10 Best Art Kits For Kids in 2026

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For young artists ready to explore, the Crayola Swirl & Pastel Art Kit is our best overall pick, winning with its unique colors and portable storage case that keeps everything tidy. For a complete studio experience, the Color More Kids Art Set with Easel offers a built-in tabletop easel, while the Sunnyglade 185 Piece Trifold Easel Art Set is our top budget-friendly choice.

The real challenge for parents is finding a kit that matches a child’s age, interests, and attention span. A set with too many tiny pieces can overwhelm a beginner, while one with too few supplies might bore a more experienced artist. The best kit balances variety, safety, and organization.

This guide is research-based, drawing on manufacturer specifications, safety certifications, and patterns from parent and educator feedback. We focused on what matters most for kids: non-toxic materials, age-appropriate tools, and storage that actually survives a creative session.

Top 10 Art Kits For Kids in the Market

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The Best Art Kits For Kids, Reviewed

#1Best Overall

Crayola Swirl & Pastel Art Kit

Crayola Swirl & Pastel Art Kit
Crayons60
Markers40
Colored Pencils20 short
Paper Sheets20 (8" x 10")
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What We Like

  • Portable storage case included
  • Unique swirl and pastel colors
  • Safe and nontoxic for ages 5+
  • Encourages creative blending techniques

Trade-offs

  • Only 20 short colored pencils limit shading reach
  • Paper count is low for heavy use
  • No easel or drawing pad included

The swirl and pastel color selection is what sets it apart, soft, dreamy shades that invite blending and experimentation, not just flat coloring. It suits kids who want to try something beyond basic primary colors, building creative confidence through hands-on play. The case keeps everything organized for travel or a tidy art corner at home.

The trade-off is that the colored pencils are short, which means less mileage for detailed drawing, and the included paper won’t last long if your child dives in daily. Compared to the Shuttle Art 335 Piece Art Set, this Crayola kit offers fewer total pieces and no easel, but it focuses on a curated color experience rather than sheer volume. For a child who loves soft, whimsical art and needs a portable, ready-to-go set, this is the better fit.

Best for: Young artists ages 5+ who enjoy soft, blendable colors and want a portable, organized starter kit. Not ideal for kids who need long pencils for detailed work or a high volume of paper.
#2Best Storage Tub

Crayola Super Art Coloring Kit

Crayola Super Art Coloring Kit
Pieces100+
StorageTub
Age Range5+
MarkersUltra-Clean, Pipsqueaks Skinnies
NontoxicYes
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What We Like

  • 100+ pieces in one tub
  • Includes Ultra-Clean and Pipsqueaks markers
  • Storage tub keeps supplies organized
  • Safe and nontoxic for kids 5+

Trade-offs

  • Construction paper is only 4×6 inches
  • No watercolors or paint brushes included

With over 100 pieces packed into a single storage tub, this Crayola set gives kids a wide variety of crayons, markers, and craft supplies without scattering across the floor. The included tub keeps everything together and easy to carry, so cleanup is quick and the mess stays contained. It’s a practical choice for parents who want a ready-to-go art kit that encourages drawing, coloring, and simple crafts without needing extra organizers.

This kit focuses on coloring tools rather than a full art studio experience. That makes it better suited for tabletop creativity and on-the-go use than for kids who want a standing easel or larger painting projects. Still, for a straightforward, no-fuss coloring kit with a smart storage solution, it delivers exactly what it promises.

Best for: Parents looking for a tidy, all-in-one coloring kit with built-in storage for kids ages 5 and up. Not ideal for children who want an easel, painting supplies, or a larger drawing pad.
#3Best With Easel

Color More Kids Art Set with Easel

Color More Kids Art Set with Easel
Pieces237
Easel TypeDouble-sided folding
Ages4-8
Weight3.3 pounds
Non-toxicCertified
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What We Like

  • Double-sided folding easel included
  • 237-piece set covers many media
  • Portable case with carry handle
  • Non-toxic, safety certified for ages 4-8

Trade-offs

  • Easel designed for flat surfaces only
  • No trifold legs for floor use

The built-in double-sided folding easel sets this kit apart from most art sets in this guide. Instead of a separate stand or a flat case, you get a stable workspace that props paper at a comfortable angle right on a desk or table. With 237 pieces including crayons, oil pastels, markers, colored pencils, watercolors, origami sheets, and two sketchbooks, a young artist can explore drawing, painting, and paper crafts without needing to buy anything extra. The portable case keeps everything organized with elastic straps, and the carry handle makes it easy to bring along to a friend’s house or on a road trip. For a child ages 4 to 8 who wants a complete creative setup in one box, this is a thoughtful and practical choice.

