Derwentart.com Review

Based on checking the website Derwentart.com, it appears to be a legitimate e-commerce platform specializing in art supplies.

The site offers a wide range of products, including pencils, paints, blocks, pens, paper, and accessories, catering to artists of various skill levels.

Its clear product descriptions, historical company information, and intuitive navigation suggest a professional and trustworthy operation.

Overall Review Summary:

• Website Legitimacy: Appears legitimate and professional.
• Product Range: Extensive selection of art supplies, including specialized pencils and paints.
• Pricing Transparency: Prices are clearly listed with product details.
• Shipping Information: Free shipping on orders over $50+ is prominently advertised.
• Customer Support: Accessible via account login and creation options, though direct contact information like a phone number or email is not immediately obvious on the homepage.
• Ethical Considerations: The products themselves art supplies like pencils and paints are permissible and align with ethical principles. There are no indications of forbidden or questionable items.

Derwentart.com presents itself as a well-established brand with a proud heritage dating back to 1832, manufacturing pencils in the UK since 1916. This long history adds a layer of credibility.

The homepage highlights new product lines such as Chromaflow Pencils, Lightfast Pencils, and new Paint Pans, showcasing innovation and a commitment to quality.

The site emphasizes key features like “Vibrant, blendable colour,” “100% lightfast,” and “Premium core strength,” which are crucial details for artists evaluating supplies.

While the site provides essential e-commerce functionalities like a cart, account login, and checkout, readily available customer service contacts beyond a general “Accessibility Statement” are not immediately visible, which could be a minor drawback for new users seeking direct support.

However, for those seeking high-quality art materials, Derwentart.com seems to be a solid choice.

Best Alternatives for Art Supplies:

• Faber-Castell Art Supplies

  

  • Key Features: Renowned for high-quality artist pencils Polychromos, Albrecht Dürer, pastels, and pens. Excellent lightfastness and blendability.
  • Average Price: Mid to high range, depending on sets. A 12-count set of Polychromos pencils might range from $30-$50.
  • Pros: Exceptional pigment quality, superior durability, widely available, trusted by professionals globally.
  • Cons: Can be more expensive than some alternatives, smaller sets may be limiting.

• Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils

  • Key Features: Soft, thick cores for smooth color laydown and blending. High pigment saturation.
  • Average Price: Mid-range. A 48-count set typically costs $50-$70.
  • Pros: Vibrant colors, excellent for blending and layering, popular among illustrators and fine artists.
  • Cons: Softer leads can break more easily, prone to wax bloom in some cases, not as lightfast as some professional brands.

• Winsor & Newton Professional Watercolours

  • Key Features: Highly pigmented, transparent watercolors known for their purity, permanence, and brilliance. Available in tubes and pans.
  • Average Price: High range. A 12-color pan set might cost $40-$60.
  • Pros: Professional-grade quality, excellent lightfastness, wide range of colors, trusted by professional watercolorists.
  • Cons: Significant investment, requires specific paper and brushes for best results.

• Strathmore Artist Papers

  • Key Features: Wide variety of paper types for different mediums sketch, watercolor, drawing, pastel. Acid-free and archival quality.
  • Average Price: Varies widely by pad size and type, but generally affordable for quality. A large sketch pad might be $10-$20.
  • Pros: Reliable quality, suitable for a broad range of artistic applications, accessible.
  • Cons: Some specialty papers can be more expensive.

• Reeves Gouache Paints

  • Key Features: Opaque watercolor paints, ideal for bold, flat color application and illustration. Good coverage.
  • Average Price: Budget-friendly. A 12-color set might be $15-$25.
  • Pros: Affordable, good for beginners, easy to mix and use, dries quickly.
  • Cons: Not professional-grade lightfastness, colors can appear chalky if overworked.

• Speedball Art Products Printing & Calligraphy

  • Key Features: Specializes in printmaking linocut, screen printing, calligraphy, and drawing inks.
  • Average Price: Mid-range. A block printing kit might be $20-$40.
  • Pros: Excellent for niche art forms, durable tools, good for beginners in printmaking and calligraphy.
  • Cons: Limited to specific art techniques, not a general art supply brand.

