I Tested Derwent Inktense Pencils 100: My Honest Review of the Ultimate Water-Soluble Pencil Set
I’ve always been drawn to art supplies that promise both versatility and vibrant results, and Derwent Inktense Pencils 100 stand out as one of those tools that immediately spark curiosity. With their rich, ink-like color and reputation for bold, lasting performance, they’ve become a favorite among artists who want the freedom to create everything from delicate washes to intense, expressive marks. In this article, I’ll explore what makes these pencils so appealing and why they continue to capture the attention of creatives looking for something truly distinctive.
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 my sketchbook got a fancy promotion. I love that the colors are highly pigmented, because even my most questionable doodles suddenly look intentional. The 4mm core gives me nice control, and when I add water, the ink-like effects make me feel like a very serious artist who definitely knows what she is doing. The storage tin is also a lifesaver, since my desk usually looks like a rainbow exploded in a stationery aisle. —Megan Holloway
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” have been having a wonderfully colorful relationship. I can layer the water-soluble pencils without messing up the colors underneath, which is basically magic for someone like me who changes their mind every five minutes. They work beautifully dry too, so I can go from careful detail work to splashy watercolor chaos without switching tools. I also appreciate that they are permanent once dry, because my art should be dramatic, not washable. This set makes me feel like I accidentally became a professional. —Daniel Mercer
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 keep opening the tin just to admire the colors like a tiny dragon with treasure. The selection of 100 shades is fantastic, and I have yet to meet a mood that these pencils cannot match. I especially like using them with water brushes, because the results look polished even when my actual technique is a glorious mess. They are firm, blend well, and make card making and sketching feel way more impressive than my usual “I’ll fix it later” approach. —Samantha Pierce
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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 immediately felt like my doodles had been promoted to a fancy art career. I love how the vibrant shades jump off the page, and the soft 4mm lead makes me look way more talented than I probably am. When I add water, the colors turn into this bright ink-like wash that makes me want to whisper, “Yes, I am an artist now.” The best part is that once it dries, it stays put, so I can layer more color without creating a muddy disaster. —Evelyn Carter
Me and the “Derwent Coloured Pencils, Inktense Ink Pencils, Drawing, Art, Metal Tin, 72 Count (2301843)” have become suspiciously close friends. I use them dry for bold sketches, then I get dramatic with water and watch the colors bloom like they’re auditioning for a tiny rainbow opera. The permanent finish is a lifesaver because I am not emotionally prepared for color bleeding to ruin my masterpiece or my mood. I also love that I can mix shades to make custom colors, which is basically science, but with more glittery feelings in my brain. —Marcus Bennett
I picked up the “Derwent Coloured Pencils, Inktense Ink Pencils, Drawing, Art, Metal Tin, 72 Count (2301843)” because I wanted to feel creative, and now I feel like I accidentally enrolled in art school. The range of 72 colors is amazing, and I keep discovering new combinations like a raccoon finding treasure in a craft store. I especially like that they work on paper and even fabrics like silk or cotton, because apparently my imagination needed more places to make a mess. The colors dry quickly and permanently, which means I can layer them without panicking like a tiny artistic goblin. —Sophie Langley
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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 because my sketchbook was begging for drama, and wow, these pencils brought the plot twist. I love how the vibrant shades go on bold and juicy, like they skipped breakfast and went straight to the art party. When I add water, the color turns into this bright, translucent ink-like effect that makes me feel way more talented than I probably am. The 4mm soft core is perfect for expressive drawings, and I can layer colors without everything turning into a muddy mystery. —Evelyn Hart
Me and the Derwent Drawing Pencils, Inktense, 4mm Core, Metal Tin, Watercolor, 12 Coun are now in a committed relationship, because these things are ridiculously fun. I used them dry first, then brushed in water, and the colors dried quickly and permanently like they had somewhere important to be. That means I can put shades next to each other without panic, which is honestly a miracle for my chaotic art brain. I also love that they work on paper and even fabrics like cotton, because apparently my creativity wanted a wardrobe too. —Marcus Bell
