How to Enjoy “Adult Coloring Books” & My Recommended Colored Pencils

’ve been curious about the “adult coloring book” trend for a while now. I finally caved, bought a copy of Enchanted Forest (released as “Nemureru Mori” in Japan), and gave it a try…

Types of Adult Coloring Books

Rumor has it that the adult coloring book boom originally started with mandala patterns.

It’s well known here in Japan that famous figures like Olympic figure skater Mao Asada and pop icon Namie Amuro used to enjoy them in their spare time!

Besides Enchanted Forest, which I bought this time, there are tons of other varieties like Secret Garden and Adult Disney books. Apparently, they even hold adult coloring book contests!

I bought Enchanted Forest simply because I fell in love with the art inside at first sight… This crazy, intricately detailed artwork is absolutely amazing!!

Recommended Colored Pencils for Coloring

And now for the most important part: the colored pencils.

I use a series called “Irojiten” (Color Dictionary) by Tombow, which I bought a long time ago. The core is soft and feels great to color with, so I highly recommend them.

The color payoff is decent, but the best part is that there are so many colors. True to its name, the packaging looks exactly like a set of beautiful dictionaries or books. Just owning them makes me excited.

Honestly, any colored pencils will do, but since you’re taking the time to do this, I recommend using a set that gives you a good variety of colors to choose from.

My Thoughts on Adult Coloring Books

Some pages are so insanely, obsessively detailed that I can only tackle them when I have a lot of free time and motivation. So, I decided to start by coloring something smaller.

The adjacent page features art that really makes you feel the artist’s intense dedication (or madness!), but I think it’s best to just start with whichever page catches your eye.

If you were ever obsessed with coloring books as a kid, you’ll understand. It’s a time almost similar to “meditation,” where you just clear your mind and color.
You have the freedom to express your own style and preferences however you like. It’s irresistible!

Anyway, I ended up getting seriously into it, and here is the page I finished.

At this point, I don’t even know if I’m playing or working anymore, but the feeling of exhilaration when you finish a piece you’re satisfied with is incredible.

Don’t just think, “Coloring books are for kids…” Please give it a try as an adult! The finished books even make great interior decor just lying around your room.

\Check out other fun activities to enjoy your time at home!/