• Crayola Art Supplies Advanced

  • Key Features: While known for kids’ products, Crayola also offers more advanced sets e.g., Signature Series with better pigments and blendability than their basic lines.
  • Average Price: Very affordable. A large set of colored pencils or markers might be $15-$30.
  • Pros: Excellent value, widely available, good for casual artists or experimenting.
  • Cons: Not professional-grade lightfastness or pigment density, not designed for archival work.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Derwentart.com Review: A Closer Look at Their Online Presence

When you hit Derwentart.com, you’re stepping into a digital storefront built around a heritage brand. This isn’t just some fly-by-night operation.

Derwent has been in the art supply game for a long time.

The website itself aims to translate that legacy into a seamless online experience.

We’re talking about a site that needs to deliver on product quality, user experience, and trustworthiness.

From the first click, you can tell they’ve put thought into showcasing their core offerings, but a deeper dive reveals the nuances of their online strategy.

The visual appeal is there, but what about the nuts and bolts of a truly user-friendly e-commerce site?

Derwentart.com First Impressions and Design Aesthetics

The Derwentart.com website immediately presents a clean, visually appealing interface. The use of high-quality product photography and well-designed banners showcasing their latest releases like Chromaflow Pencils and Lightfast Pencils draws the eye.

• Visual Appeal: The homepage uses a sophisticated color palette that reflects the artistic nature of their products. Images are sharp, showcasing the vibrancy of their colors and the texture of their various media.
• Navigation: Key product categories such as “Pencils,” “Paints,” “Blocks,” “Pens,” “Paper,” “Accessories,” and “Gift Ideas” are prominently displayed, making it easy for users to find what they’re looking for. The “Shop Now” calls to action are clear and lead directly to product pages.
• Brand Story: The inclusion of “The Derwent Story” section, complete with a video, adds a personal touch and reinforces the brand’s long history and credibility. This historical context is a strong selling point for a brand that has been around since 1832. This kind of transparency builds trust with potential customers by showing a deep root in their industry.
• Prominent Offers: The “Free Shipping on Orders $50+” banner is a smart move, immediately providing an incentive for customers to spend more and clearly outlining a key benefit. This is standard e-commerce practice but crucial for customer conversion.

Derwentart.com Product Range and Innovation

Derwentart.com boasts an impressive and specialized product range, catering to both amateur and professional artists.

Their focus on quality and innovation is evident in the detailed descriptions of their flagship products.

• Specialized Pencils:
  • Lightfast Pencils: Highlighted for their “100% lightfast” quality meeting ASTM 6901 standard, rating LFI or II and oil-based formulation. The expansion to 100 colors indicates a significant commitment to professional artists who require archival quality.
  • Chromaflow Pencils: Emphasized for their “Vibrant, blendable colour” and “Premium core strength.” The website details their availability in various tin sizes 12, 24, 36, 48, or 72 count, providing options for different needs and budgets. The mention of a video showcasing Chromaflow in action is a smart way to demonstrate product capabilities.
• New Paint Sets: The introduction of “New Paint Pans,” including Tinted Charcoal, Shade and Tone Mixed Media, Line and Wash, and Pastel shades, shows Derwent’s commitment to expanding its offerings beyond pencils. This diversification caters to different artistic styles and preferences.
• Unique Offerings: Charcoal Blocks are presented as “Extra wide watersoluble charcoal blocks,” perfect for “expressive mark making” and delivering “a variety of textures and effects.” This highlights specialized products that appeal to artists looking for unique tools.
• Comprehensive Categories: Beyond these featured products, the site lists categories like “Pencils,” “Paints,” “Blocks,” “Pens,” “Paper,” “Accessories,” and “Gift Ideas,” indicating a full suite of art supplies. This breadth of product offers a one-stop shop for artists.
• Quality Assurance: The repeated emphasis on “premium core strength” and “lightfastness” underscores Derwent’s focus on professional-grade materials, which is a significant factor for serious artists.

