What colors does your budding artist truly need? Turning twelve is a big deal! Kids this age are moving past simple coloring books. They are exploring new techniques and developing their unique artistic voice. Finding the right supplies to fuel this exciting growth can feel overwhelming. You want quality that lasts, but you don’t want to break the bank on professional gear they might quickly outgrow.
The sheer volume of markers, paints, and sketchbooks on the shelf can cause real decision fatigue. We’ve all bought that cheap set that dries out immediately or the expensive kit that gathers dust because it’s too complicated. This post cuts through the clutter. We break down exactly what tools truly support a twelve-year-old’s developing skills, focusing on items that offer great value and fun.
By the end of this guide, you will have a clear, curated list of must-have art materials. We will cover everything from drawing essentials to beginner painting kits, ensuring your young creator has everything they need to bring their imagination to life. Let’s dive into the best art supplies that will inspire creativity for the next big leap in their artistic journey!
Top Art Supplies For 12 Year Old Recommendations
- 【Professional Complete Artist Drawing Supplies Sketching Kit】Professional and Complete drawing set comes with a 100 Sheets 3-Color sketch pad, you can start drawing and sketching as soon as you open this deluxe drawing kit! This is All-in-one 176-piece drawing and sketch supplies kit for artists of all skill levels. The art set has 76-piece art tools and accessories plus a 100 sheets 3-color sketchbook, total 176 pieces!
- 【All in one Art Kit】The Premium drawing pencils set includes 12 graphite pencils, 12 colored pencils，12 watercolor Pencils, 12 charcoal Pencils，3 white charcoal pencils, 12 metallic pencils, 3 blending paper stumps, refillable water brush pen, travel Case and more! Each pencil is marked with color name & number, and pre-sharpened. 76pcs art tools accessories plus a 100 sheets sketchpad, total 176 pcs! Perfect for drawing, sketching, shading, blending.
- 【Extra Large Art Sketch Kit Drawing Set】These Professional art kits also include 1 sandpaper block, 1 pencil extender，1 paint brush, 1 sharpener, 1 eraser pencil, 3 blending paper stumps, 1 refillable water brush pen, 1 vinyl eraser, 1 colored pencils tutorial etc. The 12 premium graphite pencils are 2H、3H、4H、5H 、HB、B、2B、3B、4B、5B、6B、8B, the sketching pencils ranging in size from the thickest 8B to the finest 5H for exact drawing lines. This drawing set will be the perfect choice for you to start your art.
- 【Premium Drawing Kit with Unique 100 Sheets 3-Color Drawing Book】The sketch pad is 6"x9", spiral bound, 100GSM, 100 Sheets (72 Sheets white, 14 Sheets toned tan, 14 Sheets black), the 3 colors sketch paper in one sketchbook will meet your needs for different colors of sketch paper. makes your drawings pop and vibrant, this professional art drawing kit is sure to become your one-stop solution for all your drawing and sketching needs.
- 【With Portable Travel Size Case】: Lightweight travel-friendly carrying case keeps all the artist supplies and drawing stuff well organized and not taking up much space, which is convenient for you to do sketching, drawing anytime and anywhere. This sketch art pencils set is great art supplies for adults.
- ❤Premium & Unique Shimmer Markers: Muchcute outline metallic sparkle pen set has 12 assorted bright colors. The double line outline pens designed with unique technology will automatically produces outlines for you to create a beautiful dual-color effect. And it can draw 3 different effects on light colored paper, black paper and smooth surface. Let's DIY unique dual-color art projects today!
- ❤Non-Toxic & Safety: These 2-3mm medium tip glitter markers are water-based, non-toxic, odorless, smooth flow, quick-drying, high quality certificated ink and safe for kids, girls and teens. Environmental friendly and conforms to ASTM D-4236 & EN71-3 certificate. (We suggest children under 3 years old should be used under the supervision of an adult)
- ❤Wide Use: These sparkly outline pens can be used on almost any surface, such as rocks, wood, canvas, fabric, glass, plastic, metal, etc. It's perfect for Cristmas cards, birthday card, greeting cards, envelopes, gift tags, sign, easter eggs, christmas ornaments, scrapbook, poster. Great gift idea for Christmas, Birthday, Mother's Day, Easter Day, Valentine's Day, Thanksgiving, New Year. Both beginners and professionals can better release your creativity.
- ❤Easy to Use: These self outline markers is very easy to use. Firstly, shake the supersquiggles pen up and down with cap closed to well mix the ink. Secondly, press the tip down for a while on paper until the ink flows to the tip. For best results, please re-cap the markers immediately after use and store horizontally. Contours are better on thick paper above 80gsm and light colored paper.
