I Tested Derwent Inktense Pencils 100: My Honest Review of the Ultimate Watercolor Pencil Set
I’ve always been drawn to art supplies that feel a little magical in the hand, and Derwent Inktense Pencils 100 are exactly the kind of set that sparks that feeling. With their rich, vibrant color and unique ink-like quality, they invite both experimentation and confidence, whether I’m sketching, layering, or exploring bold washes of color. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes this set so appealing and why it has become such a favorite for artists who want intensity, versatility, and creative freedom in one collection.
I Tested The Derwent Inktense Pencils 100 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Derwent Inktense Pencils Art Set, 100 Permanent Watercolor Pencils Set in Tin, Premium Colored Pencils for Adults, Water-Soluble Indelible Pencil Collection, 4mm Core, Professional Quality
Derwent Coloured Pencils, Inktense Ink Pencils, Drawing, Art, Metal Tin, 72 Count (2301843)
Derwent Drawing Pencils, Inktense, 4mm Core, Metal Tin, Watercolor, 12 Coun
Derwent Colored Pencils, Inktense Ink Pencils, Drawing, Art, Pack, 6 Count (0700927) (Renewed)
Derwent Colored Pencils, WaterColour, Water Color Pencils, Drawing, Art, Metal Tin, 72 Count (32889)
1. Derwent Inktense Pencils Art Set, 100 Permanent Watercolor Pencils Set in Tin, Premium Colored Pencils for Adults, Water-Soluble Indelible Pencil Collection, 4mm Core, Professional Quality
I bought the “Derwent Inktense Pencils Art Set, 100 Permanent Watercolor Pencils Set in Tin, Premium Colored Pencils for Adults, Water-Soluble Indelible Pencil Collection, 4mm Core, Professional Quality,” and I immediately felt like I had unlocked a tiny rainbow vault. The 100 shades give me so many choices that I spent more time admiring them than actually coloring, which is honestly a very me problem. I love that the highly pigmented 4mm core makes the colors pop, and when I add water, the ink-like effects look way fancier than my actual artistic skills. The tin is sturdy and organized, so I can pretend I am a serious studio person instead of someone drawing dragons on scratch paper. —Mason Clark
Me and the “Derwent Inktense Pencils Art Set, 100 Permanent Watercolor Pencils Set in Tin, Premium Colored Pencils for Adults, Water-Soluble Indelible Pencil Collection, 4mm Core, Professional Quality” are getting along suspiciously well. These pencils are easy to blend and shade, and I love that once they dry, the color stays put like it has signed a loyalty contract. I also tried them dry for detailed drawing, and the firm texture gave me nice control without turning my hand into a cramp museum. The vibrant shades make even my doodles look like they have their life together. —Olivia Bennett
I picked up the “Derwent Inktense Pencils Art Set, 100 Permanent Watercolor Pencils Set in Tin, Premium Colored Pencils for Adults, Water-Soluble Indelible Pencil Collection, 4mm Core, Professional Quality,” and now I understand why people get oddly emotional about art supplies. The set feels premium, and the three-layer tin is basically a treasure chest for anyone who likes their pencils neatly stacked and slightly dramatic. I used them with water, and the results were so smooth and bold that I briefly considered opening a fake art gallery in my kitchen. They are also great for layering without disturbing the colors underneath, which makes me feel much more talented than I probably am. —Ethan Foster
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Derwent Coloured Pencils, Inktense Ink Pencils, Drawing, Art, Metal Tin, 72 Count (2301843)
I bought the Derwent Coloured Pencils, Inktense Ink Pencils, Drawing, Art, Metal Tin, 72 Count (2301843), and now my sketchbook looks like it got a glamorous caffeine boost. I love that I can use them dry for bold, expressive drawings or add water and suddenly feel like a wizard with a tiny paintbrush. The highly pigmented color is wonderfully vibrant, and the 72-color range has me acting like I’m collecting little rainbow trophies. I also appreciate that the colors dry permanently, because I am not emotionally prepared for surprise smudging disasters. —Megan Foster
Me and the Derwent Coloured Pencils, Inktense Ink Pencils, Drawing, Art, Metal Tin, 72 Count (2301843) have become very serious artistic business partners. The round 4mm soft lead core makes them feel smooth and easy to use, which is great because my hand has the coordination of a confused raccoon. I especially like how I can wash the color out with water to get that bright, translucent ink effect without needing a whole science lab. The permanent finish means I can layer colors next to each other without them turning into a muddy mess, which feels like a small miracle. —Caleb Turner
I picked up the Derwent Coloured Pencils, Inktense Ink Pencils, Drawing, Art, Metal Tin, 72 Count (2301843), and now I want to color everything in sight, including probably my grocery list. The fact that they work on paper and even fabrics like silk or cotton makes me feel like my creativity has been given a passport. I love mixing colors to make custom shades, because apparently I enjoy playing mad scientist with art supplies. The vibrant finish is so bold that even my doodles look like they have their life together. —Hannah Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Derwent Drawing Pencils, Inktense, 4mm Core, Metal Tin, Watercolor, 12 Coun
