Find the right gel pen set for drawing, doodling, journaling, and craft projects. This guide highlights five versatile options ideal for artists, students, and hobbyists. Each pick is described with who it suits best, plus a practical note on any limitation to consider.
The following quick reference helps compare capabilities at a glance:
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Aen Art 160 Gel Pens | Advanced coloring and mixed-media projects | 40% more ink, large color range |
| Aen Art 30 Colors Gel Pens | Precise detail work and planning | Fine point with steady glide |
| TANMIT 36 Colors Gel Pens | Bright, varied tones for landscapes and doodles | Mix of glitter, metallic, neon |
| Shuttle Art 120 Colors | Extensive color variety for complex pieces | 7 color types, neat packaging |
| Soucolor Deluxe 120 Pack | Comprehensive kit for adults and students | 60 pens with 60 refills, organized case |
Aen Art 160 Gel Pens Set For Drawing

The Aen Art 160 Gel Pens Set offers 80 individual colors plus 80 refills, including 11 glitter, 18 metallic, 18 pastel, 18 neon, 6 rainbow, and 9 classic options. This variety supports rich shading, detailing, and finished pieces for drawing, doodling, journaling, and crafts. The 0.8–1.0mm ballpoint tip with a soft grip enhances control for longer sessions. A premium carrying case with individual inserts helps keep each pen organized. This set is best for artists who want a broad palette and long-lasting ink.
Who it’s best for: serious hobbyists and professional hobbyists who prioritize a large color range and long-run ink supply. Reason for selection: the high ink volume and variety of finishes enable complex drawings without frequent refills. Caution: the included case and insert layout may take time to learn, and the bulkier set is less portable than smaller kits.
Aen Art 30 Colors Gel Pens

This 30-color set is divided into 5 ink types: classic, fluorescent, pastel, glitter, and metallic. The 0.8–1.0mm tip provides precise lines ideal for adult coloring, tiny details, journaling, and school projects. The upgraded ink volume means more pages between refills, good for consistent drawing sessions. A soft grip enhances comfort during long coloring or note-taking tasks.
Who it’s best for: students and casual colorers who want a concentrated color range with clear, precise lines. Reason for selection: the distinct ink types widen creative possibilities without overwhelming the user with too many options. Caution: fewer color options may require more planning for complex scenes.
TANMIT 36 Colors Gel Pens Set

The TANMIT set includes 36 premium colors with 40% more ink for extended drawing sessions. It covers glitter, metallic, neon, pastel, and classic tones, offering a wide spectrum for professional-looking artwork. The 0.8–1.0mm tip supports smooth drawing and precise coloring, suitable for home, office, and school use. Soft grips provide comfortable handling during long tasks.
Who it’s best for: artists who want a balanced mix of vibrant color types in a mid-size pack. Reason for selection: the varied color types help create dynamic pieces with strong contrast. Caution: glitter and metallic inks can take longer to dry on some papers, which may affect layering techniques.
Shuttle Art 120 Colors Gel Pens

Shuttle Art offers 120 individual colors across seven types, including glitter, neon glitter, metallic, neon, pastel, swirl, and standard colors. The wide range supports intricate shading, color-moding, and bold highlights for drawings, scrapbooking, doodling, and journaling. The packaging is designed to be convenient for transport and storage, helping keep the workspace organized during large projects.
Who it’s best for: artists who need extensive color variety for complex pieces and color-moding workflows. Reason for selection: the seven color types maximize creative options in a single kit. Caution: the large color set can be overwhelming for beginners who prefer fewer choices.
Soucolor Deluxe 120 Gel Pens Set

The Soucolor Deluxe 120 Pack includes 60 individual colored pens and 60 refills, all organized in a black PU carrying case. Colors span metallic, glitter, pastel, neon, rainbow, and classic tones. The set uses 0.8–1.0mm tips for smooth, precise color application and quick-drying ink to reduce smearing on many papers. The included coloring sheets and color-charts help with color planning and organization.
Who it’s best for: both adults and students who want a comprehensive, ready-to-go drawing kit with refills. Reason for selection: the paired pens and refills provide long-term usability without separate purchases. Caution: the case may be bulky for travel-focused users who need a smaller kit.
Buying Guide: Gel Pens For Drawing
What should you consider when choosing gel pens for drawing?
- Ink type and finish: glitter, metallic, neon, and pastel finishes expand creative options; consider a mix to handle highlights, shadows, and accents.
- Tip size: most art-focused gel pens use 0.8–1.0mm tips for a balance of precision and coverage. For fine detail, look for thinner options or fine-point variants.
- Ink volume and refills: sets with extra ink or included refills reduce interruptions during long projects.
- Paper compatibility: some markers bleed through thin papers; test on your preferred sketchbook or journaling paper.
- Grip and comfort: soft grips reduce hand fatigue during extended drawing sessions.
- Organization: carrying cases with individual inserts help keep colors organized and accessible.
How to choose among the top picks?
- For maximum color variety and long use: the Aen Art 160 Gel Pens Set stands out with 80 unique colors plus refills and a structured case.
- For precise detailing and a mid-size palette: the Aen Art 30 Colors set offers a focused range with smooth, consistent lines.
- For a wide spectrum and diverse finishes: Shuttle Art 120 Colors provides seven color types to cover many techniques.
- For a balanced all-around kit: Soucolor Deluxe 120 Pack includes pens and 60 refills with a portable case and color organization.
- For a mix of glittery and metallic accents: TANMIT 36 Colors pairs bold finishes with reliable ink flow.
FAQ
- Do gel pens bleed through paper?
Some can bleed on thin paper; test on your chosen surface or opt for thicker journals. - Which type of gel pen is best for journaling?
Look for quick-drying ink, smooth glide, and a comfortable grip; metallic or pastel finishes can add contrast to entries. - Are refills worth it?
Yes, if you use many colors regularly; refills reduce waste and ensure consistent color matching. - What is a good starter kit for drawing?
A mid-size set with a mix of finishes (classic, glitter, and metallic) is ideal for exploring techniques before expanding. - Which kit is best for travel?
Compact sets with a sturdy carrying case and fewer total colors are easier to transport.