Black Widow Skin Tone Coloured Pencils | Review

[@andrewmarkbrown7943]

The names that are offending some have been the names of the colors for hundreds of years, and are used by MANY companies. It started with paints and charcoal pencils, then graphite then to colored pencils. Just wait and see, "Colored" will offend someone next. Now people choose to get offended? Please. I am Blackfoot Indian and never once I have I even been remotely offended by "Indian Red" or "Indian Brown" or any of the other names chosen for shades of colors. Please people lighten up. Another GREAT review Claire :)

[@ruthf1336]

i am too a Blackfoot/ american and am made of a lot of colors. wow imagine all the colors thy could come up with buy using Indian art and culture as examples i think thy are a wonderful name for life

[@gillian1737]

I for one take offence to the word Negra being used especially for a SKIN tone colour pencil everyone says that it was not ment to be offensive but yet it is being used to discribe a skin colour. Can I just say as a black women growing up in England I would take offence to the word colored as this was use to describe black people in the UK until the 1980s. If Negra word is ment to a term of indearment in most spanish speaking countries why can't they say what it means or in what context it is used.

[@Stroggoii]

Indian red and Indian brown are called that because they were made with ferric oxide from India.

[@mizmelody1970]

While the names aren’t the best choice for me personally, the comments from people to “get over it” “it’s stupid” etc. etc. often come from people or groups that are allowed to move freely throughout the world with little friction. These commentators have no empathy because the way they are perceived is rarely a problem in their every day existence. Thank you Claire for reaching out to the company and for at least acknowledging that the color choice names are problematic for SOME. Also, your coloring and videos are very informative and I will definitely give you a deserved thumbs up. -Melody in FL, USA

[@Flux_One]

'Carrot' could also be used when coloring back lit ears, as you often see a strong red or orange hue

[@be_a_bright_sparkle3687]

You are so right Claire, if they weren’t in the skin tone set nothing would have been said...I put them in shade order and they make much more sense now...love your picture ty for sharing..💐🥰

[@polarbearhero9803]

This set is not just for coloring skin. It has four very distinct shades of dark brown that I use for trees. Plus three grays (a faded lavender and two cool). Not many browns and grays in the regular sets. The olive gold is my shortest pencil now. I use it to build gold colors and for mossy plants but it’s almost identical to one of the Cobra set greens. The rest are light browns and tans, neutral colors missing from the other sets. Whether or not you color skin a lot, you need the dark skin set to have a complete color range.

[@lo3551]

Another great review. Mine are arriving Monday and I can’t wait. I think we now live in a world where people seek out to be offended. They’re words. 🙏 Claire for being so sensible.

[@carolb6581]

♥️ Thanks, Claire, for another wonderful video! Now, excuse me while I slide on over to Amazon and place these sets into my cart. 😁💃🏻

[@gost4995]

I always thought of the names as something magical and beautiful. That aside, I've been spoiled by Prismacolor pencils but love trying out new products. Thank you for your review 😁

[@TheRealMythril]

There is definitely a lack of bluer shades and redder shades in the light tones. The set would be great for neutral and warm light skins, but probably not for the cooler or ruddier light skins. They do seem well curated sets otherwise and it’s nice to see a separate skin sets as they are easier to replace than a huge set. I do wish they would sell open stock.

[@Jojocl87]

I just ordered all 5 sets, the three main and both skin tone sets. They'll be waiting when I get home from work today. Can't wait.

[@Dustyrosepetal]

I just got mine. Haven't had a chance to use them yet since I've been busy at work. I did swatch them and so far I really like them. I didn't have a lot of colors that could be used as skin tones so I figured why not may as well try them. They are my first Black Widow pencils think that I might have to get the other sets.