The easel works only on flat surfaces like a table or desk. If your child prefers to paint on the floor or wants a freestanding easel, you might look at the Shuttle Art 335 Piece Art Set, which includes a trifold easel that stands on its own. For families who want a tidy, all-in-one art station that lives on a table and travels easily, this kit delivers exactly that.

Best for: A child ages 4-8 who wants a complete art kit with a built-in tabletop easel for drawing and painting at a desk. Not ideal for kids who need a freestanding floor easel.

Product photos

#4Best Mega Set

Shuttle Art 335 Piece Art Set

Shuttle Art 335 Piece Art Set
Total Pieces335
Case TypeTrifold Easel
Drawing Pads2
Coloring Books2
Safety StandardsASTM D-4236 & EN71
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What We Like

  • 335 pieces cover many media types
  • Trifold easel doubles as carrying case
  • Includes 2 drawing pads and 2 coloring books
  • Child-safe, non-toxic materials certified

Trade-offs

  • Easel is part of case, not a standalone studio easel
  • Case is bulky for small children to carry

With 335 pieces packed into one organized case, this kit gives a child enough variety to explore oil pastels, watercolors, crayons, markers, and colored pencils without needing to buy anything else. The trifold easel keeps everything tidy and portable, so a young artist can set up at the kitchen table or take supplies to a friend’s house. It’s a generous all-in-one that suits a kid who wants to try different techniques and has the attention span to work through a big set.

The massive piece count comes with a catch: some components are smaller than standalone versions. The mini markers, for instance, won’t last as long as full-size ones. Compared to the Crayola Super Art Coloring Kit, which focuses on fewer but larger core supplies, this Shuttle Art set wins on sheer range and the built-in easel. If your child tends to lose interest after a few uses, the variety here keeps things fresh, but for a dedicated young painter who burns through markers quickly, a smaller set with refills might stretch further.

Best for: A child who loves experimenting with many different art media and needs a portable, organized kit with a built-in easel. Not ideal for a young artist who prefers full-size markers or already owns a dedicated easel.

Product photos

#5Best Budget Pick

Sunnyglade 185 Piece Trifold Easel Art Set

Sunnyglade 185 Piece Trifold Easel Art Set
Piece count185 pieces
Easel typeDouble-sided trifold easel
Dimensions11.8 x 11.8 x 2.8 inches
Weight3.5 pounds
Safety standardASTM D4236 non-toxic
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What We Like

  • Built-in double-sided trifold easel
  • 185 pieces cover many media types
  • Portable carry case keeps items organized
  • Non-toxic materials meet ASTM D4236

Trade-offs

  • 12-sheet drawing pad is small for extended use
  • No separate sketch pad or coloring book included
  • Case is compact at 2.8 inches deep

With 185 pieces packed into a portable case that doubles as a double-sided trifold easel, this set lets a child set up a small studio anywhere. The variety of oil pastels, crayons, colored pencils, markers, and watercolor cakes encourages experimentation across different media, while the built-in easel keeps paper upright and hands free. For a family wanting an affordable all-in-one kit that travels well, this is a smart way to start without overspending.

The trade-off for that compact size and low weight is a modest 12-sheet drawing pad and no separate coloring book, so you may want to add a pad of your own. The set’s built-in easel and portable case make it a practical choice for beginners who value portability and simplicity over a huge paper supply.

Best for: Budget-conscious families seeking a portable, all-in-one art kit with a built-in easel for young beginners. Not ideal for kids who need a large paper supply or a separate sketchbook included.