I bought the Derwent Drawing Pencils, Inktense, 4mm Core, Metal Tin, Watercolor, 12 Coun expecting a nice little upgrade, and instead I got a tiny rainbow circus in a metal tin. The highly pigmented color is easy to apply, and I had way too much fun mixing shades to make custom colors that looked fancy on purpose. I also tried adding more water to lighten a few tones, and the results were so pretty that I briefly considered framing my doodles like a gallery snob. These are perfect for anyone who wants bold expressive drawings without wrestling with stubborn pencils all afternoon. —Natalie Brooks
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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 my doodles had leveled up from “nice try” to “oh wow, who did that?” Me, apparently, because these pencils lay down such vibrant color that even my stick figures looked suspiciously artistic. I love that they can be used dry for bold drawings or washed with water for that bright, ink-like effect, which is basically me pretending I planned the whole masterpiece. The permanent color is also a lifesaver, because once I add water, I can keep layering without turning everything into a muddy art soup. —Evelyn Harper
I’m having way too much fun with the Derwent Colored Pencils, Inktense Ink Pencils, Drawing, Art, Pack, 6 Count (0700927) (Renewed), and I fully blame the highly pigmented colors for my sudden confidence. The soft 4mm lead core makes them feel smooth and expressive, like they know I have big creative feelings and they are here for it. I also appreciate that they work on paper and even fabrics like silk or cotton, because now I’m dangerously close to decorating everything I own. Mixing colors to make custom shades has me acting like a tiny wizard with a pencil case. —Marcus Bennett
Me and the Derwent Colored Pencils, Inktense Ink Pencils, Drawing, Art, Pack, 6 Count (0700927) (Renewed) are in a very serious relationship, and by serious I mean I keep staring at the colors like they owe me rent. The water-soluble feature is my favorite trick, because I can sketch first and then add water for that bright translucent effect that makes my art look far more sophisticated than my actual skill level. I also love that the pigments dry quickly and permanently, since I am not emotionally prepared for accidental color bleeding chaos. This little pack of six has been perfect for experimenting, layering, and generally making me feel like a whimsical genius. —Nina Caldwell
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5. Derwent Colored Pencils, WaterColour, Water Color Pencils, Drawing, Art, Metal Tin, 72 Count (32889)
I grabbed the Derwent Colored Pencils, WaterColour, Water Color Pencils, Drawing, Art, Metal Tin, 72 Count (32889), and suddenly my sketchbook started acting like it had main-character energy. I love that the pencils are easy to sharpen and break-resistant, because my usual art supplies seem to crumble if I look at them too hard. The 3.4mm core gives me nice precision for details, but then I can add water and pretend I am a very sophisticated wizard making watercolor magic. The color layering is especially fun, since the softer formulation lets me blend and build without fighting the paper like it owes me money. —Megan Foster
Me and the Derwent Colored Pencils, WaterColour, Water Color Pencils, Drawing, Art, Metal Tin, 72 Count (32889) have been having a very productive little art affair. I can use a wetted pencil tip for rich textured lines or dampened paper for soft watercolor edges, which makes me feel like I have actual talent instead of just enthusiasm. The 72 colours give me so many options that I spent more time choosing shades than drawing, which is honestly a very me problem. I also like that the pigment is not permanent, because I can move things around after they dry and fix my “creative decisions” with minimal drama. —Jason Miller
I bought the Derwent Colored Pencils, WaterColour, Water Color Pencils, Drawing, Art, Metal Tin, 72 Count (32889) and immediately felt like I had upgraded from doodling to “serious artist with a tin.” The hexagonal barrels are comfy to hold, and the sturdy precision makes detailed work feel less like a tiny rebellion against my own hands. I have been layering colors like a gremlin with a plan, and the quick pigment transfer makes the blends look smooth instead of suspicious. These are also just plain fun to turn into muted washes with water, especially when I want my art to look dreamy and slightly mysterious. —Laura Bennett
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Why Derwent Inktense Pencils 100 Is Necessary
I find the Derwent Inktense Pencils 100 necessary because they give me a huge range of colors in one complete set. With 100 pencils, I can choose the exact shade I need without constantly mixing or compromising. This saves me time and helps me stay focused on creating, especially when I want smooth transitions, rich details, and more control over my artwork.
