Crayola Inspiration Art Case review: the most complete craft kit (2026)
Review of the Crayola Inspiration Art Case, the most complete craft kit for children aged 5 to 12. We also compare it with the Faber-Castell Connector.
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Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publication and are subject to change.
The Crayola Inspiration Art Case is the best-selling craft kit for children on Amazon and one of the most recommended by parents and teachers: 140 pieces (crayons, markers, colored pencils, watercolors and a paper pad) in a sturdy plastic case with compartments. It is the go-to arts-and-crafts gift for children aged 5 to 12.
If the child is under 5 or the family wants something lighter and marker-focused, the Faber-Castell Connector 80-piece set is a more manageable alternative with better organization. For children 5 and up with enough dexterity, the Crayola set is hard to beat on value.
The main product: Crayola Inspiration Art Case
Crayola Inspiration Art Case
The Crayola Inspiration Art Case is a plastic case holding 140 drawing and painting items: thick and thin crayons, washable fine- and broad-tip markers, colored pencils, watercolors with brush and a paper pad. Interior compartments are well organized and the lid closes securely, making it easy to take on trips or to school. Materials are non-toxic and most markers are washable, something parents value highly. According to user reviews on Amazon, the value for the amount of material is excellent, though some note that the colored pencils and watercolors are more basic than fine-art brands. For an elementary student exploring different techniques, it is the most complete set available.
Pros
- 140 pieces in one box: crayons, markers, pencils, watercolors and paper
- Sturdy case with compartments and handle, easy to carry
- Non-toxic materials and washable markers
- Very good value for the volume of supplies
Cons
- Bulky and heavy for very young children
- Watercolor and colored pencil quality is basic
- Some colors repeat (several reds, blues and greens)
The alternative: Faber-Castell Connector Case 80 Markers
Faber-Castell Connector Case 80 Markers
Faber-Castell's 80 Connector Marker Case is ideal when you want quality and color variety in a single medium. Connector markers have caps that link together to build shapes and structures, adding a play dimension beyond drawing. Ink is washable and colors are vibrant and consistent. The metal case is more compact than the Crayola and takes less shelf space. The best option for children 3 and up who mainly use markers and want a broader palette without the mixed techniques of the Crayola set.
Pros
- 80 distinct colors: a very complete marker palette
- High-quality markers with washable, vibrant ink
- Connecting caps build shapes: dual purpose
- Compact, sturdy case, more manageable than the Crayola
Cons
- Markers only: no crayons, pencils or watercolors
- Metal case can rust if it gets wet
Which to choose
If you want a versatile set that lets children explore different techniques (crayons, markers, pencils, watercolors), the Crayola Inspiration Art Case is the best choice, especially for ages 5-12 with enough dexterity for many different materials. If the child mainly uses markers and you value color quality over technique variety, the Faber-Castell Connector 80-color set offers a palette that is hard to beat.
Both are good gift options: the Crayola impresses with quantity, the Faber-Castell with quality and compactness.
Frequently asked questions
From what age is the Crayola Inspiration Art Case suitable?
Crayola recommends the set from age 5. For younger children the volume can be overwhelming and some items (watercolors with brush, for example) need coordination. For ages 3-4 a smaller, focused set is preferable.
Are the set's markers washable?
Yes, most markers in the Inspiration Art Case are washable on clothes and skin, as Crayola states on the packaging. On porous surfaces like wood or wallpaper, stains can be hard to remove.
How long do the supplies last with regular use?
According to user reviews, with regular use (several times a week) supplies last 6 to 12 months. Crayons and pencils outlast markers, which tend to dry out sooner if caps are not replaced properly.
Is it compatible with regular paper?
Yes. Although the set includes a small pad, all materials work on standard 80 g paper. For watercolors, thicker paper (120 g or more) gives better results and prevents wrinkling.
View Crayola Art Case on Amazon