[@MeeshColours]

I am completely addicted to my black Widows now! I will say though, there ARE three colours in the skin sets that appear in the first set, or are so close it's almost impossible to tell them apart. Two whites, to olive greeny colours and I think either an orange or pink, I swatched them to go in my pencil case and side by side they are what I would deem the same. Never mind though. They are awesome. We need more... lots lots more :D x Thank you for the review Claire xxx

[@ruthf1336]

me too i have them all

[@Shelleyweaver84]

What a beautiful picture you have done with the black widow pencils x

[@gittelund2575]

Really diplomatic way to handle the colour name, Claire. I would have been so annoyed, that I would have been a bit more brutally outspoken. Ppl are waaaaay too sensitive today! It's driving me crazy!! You can't say anything without offending someone. I understand your hesitation in commenting on it, and I salute you for the way you have handled it!💪

[@traceypoole833]

Thankyou for yet another great color chat regarding skin tones just got the other 3 sets and I love them and now I am going to order these two sets of skin tones always get my art stuff from amazon my favourite shopping site esp with current lock down situation looking forward to the large set that may come out I get told by my kids mummy how many pencels and coloring books do you need lol obsessed with coloring and love your tutorials and chats your amazing I wish I could color like you but I keep practicing 😊

[@ilustralilian_]

People get offended to easily nowadays. Black Widows are a set of pencils that I don't have already. Have to fix that! ;)

[@dawndegeorge5093]

I just purchased these and I am trying to learn what colors will work with what. I have found that the dark skin colors work really well with coloring fur on animals. (Dogs, cats, hampsters, etc. ) Just though I would share. Loved your video.

[@Andrea-jm1tr]

I hope if/when they release the 120 they keep this new color dipped style!

[@ruthf1336]

me too thats why i tried them it was so cool if they suck i still love the colors and there neat names i think of the name and i see the bug or mushroom ect. i never see a person lol

[@tavanurses]

I have them all and hope they offer the 24 new colors separate so I add those and have the 120. I love these pencils as a retired nurse I can not say enough of wonderful things about this company. They actually listened to their customer suggestions on naming of their pencils and not just give them numbers!

[@Artistmom2011]

When u first got them and.posted them, I purchased them... the light skin tones, and I got them this week. Using thwm on a page now. Really love them alot!!!!!!

[@marizen2]

Thank you for the review, Claire. Thinking about purchasing the two sets.😊

[@angied.5292]

Love this brand. My go to pencils. Your picture is beautiful 🌺

[@chosenheir3055]

Wow that picture is gorgeously done.

[@peggywilliams2159]

Claire I use your tutorial on Prismas skin tones. Can you provide the same colors from Black Widow light skin tones in order of coloring light pinkish skin?

[@johnnycollinson3529]

I love these pencils and have now ordered the skin tones on amazon after watching your review. The smell and the feel of them are just so nice. Thanx for the vid.

[@kindonwazzagod]

Top quality review xx

[@knightr40]

Thanks for the great review. I'm sorry I missed the livestream - hope to be at the next one. Received my pencils yesterday and have ordered my new 96 slot pencil case! Best wishes to you xx

[@BarbBColorReader]

Thanks for your review. I love these colors. Have them swatched. Plan to use a.s.a.p. Life is getting in the way lately

[@nickels4682]

Really great review with all the right details....Thanks for your time❤️ Cathy

[@nancyfenity9817]

First I've heard of these pencils. Thanks for the review, Claire.

[@davidnikkicortes7462]

BEAUTIFUL ARTIST BLESSINGS 😇

[@lizrenwick1180]

I've got mine coming on Tues 26th,I don't know weather to keep them in their tins or put them in a pencil bag with the cobra,s ,scorpions ,and black widows, what do you think?

[@ColourwithClaire]

I love putting brands together in a pencil case, I rarely leave them in their original tins x

[@Nancymarie410]

I like to paint hair like that with a small brush but I would like to see how you do it with pencils.

[@sleepy_kitten03]

Does anyone have a list or picture of how to organize all the black widow, scorpion, cobra and now the skin sets together by colour? I’m not good at it yet and I’m having a heck of a time trying to make them into a nice rainbow for organization purposes. Any and all help would be greatly appreciated 😊

[@ColourwithClaire]

Working on this now...

