Unicorn colour pencils have surged from a niche novelty into a staple for artists, hobbyists, and classroom colouring kits. Much of that momentum comes from the irresistible shimmer of iridescent, metallic or rainbow-gradient cores that lay down bold, light-catching lines on ordinary paper. They are designed not only for children’s craft projects but also for adult colouring, scrapbooking, and mixed-media art. If you are thinking of adding a bit of magic to your craft box, here is a detailed look at what unicorn colour pencils are, how they work, and how to get the most out of them.
What Exactly Are Unicorn Colour Pencils?
The term “unicorn” is mostly a stylistic label rather than a fixed technical standard. In practice, it refers to colour pencils that feature unusually vibrant, shifting or glittery hues—often with names like “Mythic Magma”, “Pastel Nebula” or “Holographic Mint”. These pencils typically fall into a few popular types:
- Iridescent/colour-shifting pencils – appear to change colour depending on the viewing angle.
- Metallic pencils – contain mica or other reflective particles for a foil-like shine.
- Glitter pencils – embed visible sparkle flecks that catch the light.
- Rainbow or multi-colour pencils – blend two to four pigment tones inside a single core.
All of them aim for that fantasy, eye-catching look that sets them apart from traditional graphite or standard wax-based coloured pencils.
Why They Look So Mesmerising
The “unicorn” effect is created by adding reflective pigments—mica, synthetic fluorphlogopite, aluminium or effect dyes—into the pencil core. When light hits these microscopic flakes, it bounces at different wavelengths, producing glimmer, sheen or colour-shift. Some brands also use layered coatings: a base colour beneath a translucent metallic or glittery finish.
Who Uses Unicorn Colour Pencils?
Originally marketed towards children, unicorn pencils quickly captured the attention of teens and adults on social media thanks to stunning time-lapse drawings and satisfying swatch videos. Here are the main groups that reach for them today:
- Colouring enthusiasts – especially those who shade mandalas, zentangle or fantasy illustrations.
- Mixed-media artists – layering unicorn pencils over watercolours or acrylic washes for highlights.
- Crafters – card-making, bullet journaling, and handmade gift tags.
- Teachers and parents – to encourage reluctant students to draw and paint.
Classroom and Therapeutic Uses
Their eye-catching appearance makes unicorn colour pencils popular in activity packs, birthday party favours and “make your own” craft corners. Occupational therapists sometimes use them to pique interest in drawing for children who find standard pencil tasks under-stimulating.
Practical Differences from Standard Coloured Pencils
Because of the added reflective pigments, unicorn pencils behave a bit differently. Understanding that difference helps manage expectations and avoid frustration.
| Feature | Regular Colour Pencil | Unicorn / Metallic / Glitter Pencil |
|---|---|---|
| Core Texture | Smooth, waxy or oily | Slightly grittier due to mica or glitter |
| Blending | Blends easily with solvents or colourless blender | Blends, but shimmer may disperse unevenly |
| Paper Preference | Works on most surfaces | Best on medium–tooth and dark papers |
| Opacity | Semi-transparent | Often more opaque; reflective particles block light |
| Sharpening | Crisp point lasts longer | Glitter cores may eat sharpener blades faster |
Techniques to Maximise the Unicorn Effect
Try these practical tips to showcase the shimmer and colour-shift to its fullest.
1. Use the Right Paper
Heavily textured paper breaks up the reflective surface and dulls the sparkle. Smooth Bristol, hot-pressed watercolour paper or pastel-specific media keep the pigments packed together for maximum shine. Dark papers, such as black cardstock, make iridescent and metallic colours pop even more dramatically.
2. Layer Over a Wash
A thin base of watercolour, gouache or acrylic can act as a glowing under-layer. Once dry, pencil marks slide more easily over the sealed surface, and the reflected light passes through your pencil strokes twice—once into the paper, and back out through the pigment—intensifying the shimmer.
3. Blend Gently or Not at All
Heavy blending can scatter the shimmering particles and create a chalky finish. For subtle gradients, use light pressure or a colourless blender with short strokes; for bold effects, leave strokes unblended so each line catches the light independently.
4. Preserve the Point
Some darker cores sharpen poorly into ultra-fine tips because glitter chunks break away. Use a quality sharpener and rotate the pencil as you twist, letting the blade shave evenly across the core.
Caring for Your Unicorn Pencils
Special-core pencils require a few extra precautions to extend their life.
- Store flat or with tips up – glue, heat or pressure in a cluttered case can weaken glitter-laced leads.
- Keep away from heat – high temperatures soften wax and cause cores to crumble.
- Seal finished art – a workable fixative spray locks glitter and mica in place and prevents rub-off.
Safety and Sustainability Concerns
Most reputable brands formulate their unicorn colour pencils to be non-toxic and ACMI/CE-certified, making them suitable for children over three. However, formulas vary:
- Check labels for “AP” (Approved Product) or CE marks.
- Avoid very cheap, unbranded sets that may contain heavy metals or high volatile compounds.
- Look for sustainably-sourced wood and water-based coatings if eco-friendliness is a priority.
Are Unicorn Colour Pencils Worth Buying?
If you crave more than flat, matte hues, unicorn and metallic pencils offer an instant upgrade in visual impact. They cost slightly more than standard sets but hold their own for focused projects: greeting cards, embellished sketches, poster lettering, or any piece that benefits from a little sparkle. Whether you are a doodler, a bullet-journal fan, or a parent hunting for the next rainy-day activity, a well-chosen box of unicorn colour pencils will add real imaginative firepower pencil #128302; to your creative toolkit.
