Hi Lykkers! Let's dive into the colorful world of colored pencils, a staple in art kits around the globe, and discover some fun and surprising facts that make these tools as interesting as the art they create.

Colored pencils weren't widely available until the early 20th century.

Not Just Wax and Wood

While most colored pencils are wax-based, there are also oil-based variants which are prized for their smooth application and resistance to wax bloom—a white film that can form on the surface of wax-based colored drawings.

Colorful Chemistry

Modern colored pencils use organic pigments rather than the inorganic dyes of the past, which means they are less likely to fade over time. This makes colored pencil art more durable and vibrant for longer periods.

Record-Breaking Art

The world’s largest colored pencil drawing measured over 800 square feet and was created by a group of artists in New York. The drawing featured a thematic landscape filled with vibrant colors and intricate details.

The Most Popular Color

According to multiple surveys among artists and hobbyists, blue is often the favorite color choice in colored pencil sets. Here’s why blue continues to captivate artists and dominate colored pencil sets:

1. Calmness and Serenity: Blue is often associated with calmness, serenity, and stability. This makes it a preferred choice for artists looking to evoke a peaceful atmosphere in their work. Its soothing qualities can also influence the creative process, making the act of drawing itself a more meditative and enjoyable experience.

2. Depth and Space: Blue has a unique ability to convey depth, mimicking the way the color behaves in natural settings like the sky and the ocean. Artists use blue to create perspective and spatial illusions in compositions, making it indispensable for landscape and seascape art.

A Tool of Precision

Colored pencils are favored in professional fields like illustration and architecture for their precision and ability to create detailed, controlled lines that other painting mediums can't easily replicate.

Environmental Impact

Eco-conscious manufacturers have developed sustainable colored pencils made from recycled materials and managed wood resources, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility in art supplies.

Colored pencils bring much more than color to the table; they carry a rich history, involve fascinating production techniques, and play roles in various professional fields. Whether you're sketching, layering, or just doodling, colored pencils offer a gateway to creativity with a simple stroke.