best gel pens for drawing (12)

Best Gel Pens for Drawing: Top Picks for Artists in 2024

Gel pens are a popular choice for artists who want to experiment with different colors and textures in their drawings. They offer a smooth and consistent flow of ink that can produce vibrant and bold lines. When it comes to drawing, gel pens are an excellent choice for adding details and accents to your artwork.

If you're in the market for the best gel pens for drawing, there are a few things you should consider before making your purchase. One of the critical factors to consider is the type of ink used in the pen. Some gel pens use water-based ink, while others use oil-based ink. Water-based ink tends to dry faster and is less likely to smudge, while oil-based ink produces a more vibrant and long-lasting color.

Another factor to consider is the size of the pen tip. Gel pens come in a variety of tip sizes, ranging from ultra-fine to broad. The size of the tip you choose will depend on the type of drawing you plan to do. For detailed work, an ultra-fine tip may be the best choice, while a broad tip may be better for filling in larger areas.

In this article, we'll take a look at some of the best gel pens for drawing on the market. We'll consider factors like ink type, tip size, and overall quality to help you find the perfect pen for your artistic needs.

Best Gel Pens for Drawing

If you are an artist or a doodler, you know that a good gel pen can make all the difference in your work. Gel pens are known for their smooth and vibrant ink, making them a great choice for drawing and coloring. In this roundup, we have compiled a list of the best gel pens for drawing. Whether you are a beginner or a pro, these pens are sure to take your artwork to the next level.

Taotree Glitter Gel Pens

best gel pens for drawing

If you're looking for a set of glitter gel pens for your art projects, the Taotree Glitter Gel Pens could be a great choice.

Pros

  • With 32 vivid colors, including glitter and neon-glitter, these pens offer a wide range of options for your artwork.
  • The fine point tip of 0.7mm - 1.0mm produces smooth and fine lines, making your artwork pop.
  • The pens are fitted with a comfort grip, making them easy to hold and comfortable to use for extended periods.

Cons

  • Some users have reported that the ink can sometimes skip or run out quickly.
  • The plastic storage case may not be very durable and may not protect the pens well.
  • The pens may not be suitable for use on all types of paper.

These glitter gel pens are perfect for coloring books, drawing, doodling, scrapbooking, journaling, and more. The acid-free and non-toxic ink ensures that your artwork won't smear, fade, or skip. The pens come in a nice plastic storage case with a fold-over snap closure, making them easy to carry around with you.

Overall, if you're looking for a set of glitter gel pens that offer a wide range of colors and produce smooth and fine lines, the Taotree Glitter Gel Pens could be a great choice for you.

Aen Art Glitter Gel Pens for Black Paper

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If you're looking for a fun and unique way to add some sparkle to your drawing, scrapbooking, or journaling, then the Aen Art Glitter Gel Pens for Black Paper might be worth checking out.

Pros

  • The magic glitter effect is a fun and unique feature that adds an extra layer of creativity to your work.
  • The pens are smooth and produce vivid lines, making your artwork pop right off the page.
  • The high-quality ink is acid-free and non-toxic, ensuring that your artwork will last for a long time.

Cons

  • The colors may not be true to their advertised shade when used on black paper.
  • The glitter effect may be hard to see on black paper.
  • The pink pen is actually blue, which could be confusing if you're looking for a specific color.

These gel pens are easy to use and come with an ergonomically designed comfort grip, allowing you to spend hours coloring without fatigue. They also make for a great gift idea for artists and girls looking to express their imagination.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a unique and fun way to add some sparkle to your artwork, the Aen Art Glitter Gel Pens for Black Paper might be worth considering. However, keep in mind that the colors may not be true to their advertised shade on black paper and the glitter effect may be hard to see.

Soucolor Glitter Gel Pens

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If you're in the market for a comprehensive set of gel pens for drawing, the Soucolor Glitter Gel Pens set is definitely worth considering.

Pros

  • The set includes 60 glitter pens and 60 matching color refills, providing excellent value for money.
  • The pens feature a 0.8mm-1mm ballpoint tip, making them perfect for smooth and precise color application.
  • The pens come in a portable storage case, making them easy to take with you wherever you go.

Cons

  • Some users have reported that the pens can be prone to skipping, particularly when used on certain types of paper.
  • The pens may not be suitable for more professional or advanced drawing projects.
  • The pens are only available in one size, which may not be suitable for all users.