[@699jude]

Great review Claire, I'm glad you checked back with the makers concerning the colour names. It is hard to comment concerning the sensitivities of BAME people over terms, when I'm a white person who has never personally had to deal with that bigotry; beyond saying that I feel it is such a "shame" that the words for a colour in another language are synonymous with denigration of whole swathes of society and cause such offense. Beyond that, it seems that these are such good quality pencils at a very reasonable price for the hobby artist. I think the dipped ends are a vast improvement on the early Black Widows, making it so much easier to pick the correct pencil.

[@chosenheir3055]

I love these pencils and the names. Ppl have been brainwashed to be sensitive and caught up on self. Ppl are crazy now and days. Sensitive and immature

[@bevabberley1524]

Carrot could be used for freckles.

[@lilpatty50]

I love these pencils.... have all the sets... Anyone have combos for them... besides the ones Claire has provided?

[@Turbogittan]

I so this on Amazon today :) Funny that you inform us just today :) Thank you very much 😍

[@nannamo3691]

Hi Claire, I hope you and yours are well. TYS... awesome picture love it... having a bit of a problem getting a smooth blend with the pencils atm but will defo keep practising. Thank you, take care, Nanna Mo

[@tracymcdonald118]

Great review Claire.

[@jeanmayo4076]

I would like to do a color swatch book, which book did you use to do yours, please?

[@faesdecoupageinn1961]

Thank you Claire, please can you list the colours of the pencils you used in your Mysteria picture. Thank you x

[@ColourwithClaire]

Added to description x

[@barrykingston7238]

Thank you for investigating about the names...

[@DebbielovestoColour]

I've just so done a review also great video as always x

[@jokerart567]

hello Claire is these better or prismacolor skin tones24???!

[@wulfhshado]

Good video. Do you agree with others that these pencils are easy to use for people with hand problems?

[@ColourwithClaire]

Yes I think so, they lay down rich pigment with a light hand

[@Revenant-BotsOfDeath]

3yrs Ago I just ran into these but do they look great on tone tanned paper will they be bright

[@JazzyH02]

Your coloring is beautiful! Who makes the swatch book you use?

[@ColourwithClaire]

This one in A5 size: www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Winsor-Newton-Hardback-170gsm-Sketchbook-Spiral-Bound-Choose-A6-A5-A4-A3/291646722471?hash=item43e77fd1a7:m:mdWIxKt1M6L6ayvd6VPkNgg:rk:1:pf:1&frcectupt=true

[@barbarathompson2314]

Great review. I am not exactly loving some of the names for the dark tones BUT NOT so much that I don't want to get my hands on these!! I would love to try these!!

[@vicki1014]

Beautiful!

[@belvadb]

Do they all color on black paper?

[@yazosoyo]

Such a sensitive world we live in! It gets ridiculous 🤣 clearly the rumors were just that...

[@junbug1029]

Of course people take offense at the names. EVERYTHING is offensive now. Ridiculous! Get over yourself. If you're offended move along.

[@cassieepouncy4375]

WOW THOSE COLORS LOOK AWESOME!! BTW IS THAT A SKETCHBOOK US USING FOR UR SWATCHES? AND TO BE HONEST OF THE NAME OF THE DARK SKIN NAMES DID BOTHER ME AT FIRST BEING DARK SKINNED BUT THEY ARE PENCILS AND I DONT THINK THE CREATOR OF THE PENCILS SET OUT OFFEND ANYONE.WHO DOES THAT? BUT IF PEOPLE FEEL THAT WAY THEN SIMPLY DONT BUY THE PENCILS. I DON'T HAVE THEM DUE TO FINEANCES,BUT THEY ARE ON BMW MY LIST.

[@fa3ryg1rl1]

Would you consider doing some black widow skin tone skin coloring tutorials?

[@karindwarswaard1507]

Found them also on Amazon.de 13.34 euro each.

[@lizrenwick1180]

My pencils came and I'm gutted!! Amazons only gone and sent me two tins of dark tones!