- ❤Purchase Without Risk: Your satisfaction is always our highest priority. If you don't feel One hundred percent satisfied, please Email us freely. No risk of buying these dream glossy liquid markers from our store. If you love it, add it to cart today.
- 【 Back to School Supplies, Premium Quality, Deluxe Art Kit】The Deluxe art case has everything you need to get started creating in a compact wooden case! You can begin drawing, coloring and painting as soon as you open the box. Specially designed with 2 big sketchbooks, 1 coloring book, 1 Gift Box. Great art set for any level of artist. This art case makes a great Gift for adults and kids, girls and boys, they are going to have so much fun!
- 【Well Packed in Gift Box】All the art supplies are well organized in a nice wooden case and then a beautiful gift box. Easy to carry and use in school, office, travel or at home. Ideal Arts and Crafts Gift Box for adults and kids, teens, girls, boys ages 6 7 8 9 10 11 12. Great Gifts for Christmas Gift, Birthday Present, Children's Day, Mother's Day, Easter Day, Valentine's Day, Thanksgiving Day, Party, New Year, Back to School Supplies Gift
- 【Safe Art Kits】Made with high quality materials, this art drawing kit is safe and no harm for kids and adults. All of the crayons, pencils, markers and pastels in this art kit are safe and non-toxic, conforms to ASTM D4236. Safe art kits to use for any level of artist. Perfect kids art kit, art set, art supplies kits.
- 【Enough Art Supplies】 This Premium drawing set includes 24-Colored Pencils, 24-Oil Pastels, 24-Watercolor Cakes, 3x8 Well palettes, 2-Drawing Pads, 1-Coloring Book, 2-Sketch Pencils, 2-Paint Brushes, 10-Sandpaper Block, 1-Pencil Sharpener, 1- Ruler, 1-Eraser, 60 Crayons, 1-Wooden Art Case and Gift Box. They are the best tools for showcasing someone's awesome talent in drawing. Great art sets for young children who are beginners and exploring their curiosity.
- 【Quality Assurance】At iBayam, for all our drawing supplies art sets, we prioritize quality and customer satisfaction. Our art sets are made of premium materials to ensure the durability and persistence of all your art projects. If you have any problems during the purchase, please contact us and we'll be glad to assist you to ensure your satisfaction.
- All-in-one Complete 73-piece art supplies drawing kit and sketch set for artists of all skill levels. The drawing supplies kit includes sketching Pencils set, sketch pad,1 coloring book and durable travel case. amazing sketches and art projects! Great art supplies for adults, artists, professionals. Essential art supply kit for creating DIY art works with coloring, drawing, sketching, shading and blending.
- This Special drawing set Includes, 12 graphite pencils（2H、3H、4H、5H 、HB、B、2B、3B、4B、5B、6B、8B), 12 colored pencils，12 watercolor Pencils, 12 charcoal Pencils，12 metallic coloring pencils, 1 sandpaper block, 1 pencil extender，1 paint brush, 1 sharpener, 1 art knife, 1 eraser pencil, 3 blending paper stumps, 1 water brush pen. You will also get a 1 premium sketch book and 1 Coloring Book, so you can start drawing, sketching and coloring as soon as you receive this sketching supplies kit!
- Travel size case keep the artist supplies drawing stuff organized. These drawing sketch kit are packed in a beautifully gift zipper case, not take up space and can be put in a backpack and protected very well. No matter where you go，you can for non-stop creativity and create good drawing and artwork effects. It is an ideal gift for adults, hobbyists, artists.
- Artist qualities drawing sketch supplies. Safe For Use, eco-friendly non-toxic odorless Materials. The quality art pencils for shading and blending allow you to develop technical skills, easily creating beautiful works, durable enough for long time use. Bright and vibrant colors provide smooth coloring, won't breaking, cracking, easy shading and blending, drawing, sketching, doodling and coloring.
- 【Ideal Gift & Satisfaction Guarantee】Crafted from certified non-toxic, eco-friendly materials, this set is a safe and wonderful gift for adults. We are committed to your satisfaction and offer a reliable guarantee on all our products. Our products are not suitable for children under the age of 12.
- Premium Art Drawing Supplies with Rainbow Multicolored Pencils: Set come with 12 pcs Rainbow Colored Pencils for professional artists adults teenage beginners and kids, 5mm thick and soft lead core, not easy to break, very soft, and each pencil is composed of at least three different colors, beautiful colors mixed. create lifelike artwork that seems to pop off the page
- Complete Drawing kit and Sketch Pencils Set: 81 pack Art Pencils Set along with 21 Oil Based Colored Pencils, 15 Wooden Graphite Sketching Pencils, 12 Watercolor Pencils, 12 Metallic Coloring Pencils, 3 Charcoal Pencils, Perfect for drawing, sketching, coloring, shading, layering, and blending
- Sketchbook kit with Unique 3-Color Sketch Pad, 6 x 9", SPIRAL BOUND, 100GSM, 50 Pages (30 pages white, 10 pages toned tan, 10 pages black), Different colors of sketch paper are suitable for different styles of drawing
- Art Colored Pencils Set with Coloring Book for Adults to Relax and Relieve Anxiety, Coloring Books will be a good leisure pastime. Use your imagination and enjoy the rewards of relaxation.