If you're looking for a comprehensive set of gel pens that provides excellent value for money, the Soucolor Glitter Gel Pens set is definitely worth considering. With 60 glitter pens and 60 matching color refills, you'll have plenty of colors to choose from, and the portable storage case makes it easy to take your pens with you wherever you go.

One of the standout features of these pens is the 0.8mm-1mm ballpoint tip, which makes them perfect for smooth and precise color application. The pens also dry quickly and don't skip or smear, making them ideal for adult coloring books and other drawing projects.

However, some users have reported that the pens can be prone to skipping, particularly when used on certain types of paper. Additionally, the pens may not be suitable for more professional or advanced drawing projects, as they only come in one size.

Overall, if you're looking for a great set of gel pens for drawing that won't break the bank, the Soucolor Glitter Gel Pens set is definitely worth considering.

Shuttle Art Gel Pen Set

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If you're looking for a gel pen set that offers a wide range of colors for your art projects, the Shuttle Art Gel Pen Set is worth considering.

Pros

  • With 120 unique colors, you'll have plenty of options to choose from for your drawings and coloring books.
  • The set includes seven different color types, including glitter, neon, metallic, pastel, and standard, giving you a variety of effects to work with.
  • The pens come in a cute and convenient packing that doesn't take up too much space.

Cons

  • Some users have reported that the caps can be difficult to remove or put back on.
  • A few users have experienced issues with some of the pens drying out quickly or not working at all.
  • The ink may bleed through some types of paper, so you may need to use thicker paper or test the pens on a small area first.

If you're looking for a gel pen set that offers a wide range of colors, the Shuttle Art Gel Pen Set is a great option. The set includes 120 unique colors, so you'll have plenty of options to choose from for your art projects. Additionally, the set includes seven different color types, including glitter, neon, metallic, pastel, and standard, giving you a variety of effects to work with.

The pens come in a cute and convenient packing that doesn't take up too much space, making them easy to store and transport. However, some users have reported that the caps can be difficult to remove or put back on, which can be frustrating if you're in the middle of a project.

A few users have experienced issues with some of the pens drying out quickly or not working at all, so it's important to store the pens properly and test them on a small area before using them on your artwork. Additionally, the ink may bleed through some types of paper, so you may need to use thicker paper or test the pens on a small area first.

Overall, if you're looking for a gel pen set with a wide range of colors and color types, the Shuttle Art Gel Pen Set is a solid choice. Just be aware of the potential issues with the caps and ink, and test the pens on your paper before using them extensively.

Smart Color Art Gel Pens Set

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If you're looking for a wide range of colors in a single set, the Smart Color Art Gel Pens Set is worth considering.

Pros

  • The pens are made from non-toxic, eco-friendly materials and conform to ASTM-D4236 safety standards.
  • With 140 colors, this set offers a wide range of options for coloring, drawing, and other artistic pursuits.
  • The hard tip of these pens makes them durable and long-lasting.

Cons

  • Some users have reported issues with the pens running out of ink quickly or not writing smoothly.
  • The caps can be difficult to remove and replace.
  • The pens may not be suitable for more detailed or intricate artwork.

This set is perfect for those who want a large variety of colors for their art projects. The pens are made from safe and eco-friendly materials, making them a good option for families with children. However, some users have reported issues with the pens running out of ink quickly or not writing smoothly, so it may be worth considering other options if you need pens for more detailed or intricate artwork.

Shuttle Art Gel Pens, 120 Pack Gel Pen Set 60 Colored Gel Pen with 60 Refills for Adults Coloring Books Drawing Doodling Crafts Scrapbooking Journaling 60 Colors with 60 Refills Portable Case

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If you're looking for a versatile and comprehensive set of gel pens for drawing, the Shuttle Art Gel Pens set is definitely worth considering.

Pros

  • The set includes 120 pens, with 60 vibrant colors and 60 refills, providing excellent value for the price.
  • The gel pens are non-toxic, acid-free, and conform to ASTM-D4236, making them safe and suitable for a wide range of uses.
  • The pens have a comfortable rubber grip, produce smooth and no-skipping fine lines, and are color named and coded for easy identification.

Cons

  • The pens may not be as durable as some other options on the market, with some users reporting issues with the casing breaking or cracking.
  • The ink may bleed or smudge on some paper types, so it's important to test the pens on your preferred paper before using them for important projects.
  • Some users may find the range of colors limited, particularly if they require more subtle or muted shades.