Product photos

#6Best With Scratch Paper

iBayam 251-Pack Art Kit with Easel

iBayam 251-Pack Art Kit with Easel
Total pieces251
Scratch paper25 sheets
Easel typeDouble-sided trifold
Case typePortable carrying case
Safety standardASTM D4236
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What We Like

  • Double-sided trifold easel built into case
  • Includes 4 wooden styluses for scratch art
  • Compact portable carrying case for travel

Trade-offs

  • Scratch paper limited to 25 sheets
  • Watercolor pens are the only markers included

The double-sided trifold easel folds into the portable case, so a child can set up a mini studio on a kitchen table or in the back seat. This makes it a strong pick for a young artist who craves variety and loves the surprise of scratching away black coating to find color underneath.

Scratch paper is consumable, once those 25 sheets are gone, the kit’s signature feature is exhausted. For a child who burns through art supplies quickly, the limited scratch sheets may feel restrictive. But for a kid who delights in that one special activity, the included styluses and easel make every session feel like an event.

Best for: A young artist who enjoys scratch art and wants a portable, easel-equipped set for on-the-go creativity. Not ideal for those who need a large volume of scratch paper or prefer a wider variety of paint types beyond watercolor.

Product photos

#7Best Double-Sided Easel

Soucolor 283-Piece Deluxe Art Set

Soucolor 283-Piece Deluxe Art Set
Total pieces283
Easel typeDouble-sided trifold
Art tools count206
Drawing pads2 packs (60 sheets)
Case weight3.5 pounds
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What We Like

  • Built-in double-sided trifold easel
  • 283-piece all-in-one set
  • Includes coloring book with 32 patterns
  • Portable case with sturdy handle

Trade-offs

  • Sketch papers are A4, not full pad size
  • Watercolor supplies limited to 18 cakes and one brush

A 283-piece count means this kit packs enough crayons, pastels, colored pencils, and watercolors to keep a young artist busy for hours. The standout feature is the built-in double-sided trifold easel, which lets kids set up a proper drawing angle anywhere, on a kitchen table, in the car, or at the park. That integrated easel makes it especially good for families who want a portable studio that doesn’t require extra gear. The included coloring book with 32 patterns and two drawing pads give beginners ready-to-use projects, so they can start creating right out of the box.

The 283-piece kit packs 48 oil pastels and 48 crayons, so kids who love bold coloring have plenty to work with, while the 18 watercolor cakes and single brush keep painting simple rather than extensive. For a child who mainly draws, colors, and tries a bit of painting during travel, the built-in double-sided trifold easel means the case itself becomes a portable workspace, no extra setup needed.

Best for: Young artists who need a portable, all-in-one art studio with an easel for drawing anywhere. Not ideal for kids who prefer extensive watercolor or marker options.

Product photos

#8Best Watercolor Pens

iBayam 149-Pack Drawing Kit

iBayam 149-Pack Drawing Kit
Total Pieces149
Watercolor Pens33
Case TypeLightweight with handle
IncludesColoring book & drawing pad
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What We Like

  • 33 watercolor pens for rich color blending
  • Lightweight case with handle for portability
  • Includes coloring book and drawing pad
  • 149 pieces cover multiple art mediums

Trade-offs

  • No easel included for upright drawing
  • Case is too wide for standard backpacks.

With 33 watercolor pens at the center of a 149-piece set, this kit puts the focus on fluid, blendable color work right out of the box. The included coloring book and drawing pad mean a child can start painting or sketching immediately without needing to buy extra paper. It suits young artists who love water-based media and want a portable case that keeps everything organized for travel or moving between rooms.

This set does not include an easel, so kids who prefer to draw upright or at a standing desk will need to buy one separately. Compared to the iBayam 251-Pack Art Kit with Easel, this 149-piece version omits the trifold easel and additional supplies for a smaller total piece count. For families who already have an easel or prefer tabletop creativity, the generous pen count and built-in pad make this a practical, medium-rich choice.

Best for: Young artists who love watercolor pens and need a portable all-in-one set with a built-in pad. Not ideal for kids who want an easel or a larger variety of dry media like crayons and pastels.

Product photos

#9Best Organized Art Set

Olly Kids Art Kit with Storage Box

Olly Kids Art Kit with Storage Box
Weight2.5 pounds
StorageTriple-layer box with carry handle
IncludesRhinestones, guidebook
Age RangeAges 4-8
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What We Like

  • Triple-layer storage box with carry handle
  • Includes rhinestones for extra sparkle
  • Comes with guidebook for project ideas

Trade-offs

  • At 2.5 pounds, heavier than some portable kits
  • No easel included for upright drawing

A triple-layer storage box with a carry handle means every crayon, marker, and rhinestone has its own spot, so cleanup is quick and nothing gets lost. This Olly Kids Art Kit is designed for children ages 4 to 8, with a guidebook that offers ideas when imaginations need a starting point. The included rhinestones add extra variety to projects, making it a practical choice for parents who value organization and creative play.

