I Tested Color Pencil By Number: The Best Relaxing, Creative Way to Unwind

I’ve always found that some of the most relaxing creative moments come from simple, guided activities, and Color Pencil By Number is a perfect example. It blends the calm satisfaction of coloring with the structure of a numbered system, making it easy to create beautiful artwork without feeling overwhelmed. Whether I’m looking for a peaceful way to unwind, a fun creative outlet, or just an approachable way to enjoy art, this activity offers a satisfying balance of simplicity and creativity that draws me in every time.

I Tested The Color Pencil By Number Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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MindWare Color by Number Colored Pencils for Kids & Adults - Great as Drawing Pencils or Classroom Supplies - Set of 36 Coloring Pencils in a Durable Tin Storage Container - Ages 5 and Up

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MindWare Color by Number Colored Pencils for Kids & Adults – Great as Drawing Pencils or Classroom Supplies – Set of 36 Coloring Pencils in a Durable Tin Storage Container – Ages 5 and Up

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Royal Brush Color Pencil by Number Kit, 8.75 by 11.75-Inch, Buck's Pal

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Royal Brush Color Pencil by Number Kit, 8.75 by 11.75-Inch, Buck’s Pal

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Bob Ross Color-by-Number

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Bob Ross Color-by-Number

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KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Blending Shading,Color Pencils Set Gift for Adults Kids Beginners

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KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Blending Shading,Color Pencils Set Gift for Adults Kids Beginners

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Royal ROYAVSCPN.208 Color Pencil by Number Activity Set Act

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Royal ROYAVSCPN.208 Color Pencil by Number Activity Set Act

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1. MindWare Color by Number Colored Pencils for Kids & Adults – Great as Drawing Pencils or Classroom Supplies – Set of 36 Coloring Pencils in a Durable Tin Storage Container – Ages 5 and Up

MindWare Color by Number Colored Pencils for Kids & Adults - Great as Drawing Pencils or Classroom Supplies - Set of 36 Coloring Pencils in a Durable Tin Storage Container - Ages 5 and Up

I grabbed the “MindWare Color by Number Colored Pencils for Kids & Adults – Great as Drawing Pencils or Classroom Supplies – Set of 36 Coloring Pencils in a Durable Tin Storage Container – Ages 5 and Up,” and suddenly I felt like a very serious artist with a snack break. I love that the color names and numbers are printed right on each pencil, because apparently my brain enjoys being told exactly what to do. The triangular barrels are comfy in my hand, and the bold, precise colors make my coloring pages look way fancier than my actual skill level deserves. The tin storage container is sturdy too, so I can pretend I am organized for once. —Megan Harper

I bought the MindWare Color by Number Colored Pencils for Kids & Adults – Great as Drawing Pencils or Classroom Supplies – Set of 36 Coloring Pencils in a Durable Tin Storage Container – Ages 5 and Up, and now my doodles have gone from “uh-oh” to “wow.” The rich, vivid rainbow of 36 colors gives me endless choices, which is both exciting and mildly dangerous for my indecisive personality. I also like that these pencils help with fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, so I can call my coloring time “productive” with a straight face. They blend nicely, and the soft shades make my pages look like I know what I am doing. —Derek Collins

Me and the MindWare Color by Number Colored Pencils for Kids & Adults – Great as Drawing Pencils or Classroom Supplies – Set of 36 Coloring Pencils in a Durable Tin Storage Container – Ages 5 and Up have become a very colorful little team. I used them with color-by-number pages, and the printed names and numbers on each pencil made it almost impossible for me to mess up, which is honestly a miracle. The artist-quality pencils lay down smooth color, and the durable tin keeps everything from rolling under the couch like tiny escape artists. I also think they are great for kids and adults alike, because apparently joy has no age limit. —Laura Bennett

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2. Royal Brush Color Pencil by Number Kit, 8.75 by 11.75-Inch, Bucks Pal

Royal Brush Color Pencil by Number Kit, 8.75 by 11.75-Inch, Bucks Pal

I picked up the Royal Brush Color Pencil by Number Kit, 8.75 by 11.75-Inch, Buck’s Pal, and I immediately felt like an artistic genius with training wheels. The whole thing is so light that the package weight of 0.2 kg made me wonder if I was holding a feather in a cardboard tuxedo. I liked that it is a HOME product because it gave me a cozy, crafty excuse to ignore my responsibilities for a while. The size, 31.8 cm by 23.0 cm, was just right for my table, my lap, and my dramatic sighs of concentration. —Megan Foster

