Faber-Castell Colored Pencils Reviews: Best Options for Beginners and Professionals

When it comes to colored pencils, Faber-Castell stands out as a brand synonymous with quality, precision, and innovation. Established in 1761, this German company has been at the forefront of art supplies, offering a vast range of products that cater to artists of all levels—from beginners to seasoned professionals. In this article, we will explore some of the best Faber-Castell colored pencils available, reviewing their features, benefits, and ideal use cases, so you can choose the perfect set for your artistic needs.

Why Choose Faber-Castell Colored Pencils?

Faber-Castell colored pencils are highly regarded for several reasons:

• Quality Materials: The brand uses high-quality pigments and materials in their pencils, ensuring vibrant colors and smooth application.
• Variety of Options: Faber-Castell offers a diverse range of colored pencils suited for different artistic techniques, from watercolor to oil-based pencils.
• Sustainability: Faber-Castell is committed to sustainability, using responsibly sourced wood and eco-friendly manufacturing processes.
• Ergonomic Design: Many of their pencils feature ergonomic designs that provide comfort during extended use, making them ideal for long drawing sessions.

Best Faber-Castell Colored Pencils for Beginners

1. Faber-Castell Colored Pencils Classic

Overview: The Faber-Castell Colored Pencils Classic set is perfect for beginners. These pencils are designed for both children and adults, making them a great starting point for anyone new to colored pencils.

Features:

• Available in sets of 12, 24, 36, and 48 pencils.
• Richly pigmented colors that blend easily.
• Break-resistant leads, which are ideal for young artists.

Benefits:

• Affordable price point, making it accessible for newcomers.
• Great for learning basic coloring techniques and blending.
• Durable and easy to sharpen, even for beginners.

2. Faber-Castell EcoPencils

Overview: EcoPencils are an excellent choice for environmentally conscious beginners. These pencils are made from recycled materials and are free from harmful substances.

Features:

• Available in a range of 12 vibrant colors.
• Non-toxic and safe for all ages.
• Good color payoff with a smooth application.

Benefits:

• Eco-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality.
• Perfect for school projects, casual coloring, and practice.
• Lightweight and easy to carry, making them ideal for travel.

Best Faber-Castell Colored Pencils for Professionals

1. Faber-Castell Polychromos Colored Pencils

Overview: Renowned among professional artists, Polychromos colored pencils offer high-quality pigments, lightfastness, and exceptional blendability.

Features:

• Available in sets ranging from 12 to 120 pencils.
• Oil-based leads that are smooth and creamy.
• Excellent lightfastness ratings (up to 100 years under museum conditions).

Benefits:

• Perfect for detailed work, illustrations, and fine art.
• The wide range of colors allows for versatile applications and mixing.
• Strong, break-resistant leads reduce waste and enhance longevity.

2. Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolor Pencils

Overview: Albrecht Dürer Watercolor Pencils combine the benefits of colored pencils and watercolors, making them ideal for artists who enjoy mixed media.

Features:

• Available in sets of 12, 24, 36, 48, and 120 pencils.
• Water-soluble leads that can be used dry or wet.
• High-quality pigments for vibrant, intense colors.

Benefits:

• Perfect for creating stunning watercolor effects with ease.
• Allows for layering and blending for depth and texture.
• The versatility of use for both drawing and watercolor techniques.

3. Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pens

Overview: While not traditional colored pencils, Pitt Artist Pens offer professionals a fantastic complement to colored pencil work. These pens feature pigmented ink that is permanent and waterproof.

Features:

• Available in various tip sizes and colors.
• Lightfast and acid-free ink.
• Ideal for line work, details, and mixed media projects.

Benefits:

• Enhance colored pencil drawings with fine lines and details.
• Suitable for use on various surfaces, including paper and canvas.
• Combine easily with colored pencils for added dimension.

Comparing Faber-Castell Colored Pencils

Feature	Classic Colored Pencils	EcoPencils	Polychromos	Albrecht Dürer
Best For	Beginners	Eco-conscious users	Professionals	Watercolor techniques
Color Range	12 to 48 colors	12 colors	12 to 120 colors	12 to 120 colors
Lead Type	Wax-based	Wax-based	Oil-based	Water-soluble
Lightfastness	Moderate	Moderate	High	High
Price	Budget-friendly	Budget-friendly	Higher-end	Higher-end

Tips for Choosing the Right Faber-Castell Colored Pencils

When selecting the right Faber-Castell colored pencils for your needs, consider the following tips:

1. Determine Your Skill Level

Choose beginner-friendly options like the Classic or EcoPencils if you’re just starting. If you have more experience, consider the Polychromos or Albrecht Dürer for professional-quality results.

2. Identify Your Artistic Goals

Consider what you want to achieve with your colored pencils. Are you looking to create fine art, illustrations, or casual coloring? This will help guide your choice.

3. Evaluate Your Preferred Techniques

If you enjoy watercolor techniques, the Albrecht Dürer Watercolor Pencils are an excellent choice. For detailed work and layering, Polychromos pencils are a go-to option.

4. Consider Your Budget

Faber-Castell offers a range of options at various price points. Determine your budget and choose a set that offers the best value for your needs.

How to Care for Your Faber-Castell Colored Pencils

To extend the life of your colored pencils and maintain their performance, follow these care tips:

• Sharpening: Use a quality pencil sharpener designed for colored pencils to maintain the leads’ integrity and avoid breakage.
• Storage: Store pencils in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Consider a pencil case or container to protect them from damage.
• Cleaning: Wipe the pencil tips regularly to remove any debris or wax buildup that can affect color application.

Conclusion

Faber-Castell colored pencils offer an exceptional range of options for artists of all levels, from beginners to professionals. Whether you’re looking for quality, versatility, or eco-friendliness, there’s a perfect set of Faber-Castell colored pencils to suit your artistic needs.

By understanding the various options available and considering your individual preferences, you can select the ideal colored pencils to enhance your creativity and elevate your artwork. With Faber-Castell, you’re not just buying colored pencils; you’re investing in a trusted brand that has been inspiring artists for generations. Explore their collections, and let your imagination run wild!