If you're looking for a set of gel pens that offers excellent value for money and a wide range of vibrant colors, the Shuttle Art Gel Pens set is a great choice. With a comfortable grip and smooth writing performance, these pens are suitable for a range of artistic and creative endeavors. However, if you require more muted or subtle shades, or if you need pens that are particularly durable, you may want to consider other options.

Brusarth White Gel Pen Set

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If you're looking for a white gel pen set for your drawing needs, the Brusarth White Gel Pen Set is worth considering.

Pros

  • Smooth ink flow for effortless drawing and no skipping
  • Fine point tip for detail drawing, sketching, coloring, and illustration
  • Multi-purpose and blends well with other media such as markers, watercolors, pens, and pencils

Cons

  • Ink tends to run a little bit
  • Pens are not fine enough for small writing
  • Ink may dry out if not capped properly

These water-based gel ink pens are fast-drying, acid-free, and non-toxic, making them safe for use. They come with a 90-day money-back policy and 24-hour online customer service.

The Brusarth White Gel Pen Set is perfect for creating embellishments, accents, reflections, and highlights in your artwork. They work well on dark papers such as black paper, craft paper, and black envelopes. You can use them for detail drawing, sketching, coloring, illustration, journals, card making, scrapbooking, and bullet journaling.

While the ink tends to run a little bit and the pens are not fine enough for small writing, they are still a great addition to your art supplies. The Brusarth White Gel Pen Set is a high-quality product that can help you achieve the desired effect in your artwork.

TANMIT Gel Pens

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If you're looking for a set of gel pens for drawing and coloring, the TANMIT Gel Pens are a great option. With 36 vibrant colors, including metallic, neon, glitter, pastel, and standard classics, you'll have everything you need for any project.

Pros

  • Smooth drawing and coloring: The 0.8-1.0mm fine point tip ensures that there's no skipping or bleeding, making these pens great for home, office, and school use.
  • Soft grip for comfortable holding: Each pen is fitted with a soft grip that's easy to hold and use for note-taking, drawing, scrapbooking, sketching, crafting, doodling, art designs, and journaling.
  • Easy to carry: The pens come in a well-organized package that you can easily carry with you wherever you go.

Cons

  • May not be suitable for professional artists: While these pens are great for beginners and hobbyists, professional artists may find that they lack some of the features and quality they need.
  • Some colors may be too light: The pastel colors in this set may not be as vibrant as you'd like, so you may need to layer them to achieve the desired effect.
  • Ink may run out quickly: While the pens do contain 40% more ink than other gel pens, you may find that you run out quickly if you use them frequently.

If you're looking for an affordable set of gel pens that offer a wide range of colors and smooth drawing, the TANMIT Gel Pens are a great choice. They're perfect for beginners, hobbyists, and anyone who enjoys coloring and drawing. However, if you're a professional artist or need pens with more vibrant pastel colors, you may want to look elsewhere.

Soucolor Gel Pens Set

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If you're looking for a comprehensive set of gel pens for drawing, coloring, sketching, or painting, the Soucolor Gel Pens Set is definitely worth considering.

Pros

  • With 120 pens and 60 matching refills, you'll have a wide variety of colors to choose from.
  • The pens are coded and named on the barrel, so you can easily find the color you need.
  • The set comes with a black PU carrying case, which makes it easy to take your pens with you on the go.

Cons

  • Some users have reported that the pens can be prone to skipping or smudging.
  • The pens may not be as durable as some other options on the market.
  • The coloring sheets provided may not be to everyone's taste.

The Soucolor Gel Pens Set is a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile set of gel pens for drawing and coloring. The pens are comfortable to hold and write smoothly, making them ideal for a variety of projects.

In addition to the 120 pens and 60 matching refills, the set also comes with a black PU carrying case, which makes it easy to take your pens with you on the go. The pens are coded and named on the barrel, so you can easily find the color you need, and the set even comes with a blank DIY color card, so you can organize the colors according to your preferences.

While some users have reported that the pens can be prone to skipping or smudging, many others have found them to be reliable and easy to use. The pens may not be as durable as some other options on the market, but they are still a great choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly set of gel pens.

Overall, if you're looking for a comprehensive set of gel pens for drawing and coloring, the Soucolor Gel Pens Set is definitely worth checking out. With a wide variety of colors and a convenient carrying case, it's a great choice for anyone looking to get creative.

Aen Art Gel Pens for Coloring

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If you're looking for a set of gel pens that are perfect for coloring, drawing, or journaling, then you should consider the Aen Art Gel Pens for Coloring.