- 【Drawing Supplies Pencils Kit with Drawing Tutorial on “how to draw flowers”】 give you a uniquely comprehensive guide to getting you started with your first steps in the art world, start creating your artwork NOW and taking your art to the next level
- Perfect Art set: This great art set includes all types of coloring and drawing materials for artists of all ages - especially for any child who loves to doodle or wants to inspire and enjoy the joy of painting. Multiple tools equipped to meet all your drawing needs. Bright and colorful to inspire kids creative side.
- Easy to Carrying:185-Piece Double Sided Trifold Easel Art Set is equipped with a built-in, dual side pop-up easel, making it easy for your child to color and create anywhere you can open your case! Portable carry case, Keeps your components organized.
- Safe & Environmental: This drawing and painting art set is made of eco-friendly materials .Each crayons, pencils and pastels in this art box are non-toxic, and conforms to ASTM D4236 (Standard Practice for Labeling Art Materials for Chronic Health Hazards). It is no harm for children, please rest assured to use.
- Creativity Painting Set Includes:48 oil pastels, 48 crayons,24 colored pencils, 18 watercolor cakes,12 sheets drawing paper, 12 markers,4 large clips,4 paper clips, 4 black lined drawing papers, 1-sketch pencil 1-painting brush, 1-ruler,1-small eraser, 1-color chart,1-plastic palette,1-white watercolor,1-pencil sharpener, 1-double side easel, 1-sponge,1-instruction guide,1-trifold organizer case.
- Suitable for the Beginner: This art set is ideal for travel. If you are visiting friends or on the plane. It’s a perfect way to keep the little ones busy while having fun drawing or painting. It is best tools to showcase someone's awesome drawing talent.
- 3D Art Coloring Kit: The set includes a total of 5 different models and 12 dual tip markers. Kids can assemble and color these craft kits themselves. Hours of educational and creative fun that are exciting and hands on for kids and adults alike.
- Unique Coloring Patterns: Each coloring craft set— Butterfly, Sea plane, Dinosaur, Peacock, and the Eiffel Tower offers a different coloring pattern, ensuring hours of engagement and creativity.
- Benefits of Coloring: Coloring benefits for kids include improved motor skills, stimulation of creativity, enhanced color awareness, also helps improve focus and hand-eye coordination.
- Benefits of Solving Puzzles: Improves kids' motor skills and provides a fun way to develop problem-solving abilities, visual-spatial skills, and enhance a child’s math performance. Great educational, creative, and artistic gifts for kids.
- STEM Art Projects for Kids: Premium quality. Child safety test approved. Make it a great STEM toys for 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 years old girls and boys during birthday party, Christmas and throughout the entire holiday season!
- Complete Professional Drawing and Sketching Art Set - Kalour 76 art set contains all the art pencils you need,Variety of pencil types and Vivid Color for you to do any artworks.Perfect for sketching,drawing,blending,coloring and shading.
- Artist Pencils - This drawing set includes 65 pieces Drawing Pencils:12 Sketching Pencil,12 Charcoal Pencil,12 Colored Pencil,12 Watercolor Pencil,12 Metallic Pencil,4 pastel pencil,1 white charcoal pencil.Each pencil is marked with color name and number.our pre-sharpened art pencils for accurate visual creativity and crisp lines.Soft break-resistant cores produce incredible tone.
- Extra Art Accessories - Professional art tools can make your art level reach new heights.Include 3 Blending Stump, Metal Sharpener, Vinyl Eraser, Pencil Extender, Sandpaper Block, Artist Brush.All basic drawing tools allow you to start creating at any time.
- Sketchbook & Watercolor Paper - When you own this art set, you will have sketchbook (6"x9") and watercolor Paper (6"x9") at the same time, so you don't need to buy sketchbook.This drawing set will be the perfect choice for you to start your art career.
- Luxury and Portable Package - Non-toxic components and travel-friendly nylon carrying case which is portable for you to do sketching anywhere and anytime. Strong compact inside and zippered carrying case to hold and protect all the sketching tools inside in safe when travelling, all the contents stay organized and tidy.
Choosing the Best Art Supplies for Your 12-Year-Old Artist
Twelve is an exciting age for art! Kids this age are moving past simple coloring and exploring more complex techniques. They need supplies that handle ambition but are still easy to use. This guide helps you select the perfect tools for your budding creator.
