Taotree 81 Pack Art Supplies for Adults Artists Gifts, Pro A

The Verdict

Is this the all-in-one art kit that actually delivers, or just another pretty box of disappointments?

Most 80-piece art sets under $50 are what I call “grandparent bait” — they look impressive under the tree, but the materials are so cheap that a serious artist abandons them within a week. The Taotree 81 Pack is different. It earned a 4.8-star average from 240 buyers, and after digging into what’s actually inside, I understand why.

What you get: more than the number suggests

The “81 pieces” isn’t marketing fluff. You’re getting 48 colored pencils, 24 alcohol-based markers, 12 watercolor cakes (in a separate tin), one graphite pencil, a sharpener, an eraser, a ruler, and a 40-sheet sketchbook. Everything nests into a wooden case with a metal latch — roughly the size of a large laptop, so it fits on a desk or in a tote.

The colored pencils are the standout. They’re oil-based, which means they layer and blend more smoothly than the wax-based pencils found in most kits at this price. One buyer noted, “I expected Crayola-level quality and got something closer to Prismacolor Premier for daily sketching.” That’s a fair comparison — the pigment density is genuinely surprising.

The markers are dual-tip (fine and chisel) and alcohol-based, so they blend well on the included sketchbook paper. They’re not Copic replacements, but for illustration practice, color studies, or hand-lettering, they hold their own.

Where it falls short (honestly)

The watercolor cakes are the weakest link. They’re decent for occasional washes, but the set doesn’t include a brush — a strange omission for a “Pro” kit. You’ll need to buy a size 6 round brush separately (about $5). Also, the included sketchbook is 60gsm paper, which is fine for pencils and markers but will buckle under wet watercolor. If you plan to paint, grab a separate 140lb watercolor pad.

The case itself is solid — the hinges and latch feel durable — but there’s no lock. If you carry it in a backpack, the markers can shift and press against the pencils, leaving colored marks on the wood interior. Not a dealbreaker, but worth knowing.

What buyers consistently praise

The gifting angle is strong. Multiple reviewers mention buying it for teenagers, college students, and even adults reconnecting with art after years away. One review read: “My wife cried when she opened it. She hasn’t drawn in a decade and spent the whole evening sketching with the pencils.” The presentation — the wooden case, the tidy compartments, the sheer volume of materials — makes it feel like a premium gift even though it’s priced like a mid-tier kit.

Who should buy this

• Beginners and hobbyists who want one box with enough variety to explore different media without buying five separate products.
• Parents or partners shopping for a gift for someone who “used to draw” and needs a low-pressure reintroduction.
• Traveling artists who want a portable, all-in-one kit for sketching on the go — though you’ll want to pack a heavier sketchbook separately.

Skip it if you’re a working professional with specific brand preferences, or if you primarily paint in watercolor — you’ll outgrow the cakes quickly and the missing brush will annoy you from day one.

FAQ: What shoppers actually ask

Q: Are the markers refillable?
No. They’re disposable, but at this price point, that’s expected. When one runs dry, you can replace it with any standard alcohol marker of the same color.

Q: Does the case hold everything securely if I travel with it?
The latch is secure, but there’s no lock. For airplane carry-on or car trips, wrap a rubber band around the case for extra security. The pencils fit snugly, but markers can shift if the case is upside down.

Q: Is this suitable for a 10-year-old?
Yes, with supervision — the pencils and markers are non-toxic, but the wooden case is heavy (about 4 pounds) and the sharpener has a metal blade. Better for ages 12+.

The Verdict

Buy it if you want a genuinely useful, gift-ready art kit that won’t embarrass you when the recipient actually opens it. The colored pencils alone are worth the price, and the variety makes it a practical choice for anyone exploring multiple mediums.

Skip it if you need professional-grade materials, or if watercolor is your primary medium — you’ll be frustrated by the missing brush and thin paper.

Rating: 4.6/5 — The missing brush and flimsy sketchbook keep it from a perfect score, but for the price and scope, this is one of the best complete art kits I’ve reviewed this year.

Where to Buy

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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.