Art is more than just a fun pastime for children; it’s a vital tool for their development. From boosting fine motor skills and problem-solving abilities to encouraging self-expression and emotional growth, art provides endless benefits. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the best art sets for kids that will truly capture their imagination and keep them engaged?
Don’t worry, we’re here to help! We’ve handpicked five fantastic art and craft sets that are sure to be a hit with young artists of all ages. Whether your little one loves to draw, paint, or get hands-on with crafts, you’ll find something perfect in our roundup of the best art sets for kids. Let’s dive in!
Reviews of the Best Art Sets for Kids
1. JOYIN Rock Painting Kit- Glow in The Dark Rock Kit
Unleash your child’s inner rock star with this super cool rock painting kit! What makes this set truly stand out is its glow-in-the-dark feature, transforming ordinary rocks into magical, luminous masterpieces once the lights go out. It’s a fantastic way to encourage outdoor exploration (finding rocks) and then bring the creativity indoors. This comprehensive craft set provides everything a budding artist needs to create unique, glowing designs, making art an exciting adventure.
Key Features:
– Comprehensive craft set with 10 rocks, 6 standard paints, 6 metallic paints, 5 glow-in-the-dark paints, 2 glitter glues, 4 brushes, wiggly eyes, sponges, transfer stickers, and gems.
– Main attraction: unique glow-in-the-dark paints that light up in the dark.
– Designed to spark creativity and imagination for kids aged 6-12.
– Offers a complete crafting experience with various tools for different techniques.
– Perfect as a gift for birthdays, holidays, or school projects.
Pros:
– Unique glow-in-the-dark feature adds an exciting twist to art.
– Very comprehensive with a wide range of decorative elements.
– Encourages creativity and outdoor engagement.
– High perceived value as a gift.
Cons:
– Specific to rock painting, might not appeal to all artistic interests.
– Glow effect requires prior light exposure.
User Impressions:
Parents rave about how much fun their children have with the glow-in-the-dark paints, often sharing stories of glowing rocks displayed proudly. Many users highlight the extensive variety of supplies, which keeps kids entertained for hours, fostering imaginative play.
2. Crayola Inspiration Art Case Coloring Set, 140pc Space Theme
When you think of kids’ art supplies, Crayola often comes to mind – and for good reason! This 140-piece Inspiration Art Case is a classic for a reason, offering a huge assortment of vibrant coloring supplies all neatly organized in a durable, space-themed carrying case. It’s a perfect starter drawing kit for beginners or a fantastic upgrade for any young artist who loves to color and doodle. The portability means creativity can strike anywhere, from the kitchen table to grandma’s house.
Key Features:
– A generous 140-piece art kit, including 64 Crayola Crayons, 40 Washable Markers, 20 Short Colored Pencils, and 15 Large Drawing Sheets.
– Features a wide range of bold and bright colors for various projects.
– Comes in a portable and organized space-themed art case with compartments and locking latches.
– An ideal starter kit for young artists aged 5 and up.
– All Crayola supplies are safe and non-toxic.
Pros:
– Trusted Crayola brand quality and safety.
– Excellent variety of core coloring mediums.
– Washable markers are a huge plus for parents!
– Portable case with handle keeps everything organized on the go.
Cons:
– Primarily focused on drawing and coloring, fewer “craft” elements.
– Case design might not appeal to every child.
User Impressions:
Customers consistently praise the reliability and quality of Crayola products. The variety of colors and mediums keeps children engaged, and parents particularly appreciate the washable markers and the sturdy, organized case, which makes cleanup and travel a breeze.
3. iBayam Art Supplies, 149-Pack Drawing Kit Painting Art Set
Looking for an “everything-but-the-kitchen-sink” art set? The iBayam 149-Pack Drawing Kit might be just what you need! This comprehensive art set truly has it all, from watercolor pens and oil pastels to crayons and colored pencils, plus essential accessories like sharpeners and erasers. What makes this particular kit shine is the inclusion of actual coloring books and drawing pads, meaning your child can start creating immediately. It’s an excellent choice for nurturing artistic development and exploring various mediums.
Key Features:
– All-in-one art set with 33 watercolor pens, 12 colored pencils, 12 oil pastels, 12 crayons, 12 watercolor cakes, palette, sharpener, eraser, and brush pen.
– Special inclusion of 10 sheets/20 pages coloring book and 10 sheets/20 pages drawing pad.
– Provides endless possibilities for creative fun and exploration with a wide range of supplies.
– Versatile and suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to aspiring artists.
– Comes in a lightweight, portable case with a handle.
– Made with high-quality materials for vibrant colors and smooth application.
Pros:
– Massive variety of art mediums in one convenient package.
– Includes paper and coloring books, ready to use right away.
– Encourages experimentation with different techniques.
– Portable and great for travel or keeping organized at home.
Cons:
– The sheer volume might be overwhelming for some younger children.
– Quality of individual components might not match professional-grade supplies.
User Impressions:
Reviewers are often impressed by the sheer quantity and variety of supplies packed into this set. Many note it’s a fantastic value for money and a perfect gift for kids who love to dabble in all kinds of art. The included paper and coloring books are frequently mentioned as a thoughtful addition.
4. Dan&Darci Arts and Crafts Vault – Craft Supplies Kit
Sometimes, creativity extends beyond drawing and coloring into the wonderful world of tactile crafting! The Dan&Darci Arts and Crafts Vault is less about flat paper art and more about building, gluing, and creating 3D masterpieces. This isn’t just an art set; it’s a treasure chest of children’s craft supplies that encourages imaginative construction. With everything from fuzzy sticks and pom-poms to beads and feathers, the possibilities for unique creations are truly limitless.
Key Features:
– A complete arts and crafts supply set with a vast array of materials.