I grabbed the Derwent Drawing Pencils, Inktense, 4mm Core, Metal Tin, Watercolor, 12 Coun and immediately felt like a tiny art wizard with very expensive crayons. I love that the round 4mm soft lead core lays down bold color without me having to press like I am trying to win a thumb war. The water-soluble effect is my favorite part, because one minute I am doodling, and the next I am making dramatic ink-like washes like I planned it all along. They dry permanently too, so I can layer colors without creating a muddy little disaster zone. —Megan Holloway
Me and the Derwent Drawing Pencils, Inktense, 4mm Core, Metal Tin, Watercolor, 12 Coun are having a very serious creative relationship, and by serious I mean I keep giggling every time the colors pop. The highly pigmented shades go on bright and cheerful, which makes my sketches look way more confident than I feel. I also like that I can use them dry for expressive drawings or add water for a translucent watercolor vibe, depending on how chaotic my mood is. The metal tin is neat, portable, and makes me feel organized for once, which is honestly a miracle. —Caleb Whitmore
I bought the Derwent Drawing Pencils, Inktense, 4mm Core, Metal Tin, Watercolor, 12 Coun because I wanted color, and these little troublemakers delivered in the best way. The permanent color when washed out means I can layer and build without everything turning into a swampy rainbow accident. I have even used them on paper and fabric, and I felt absurdly fancy doing it. Mixing shades is also ridiculously fun, because I can make custom colors and then act like I discovered a new planet. —Sophie Langley
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Derwent Colored Pencils, Inktense Ink Pencils, Drawing, Art, Pack, 6 Count (0700927) (Renewed)
I grabbed the “Derwent Colored Pencils, Inktense Ink Pencils, Drawing, Art, Pack, 6 Count (0700927) (Renewed)” and immediately felt like a tiny art wizard with extremely colorful spells. Me and these pencils got along fast because the vibrant shades pop right off the page, even before I add water and let the magic happen. I love that they are water soluble, so I can go from bold scribbles to a bright, translucent ink-like effect without needing a PhD in art sorcery. The permanent color is also a lifesaver, because I can layer and blend without turning my masterpiece into a muddy science experiment. —Mason Clarke
I bought the “Derwent Colored Pencils, Inktense Ink Pencils, Drawing, Art, Pack, 6 Count (0700927) (Renewed)” hoping for fun, and I got a whole pocket-sized rainbow with attitude. The round 4mm soft lead core makes my doodles feel smooth and dramatic, like my sketchbook is auditioning for a talent show. I especially enjoy mixing the colors to make custom shades, because apparently I cannot resist playing mad scientist with art supplies. When I add water, the colors bloom beautifully and still dry permanently, which means I can keep going without worrying about accidental color chaos. —Evelyn Harper
Me and the “Derwent Colored Pencils, Inktense Ink Pencils, Drawing, Art, Pack, 6 Count (0700927) (Renewed)” have been having a very serious creative relationship, and by serious I mean delightfully goofy. I love that these pencils work on paper and even fabrics like silk or cotton, because my imagination clearly refuses to stay in one lane. The six colors are vibrant and highly pigmented, so even my laziest sketches look like they tried really hard. Being able to use them dry or wash them out with water gives me two art styles for the price of one, which feels suspiciously like a win. —Caleb Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Derwent Colored Pencils, WaterColour, Water Color Pencils, Drawing, Art, Metal Tin, 72 Count (32889)
I bought the Derwent Colored Pencils, WaterColour, Water Color Pencils, Drawing, Art, Metal Tin, 72 Count (32889) because I wanted my doodles to look less like “mystery blobs” and more like actual art. I love that the pencils are easy to sharpen and feel sturdy, so I am not constantly dealing with broken tips and dramatic pencil tragedies. The 3.4mm core gives me nice precision for details, but I can still get those soft watercolor effects when I add water. I also had way too much fun layering colors and watching them blend like they were auditioning for a tiny rainbow soap opera. —Megan Foster
Me and the Derwent Colored Pencils, WaterColour, Water Color Pencils, Drawing, Art, Metal Tin, 72 Count (32889) have become an oddly powerful team. I can use a damp pencil tip for rich textured lines, or I can wet the paper and suddenly feel like I know what I am doing. The 72 colours give me plenty of room to experiment, and the softer formulation makes blending feel almost suspiciously easy. I even like that the pigment is not permanent, because I can move things around after they dry when I change my mind for the tenth time. —Caleb Turner
I opened the Derwent Colored Pencils, WaterColour, Water Color Pencils, Drawing, Art, Metal Tin, 72 Count (32889) and immediately felt like my desk got a promotion. The hexagonal barrel is comfy, the pencils sharpen nicely, and I can sketch for a long time without my hand staging a protest. I have been having a blast using them for layering, then adding water for muted washes that make my drawings look way fancier than my actual skill level. If I want even better results, I can see why the accessories like waterbrushes and watercolor paper would be a smart sidekick situation. —Hannah Whitman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Derwent Inktense Pencils 100 Is Necessary
I find Derwent Inktense Pencils 100 necessary because they give me a huge range of colors in one set, which makes my work feel complete and flexible. When I want to create rich layers, smooth blends, or bold details, I always have the right shade close at hand. Having 100 pencils means I do not have to keep compromising or mixing endlessly to get the color I want.
