Which art set is the best for kids?
Art kits make a great gift for kids and can inspire them to start expressing themselves creatively. Art kits specifically designed for kids differ from advanced art kits in a few key ways, but most importantly, they don’t come with toxic or dangerous art supplies like oil-based paints or scissors.
Our top pick, the Art 101 142-Piece Wooden Art Set is a great art set for kids because it comes with a variety of supplies. Its wooden carrying case is attractive and organized so that everything has its place.
What you need to know before buying an art kit for kids
Types of Art Kits for Kids
There are several different types of art kits for kids online, but art kits can generally be divided into two types: mixed media and specific media kits.
Mixed media art kits are great for beginners as they come with samples of art supplies from paints and pencils to crayons. If your child is an aspiring artist, a mixed media set will give them options to work with.
Special medium art kits are great for those with a little more artistic skill and only come with materials that are appropriate for one medium. For example, a paint set will come with a focus on colors, while a drawing or sketch set will come with a focus on pencils.
If you’re interested in checking out different art kits for kids, check out our complete BestReviews kids art kit shopping guide.
Age range of the art set
When buying an art set for your child, it is very important to check the age of the set as stated by the manufacturer. For example, the Crayola Inspiration Art Case is listed as ages 5-15. This is important to consider so you know your child won’t be getting their hands on anything potentially harmful to them.
The skill level of the art set
Art kits, even for kids, come in a variety of skill levels. Usually, mixed media art kits are more suitable for children who just want to do art and require a lower level of artistic skills to use. Art kits that are made for a specific medium often come with higher quality art supplies and are a bit more difficult to use.
What to look for in a quality art kit for kids
Quality supplies
The main attraction of any art kit is, of course, the supplies it comes with. Keep in mind that art kits marketed to children tend to come with lower quality art supplies, which can be a problem if your child is already at an advanced level.
Organized and unorganized cases
Most art kits for kids come in an organized case, which is great for keeping all the individual pieces together and in place. Some art sets, however, come in unorganized boxes, meaning the set is more like a pencil case. You should consider what is best for your child, but art sets with an organized case are generally better due to the added organization and ease of portability.
Possibility of washing and cleaning
Anytime kids and art intersect, there’s the potential to have a huge mess on your hands. Double check that your art kit includes easy-to-clean supplies to prevent soiled clothes and unsightly paint splatters on walls, furniture or fabrics.
How much can you expect to spend on art kits for kids
Art kits for kids can range from about $15 to $60 depending on size and quality.
Frequently Asked Questions about Art Kits for Kids
Are all art kits safe for children?
A. Not. Some art kits, especially the more advanced ones, will contain art supplies that are dangerous or toxic, such as scissors or oil-based paints.
Should I supervise my child while using the art set?
A. Oversight is never a bad idea, especially considering that some art kits come with paints that aren’t easy to clean.
What is the best art kit for kids?
The ultimate art set for kids
Art 101 Art Set of 142 pieces of wood
What you need to know: This art set is well organized, comprehensive and perfect for kids who want to start making art.
What you will like: The kit comes with everything your child will need to safely engage in a variety of art projects.
What you should consider: The quality of the art material is not the best, but it remains perfect for children. If your child is a more advanced artist, consider buying them more advanced supplies.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
The ultimate kids art set for the money
Crayola Inspiration Art Case
What you need to know: This art set comes from Crayola, a well-known name when it comes to art supplies. It is perfect for children who enjoy coloring and drawing.
What you will like: This set is especially great for kids because it doesn’t include things like paints and pastels. This is sure to please your child while also saving you from having to clean up the mess.
What you should consider: The box it comes in is organized and won’t close if all the supplies aren’t in the right place, which could make it difficult for younger kids to use on their own.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth a look
CreativeELF Drawing Template Set for Kids
What you need to know: This fun and easy art set is perfect for kids who are just getting into art.
What you will like: This set comes with templates to serve as a drawing guide for your child. It’s a great way to encourage your child’s creative side without pressuring them to use more advanced art media.
What you should consider: This set is not the best option for younger children, as it may be difficult for them to hold the patterns in place and draw at the same time.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Addison Hoggard writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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