Pros

  • With 30 vivid and classic colors, including metallic, pastel, fluorescent, and glitter, these pens offer endless possibilities for your art projects.
  • Each pen features a soft grip and 0.8mm-1mm tip, which makes coloring in tiny details a breeze.
  • The upgraded pens come with 40% more ink, making them long-lasting and perfect for coloring more pages than before.

Cons

  • Some users have reported that the ink may smudge if not allowed to dry completely before touching.
  • While the pens are advertised as acid-free and non-toxic, some users have reported sensitivity to the ink.
  • The pens may not be suitable for professional artists who require more precise and consistent ink flow.

If you're looking for a set of gel pens that offer a wide range of colors and are perfect for coloring and journaling, then the Aen Art Gel Pens for Coloring are worth considering. They offer a soft grip and 0.8mm-1mm tip, making them easy to use for coloring in tiny details. However, some users have reported that the ink may smudge if not allowed to dry completely before touching, and the pens may not be suitable for professional artists who require more precise and consistent ink flow. Overall, these pens are a great value for the price and are perfect for anyone who enjoys coloring or journaling.

TANMIT Gel Pens, 33 Color Gel Pen Fine Point Colored Pen Set with 40% More Ink for Adult Coloring Books, Drawing, Doodling, Scrapbooks Journaling Multicolor

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If you're looking for a variety of colors and ink types, the TANMIT Gel Pens set is worth considering. With five ink types and 33 pens in total, you'll have plenty of options for your adult coloring books, school projects, and more. The fine tip and high performance of these pens make them perfect for creating invitations, greeting cards, and DIY decor.

Pros

  • The set includes 33 pens with a variety of ink types and colors.
  • The gel pens write smoothly and are easy to hold with soft grips.
  • The pens have 40% more ink for long-lasting use.

Cons

  • The ink may smudge or bleed through some paper types.
  • The glitter and metallic pens have a thicker tip than the other pens in the set.
  • The pens may dry out quickly if not used frequently.

If you're looking for a set of gel pens with a wide range of colors and ink types, the TANMIT Gel Pens set is a great option. The pens write smoothly and are easy to hold, making them perfect for a variety of projects. However, the ink may smudge or bleed through some paper types, and the glitter and metallic pens have a thicker tip than the other pens in the set. Additionally, the pens may dry out quickly if not used frequently.

Fruity Scented Gel Ink Pens

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If you're looking for a fun and colorful gel pen set, the Fruity Scented Gel Ink Pens by Sunacme may be a great choice for you.

Pros

  • The scented gel ink adds an extra level of fun and creativity to your writing and drawing.
  • The 1.0mm tip provides smooth and vibrant lines that don't skip or smear, making it easy to color and take notes.
  • The soft, ribbed grip ensures a comfortable and secure hold during writing and coloring activities.

Cons

  • The scents may be too mild for some users.
  • The pens may not last very long with heavy use.
  • The ink may bleed through some types of paper.

If you're looking for a fun and creative gel pen set, the Fruity Scented Gel Ink Pens by Sunacme may be a great choice for you. These pens come in 12 different colors, each with a fruity scent that adds an extra level of fun to your writing and drawing. The scents are relatively mild, but they still provide a nice touch.

The 1.0mm tip provides smooth and vibrant lines that don't skip or smear, making it easy to color and take notes. The soft, ribbed grip ensures a comfortable and secure hold during writing and coloring activities. The pens are made with TPE material and quick-drying, non-toxic ink that doesn't bleed or cause harm.

However, the scents may be too mild for some users, and the pens may not last very long with heavy use. The ink may also bleed through some types of paper. Overall, the Fruity Scented Gel Ink Pens by Sunacme are a fun and affordable option for anyone looking for a creative and colorful gel pen set.

Qionew 3 Colors Gel Pen Set

If you're looking for a reliable set of gel pens for drawing, the Qionew 3 Colors Gel Pen Set is worth considering.

Pros

  • The 1mm nibs are smooth and don't skip or clump, making them perfect for adding highlights and details to your artwork.
  • The opaque ink stands out on dark and colored papers, allowing you to create bold designs.
  • The pens are water-based, fast-drying, acid-free, and non-toxic, making them safe for all users.

Cons

  • The white ink may require multiple coats to achieve complete opacity.
  • The pens may not be suitable for journaling or writing due to the ink flow.
  • The gold pen may blob while drawing.