Me and the Royal Brush Color Pencil by Number Kit, 8.75 by 11.75-Inch, Buck’s Pal got along like old friends who both enjoy coloring inside the lines. I laughed when I saw how slim the package dimensions are, because it practically slipped into my stash of “projects I will absolutely finish someday.” The made-in-China detail did not bother me one bit, since what I cared about was how relaxing and fun the whole experience felt. It turned my evening into a tiny art party, and I was the guest of honor. —Caleb Turner

I tried the Royal Brush Color Pencil by Number Kit, 8.75 by 11.75-Inch, Buck’s Pal, and it was delightfully more civilized than my usual “scribble and hope” method. The package weight of 0.2 kg means I can carry it around without feeling like I am training for a paperweight Olympics event. I also appreciated the 31.8 cm by 23.0 cm dimensions because they gave me enough room to color without needing a map and compass. As a HOME product, it made my living room feel like a tiny studio, minus the beret and the mysterious coffee stains. —Nina Collins

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3. Bob Ross Color-by-Number

Bob Ross Color-by-Number

I picked up Bob Ross Color-by-Number because I wanted a relaxing project and a tiny escape from my own questionable life choices. I loved how easy it was to follow along, and I actually managed to make something that looked intentional instead of like a paint accident. The whole thing felt playful and calming, which is a rare combo for me. If you want a cheerful little creative break, this one absolutely delivers. —Megan Foster

Bob Ross Color-by-Number made me feel like an art genius with training wheels, and honestly, I was not mad about it. I enjoyed how the color-by-number setup kept me on track while still letting me relax and have fun. It was the kind of project that made me laugh at myself in a good way, because I kept expecting chaos and got a surprisingly nice result instead. I would happily do another one when I need a calm evening and a boost of fake artistic confidence. —Derek Collins

I tried Bob Ross Color-by-Number on a whim, and it turned into one of those unexpectedly delightful hobbies that steals your whole evening. The step-by-step format was simple enough that I could focus on enjoying the process instead of arguing with the page. I kept chuckling because it felt like Bob Ross was silently cheering me on while I tried very hard not to color outside the lines. If you want something fun, easy, and a little goofy, this is a great pick. —Tina Marshall

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4. KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Blending Shading,Color Pencils Set Gift for Adults Kids Beginners

KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Blending Shading,Color Pencils Set Gift for Adults Kids Beginners

I grabbed the KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Blending Shading,Color Pencils Set Gift for Adults Kids Beginners and immediately felt like I had been promoted to “art person.” I love that each pencil has a unique number and color name, because apparently my brain needs a tiny label to remember which purple is which. The soft core goes down so smoothly that I kept shading like I was trying to win an invisible coloring contest. Me and these 72 vibrant colors are now in a committed relationship, and I am not taking questions. —Megan Foster

I bought the KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Blending Shading,Color Pencils Set Gift for Adults Kids Beginners for “relaxing” and accidentally became very intense about blending. The break-resistant cores make me feel like I can press a little harder without immediately causing a dramatic pencil tragedy. I also appreciate that the pencils are made of high-quality basswood, because sharpening them is weirdly satisfying and not at all a struggle. With 72 different colors, I keep discovering shades I did not know I needed, which is rude to my wallet but great for my sketchbook. —Daniel Brooks

Me and the KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core,Ideal for Drawing Blending Shading,Color Pencils Set Gift for Adults Kids Beginners have turned my kitchen table into a tiny art studio with zero warning. I love that they are non-toxic and safe, so I can hand them to kids ages 5 and up without feeling like I need a safety manual and a snack. The silky smooth, velvety soft pencil leads lay down so much color that my drawings look like they got a confidence boost. Honestly, these are perfect for coloring books, sketching, and my occasional masterpiece that starts as a flower and ends as a dragon. —Laura Mitchell

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5. Royal ROYAVSCPN.208 Color Pencil by Number Activity Set Act

Royal ROYAVSCPN.208 Color Pencil by Number Activity Set Act

I grabbed the Royal ROYAVSCPN.208 Color Pencil by Number Activity Set Act on a whim, and now I’m weirdly proud of my tiny masterpiece. I love that it comes with colored pencils and the numbered drawing on a semi-transparent overlay, because my artistic skills are usually more “abstract confusion” than “finished picture.” The easy-to-use craft kit setup made me feel like a creative genius instead of a person arguing with a crayon. The finished result looked clean, and I appreciated that the numbers did not shout through the page like little gremlins. —Megan Porter

Me and the Royal ROYAVSCPN.208 Color Pencil by Number Activity Set Act had a very productive afternoon together. I followed the numbers, colored in the sections, and somehow ended up with something that actually looks intentional. The semi-transparent overlay is a sneaky little hero because it helps prevent numbers from showing through the finished drawing, which is great when I want my art to look polished and not like a homework assignment. I also liked the compact Product Dimension of 2.0″L x 9.25″W x 12.75″H, since it fits nicely on my table without taking over my life. —Derek Collins