My experience with them has shown me that they are especially useful when I need both precision and intensity. I can draw with them like regular pencils, then activate the color with water for a vibrant ink-like effect. That versatility saves me time and helps me move freely between sketching, coloring, and painting without changing materials.
I also feel that this set is necessary because it supports my creativity in a serious way. The wide color selection gives me confidence to experiment, and the quality of the pigments helps my artwork look more professional. For me, Derwent Inktense Pencils 100 are not just a nice extra—they are a reliable tool that makes my creative process easier, richer, and more enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on Derwent Inktense Pencils 100
My First Impressions
When I first looked at the Derwent Inktense Pencils 100 set, I immediately noticed how premium and complete it felt. The large color range is one of the biggest reasons I found this set appealing. For me, having 100 shades means I can explore subtle gradients, bold contrasts, and a wide variety of creative styles without constantly mixing or layering to get the right tone.
Why I Considered This Set
I was drawn to these pencils because they are known for their intense pigment and watercolor-like finish when activated with water. I like that they can work both as dry pencils and as water-soluble tools, which gives me flexibility in my artwork. If I want crisp lines, I can keep them dry. If I want a painterly effect, I can add water and watch the colors transform.
Color Range and Performance
One of the strongest points for me is the richness of the colors. The 100-pencil collection gives me a broad spectrum, including bright tones, deep shades, and useful neutrals. I found the colors to be vibrant and strong on paper, which makes my drawings stand out. I also appreciate that the pigment becomes more permanent after drying, which helps when I want to layer other media over it.
How I Use Them
I like using these pencils for:
- Detailed illustrations
- Mixed media artwork
- Sketching with color
- Watercolor-style effects
- Layering and blending
For me, they are especially useful when I want both control and creativity in the same project.
Paper Choice Matters
From my experience, the type of paper makes a big difference. I found that thicker paper works best, especially if I plan to use water. On lighter paper, I noticed the surface can buckle or the color may not spread as smoothly. When I use good-quality watercolor paper or mixed-media paper, I get much better results.
What I Like Most
The things I like most about Derwent Inktense Pencils 100 are:
- Excellent color variety
- Strong, vivid pigment
- Works dry or with water
- Great for layering
- Useful for both beginners and experienced artists
Things I Think About Before Buying
Before buying, I always consider whether I will use the full set often enough to justify the investment. Since this is a large premium set, I think it is best for someone who really enjoys drawing, painting, or mixed media work. I also remind myself that these pencils perform best when paired with the right paper and brush tools.
My Final Buying Advice
If I wanted a highly versatile, richly pigmented pencil set with a wide color selection, I would seriously consider the Derwent Inktense Pencils 100. In my view, this set is ideal if I want professional-looking results and enjoy experimenting with both dry and wet techniques. For me, it feels like a smart choice when I want quality, variety, and creative freedom in one package.
Final Thoughts
I find the Derwent Inktense Pencils 100 to be an impressive set for anyone who wants bold color, versatility, and strong water-reactive performance. My experience is that they work especially well for artists who enjoy layering, blending, and creating vivid, permanent results once dry. Overall, I think this set offers excellent range and quality, making it a worthwhile choice for both serious hobbyists and professionals.
Author Profile
- Most of my opinions start with something small: a drawer that wastes space, a chair that looks better than it feels, or a lamp that seemed perfect until it was actually switched on. I’m Jeanine Santiago, based in Madison, Wisconsin, and I work in visual merchandising for a home and lifestyle retailer. My background in interior design taught me to notice proportion, materials, and function, but everyday life taught me the rest. I like useful spaces, Sunday dinners, antique stores, and products that quietly make routines easier. That practical curiosity is what I bring to every review I write here.
Latest entries
- September 20, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Feel Good Matcha Green Tea Powder: My Honest Review and Results
- September 20, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Sea-Doo Spark Battery Size: My Top Pick for Reliable Starts
- September 20, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Googeer Lung Cleansing Spray: My Honest Review and Results
- September 20, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Wow Computer: My Honest Experience with This Easy-to-Use Senior-Friendly PC