10 Best Art Supplies For 5 Year Old in 2026

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For a five-year-old ready to draw, color, and create, the Crayola Inspiration Art Case Coloring Set is our Best Overall pick. It packs 140 pieces including 64 crayons and 40 washable markers into a portable case that makes cleanup simple. The Best Large Art Set from Crayola adds washable paints and Model Magic clay for more variety, while the iBayam Deluxe Art Set offers strong value in a sturdy wooden case for budget-conscious families.

The challenge with art supplies at this age is balancing creativity with practicality. You want enough variety to keep a young artist engaged without ending up with stained furniture, lost pieces, or a mess that takes an hour to clean. Washable materials, safe non-toxic formulas, and organized storage matter as much as the number of crayons.

This guide is research-based, drawing on manufacturer specifications, safety certifications, and patterns in owner feedback to help you choose. We evaluated each set for piece count, portability, washability, and age-appropriate design so you can match the right kit to your child’s interests and your home’s tolerance for glitter.

Top 10 Art Supplies For 5 Year Olds in the Market

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The Best Art Supplies For 5 Year Olds, Reviewed

#1Best Overall

Crayola Inspiration Art Case Coloring Set

Crayola Inspiration Art Case Coloring Set
Piece count140
Case weight3.3 pounds
Case dimensions15.5 x 11.0 x 2.0 inches
Crayons included64
Markers included40 washable
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What We Like

  • 140 pieces in a portable case
  • 64 crayons for variety
  • 40 washable markers for easy cleanup

Trade-offs

  • No paint or brushes included
  • Case is only 2 inches deep

With 140 pieces packed into a lightweight case that weighs just 3.3 pounds, this Crayola set gives a five-year-old enough crayons, markers, and colored pencils to explore color without overwhelming them.

The trade-off is that this set focuses on dry media and markers; there are no paints or brushes inside the case. If your child loves painting, the VigorFun 240-piece set includes an easel and watercolors, but for a portable, organized introduction to drawing and coloring, this Crayola case is hard to beat. The 64 crayons and 40 markers give plenty of variety for a young artist, and the compact case keeps everything tidy.

Best for: A parent looking for a portable drawing and coloring set with washable markers and safe supplies for a child ages 5 and up. Not ideal for children who want paints or a built-in easel.
#2Best Large Art Set

Crayola Art Set for Kids 125-Piece

Crayola Art Set for Kids 125-Piece
Piece Count125 pieces
Washable Paints6 x 2oz bottles
StorageReusable box with handle
Weight6.0 pounds
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What We Like

  • Washable paints for easy cleanup
  • Two giant coloring books included
  • Model Magic clay for sculpting
  • Portable storage box with handle

Trade-offs

  • At 6 pounds, heavy for small children to carry
  • No colored pencils for detailed drawing

The washable paints and Ultra-Clean Markers make this a practical choice for parents who want creative fun without permanent stains on furniture or clothes. Model Magic clay adds a sculpting option that crayons and markers can’t offer, giving kids a chance to build three-dimensional shapes. This kit suits families looking for a generous all-in-one solution that keeps supplies organized in a reusable box with a handle, ready to grab for travel or quiet afternoons.

Weight is a trade-off here: at six pounds, this set is heavier than the Crayola 140-piece kit (3.3 pounds). A five-year-old may need help carrying it or prefer to leave it on a table rather than tote it around. There are no colored pencils here, which some kids enjoy for finer details, but the combination of crayons, markers, paints, and clay covers a wide range of activities. If you want a single box that delivers variety and washable convenience, this is a strong candidate for birthdays or holidays.

Best for: Families who want a comprehensive, washable art kit with coloring books and clay for creative play at home or on short trips. Not ideal for children who need a lightweight set to carry independently or prefer colored pencils over crayons.
#3Best Budget Pick

iBayam Deluxe Art Set 150-Piece

iBayam Deluxe Art Set 150-Piece
Total Pieces150
Case MaterialWooden
Non-Toxic StandardASTM D4236
IncludesCrayons, colored pencils, oil pastels, watercolor cakes, sketch pads, coloring book
Age WarningNot for children under 3
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What We Like

  • 150-piece kit in a sturdy wooden case
  • Non-toxic materials conform to ASTM D4236
  • Includes sketch pads and coloring book
  • Ready-to-give gift packaging

Trade-offs

  • Additional paper recommended for frequent use
  • Wooden case adds weight for small hands

A 150-piece set packed into a wooden case means you get crayons, colored pencils, oil pastels, watercolor cakes, two sketch pads, and a coloring book all in one organized box. That variety lets a five-year-old switch between drawing, coloring, and painting without needing separate purchases. The non-toxic materials (ASTM D4236) give parents peace of mind, and the fitted wooden case keeps everything tidy for travel or storage. For families on a budget who want a complete starter kit that covers multiple mediums, this set delivers real breadth without breaking the bank.