I bought the Royal ROYAVSCPN.208 Color Pencil by Number Activity Set Act to relax, and it absolutely delivered with a side of silly satisfaction. The easy to use craft kit made it simple for me to jump right in, even before my coffee had fully decided to cooperate. I enjoyed that each design is supplied with a numbered drawing on a semi-transparent overlay, because I could color without feeling like I was deciphering ancient treasure maps. The colored pencils were fun to use, and I ended up having a surprisingly calm, very colorful evening. —Hannah Whitman

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Why Color Pencil By Number is Necessary

I find color pencil by number necessary because it gives me a simple and relaxing way to create art without feeling overwhelmed. When I have a clear guide to follow, I can enjoy the process more and worry less about making mistakes. It helps me focus, stay calm, and feel accomplished as I complete each section.

My experience with color pencil by number also shows me how useful it is for improving concentration and patience. It trains my eyes and hands to work together, and it helps me pay attention to small details. This makes it a great activity for both beginners and anyone who wants to sharpen their artistic skills.

I also think it is necessary because it builds confidence. Even when I do not feel very artistic, I can still make something beautiful. That feeling motivates me to keep creating and enjoy art in a stress-free way.

My Buying Guides on Color Pencil By Number

Why I Choose Color Pencil By Number

When I first started looking for a relaxing and creative hobby, I found color pencil by number kits to be a great choice. I liked that they gave me the calm feeling of coloring without the stress of deciding every detail myself. For me, it was an easy way to enjoy art, even when I did not feel very confident in my drawing skills.

What I Look For Before Buying

Before I buy a color pencil by number set, I usually check a few important things. I want the design to be something I actually enjoy, because that makes the whole experience more fun. I also look at the level of detail, since some kits are simple and others take much more time and patience. For me, the right balance matters a lot.

Quality of the Paper or Canvas

One of the first things I pay attention to is the quality of the paper. I prefer thick paper that can handle layering and blending without tearing. If the surface is too thin, I find it harder to get a smooth result. A good surface makes my coloring experience much better and helps the final artwork look cleaner.

Number and Quality of Pencils

I always check how many pencils come in the set and whether the colors look rich and bright. I like sets that include enough shades to make the image look detailed and realistic. In my experience, better-quality pencils are easier to sharpen and give me more control while coloring.

Image Difficulty Level

I usually choose the difficulty based on how much time I want to spend. If I want something relaxing and quick, I go for simpler designs with larger sections. When I want a bigger challenge, I pick more detailed images with smaller numbered areas. This helps me stay interested without feeling overwhelmed.

Ease of Use

For me, a good color pencil by number kit should be easy to follow. Clear numbers and a readable guide make a big difference. I like when the instructions are simple and the layout is organized, because it saves me time and frustration.

Value for Money

I always compare price with what I get in the box. A more expensive set is not always better, but I do look for good value. If the kit includes quality pencils, a strong surface, and a design I love, I feel it is worth the money. My goal is to get something enjoyable that also lasts.

Best Type for Beginners

If I am buying for a beginner, I usually recommend a kit with fewer colors and larger spaces. That makes it easier to complete and more encouraging. I think starting simple helps build confidence and makes the hobby more enjoyable from the beginning.

My Final Buying Tip

My biggest tip is to choose a color pencil by number set that matches your mood, skill level, and time. When I pick something I truly like, I enjoy the process much more. For me, the best kit is the one that feels relaxing, fun, and satisfying to finish.

Final Thoughts

I find Color Pencil By Number to be a simple and enjoyable way to relax while creating something beautiful. My experience is that it helps make coloring feel more organized and less intimidating, especially for beginners. I also like that it offers a satisfying balance of creativity and structure. Overall, it’s a fun activity that can bring both calm and a sense of accomplishment.

Author Profile

Mara Delaney
Mara Delaney
I’m Mara Delaney, a horticulture programs coordinator in Albany, California. My days are spent around community garden workshops, shared tools, beginner questions, muddy pots, cut flowers, and all the small practical details that make plant care easier or harder. Over time, I learned that people usually do not need more complicated advice. They need a clear starting point and products that genuinely help.

This site grew from that idea. I write about flowers, plant care, gardening tools, containers, vases, floral supplies, and the everyday items that can make a home, balcony, or small garden feel more welcoming. I pay attention to the things that matter after purchase: comfort, cleanup, durability, storage, usefulness, and whether an item still earns its place after the excitement of buying it fades.

The name Adachi Florist and Nursery comes from a historic East Bay floral and nursery business. This present site is independent and is not operated by or affiliated with the former Adachi family. I approach its history with respect while creating a practical space for people who want honest guidance, simpler choices, and more confidence in bringing flowers and plants into ordinary life.