When I first started card making, I was overwhelmed by the sheer number of coloring tools out there. From alcohol markers to colored pencils, it seemed like the options were endless—and the price tags often intimidating. But over time, I’ve discovered that you don’t need to break the bank to get beautiful, professional results. Today, I want to share my top five budget-friendly coloring tools that I use regularly in my card making. These tools have helped me achieve stunning results without the guilt of overspending, and I think you’ll love them too.
Top 5 Budget-Friendly Coloring Tools for Card Makers:
Why Budget-Friendly Coloring Tools Matter
As a card maker, I know how important it is to have the right tools at hand. But I also know that crafting can quickly become an expensive hobby, especially when you’re trying to build up your stash. That’s why I’m always on the lookout for affordable, high-quality options. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned pro looking to add to your collection, these tools offer a great balance of quality and affordability.
The Top 5 Budget-Friendly Coloring Tools
I want to mention that the five coloring tools I've highlighted in this blog post are listed in no particular order. Each one brings something unique to the table, and I genuinely love them all for different reasons. Whether it’s the smooth blending of the SJ Star Joy Gold Edition Colored Pencils or the vibrant hues of the Ohuhu Honolulu Brush Alcohol Markers, every tool on this list has earned its spot because of its quality and versatility. These are my go-to choices, and each one deserves a place in your crafting arsenal.
1. SJ Star Joy Gold Edition Colored Pencils
These pencils are a hidden gem. I remember the first time I tried the SJ Star Joy Gold Edition Colored Pencils—I was working on a birthday card with a detailed floral design, and I was so impressed by how smoothly these pencils blended. They offer vibrant colors that layer beautifully, making them perfect for creating depth and dimension in your designs. Plus, they’re incredibly affordable, so you don’t have to feel guilty about using them liberally.
Pro Tip: To get the most out of these pencils, start with a light touch and gradually build up layers. This will give you more control over the shading and prevent your colors from becoming muddy.
2. Artisto Premium Watercolor Pencils
Watercolor pencils are such a versatile tool, and these from Artisto Premium Watercolor Pencils are no exception. I love using them for backgrounds or adding soft, painterly effects to my cards. Just add a touch of water with a brush, and watch the colors come to life. They’re perfect for when you want that watercolor look without the mess or expense of traditional watercolors.
Pro Tip: For a more controlled watercolor effect, color directly onto a stamp, spritz lightly with water, and then stamp onto your cardstock. This technique creates beautiful, unique backgrounds.
3. Artisto Premium Colored Pencils
When I want rich, bold colors, I reach for the Artisto Premium Colored Pencils. These are a step up from the Star Joys in terms of color intensity and blending capability. I once used these pencils to color a detailed mandala design for a friend’s birthday card, and the result was stunning. The pencils laid down color evenly, and the vibrant hues made the design pop.
Pro Tip: To make your colors even more vibrant, try layering a white pencil over your colored areas. This can help blend the colors and add a soft, glowing effect.
4. Spectrum Noir TriBlend Brush Markers
If you’re a fan of alcohol markers, but not a fan of the price, the Spectrum Noir TriBlend Brush Markers are a fantastic option. These markers have a unique three-in-one design that allows for seamless blending, making it easy to achieve professional-looking gradients. I love using these for everything from coloring stamped images to creating ombre effects on backgrounds.
Pro Tip: When blending with these markers, start with the lightest color and gradually work towards the darkest. This method helps to create a smooth, natural transition between shades.
5. Ohuhu Honolulu Brush Alcohol Markers
And finally, my number one pick—Ohuhu Honolulu Brush Alcohol Markers. These markers have quickly become my go-to for almost every card project. The colors are vibrant, the brush tips offer fantastic control, and the price is unbeatable for the quality. I used these markers to create a bold, tropical-themed card recently, and the results were every bit as good as what you’d get from much pricier markers.
Pro Tip: When working with alcohol markers, use a cardstock that’s specifically designed for alcohol-based inks. This will prevent the ink from bleeding and ensure that your colors stay vibrant and sharp.
How to Choose the Right Tool for Your Design
With so many great options, it can be tough to know which tool to reach for. When choosing a coloring tool, consider the style of card you’re making. For intricate designs with lots of detail, you might prefer the precision of colored pencils. If you’re going for bold, vibrant backgrounds, alcohol markers are probably your best bet. And if you want to add a soft, artistic touch, watercolor pencils are a great choice.
Video Tutorial:
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(Wondering what I used in this video? Everything is linked to multiple sources in the thumbnails at the end of this post, or in the text below. Compensated affiliate links used when possible). As always I appreciate your support of my videos!
Final Thoughts & Encouragement
I hope this list has given you some ideas for new tools to add to your collection. These budget-friendly picks have been game-changers in my card-making process, allowing me to create beautiful, unique designs without breaking the bank. I encourage you to give them a try and see how they can elevate your card making. And remember, the best tool is the one that helps you bring your creative vision to life.
I’d love to hear about your favorite budget-friendly coloring tools—drop a comment below and let’s keep the conversation going!
Materials Used:
Here you will find the list of supplies that I used to create today's card. All supplies are linked to supply sources below. Compensated affiliate links may be used at no cost to you.
Happy Stampin'
Rick Adkins
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