The wooden case is sturdy, but at 1.0 pounds it is lighter than the Crayola 140-piece kit (3.3 pounds), so weight is not a downside for carrying. The included paper is enough to start, though the manufacturer recommends buying extra pads for frequent use. The iBayam set has 150 pieces and includes oil pastels and watercolor cakes that the Crayola set lacks, but the Crayola case is larger and may offer different storage options.

Best for: Budget-conscious families wanting a large, varied art kit in a durable wooden case. Not ideal for children who need a lightweight, easy-to-carry case or for kids under three.
#4Best Portable Easel Set

VigorFun Art Supplies 240-Piece Easel Set

VigorFun Art Supplies 240-Piece Easel Set
Piece Count240
Easel TypeDouble-sided trifold
Case Dimensions16.1 x 12.2 x 2.2 in
Media Included12 watercolor pens, 24 colored pencils, 24 crayons, 48 oil pastels, 18 watercolor cakes
Sketch PadsA5 sketch pads included
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What We Like

  • 240-piece set with diverse media
  • Double-sided easel for two kids
  • Portable case with sturdy handle
  • Includes sketch pads and paper clips

Trade-offs

  • Small A5 pads limit drawing space
  • Slim 2.2-inch case packs supplies tightly

With 240 pieces packed into a double-sided trifold easel case, this set lets two children draw side by side anywhere the handle can carry it. The variety, watercolor pens, colored pencils, crayons, oil pastels, and watercolor cakes, gives young artists plenty of ways to experiment without needing extra supplies. For parents looking for a portable creative kit that keeps siblings or playmates engaged together, the built-in easel and organized storage make this a practical choice for outings or shared tables at home.

The slim 2.2-inch case means supplies are packed tightly, and the included A5 sketch pads are on the small side for big arm movements typical at this age. The Crayola 125-piece set includes washable paints and a giant coloring book, while the VigorFun offers a different mix of media and a double-sided easel. If your child enjoys a variety of tools and you want a case that opens into an easel for two, this set fits that need well.

Best for: Families wanting a portable, double-sided easel set that lets two young children create together with a wide variety of art media. Not ideal for kids who need large paper surfaces or washable paints for mess-free sessions.

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#5Best Large Quantity Set

Color More 237-Piece Kids Art Set

Color More 237-Piece Kids Art Set
Piece count237 pieces
Art mediums includedcrayons, oil pastels, markers, colored pencils, watercolor
Easeldouble-sided folding easel
Safety certificationnon-toxic, US safety standards
Weight3.3 pounds
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What We Like

  • 237-piece set for variety
  • Double-sided folding easel included
  • Portable case with carry handle
  • Non-toxic and safety certified

Trade-offs

  • Small sketchbooks limit large projects
  • Easel works only on flat surfaces

With 237 pieces packed into one case, this set offers a five-year-old more tools than most single kits provide. It includes crayons, oil pastels, markers, colored pencils, watercolor cakes, even origami sheets and a double-sided folding easel. That sheer variety means a child can switch from drawing to painting to crafting without digging for a different box, which keeps the creative momentum going. The portable case with elastic straps and a carry handle makes it easy to bring along to grandma’s house or a restaurant table, and the non-toxic certification gives parents a solid safety baseline for ages 4-8.

The trade-off for all those pieces is that the included sketchbooks and drawing sheets are small, so sprawling landscapes or full-page watercolors will feel cramped. The easel is also designed for desktops only, not a standing floor easel, which limits how a five-year-old can use it if they prefer to work on the floor.

Best for: Families who want a huge variety of art supplies in one portable case for on-the-go creativity. Not ideal for parents who need washable markers or large-format drawing space.

Product photos

#6Best Unicorn-Themed Set

beefunni 68-Piece Washable Markers Set

beefunni 68-Piece Washable Markers Set
Total pieces68
Washable markersYes
Marker types4 (double-ended, brush, crayon, glitter gel)
Carrying caseFour-compartment unicorn case
Age range4-8 years
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What We Like

  • Four different marker types in one set
  • Washable water-based ink for easy cleanup
  • Portable unicorn case with separate compartments
  • Includes 20 unicorn stickers

Trade-offs

  • Not for fabric or permanent use
  • Only 68 pieces vs. 125-240 in competing sets

Sixty-eight pieces packed into a single unicorn-themed case means a five-year-old gets four different ways to draw. There are double-ended markers for coloring and outlining, fine-tip brush markers for details, twistable crayons for smooth coverage, and scented glitter gel pens for sparkly accents. The washable ink cleans off skin and many surfaces with soap and water, so parents don’t have to dread cleanup. This set suits kids who love variety and a bit of magic in their art box; the stickers and glitter case make it feel like a gift, not just supplies.