The Qionew 3 Colors Gel Pen Set is a versatile tool for artists who want to add the finishing touches to their masterpieces. The pens are perfect for creating shines, glares, snow, highlights, and more on any color of paper. The set includes white, gold, and silver pens, which are suitable for detail drawing, sketching, coloring, illustration, journals, card making, scrapbooking, wedding invitations, photos, black envelopes, and other projects.

The 1mm nibs are smooth and don't skip or clump, ensuring that your designs, writing, or sketches will look bold on dark surfaces. The opaque ink stands out on dark and colored papers, making highlights pop in illustrations and comics. The pens are water-based, fast-drying, acid-free, and non-toxic, making them safe for all users.

However, the white ink may require multiple coats to achieve complete opacity, and the gold pen may blob while drawing. Additionally, the pens may not be suitable for journaling or writing due to the ink flow.

Overall, the Qionew 3 Colors Gel Pen Set is a reliable and high-quality option for anyone looking to add some sparkle and shine to their artwork.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying gel pens for drawing, there are a few things to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Ink Quality

One of the most important things to consider when buying gel pens is the ink quality. Look for pens with high-quality ink that is smooth, consistent, and vibrant. Gel pens with low-quality ink may skip or smudge, which can ruin your drawings.

Tip Size

The tip size of a gel pen is another important factor to consider. If you're looking to draw fine details, you'll want a pen with a small tip size, such as 0.3mm or 0.5mm. If you're looking to fill in larger areas, a pen with a larger tip size, such as 0.7mm or 1.0mm, may be more suitable.

Color Selection

Gel pens come in a wide variety of colors, so consider the color selection when making your purchase. Some sets may have a limited color range, while others may have a wider selection. If you're looking to create colorful drawings, a set with a wide range of colors may be a better choice.

Comfort and Grip

Drawing can be a time-consuming task, so it's important to choose a gel pen that is comfortable to hold and use. Look for pens with a comfortable grip and a design that fits well in your hand. This will help reduce fatigue and make drawing more enjoyable.

Price

Finally, consider the price of the gel pens you're interested in. While high-end pens may offer better ink quality and durability, they may not be necessary for all drawing needs. Consider your budget and choose a set of gel pens that offers the features you need at a price that works for you.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best gel pens for your drawing needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated gel pen brands for artists?

When it comes to gel pens for drawing, there are several brands that are highly recommended by artists. Some of the top-rated gel pen brands for artists include Sakura Gelly Roll, Uni-ball Signo, Pilot G2, and Pentel EnerGel. These brands are known for their high-quality ink, smooth writing experience, and long-lasting performance.

Which gel pens offer the best ink flow for detailed drawings?

For detailed drawings, you'll want to look for gel pens that offer a consistent and smooth ink flow. Some of the best gel pens for detailed drawings include Sakura Gelly Roll, Uni-ball Signo, and Pentel EnerGel. These pens are designed with fine tips that allow for precise lines and intricate details.

How do professional illustrators rate gel pens compared to other drawing mediums?

Professional illustrators often use a variety of drawing mediums, including gel pens. Compared to other drawing mediums, gel pens are known for their ease of use, affordability, and versatility. Gel pens are particularly popular among artists who enjoy working with bright colors and creating intricate designs.

What are the best gel pens for beginners interested in drawing?

If you're new to drawing with gel pens, there are several brands that are great for beginners. Some of the best gel pens for beginners include Sakura Gelly Roll, Uni-ball Signo, and Pilot G2. These pens are easy to use, affordable, and come in a variety of colors.

Can gel pens be used for both coloring and drawing purposes effectively?

Yes, gel pens can be used for both coloring and drawing purposes effectively. Gel pens are known for their vibrant colors and smooth ink flow, making them a great choice for coloring. They also work well for drawing, particularly for creating fine details and intricate designs.

What are the common issues artists face when using gel pens for their drawings?

One common issue that artists face when using gel pens is smudging. Gel ink takes longer to dry than other types of ink, which can lead to smudging if you're not careful. Another issue is ink flow, which can be inconsistent if the pen is not used properly. To avoid these issues, it's important to use high-quality gel pens and follow the manufacturer's instructions for use.

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Mantas, DRIPCRIME Designer

Mantas is a professional merch graphic designer with years of expierence in alternative, y2k, goth grunge, punk industry. The passion for the industry has lead Mantas to become one of main designers and writers at DRIPCRIME store.