– Packaged and stored in a beautiful 2-drawer case for organization.
– Includes pipe cleaners, fuzzy sticks, pom poms, wooden pieces, felt strips, craft sticks, sequins, beads, sticky gems, googly eyes, scissors, glue, glitter glue, feathers, buttons, and thread.
– Designed to unleash and spark creativity with unlimited uses for making jewelry, windcatchers, monsters, and more.
Pros:
– Excellent for hands-on, 3D crafting and sensory play.
– Wide variety of unique craft items not typically found in drawing kits.
– Encourages imaginative problem-solving and fine motor skills.
– Comes in an attractive, organized storage case.
Cons:
– Less focused on traditional drawing or painting mediums.
– Some items might require more adult supervision for very young children (e.g., scissors).
User Impressions:
Customers love that this kit provides a break from screen time and encourages creative thinking beyond paper. They highlight the impressive variety of materials, which allows children to make unique, personalized projects. It’s often praised as a go-to for rainy day activities or for stimulating creative activities at home.
5. Crayola Inspiration Art Case Coloring Set – Tie-Dye Theme
Back to another trusted Crayola option, but with a vibrant twist! This Tie-Dye themed Inspiration Art Case is another excellent contender for the best art sets for kids. Like its space-themed counterpart, it packs 140 pieces of essential drawing and coloring tools into a portable, durable case. The cheerful tie-dye design adds an extra pop of fun, making it an appealing choice for kids who love a splash of color. It’s a fantastic, reliable option for school projects, home creativity, or as a thoughtful gift.
Key Features:
– A 140-piece drawing kit including 40 Washable Markers, 20 Short Colored Pencils, 64 Crayons, and 15 Large Pieces of Paper.
– Features a portable and durable tie-dye art case for easy transport and storage.
– Versatile art supplies perfect for art class, home projects, or holiday crafts.
– Includes a variety of vibrant colors, from bright to subtle.
– Organized case with trays and compartments for easy access.
– Safe and non-toxic, ideal for ages 5 and up.
Pros:
– Dependable Crayola quality and non-toxic materials.
– Comprehensive set of essential drawing and coloring tools.
– Washable markers make cleanup simple.
– Sturdy, organized, and attractively designed case.
Cons:
– Very similar to the space-themed case, primarily a design difference.
– Focuses mainly on drawing and coloring, not other craft types.
User Impressions:
Much like the other Crayola case, users consistently appreciate the brand’s quality, the vibrant colors, and the convenience of the washable markers. The tie-dye design is often a hit with kids, making it a popular choice for gifts that encourage regular artistic expression.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What age are art sets suitable for?
A1: Art sets come in various forms for different age groups. Simple crayon and coloring book sets are great for toddlers (2-4), while washable markers and larger crayons suit preschoolers (3-5). For elementary school kids (6-12), comprehensive sets with pencils, paints, and craft items are ideal. Teens and older kids might prefer more specialized kits for drawing, painting, or specific crafts. Always check the manufacturer’s recommended age range.
Q2: What should I look for in the best art sets for kids?
A2: When choosing an art set, consider:
1. Child’s Interest: Do they prefer drawing, painting, or hands-on crafting?
2. Safety: Ensure materials are non-toxic (AP certified is a good indicator).
3. Washability: For younger kids, washable markers and paints are a lifesaver for parents!
4. Variety: A good mix of mediums (crayons, markers, pencils, paints) offers more exploration.
5. Organization/Portability: A sturdy case keeps supplies tidy and makes them easy to transport.
6. Durability: Look for quality supplies that won’t break or run out too quickly.
Q3: Are washable art supplies really important?
A3: Absolutely, especially for younger children! Washable art supplies can significantly reduce stress for parents by making accidental marks on clothing, furniture, or walls much easier to clean. It allows children to experiment freely without fear of permanent messes, fostering a more positive and relaxed creative environment.
Q4: How do art sets benefit child development?
A4: Engaging with art sets offers numerous developmental benefits. They enhance fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, encourage self-expression, boost creativity and imagination, improve problem-solving abilities, and help with color recognition. Art can also be a wonderful outlet for emotional expression and stress relief.
Q5: What’s the difference between an art set and a craft kit?
A5: Generally, an “art set” focuses on tools for drawing, painting, and coloring on flat surfaces (like paper), including items like crayons, markers, pencils, and paints. A “craft kit,” on the other hand, typically includes materials for creating three-dimensional objects or textured projects, such as pipe cleaners, pom-poms, beads, glue, scissors, and felt. Some comprehensive kits, like the Dan&Darci vault, beautifully blend both.
Q6: How can I encourage my child’s creativity with an art set?
A6: Provide a dedicated space and time for art, offer encouragement rather than strict instructions, and display their artwork proudly. Avoid criticizing or “fixing” their creations. Ask open-ended questions about their art (“Tell me about this picture!”) rather than judging it. Let them lead the process and enjoy the exploration!
Q7: How do I store art supplies to keep them organized?
A7: Many of the best art sets for kids come with their own cases, which are excellent for organization. For loose supplies, consider clear plastic bins, multi-drawer carts, or even repurposed containers like shoeboxes or caddies. Labeling bins can help older kids put things away independently, making cleanup a breeze.
Unleash Their Inner Artist!
Choosing the right art set can truly make a difference in fostering your child’s creativity and providing them with hours of joyful, enriching activity. Whether you go for the unique glow of the JOYIN Rock Painting Kit, the classic reliability of Crayola’s Art Cases, the expansive options of the iBayam set, or the hands-on fun of the Dan&Darci Craft Vault, you’re investing in more than just toys – you’re investing in their development.
We hope this guide to the best art sets for kids helps you find the perfect match for your budding Picasso or future sculptor! Happy creating!