At 2.5 pounds, this set is heavier than something like the Disney Princess Art Set for Girls, which is under a pound, so it’s less suited for tossing into a backpack for travel. It also lacks an easel, unlike the Color More Kids Art Set with Easel, so if your child prefers standing to draw or paint, you’ll need to supply one separately. For home use where organization matters most, this kit’s tidy design and thoughtful extras make it a standout.

Best for: Families who want a tidy, triple-layer art box with sections for every item and a guidebook for ages 4-8.
#10Best Themed Art Kit

Disney Princess Art Set for Girls

Disney Princess Art Set for Girls
Pieces40+
Case dimensions10.2 x 5.3 x 3.9 in
Weight0.9 lb
IncludesWatercolors, markers, crayons, pencils, brush
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What We Like

  • Officially licensed Disney Princess theme
  • Portable carrying case with handle
  • Includes 5 different art media types
  • Compact size for travel or storage

Trade-offs

  • Only 40+ pieces, fewer than many competitors
  • No easel or drawing pad included
  • Small case limits workspace for larger projects

With 40-plus pieces of art supplies stored in a compact case that measures 10.2 inches long, this set is easy to grab and go for a Disney-loving kid. The case holds watercolor paints, markers, crayons, coloring pencils, and a paintbrush, giving a young artist several ways to experiment with color and texture. It’s a focused, themed kit that works well for car rides, waiting rooms, or quiet afternoons at the kitchen table, especially for a child who already adores the princesses.

Piece count is the main difference here. Most other kits in this guide, like the Crayola Super Art Coloring Kit with its 100-plus pieces and larger storage tub, offer more variety and longer creative sessions. The Disney set’s smaller case also means no room for a drawing pad or easel, so you’ll need to supply paper separately. If your priority is a portable, themed gift that sparks immediate excitement, this fits the bill. For sheer volume and all-in-one value, a bigger set may serve better.

Best for: A young Disney fan who wants a portable, themed art kit for on-the-go creativity. Not ideal for children who need a large variety of supplies or an all-in-one studio setup.

Product photos

How We Evaluated Art Kits For Kids

We started by looking at the number and variety of pieces in each set, checking that they offer a genuine range of media like colored pencils, markers, crayons, and paints. We then examined the storage solution, because a messy kit is one kids won’t use. We noted whether cases had dividers, handles, or built-in easels.

Safety was a non-negotiable criterion. Every kit we considered clearly states it uses non-toxic materials and meets standards like ASTM D4236, which is essential for children under 12. We also considered age recommendations closely, matching kit complexity to the listed age range.

Finally, we looked at what real owners report about durability and usability. We prioritized kits where parents consistently mention that the pieces last through multiple uses and that children can access and put away supplies independently. This is a research-led evaluation, not a hands-on test, but it helps identify the most reliable options.

What To Look For In Art Kits For Kids

The right art kit sparks creativity without causing frustration. Focus on the media variety, the storage design, and the safety certifications to find a set your child will actually enjoy using.

Look for a kit with at least 4 different media types (colored pencils, markers, crayons, paints), a sturdy case with compartments, and a clear non-toxic safety certification like ASTM D4236.

Media Variety and Quality

A good kit introduces a child to different art forms. Look for enough pieces to include colored pencils for detail, markers for bold color, crayons for easy coverage, and a paint option like watercolors. The number of pieces matters less than the mix. A set with many pieces but only two types of media offers less creative range than a smaller set with five types.

Storage and Portability

The case is half the product. A hard, compartmentalized box with a secure latch and a carry handle makes cleanup a habit rather than a chore. Kits with built-in trifold easels are a bonus for kids who like to draw upright, but only if the case is still easy for small hands to carry. Avoid flimsy cardboard or unzippered pouches that scatter supplies.