These markers are designed for paper, not fabric or permanent projects. If your child wants to decorate a shirt or a tote bag, you’ll need a different kind of marker. The Crayola 140-piece space-themed kit offers a broader mix, while the beefunni set focuses on a narrower age range (4-8) with a more whimsical, unicorn-driven appeal. It’s a focused, playful choice for a young artist who wants to color, doodle, and craft without the worry of permanent stains.

Best for: A young unicorn-loving artist who wants a portable, all-in-one set with washable markers and plenty of variety. Not ideal for fabric projects or kids who prefer a larger piece count without themed packaging.

Product photos

#7Best Easel Companion

Melissa & Doug Easel Accessory Set

Melissa & Doug Easel Accessory Set
Piece Count26
Paint Included4 poster paints
Surface ToolsChalk, eraser, dry-erase marker
Paper RollIncluded
Age Range3-10 years
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What We Like

  • 26-piece set for easel play
  • Includes paper roll for continuous drawing
  • Poster paint, chalk, and dry-erase marker included
  • FSC-certified materials support responsible forestry

Trade-offs

  • No crayons, markers, or colored pencils included
  • Poster paint bottles are small for frequent use

This 26-piece accessory set gives a young artist everything they need to start painting, drawing, and writing at an easel without buying supplies separately. Four poster paints, paint cups, brushes, a paper roll, chalk, an eraser, and a dry-erase marker cover the basics for open-ended creative play. The FSC-certified materials add a thoughtful touch for families who value sustainable sourcing. For a five-year-old who already has or will get an easel, this kit turns a blank surface into a full studio experience, encouraging fine motor skills and screen-free exploration.

The set weighs only half a pound, which keeps it easy to carry and store, but it works best with an easel that has a stable base or with a flat surface. The Crayola 140-piece kit includes crayons and markers, while this kit is more focused: it skips coloring tools in favor of paint and chalk. If your child loves painting and drawing on a vertical surface, this is a well-matched companion. For families wanting a broader all-in-one art box, the larger Crayola set offers more variety.

Best for: Parents who already own an easel and want a focused painting-and-chalk accessory set for a 5-year-old. Not ideal for families seeking a complete art kit with crayons, markers, and coloring books.
#8Best Wooden Storage Case

Shuttle Art 149-Piece Deluxe Wooden Art Set

Shuttle Art 149-Piece Deluxe Wooden Art Set
Total Pieces149
Case MaterialWooden
Dimensions10.9 x 4.8 x 16.4 in
Art TypesCrayons, colored pencils, oil pastels, watercolor
Safety StandardASTM-D4236 & EN71
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What We Like

  • Sturdy wooden storage case with handle
  • 149 pieces including crayons, pencils, pastels, watercolors
  • Non-toxic and acid-free materials
  • Individual slots keep supplies organized

Trade-offs

  • No washable markers included for easy cleanup
  • Watercolor cakes require water and brush control

With 149 pieces packed into a sturdy wooden box that has its own handle, this set offers a five-year-old a real artist’s kit they can carry from table to floor to car seat. The case keeps crayons, colored pencils, oil pastels, and watercolor cakes in individual slots, so nothing rolls away or gets crushed. The wooden construction protects the supplies and teaches a child to put each tool back where it belongs. For a young artist who loves having everything in one tidy, portable home, this is a thoughtful gift that feels special.

The case stands 16.4 inches tall, so it won’t fit on a small shelf or in a backpack, but the wooden box with a handle makes it easy to carry from room to room. Unlike the Crayola Art Set for Kids 125-Piece, which includes a giant coloring book and washable paints, this set does not list washable markers among its contents. The watercolor cakes offer a chance to try wet painting, which some kids enjoy with adult supervision. For a child who likes to sort and store crayons, pencils, pastels, and papers in individual slots, this organized case keeps everything tidy and accessible.

Best for: A child who enjoys having a variety of art supplies, crayons, colored pencils, oil pastels, and watercolor cakes, organized in a sturdy wooden case with a handle. Not ideal for families who want a lighter, smaller kit or washable markers.