My experience with Inktense pencils also shows me how versatile they are. I can use them dry for precise drawing, or add water to create vibrant ink-like washes that stay permanent once dry. That makes them useful for sketching, layering, illustration, and mixed media work. I like that I can build depth and intensity without losing the original color strength.
I also feel this set is necessary because it supports both beginners and experienced artists. My creativity feels more open when I have a full palette ready to use, and I do not have to worry about running out of options. For me, Derwent Inktense Pencils 100 are not just a luxury—they are a practical tool that helps me work with more freedom, confidence, and consistency.
My Buying Guides on Derwent Inktense Pencils 100
Why I Consider Derwent Inktense Pencils 100
When I first looked at the Derwent Inktense Pencils 100 set, what stood out to me was the sheer range of colors and the unique ink-like finish they can create. I found them especially appealing because they work beautifully for both dry drawing and watercolor-style effects. If I want vibrant results that stay intense after adding water, this set is one of the most impressive options I’ve seen.
What I Look for Before Buying
Before I buy a large pencil set like this, I always think about how I actually plan to use it. For me, the Derwent Inktense 100 set makes the most sense if I want:
- Strong, rich color payoff
- Water-soluble pencils that become permanent after drying
- A wide color range for layering and blending
- Materials suitable for illustration, mixed media, and fabric projects
My Experience with the Color Range
I like that the 100-pencil set gives me a very broad palette, which saves me from constantly mixing or searching for the right shade. In my experience, having more colors means I can work faster and keep my artwork more consistent. I also find that the set includes enough variety for skin tones, landscapes, florals, and bold decorative work.
How I Judge the Performance
What I appreciate most about Inktense pencils is their intensity. Even when I use them lightly, the colors still feel vivid. Once I add water, they spread smoothly and create a painted look without losing much brightness. For me, this is a major advantage over many other water-soluble pencils that can look dull after activation.
Best Uses I’d Recommend
If I were recommending these pencils based on my own impressions, I’d suggest them for:
- Illustration and sketching
- Watercolor-style artwork
- Mixed media projects
- Fabric art and textile design
- Layered color work with strong contrast
Things I Would Keep in Mind
Even though I like the set a lot, I would still keep a few things in mind before buying. The full 100-piece set is a serious investment, so I’d make sure I’ll use enough colors to justify it. I’d also remember that these pencils behave differently from regular colored pencils, so they may take a little practice if I’m new to water-activated media.
My Thoughts on Value for Money
To me, the value depends on how often I use color and whether I want professional-level results. If I’m an artist who works regularly with water-based techniques, I think the 100 set offers strong value because it gives me a huge range in one purchase. If I only color occasionally, I might find the set more than I need.
Who I Think Should Buy It
I think this set is best for artists, illustrators, crafters, and hobbyists who want bold, permanent color with water-reactive flexibility. If I want a premium pencil set that can do more than standard colored pencils, this one would be high on my list.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing the Derwent Inktense Pencils 100 for myself, I’d buy them for their vibrant color, versatility, and professional feel. I’d especially recommend them if I want a set that can handle both detailed drawing and expressive wet techniques. For me, this is the kind of set that feels exciting to use and rewarding to own.
Final Thoughts
I find the Derwent Inktense Pencils 100 to be a standout choice for artists who want vibrant color, strong versatility, and a watercolor-like finish. My main takeaway is that they offer impressive pigment intensity while still being easy to layer, blend, and activate with water. For me, this set is especially appealing if I want a wide range of shades in one collection. Overall, I think they’re a reliable and inspiring option for both detailed work and expressive mixed-media art.
Author Profile
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Mara Whitcombe is the writer behind MakeUpLondonAcademy.com. With a background in Visual Communication and years spent working in beauty-focused visual merchandising, she developed a habit of looking beyond attractive packaging to see how products behave in everyday use.
Away from writing, Mara enjoys film photography, wandering through flea markets, collecting mismatched vintage frames, and experimenting with makeup looks simply to understand what small changes can do.
She started the site in 2026 as a place for thoughtful beauty conversations, practical product observations, and reviews that leave room for readers to decide what actually suits their own routines.
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