[@ColourwithClaire]

Noooo

[@LilyLaPeche]

Those names aren't meant to be offensive - I think the manufacturers have just been completely clueless/thoughtless about the fact that they are being sold specifically as Skin Tone sets. They've just named the colours the same way they would if the sets were called Naturals or Earth Tones or something. It's a pretty stupid marketing error but nothing more sinister than that. Not sure if I'll buy them or not - a lot of the colours look like duplicates of colours I already have in my current sets. Claire, are there any colours in these sets that you'd consider unique?

[@ColourwithClaire]

I really like the washed purple, I don't think there's anything quite like it but I could be wrong

[@LilyLaPeche]

@@ColourwithClaire Thanks Claire, that's helpful. I do love dusky purples so I might buy a set just for that!

[@romanplasencia8418]

Yeah not everything is an indirect comment. On a lighter note my pencils got here Tuesday. but do to work I have not been able to use them, that all changes tonight. For I have a three day weekend lol.

[@froodoftheforest]

It's interesting to note that it's only white people telling everyone they're "silly" for getting offended. I personally have no issue with the names, but if someone does - they should feel free to express it without having a bunch of people gaslighting them. We're all different, as are our opinions, so let's be better than that. Don't shame people for having responses based on their life experiences.

[@ChaChaOnlineUS]

There is a great history surrounding the usage of the names used in slavery, racism and demonization of people of color so some not all but some of those names could quite easily be seen as a poor decision because this history isn’t limited to just America or any one place it’s historical and it’s worldwide……. I’m not upset but yeh I can quite easily see the relation… it was a poor choice and you have to be under school age and live under a rock to not be aware of the references.

[@natalinai60]

I would like to know that color pencils is wax and very smooth as like soft???

[@ColourwithClaire]

Yes!

[@natalinai60]

Colour with Claire you think should I buy black windows color pencils?? Thanks

[@marvelenia6702]

Hey dear! You would need the "carrot" when you see my husbands' cheeks after a sunburn :-)

[@bostonblackie9503]

Apparently it cost more to produce the skin tone pencils. So they decided to put them into two tins so people could afford them, instead of charging double the price. I think selling individual sets is an overall good idea on the part of Black Widows. Assists so many people on beggining to colour. They should be commended. PC fanatics should go buy another set of pencils. Find fault in everything, and you are giving them a soap box on which to stand. I remember when all we had was one skin tone and it was kind of pink. Now, a dark skin tone set!

[@ColourwithClaire]

I'm sorry you feel that way. I personally don't have a problem with the pencil names, but I don't want to invalidate anyone's feelings so I prefer to stay out of the discussion if possible x

[@bostonblackie9503]

@@ColourwithClaire I'm not sorry, soon we want be able to say one word. Things discussed in your video, you never said what you thought the word meant, make things bigger and bigger. Do you know the meaning of the word? It is Spanish, and can be used in Puerto Rico as a greeting if you are black. Sort of like friend. Now just what is wrong with that. See people who are upset due to their lack of knowledge cause all kinds of trouble. That is why they don't need a soap box. Also people who have videos on KZbin have responsibility to make sure they know what they are talking about. Like your videos!

[@danielleb.7055]

Wow I think people unfortunately are too sensitive. Its not like they sat there and was like yep! These names are to make people upset and feel some type of way ( while rubbing there hands together and evil grin) send them to production!

[@EphygeniA]

What about the lightfastness?

[@ColourwithClaire]

Being tested currently

[@fv3503]

I cant find a video where you colored this image . Can you send me a link please .

[@ColourwithClaire]

I didn't colour it on video x

[@thispromisestobefun7395]

People really have to get over themselves they are just pencils how silly can people get. Just enjoy the pencil

[@heatherwarner865]

I can honestly see the issue with one color - It is the Spanish word from where the derogatory name comes from. They definitely should have rethought that one.

[@AJ..2023]

The dark tone set is no longer available on amazon :(((

[@ColourwithClaire]

Out of stock for a short while, more coming soon!

[@AJ..2023]

@@ColourwithClaire thank you. I have the light skin tones set and was kicking myself in the behind for not getting both the sets together.

