Is the Derwent Inktense 100 worth it over smaller sets?

If you use many colors regularly, the 100 set is the most economical way to get the full range. Casual users can start with a 24 or 36 set and add tins later.

How is Inktense different from watercolor pencils?

Inktense is ink-based, so once the color dries it is permanent and won't re-wet. Watercolor pencils stay soluble and can be lifted with water later.

Can I use Inktense on fabric?

Yes. The pigment is designed to work on fabric, and once set it holds up to washing. Test on a scrap first and follow the fabric-setting instructions.

What comes in the Derwent Inktense 100 set?

The set contains 100 pencils in a metal tin, with a color chart and a leaflet on techniques. A sharpener is not always included, so check the listing.

When is the best time to buy the 100 set?

Prices tend to dip during back-to-school and holiday sales. Compare the current price against its recent range before buying.

Derwent Inktense 100

Last price we saw

$170.29at Jackson's Art Supplies, last seen Nov 2

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Our take on the Derwent Inktense 100

The Derwent Inktense 100 is a 100-pencil set of water-soluble ink pencils that dry permanently once wet, unlike regular watercolor pencils that can be re-lifted. The set spans a broad color range and suits fine detail, washes, and fabric work. It is the largest standard Inktense set, so it is the pick for artists who want the full palette in one tin.

Best forMixed-media and watercolor artistsFabric and textile paintersIllustrators who want permanent ink linesArtists building a full palette in one purchase

Pros

Colors turn permanent once dry, so layers don't lift
Works dry like a colored pencil or wet for ink-like washes
Large 100-color range covers most palettes
Suitable for fabric and textile work
Strong pigment payoff with light pressure

Cons

Premium price for a full set

Derwent Inktense 100 prices at every store

Jackson's Art SuppliesCheck price at Jackson's Art Supplies

Derwent Inktense 100 price history

Lowest price we've seen: $170.29 on Nov 2 at Jackson's Art Supplies. Tracked across 1 store since Nov 2.

What reviewers say

Artists rate Inktense highly for its vivid, permanent color and versatility across dry and wet work. Common complaints are the price of large sets and the learning curve of blending a permanent medium.

Pros

Intense, saturated color
Permanence once dry allows layering
Versatile for paper and fabric
Good lightfastness for a colored pencil

Cons

Expensive in the 100 set
Hard to lift or correct mistakes
Leads are soft and sharpen quickly
Wet results can look harsh without practice

Specifications

Soft Lead

Questions and answers

Is the Derwent Inktense 100 worth it over smaller sets?: If you use many colors regularly, the 100 set is the most economical way to get the full range. Casual users can start with a 24 or 36 set and add tins later.
How is Inktense different from watercolor pencils?: Inktense is ink-based, so once the color dries it is permanent and won't re-wet. Watercolor pencils stay soluble and can be lifted with water later.
Can I use Inktense on fabric?: Yes. The pigment is designed to work on fabric, and once set it holds up to washing. Test on a scrap first and follow the fabric-setting instructions.
What comes in the Derwent Inktense 100 set?: The set contains 100 pencils in a metal tin, with a color chart and a leaflet on techniques. A sharpener is not always included, so check the listing.
When is the best time to buy the 100 set?: Prices tend to dip during back-to-school and holiday sales. Compare the current price against its recent range before buying.