Markers or Pencils? Choosing Supplies for Color by Number

Pixel art pages are made of small solid squares, so the best supplies are the ones that give flat, even color in a small area. Here is how the usual options compare. You do not need anything expensive to start.

Water-based markers

Cheap, easy to find and fine for most printer paper. Choose a set with a fine or bullet tip so you can stay inside small squares. They can streak slightly, which is part of the hand-made charm.

Alcohol-based markers

The smoothest, most even color, which looks great on pixel art. They do bleed through thin paper, so print on heavier paper or put a spare sheet behind the page.

Colored pencils

Quiet, relaxing and perfect for coloring on the sofa. Keep them sharp and color in two light layers. Pencils also let you go back and fix mistakes, which markers do not.

Gel pens and fineliners

Great for tiny squares and bright accent colors such as gold or pink. Not ideal for large areas.

How many colors do you need?

Our free pages use between 4 and 14 colors each. The full book uses one 21-color palette, so a standard 24-color set covers every page. If your set names colors differently, simply match by eye. Close is good enough.