Both students and artists cherish drawing and painting materials like colored pencils, watercolors, and crayons. They spark creativity and enable self-expression, whether you’re doodling in a sketchbook or working on a canvas. The joy of creating art drives a growing interest in these supplies, making them more popular than ever. As more people explore their artistic side, the demand for drawing and painting materials continues to rise. This vibrant market supports seasoned artists and invites newcomers to experiment and discover their creative talents. It offers something for everyone—from children just starting to experienced artists looking to refine their craft.
12 Popular Arts and Crafts Brands in 2024
1. Faber Castell
Founded in 1761, Faber-Castell is a renowned German company known for its high-quality art and craft materials. From oil pastels and colored pencils to ink pens and markers, they offer a wide range of products that cater to artists, students, and craft enthusiasts alike. With a presence in North America, Europe, Latin America, and Asia Pacific, Faber-Castell operates manufacturing units in ten countries, producing an impressive 2 billion wooden-cased pencils annually.
In a move that showcases their commitment to sustainability, Faber-Castell introduced recycled paper pencils in November 2020. These innovative pencils help reduce waste and feature a soluble seed at the base, allowing users to plant them and grow new life. This thoughtful initiative reflects the company’s dedication to protecting the environment while encouraging creativity, making it a favorite among eco-conscious artists.
2. Crayola LLC
Crayola LLC, a beloved art supply company based in the U.S., is owned by Hallmark Cards. With production facilities in the U.S. and Mexico, Crayola extends its reach through international sales and marketing in countries like Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Italy, and the Netherlands. Known for its vibrant colors and creativity, Crayola boasts a range of brands, including Art with Edge, Model Magic, and Silly Putty, catering to artists of all ages.
In May 2023, Crayola launched a new line of retractable markers available in bright, bold, and classic colors, perfect for school projects and creative endeavors. This exciting addition showcases Crayola’s commitment to innovation and quality, making it easier for kids and adults to express their artistic talents. Whether you’re doodling at home or tackling a school assignment, Crayola’s products are designed to inspire imagination and creativity in every stroke.
3. Staedtler Mars GmbH & Co. KG
Founded in 1835, Staedtler Mars GmbH & Co. KG is a well-respected German company offering diverse products, from modeling clays to technical drawing tools for artists. Manufacturing around two-thirds of its products in Germany, Staedtler boasts an impressive export rate of about 75%. The company has a global presence with six production units worldwide and operations in 26 countries through its subsidiaries.
In 2023, Staedtler announced an exciting expansion of its craft and painting product line. They launched a variety of colored pencils specifically designed for children aged four and up, perfect for school projects and creative art activities. This initiative reflects Staedtler’s commitment to fostering creativity in the younger generation, ensuring that kids have the tools to explore their artistic potential.
4. Newell Brands
Headquartered in the U.S., Newell Brands boasts a diverse product portfolio that includes writing tools, outdoor items, and small appliances. Their writing brands feature household names like Sharpie, Elmer’s, Parker, and others like Dymo, Expo, and Prismacolor. With a global reach, Newell Brands sells its products in approximately 200 countries and operates 50 manufacturing plants, supported by around 70 warehouses and distribution centers worldwide.
In June 2023, Sharpie, one of Newell’s flagship writing brands, announced exciting collaborations with celebrity partners Alexis Ohanian, founder of Seven Seven Six, and Morgan DeBaun, founder of Blavity. These partnerships highlight Sharpie’s commitment to creativity and innovation, bringing fresh perspectives to the brand. By teaming up with influential figures, Sharpie inspires people to express themselves through art and writing, reinforcing its position as a beloved choice for creative expression.
5. DA Vinci Paint Co.
DA Vinci Paint Co., a respected name in the art world, was founded in the U.S. and is known for its diverse art and craft materials. With products available in various price ranges, pigment types, and consistencies, DA Vinci caters to artists of all levels, whether just starting or seasoned professionals. Their commitment to quality ensures that every artist can find the perfect materials to express their creativity.
The company operates across multiple states in the U.S. and actively supports the artistic community through affiliate programs designed for artists, art influencers, and educators. By partnering with creatives and educators, DA Vinci fosters a vibrant community that encourages exploration and innovation in art. This dedication to nurturing talent reflects their passion for empowering artists and enriching the art-making experience.