[@AJ..2023]

Update..it is back on Amazon.com as of march 3rd but will take about a week to be delivered.

[@quiettornado1970]

I prefer 2 seperate boxes

[@sleepy_kitten03]

I’m looking into getting some Posca pens for backgrounds and things, does anyone know if they bleed through or ruin the picture on the other side of the page at all? Thanks so much

[@ColourwithClaire]

They haven't on any of my books x

[@sleepy_kitten03]

Oh excellent! I’m gonna have lots of fun with these😊

[@karenbaildon7891]

I don’t see a problem with the colour names,some people will make problems where there aren’t any.lovely looking sets.Beautiful picture demonstrating the pencils

[@marktaylor148]

Are they light fast rated?

[@ColourwithClaire]

Not yet but I’ve heard the ratings are being worked on, not sure how true it is

[@kellylb1977]

It seems people go looking for things to piss them off just so they can belly ache about it. If you are offended by the colour names ( which is ridiculous) you have way to much time on your hands.the names are cute and personally I think they suit the colours nicely.

[@rexchristiankennedymontroy2052]

If people have so low esteem about themselves that just a simple word standing for some skin color in art, offends them, I believe they need some help, and the help is not the removal of a word on the back of a pencil! I really do not believe that there are many blacks who feel offended by these words, there are some white people who deep in feeling sorry and have a pity (?? WHY??) for other races so they just make use o these issues to give themselves a kind of relief!

[@NoDontLikeIt]

Agreed. Those people are just looking for something to whine over and be “outraged” about. They’re so useless that they want to blame anyone but themselves for the way their lives have turned out and/or the situations they find themselves in.

[@amysuewest3826]

Woo hoo! I hope the rumor is true. :)

[@johanneremillard263]

Are they lightfast?

[@ColourwithClaire]

LF ratings being tested as we speak

[@johanneremillard263]

Thank you, please let us know the results 💕💐

[@ruthf1336]

If all you have to worry about the names of colored pencils, then you need to get a real life (or at least rent one) and find something important to occupy your mind. The most important thing is how the pencils work for you, not what their names are. Artists (at least real ones) are not concerned about a pencil name, just what they do for them. This should never even come up in a art video. You don't have to defend Black Widow, their products speak for themselves, and they are great.

[@colorfulcolorist6532]

I'm a little disappointed that they didn't make it a set of 24, like the other three sets.

[@karns78]

Me too. Makes me feel like the company gouged customers for the extra cost of buying 2 sets

[@marygrace100]

I kinda wish they'd just done the one set of 24. There are all kinds of colours in all skins especially when you consider the lights and shadows. I like the dark set more than the light one, the colours seem more natural. Mud and negra are not good names, you wouldn't see it in a makeup range!

[@tammygeorge1638]

Someone making comments about what they have named there colored pencils! Are ones that have nothing better to do with their lives. There bored, small minded ,and what little bit of feed back they get, or should say! There 15 minutes of fame! Makes them feel better about themselves. That alone tells you what type of person your dealing with. A idiot! It's the name they choice for a frigin color pencil, nothing more, nothing less. Thanks for sharing!

[@terrychestnut9537]

What a shame! All the prejudice people who have complained about a name on a pencil have caused AMAZON USA to discontinue carrying Dark Skin Tone Pencils. You people should be ashamed of yourself s! Now what are the people of India, Pakistan, etc going to use. And, these same individuals complain about individuals with a European Heritage being racial, I think these people have a severe disorder. And, if they do not like life as it is, should return to their roots.

[@missliss2581able]

Black widows aren’t the only brand of pencils. I’m sure the folks in the other countries you’re pretending to care about will use whatever pencils they were using before.

[@sharonvanderpool4611]

How ridiculous to think that a company that wants to make a living selling their products would at the same time try to offend the very people buying them!! 🤨

[@caroldurst1855]

For those who are offended......get a life! Good grief!