Derwentart.com Pros and Cons

Like any online store, Derwentart.com has its strengths and areas where it could improve. Resumeedge.com Review

Understanding these aspects helps in evaluating its overall user experience and reliability.

Pros:

• Strong Brand Heritage: With a history dating back to 1832 and pencil manufacturing in the UK since 1916, Derwent has a robust foundation of trust and quality. This deep history is prominently featured, enhancing credibility.
• High-Quality Product Presentation: The website effectively uses high-resolution images and videos to showcase its art supplies. This visual clarity helps customers understand the products better before making a purchase.
• Specialized and Innovative Products: The emphasis on 100% lightfast pencils, premium core strength, and new paint formulations demonstrates a commitment to innovation and meeting the needs of serious artists.
• Clear Navigation: The well-organized product categories and intuitive layout make it easy for users to browse and find specific items.
• Free Shipping Incentive: The clear “Free Shipping on Orders $50+” policy is an attractive offer that encourages purchases.
• Account Management: Options to “Login” and “Create an Account” streamline the shopping process for returning customers and allow for order tracking and history.
• Accessibility Statement: The presence of an “Accessibility Statement” link demonstrates a commitment to making the website usable for a wider audience, which is a positive sign of a responsible online presence.

Cons:

• Limited Direct Customer Support Information: While there’s an “Account Login” and “Create an Account” option, direct contact methods like a phone number, live chat, or a dedicated customer service email are not immediately visible on the homepage. This can be frustrating for users needing quick assistance.
• Lack of Customer Reviews/Testimonials: The homepage doesn’t prominently feature customer reviews or testimonials, which are crucial for building social proof and helping potential buyers make informed decisions. Integrating user-generated content could significantly boost trust.
• No Obvious FAQ Section on Homepage: While there might be one deeper within the site, a quick-access FAQ link on the homepage could answer common questions about shipping, returns, or product usage without requiring a user to dig around.
• Video Playback Integration: While videos are provided e.g., “Watch Chromaflow in Action”, their integration could be more seamless or contextually placed, potentially with direct embeds on product pages rather than just links.
• Limited Educational Content Homepage: Beyond product features and a brand history video, there isn’t a strong presence of educational content like art tips, tutorials, or artist spotlights directly on the homepage, which could further engage the target audience.

Derwentart.com Alternatives and Competitive Landscape

Artists often choose their tools based on specific needs—be it pigment quality, lightfastness, price point, or availability.

Understanding these alternatives helps in appreciating Derwent’s position in the market.

• Faber-Castell: A German powerhouse, Faber-Castell is often seen as a direct competitor, especially in the colored pencil market with their Polychromos line. These oil-based pencils are renowned for their lightfastness and blendability, often considered the industry standard for professional artists. Faber-Castell also offers extensive ranges in pastels, watercolors, and inks.
  • Market Share Impact: Faber-Castell holds a significant market share globally, especially in professional artist materials. A 2023 market analysis indicated that brands like Faber-Castell, along with others such as Staedtler and Pentel, contribute significantly to the global art supplies market, which was valued at approximately $24.3 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach $37.1 billion by 2030 Source: Grand View Research.
• Prismacolor: Popular in North America, Prismacolor Premier colored pencils are known for their soft, wax-based cores and vibrant, highly blendable colors. While perhaps not as lightfast as some oil-based options, their ease of use and intense pigmentation make them a favorite for illustrators and graphic artists.
• Caran d’Ache: A Swiss brand, Caran d’Ache offers premium art supplies, including their Luminance colored pencils, which are highly regarded for their exceptional lightfastness and smooth application. Their watercolors, like the Neocolor II water-soluble crayons, are also well-respected. Caran d’Ache often caters to the higher end of the professional market.
• Winsor & Newton: This British company is a staple in the world of paints, particularly watercolors and oils. Their professional lines are known for their high pigment load, permanence, and historical significance. They also offer brushes, mediums, and papers, providing a comprehensive range for painters.
• Staedtler: While often associated with drafting and technical drawing, Staedtler also produces a range of artist-grade pencils, markers, and pens. Their Noris Club line is popular for students, but their Pigment Liner pens are a go-to for many ink artists.
• Sakura of America: Known for their Pigma Micron pens, which are archival, waterproof, and fade-resistant, Sakura has a strong presence in the ink and drawing market. They also produce various markers and gel pens.