Product photos

#9Best Washable Marker Set

Officygnet 158-Piece Deluxe Art Set

Officygnet 158-Piece Deluxe Art Set
Total Pieces158
Washable Markers40
Storage CaseSturdy with carry handle
Safety StandardASTM D-4236 non-toxic
Dimensions15.8 x 11.5 x 2.0 inches
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What We Like

  • 40 washable markers clean from skin
  • 158 pieces in one organized case
  • Non-toxic, kid-safe materials
  • Portable with secure latches and handle

Trade-offs

  • Only 30 drawing sheets for 158 pieces
  • No paint or brushes included
  • At 2 inches thin, case is shallow

Forty washable markers is the standout feature here, enough color variety for a five-year-old to draw rainbows, animals, and scribbles without running out of a favorite shade, and they clean off skin easily so parents don’t have to stress about stained hands or clothes. Packed into a sturdy case with latches and a carry handle, this set is built for travel: toss it in the car for a road trip or bring it to a restaurant table, and everything stays organized. The 64 crayons and 20 colored pencils add drawing variety, and the non-toxic certification means you can hand it to a young child without worry.

The 30 drawing sheets in this 158-piece set are a practical limitation. A child who draws daily will use them up fast, and the case is only two inches deep, so it won’t fit a sketchbook or paint set. The Crayola 140-piece space-themed kit includes washable markers and crayons, but the exact counts of markers and crayons aren’t listed, so a direct comparison isn’t possible. For parents who want washable markers and a portable case, this set delivers, but don’t expect a big paper supply or paint options.

Best for: Parents seeking a portable, washable-marker-heavy art set for a five-year-old who draws on the go. Not ideal for kids who need paint, brushes, or a large paper supply included.

Product photos

#10Best Scented Marker Fun

weirtoya 56-Piece Washable Scented Markers Set

weirtoya 56-Piece Washable Scented Markers Set
Marker count56 pieces
Marker typesFine, brush, wide chisel
ExtrasCrayons, stickers, coloring book
Case styleUnicorn tote with 4 zippered compartments
WashableYes
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What We Like

  • 56-piece set with multiple marker styles
  • Washable and scented for sensory fun
  • Unicorn tote with carry handle for travel
  • Includes crayons, stickers, and coloring book

Trade-offs

  • No pencil or paint options included
  • Only 56 pieces, fewer than many competitor sets.

Fifty-six pieces give a five-year-old plenty to explore: fine markers for details, brush markers for thick strokes, and wide chisel markers for filling big areas. The fruity scents add a playful layer that makes coloring feel like a game, and the washable ink means you don’t have to panic about stains on clothes or tables. The unicorn tote keeps everything organized in four zippered compartments and has a carry handle for trips to grandma’s or the car. This set suits a child who loves sensory-rich, imaginative play and wants variety without needing a separate pencil case.

This set skips colored pencils and paints, offering only markers and crayons. The Crayola 140-piece space-themed kit provides a broader mix of tools like pencils and crayons, while this one leans hard on the unicorn aesthetic and scented fun. If your five-year-old is all about smell and sparkle, this delivers; if they need a more balanced art kit, the Crayola set covers more ground.

Best for: A child who loves scented, colorful markers and unicorn-themed organization. Not ideal for kids sensitive to strong smells or those needing pencils and paint in one kit.

Product photos

How We Evaluated Art Supplies For 5 Year Olds

Our evaluation started with manufacturer specifications and safety certifications like ASTM D4236, which confirms materials are non-toxic. We then examined owner feedback patterns across dozens of art sets to understand what parents actually find useful versus what ends up unused.

Three criteria mattered most. First, washability: a marker that stains clothes or skin is a dealbreaker for most families. Second, variety and age-fit: a set with too many tiny pieces can overwhelm a five-year-old, while one with only markers limits creative exploration. Third, portability and storage: cases with secure handles and compartments keep supplies organized and make it easy to bring art to the kitchen table or on a road trip.

A research-led evaluation has limits. We cannot predict how a specific child will respond to a particular marker tip or paint texture. What we can do is identify the sets that consistently satisfy the practical needs parents report, so you start with a strong foundation.

What To Look For In Art Supplies For 5 Year Olds

Choosing art supplies for a five-year-old means balancing creative variety with practical cleanup. The best sets give young artists room to explore without creating extra work for you.

Look for washable markers and paints, non-toxic certification, organized storage, and enough variety to keep a five-year-old engaged without overwhelming them. A portable case with a handle makes cleanup and travel much easier.