[@rebornsnuzzles2573]

Whether or not the creator intended harm, they could have done some simple research or focus groups to understand the hateful history behind a sentiment like negra. Specifically in American context, systemic racism is engrained in the very fabric and foundation of our country. Of course people groups that have been oppressed and degraded for hundreds of years will feel sensitive, and equally so, of course people who have benefitted from the privilege of fair skin would choose to not agree.

[@barrykingston7238]

I think there answer is a bit obvious.

[@snuuby5468]

These names are used in watercolor paints and art supplies. I think our society has gone totally way overboard. Should we ban the color white? Pretty soon we will not be able to say anything as someone will be offended. Really these are pencils !!

[@jaxcatterall4389]

Brilliant review but it’s disheartening that some people see racism is everything and constantly look for things in the most innocent and mundane things that they can scream offence about. Buy the pencils or don’t buy the pencils it’s up to you but stop complaining about something that is a colour not an insult.

[@tanishaguy]

Yeah, I won't be buying these pencils because of the names. As an African American woman, I can't support a company that has racist names for the dark skins tones. I'm honestly not shocked that most people aren't annoyed by these names, and of course the company wouldn't out right say...yeah, we're racist. I'm sad to see most comments not understanding why this is an issue and I'm frankly disappointed but not surprised.

[@spiritsjoy]

Unfortunately, most people wont understand these issues if they have never experienced any type of veiled or outright racism. I guess its difficult for people to step out of their own backyard. Many high schools had native american mascots with team names like Cheifs or Warriors while depicting images of native americans in feathered headdress or holding/dancing with tomahawks. Are human beings mascots? It is disheartening to see all the comments of people saying that anyone hurt or offended by a name that has been used to hurt another is stupid, idiotic or even silly. We always hope that in todays times people would be more tolerant or even reseach these issues before swiftly dismissing anothers past and it seems....... present struggles. However, the comments are there, and there are plenty. They boldly stated their disregard, and we know who they are.

[@marygrace100]

I completely understand what you are saying.

[@Msboochie2]

spiritsjoy Indeed, It was quite startling to see so many people, who just had to share their disregard and complete lack of empathy for why someone would be offended. While stating that it’s “stupid” or “silly” to be offended, yet they seemed to be oh so bothered that some of us are offended. If they are not offended, then it really does not concern them just move along. Just like they told us. Unfortunately, I bought the pencils without looking at the names. I am always searching for a decent skin tone set. I have small children who visit me and love to color and draw. They are of different hues and shades, and like coloring their creations that way. When they pull out a pencil that is beautifully brown like their skin and the color is called mud, while their much lighter counterparts pull pencils like blush and pretty in pink to describe the highlights and undertones in their skin, it’s sends a very clear message of what the world thinks of their skin color. The sentiment is echoed throughout the media, I care about them and their self image so these pencils will remain safely tucked away only for my use. Plus the have a horribly strong odor. I thought it might of been okay for my bigger kids, but no. I hope the Lyra set I got for them will do. I am disappointed though, it is hard to find a good set for darker skin. These are also a little too waxy for my taste. Yet her pictures looked so zI will keep trying.

[@marygrace100]

@@Msboochie2 i like lyra for darker skintones and prismas though prismas are waxy and little ones might struggle with building the very light layers but, hey, it would be a learning experience. Polychromos aren't waxy but expensive and the more unusual colours are in the bigger sets. You can get open stock polys. Tbh i do very well with crayola for simple pieces where I'm not doing a lot of blending. Their dark brown is a nice cool tone. I'm still looking to achieve a skin tone as deep as alek wek's but i think that's about blending and capturing the strong highlight of youthful black skin rather than finding the one pencil that's the right colour. Dede willingham is great with skintones, she's a portrait artist who loves to colour as well.

[@ruthf1336]

than dont buy them

[@lolaadesina5362]

I am not a fan of these pencils The collection is lacking something I prefer my cheap crayola colours of the world

[@michelinelavoie2086]

Please let’s not start in with the “political correctness” in the coloring world too. So sick of hearing complaints about this stuff.