How to Maximize Value from Derwentart.com

Getting the most out of your experience on Derwentart.com goes beyond just clicking “add to cart.” It involves leveraging the site’s features and understanding how to make informed purchasing decisions for your artistic endeavors.

• Utilize Product Information: Don’t just look at the product images. Dive into the detailed descriptions. For example, the site explicitly states that Lightfast Pencils are “100% lightfast according to the ASTM 6901 standard, rating LFI or II.” This is crucial data for professional artists concerned with the longevity of their work. Similarly, knowing Chromaflow Pencils have “premium core strength” can prevent frustration with breakage.
• Watch the Videos: The site provides links to videos like “Watch Chromaflow in Action” and “Watch & Learn About Derwent.” These aren’t just marketing fluff. they often provide practical demonstrations of how the products perform, showing blendability, color payoff, or specific techniques that can be achieved. This visual information is invaluable for understanding a product’s capabilities.
• Leverage Shipping Offers: The “Free Shipping on Orders $50+” is a clear incentive. If you’re planning multiple purchases, consolidating them into one order above this threshold can save you money. Strategize your purchases to meet this requirement rather than placing several smaller orders.
• Explore Collections and Gift Ideas: Even if you’re not looking for a gift, the “Gift Ideas” section can sometimes highlight curated sets or popular product combinations that might offer better value than buying individual items. The “Recent and Recommended” sections can also introduce you to new products or popular choices you might not have considered.
• Consider Account Creation: While optional, creating an account can streamline future purchases by saving your shipping information. It also typically allows you to view your order history, track current orders, and potentially receive exclusive offers or notifications about new products.
• Check Accessibility Statement if needed: For users with specific accessibility needs, the “Accessibility Statement” link indicates the site’s efforts to comply with web accessibility standards. This can be important for a smooth browsing experience.

By actively engaging with these features, artists can ensure they’re making well-informed decisions and optimizing their shopping experience on Derwentart.com.

Derwentart.com Pricing Structure

Understanding the pricing structure on Derwentart.com involves looking at how their products are categorized and the value proposition they offer, especially in comparison to the broader art supplies market.

Derwent positions itself as a quality brand, and its pricing reflects this.

• Tiered Product Lines: Derwent offers different tiers of products, which inherently come with varying price points. For instance, their Lightfast Pencils are a premium line, formulated for professional artists who require archival quality and exceptional lightfastness. These pencils will naturally command a higher price per pencil or per set due to the specialized pigments and rigorous testing e.g., ASTM 6901 standard. In contrast, lines like the Chromaflow Pencils might be positioned slightly differently, focusing on vibrant laydown and core strength, potentially at a more accessible price point for serious hobbyists or art students.
• Set vs. Individual Pricing: Like most art supply retailers, Derwentart.com sells products individually though this might not be immediately apparent on the homepage and in sets. Larger sets, such as the 72-count Chromaflow Pencils, typically offer a better per-pencil value compared to smaller sets 12, 24 count or individual open-stock pencils. Artists often find it more cost-effective to invest in larger sets if they use a wide range of colors regularly.
• Value Proposition: Derwent’s pricing is built on a value proposition centered on quality, heritage, and specialized features. They are not generally positioned as a budget brand. The cost reflects the research and development that goes into achieving features like 100% lightfastness and premium core strength. For comparison, professional-grade art supplies from brands like Faber-Castell or Caran d’Ache often fall into a similar price bracket, ranging from approximately $2 to $5 per pencil for premium lines when bought in sets, and more for individual open stock.
• Shipping Costs: The “Free Shipping on Orders $50+” is a direct pricing benefit for consumers. For orders below this threshold, shipping costs would apply, increasing the overall price of the purchase. This is a common strategy to encourage larger orders.
• No Subscription Model: Based on the homepage, Derwentart.com operates as a direct e-commerce retailer for one-time purchases. There’s no indication of a subscription service, which simplifies the pricing model to direct purchase prices plus any applicable shipping.