6. Mod Podge
Mod Podge is a versatile product that acts as a glue, sealer, and finish in one convenient solution. It’s perfect for all crafting needs and is available in various weights and finishes, including matte and glossy options. Whether gluing cut paper pieces onto different surfaces or sealing your projects for a polished look, Mod Podge makes the process easy and enjoyable.
Mod Podge is a versatile medium for various projects. It can be applied easily with a paintbrush. It effectively adheres to cut paper and provides a smooth finish when dry. With a range of containers and application methods, it offers plenty of creative possibilities, making it a staple in many crafting toolkits. Mod Podge effectively combines elements, adding a perfect final touch to creations.
7. Copic
Copic markers were introduced in 1987 to fulfill a growing need for a graphic marker that could be used overprinting ink, and they quickly became a favorite among artists. With each new product release, the impressive array of colors expands, making finding the perfect shade for any project easier.
There are countless ways to use Copic markers, whether you’re creating rough sketches for architecture, fashion designs, or even detailed portraits and landscapes. From manga illustrations to coloring costumes and even fishing lures, the versatility of these markers opens up a world of creative expression. Initially designed for professional renderings, Copic has found its way into various fields like fine art, illustration, and crafts, allowing users to explore their unique artistic potential.
8. Winsor & Newton
Since our founding in 1832 at 38 Rathbone Place, Winsor & Newton has thrived at the intersection of art and science. Our modern “colormen” team, skilled in chemistry, crafts high-quality colors and materials, while artists throughout our organization bring their unique perspectives. This artist-driven approach has fueled innovative developments in art supplies, transforming how creativity is expressed. By collaborating with renowned artists and institutions worldwide, we remain dedicated to providing the best materials that empower artists to realize their visions and enhance their craft.
9. Daler-Rowney
Daler-Rowney began its journey in the UK as a pigment company specializing in colors for wigs, but it has since transformed into a globally recognized fine arts manufacturer. With a strong foundation in colors and pigments, the company has expanded its offerings to include a wide range of products that cater to artists of all skill levels. Today, Daler-Rowney produces everything from high-quality paints and brushes to surfaces, accessories, and even easels and luggage for artists on the go. Their commitment to quality and innovation ensures that whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, you’ll find the right tools to help you bring your creative visions to life.
10. Tombow
Tombow has become a market leader in art, crafts, school, and office supplies, serving customers and businesses around the globe. Established in Japan in 1913, the company initially focused on producing wood-case pencils for students. Since then, Tombow has built a rich history of exceptional customer service and innovation, expanding its offerings beyond pencils.
Today, Tombow’s portfolio includes many products, such as art markers, liquid glue, adhesive tape, fine writing pens, correction tape, drawing pencils, colored pencils, and erasers. These items are crafted in manufacturing facilities located in Japan and Southeast Asia. With operating divisions worldwide, Tombow ensures that its quality products are accessible to customers in various regions, making it a trusted name for artists, students, and professionals alike.
11. Dixon Ticonderoga
Ticonderoga pencils are renowned worldwide for their unique graphite core and satin-smooth finish, making them a favorite for sharpening your ideas. From the classic No. 2 to the innovative fully automatic pencil, Ticonderoga products are designed to endure through the years. But we don’t just stop at pencils. You can also confidently express yourself using our high-performance ink and durable Ticonderoga markers, crafted for creativity and reliability. Whether jotting down notes or making bold artistic statements, Ticonderoga has the tools to help your ideas shine.
12. Sculpey
Sculpey clay was invented in 1967 as a thermal transfer compound, but when that application didn’t pan out, it quickly found a new life as a versatile medium for the craft industry. This unexpected shift opened the door to endless creative possibilities, allowing artists and crafters to explore their imaginations like never before. Today, we’re excited to offer a wide selection of high-quality polymer clay products designed for crafters at every skill level. Whether you’re a kid just starting, a beginner exploring new techniques, a teacher looking for fun projects, or an experienced artist, there’s something for everyone in our lineup. Dive into the world of Sculpey and discover the joy of creating.
Conclusion
Exploring the vibrant world of arts and crafts shows that suitable materials can unleash creativity. Brands like Faber-Castell, Crayola, Copic, and Sculpey offer essential tools for artists and crafters to express their unique visions. Whether you’re sketching a simple doodle or refining a complex masterpiece, there are countless options to inspire you. This growing interest in art reflects a universal desire to create and connect with others. With quality products for everyone—from beginners to seasoned professionals—you can grab your favorite supplies, let your imagination run wild, and enjoy the rewarding experience of bringing your ideas to life.
