailed, vibrant works. While I still enjoy painting from time to time, I’ve found that colored pencils give me a level of control and satisfaction that no other medium can provide. If you haven’t explored the world of colored pencils yet, I highly recommend you do—you might find, as I did, that they’re exactly what you’ve been looking for in your artistic journey.