Safety and Age Appropriateness

Always verify that materials are non-toxic and certified to ASTM D4236 or equivalent standards. Check the recommended age range: kits for younger children should have chunky crayons and no small parts, while sets for older kids can include finer pencils and smaller accessories. A kit that is too advanced will frustrate a young child, while one that is too simple will bore an older one.

  • Look for a variety of at least 4 media types (colored pencils, markers, crayons, paints).
  • Ensure the case has a secure latch, compartments, and a carry handle.
  • Confirm non-toxic certification like ASTM D4236 on the packaging.
  • Match the recommended age range to your child’s current skill level.
  • Check that paper or a drawing pad is included so kids can start immediately.

A kit that is easy to put away is a kit that will get used again tomorrow.

Art Kits For Kids Compared

The table below compares the top contenders side by side, focusing on piece count, included media types, storage features, and best use case.

ProductPiecesCase/Easel TypeDimensions
Crayola Swirl & Pastel Art KitN/APortable Storage CaseL 15.6 inches, W 11.6 inches, H 2.0 inches
Crayola Super Art Coloring Kit100+Storage TubL 16.1 inches, W 10.6 inches, H 9.0 inches
Color More Kids Art Set with Easel237Double-sided foldingL 1.0 inches, W 1.0 inches, H 1.0 inches
Shuttle Art 335 Piece Art Set335Trifold EaselL 16.3 inches, W 12.4 inches, H 3.1 inches
Sunnyglade 185 Piece Trifold Easel Art Set185Double-sided trifold easelL 11.8 inches, W 11.8 inches, H 2.8 inches
iBayam 251-Pack Art Kit with Easel251Double-sided trifoldL 16.2 inches, W 12.4 inches, H 2.2 inches
Soucolor 283-Piece Deluxe Art Set283Double-sided trifoldL 16.0 inches, W 13.0 inches, H 12.0 inches
iBayam 149-Pack Drawing Kit149Lightweight with handleL 4.0 inches, W 22.7 inches, H 34.0 inches
Olly Kids Art Kit with Storage BoxN/ATriple-layer box with carry handleN/A
Disney Princess Art Set for Girls40+N/AL 10.2 inches, W 5.3 inches, H 3.9 inches

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for in an art kit for a 5-year-old?

Prioritize non-toxic, certified materials and a sturdy storage case. Look for chunky crayons and washable markers that are easy for small hands to grip. A kit with a moderate number of pieces that includes a variety of media, like the Crayola Super Art Coloring Kit, is a safe and engaging starting point.

How many pieces does a good art kit need?

Quality matters more than quantity, but a good range is between one hundred and two hundred pieces. This usually provides enough colored pencils, markers, crayons, and paper for extended play without overwhelming a child. Kits with over three hundred pieces, like the Shuttle Art 335 Piece Art Set, are best for older kids who already know what they like.

Are art kits with easels worth buying?

Yes, if your child enjoys drawing or painting at an upright angle. A built-in easel, like the one in the Color More Kids Art Set with Easel, can improve posture and make art feel more like a real studio experience. However, tabletop easels work best on a flat surface, so consider your child’s usual workspace.

What is the best art kit for travel?

The best travel art kit is compact, lightweight, and has a secure case with a handle. Look for a set that includes a small drawing pad and a variety of media in a slim case, like the iBayam 149-Pack Drawing Kit. Avoid kits with bulky easels or heavy boxes for car trips or flights.

How do I know if an art kit is safe for my child?

Check the product description for a clear statement that materials are non-toxic and meet ASTM D4236, which is the standard for art materials in the US. Avoid kits that do not list any safety certifications. For children under three, ensure there are no small parts that could be a choking hazard.

The Bottom Line

The Crayola Swirl & Pastel Art Kit is our best overall pick for young artists ages 5 and up who want a portable, organized set with unique blendable colors. It is a safe, easy-to-carry starter kit that encourages creative exploration without a huge mess.

If your child needs a complete studio setup, the Color More Kids Art Set with Easel offers a built-in tabletop easel and 237 pieces. For families on a budget, the Sunnyglade 185 Piece Trifold Easel Art Set provides excellent value with its own easel and a good variety of media.

The single most important factor is storage. A kit with a sturdy, compartmentalized case that your child can open, use, and close independently will be the one that gets used the most.