Key Features to Look For
When buying art supplies for a 12-year-old, focus on quality that supports growth without being overly professional or expensive.
- Non-Toxic Certification: Safety always comes first. Look for AP (Art and Creative Materials Institute) certification, especially for paints and markers.
- Durability: Teenagers can be tough on supplies. Pencils should resist breaking easily, and carrying cases should be sturdy.
- Versatility: A good set allows for mixed media projects. Look for supplies that work well together (e.g., markers that don’t bleed through good quality paper).
- Range of Tones: A wider color palette (36+ colors for markers or pencils) lets them explore shading and depth better than a basic 12-pack.
Important Materials Breakdown
Different mediums suit different projects. Here is what you should consider stocking up on:
Drawing & Shading
At 12, graphite pencils are essential. A good set includes a range of hardness, like 2H (hard, light lines) to 6B (soft, dark lines). Colored pencils should have a soft core for smooth blending. Avoid wax-based budget pencils; look for pigment-rich options.
Painting Supplies
Acrylic paints are usually best for this age group. They dry fast, clean up with water, and offer vibrant color payoff. Watercolor sets are also great, but ensure the pans are richly pigmented so the color doesn’t look washed out when applied to paper.
Paper Matters
The paper quality directly impacts the final result. Thin printer paper won’t hold up to heavy marker use or wet paint. Invest in sketchbooks labeled for mixed media or heavyweight drawing paper (at least 80lb/120gsm).
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The difference between frustration and fun often lies in the quality of the materials.
What Improves Quality:
- Pigment Load: Higher quality supplies pack more actual color pigment into the medium. This means colors are brighter and last longer.
- Smooth Application: Good quality markers flow evenly without skipping. Oil pastels should spread smoothly, not crumble.
- Lightfastness: While not critical for casual drawing, lightfastness means the colors won’t fade quickly if the artwork is displayed in the sun.
What Reduces Quality (and Causes Frustration):
- Binder Content: Cheap pencils use too much filler (binder), making the lead brittle and hard to blend.
- Drying Time: Paints that dry too fast can lead to streaky results.
- Smudging: Low-quality graphite or charcoal that smears easily ruins detailed work.
User Experience and Use Cases
The best supplies match the artist’s intent. A 12-year-old might tackle several types of projects.
For Detailed Sketching and Comics: They need fine-tipped pens (archival ink is a bonus!) and quality drawing pencils. The experience is improved when the pencil doesn’t constantly break.
For Vibrant Illustrations: Alcohol-based markers offer superior blending for illustration work compared to water-based markers. These deliver a professional look, though they require specialized paper to prevent bleed-through.
For Experimentation: Sets that include clay, simple calligraphy pens, or watercolor brush pens encourage exploration outside of traditional drawing. The ease of cleanup greatly improves the experience for these exploratory projects.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Art Supplies for 12-Year-Olds
Q: Should I buy professional-grade supplies?
A: Not usually. Professional supplies are expensive and often require specific skills to use correctly. Mid-range, “student-grade” supplies offer the best balance of quality and cost for this age.
Q: Are alcohol markers or water-based markers better?
A: Alcohol-based markers blend much better for smooth gradients, making them better for illustration. Water-based markers are easier to clean up and less expensive.
Q: How many colors should a good colored pencil set have?
A: A set with 36 to 72 colors gives enough variety for shading and mixing. More than that can overwhelm a young artist.
Q: Do I need special erasers?
A: Yes. Vinyl or plastic erasers work well for clean removal without damaging the paper surface. Kneaded erasers are great for lifting graphite lightly.
Q: What is the best type of paint for a beginner at this age?
A: Acrylic paint is highly recommended. It is versatile, permanent once dry, and water-soluble when wet.
Q: What weight of paper should I look for?
A: Aim for paper that is at least 80lb (120gsm) for drawing and 140lb (300gsm) if they plan to use heavy watercolor washes.
Q: How do I stop markers from bleeding through the page?
A: Use paper specifically designed for markers, or use thicker mixed-media paper. Always place a scrap sheet of paper underneath the working page when using alcohol markers.
Q: Are paint pens a good addition?
A: Yes. Opaque paint pens (like acrylic paint pens) are excellent for adding highlights or details onto dark paper or painted surfaces where regular markers won’t show up.
Q: Should I buy a large art case or individual items?
A: A curated set in a case is great for initial organization. However, as they discover their favorite medium, buying higher-quality, individual items (like a favorite shade of paint) often happens later.
Q: What materials should I avoid buying?
A: Avoid very cheap, dusty pastels and oil pastels that crumble easily. Also, skip very cheap watercolor sets where the color pans are rock-hard and barely transfer pigment.