Washability and Safety

The single most important feature for this age group is washable ink. Five-year-olds color on skin, clothes, tables, and walls with equal enthusiasm. Look for sets that specifically state washable markers and paints, and confirm non-toxic certification like ASTM D4236 or similar safety standards. Water-based formulas clean from most surfaces with soap and water, while permanent markers can ruin furniture and clothing.

Variety Without Overwhelm

A set with a very high piece count sounds impressive, but a five-year-old may struggle with too many choices. The sweet spot is a mix of crayons, markers, and perhaps colored pencils or watercolors, with a moderate total number of pieces. Sets that include a coloring book or sketch pad give immediate purpose to the supplies. Avoid sets with very small pieces that could pose a choking hazard for children under three.

Storage and Portability

Art supplies that live in a chaotic pile get lost, dried out, and broken. A case with individual compartments keeps crayons from snapping and markers from rolling away. Look for sturdy handles, secure latches that a child can open independently, and a case depth that allows supplies to fit without being crammed. Wooden cases offer durability at the cost of weight, while plastic cases are lighter for small hands.

  • Check that the case latch is easy for a five-year-old to open but secure enough to carry.
  • Confirm markers and paints are labeled washable on the packaging.
  • Look for a coloring book or paper included so the set is usable immediately.
  • Make sure the case is shallow enough for a child to reach all compartments.
  • Verify the age recommendation on the box matches your child’s development.

A good rule of thumb: if you would not trust the markers on your couch, do not buy the set.

Art Supplies For 5 Year Olds Compared

The table below compares the key features of our top ten art sets for five-year-olds, from piece count and portability to washability and included media types.

ProductPiece CountWashable MarkersDimensions
Crayola Inspiration Art Case Coloring Set140Yes15.5 x 11.0 x 2.0 inches
Crayola Art Set for Kids 125-Piece125Yes13.1 x 11.1 x 4.5 inches
iBayam Deluxe Art Set 150-Piece150N/AN/A
VigorFun Art Supplies 240-Piece Easel Set240N/A16.1 x 12.2 x 2.2 in
Color More 237-Piece Kids Art Set237N/AN/A
beefunni 68-Piece Washable Markers Set68YesN/A
Melissa & Doug Easel Accessory Set26N/A19.2 x 11.1 x 5.0 inches
Shuttle Art 149-Piece Deluxe Wooden Art Set149N/A10.9 x 4.8 x 16.4 in
Officygnet 158-Piece Deluxe Art Set158Yes15.8 x 11.5 x 2.0 inches
weirtoya 56-Piece Washable Scented Markers Set56YesN/A

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for in art supplies for a 5 year old?

Prioritize washable markers and paints, non-toxic safety certification, and a storage case that keeps supplies organized. Look for a mix of crayons and markers rather than just one type, and confirm the set includes paper or a coloring book so your child can start creating right away.

Are Crayola art supplies safe for 5 year olds?

Yes, Crayola products are made with non-toxic materials and meet safety standards for children ages five and up. Their washable markers and paints are specifically designed to clean from skin and most fabrics with soap and water, which makes them a popular choice for this age group.

How many pieces should a good art set for a 5 year old have?

A moderate number of pieces is a practical range for a five-year-old. Sets with a very high piece count can be overwhelming and may include items a young child will not use. Focus on variety across media types rather than a high total count.

What is the difference between washable and regular markers?

Washable markers use water-based ink that cleans from skin, clothing, and most hard surfaces with soap and water. Regular markers often contain permanent dyes that stain fabric and are difficult to remove. For a five-year-old, washable markers are strongly recommended.

Can a 5 year old use watercolor paints?

Yes, but with supervision. Watercolor cakes require a brush and water cup, which can lead to spills. Sets that include watercolors should also have easy-clean surfaces nearby. Many parents find that washable poster paints are more forgiving for this age than traditional watercolors.

The Bottom Line

The Crayola Inspiration Art Case Coloring Set is our Best Overall pick for most families. It offers a strong balance of variety, portability, and washability in a case a five-year-old can carry. If your child loves painting and sculpting, the Crayola Art Set for Kids 125-Piece adds washable paints and Model Magic clay for more hands-on creativity.

For budget-conscious shoppers, the iBayam Deluxe Art Set delivers 150 pieces in a durable wooden case that also works as a gift. Parents who already own an easel will find the Melissa & Doug Easel Accessory Set a smart add-on with its paper roll and poster paint.

The single most important factor when buying art supplies for a five-year-old is washability. No amount of crayons or markers matters if a single unsupervised session ruins a couch. Choose washable, choose non-toxic, and let the creativity flow.