In essence, Derwentart.com’s pricing strategy aligns with its identity as a producer of quality, specialized art materials. Leidimaracaetano.com Review

Customers are paying for the brand’s legacy, product innovation, and the specific performance characteristics like lightfastness that are critical for professional artistic work.

FAQ

What is Derwentart.com?

Derwentart.com is the official e-commerce website for Derwent, a long-established British manufacturer of art materials, primarily known for its pencils, paints, and other drawing supplies.

Is Derwentart.com a legitimate website?

Yes, based on checking the website, Derwentart.com appears to be a legitimate and professional e-commerce platform for Derwent art supplies, a company with a history dating back to 1832.

What kind of products does Derwentart.com sell?

Derwentart.com sells a wide range of art supplies, including various types of pencils e.g., Chromaflow, Lightfast, paint sets e.g., Tinted Charcoal, Mixed Media, charcoal blocks, pens, paper, accessories, and gift ideas.

Does Derwentart.com offer free shipping?

Yes, Derwentart.com advertises free shipping on orders over $50, with no promo code required.

Are Derwentart.com products suitable for professional artists?

Yes, many of Derwentart.com’s products, particularly their Lightfast pencils that meet ASTM 6901 standards for lightfastness and their professional-grade paints, are designed and marketed for professional artists.

What are Chromaflow Pencils?

Chromaflow Pencils, featured on Derwentart.com, are described as vibrant, blendable colored pencils formulated with rich pigments and premium core strength, available in various count tins.

What makes Lightfast Pencils special?

Derwent’s Lightfast Pencils are notable for being their first oil-based colored pencil, formulated to be 100% lightfast according to the ASTM 6901 standard rating LFI or II, ensuring the longevity of artwork.

Can I watch videos about Derwent products on the website?

Yes, Derwentart.com provides links to videos such as “Watch Chromaflow in Action” and “Watch & Learn About Derwent,” offering visual demonstrations and insights into their products and brand history.

Is it easy to navigate Derwentart.com?

Yes, the website features clear navigation with prominent categories like Pencils, Paints, Blocks, Pens, Paper, Accessories, and Gift Ideas, making it relatively easy to find products. Comfortorthowear.com Review

How do I create an account on Derwentart.com?

You can create an account on Derwentart.com by clicking the “Create an Account” link, typically found in the header or account section of the website.

Can I view my cart on Derwentart.com?

Yes, the website has a “View Cart” link, usually accessible from the cart icon or a pop-up after adding items, allowing you to review your selected products.

Does Derwentart.com have a physical store location?

Based on the website’s homepage, Derwentart.com functions primarily as an online e-commerce platform.

Information about physical store locations or authorized retailers would need to be sought elsewhere on their site or through a search.

Are customer reviews available on Derwentart.com?

While the homepage does not prominently feature customer reviews or testimonials, product pages or other sections of the website might contain user-generated reviews.

What payment methods are accepted on Derwentart.com?

Specific payment methods are typically detailed during the checkout process.

The homepage itself doesn’t explicitly list accepted payment methods.

How does Derwentart.com handle returns or exchanges?

Information regarding returns or exchanges would typically be found in a dedicated “Returns Policy,” “FAQ,” or “Terms and Conditions” section, not typically on the homepage.

Does Derwentart.com ship internationally?

The website has a “Change Country” option, suggesting that international shipping is likely available or that they cater to different regions through localized sites.

Where is Derwent based?

Derwent has a proud heritage dating back to 1832 and has been creating pencils in the Lake District, UK, since 1916. Citylaila.com Review

Does Derwentart.com offer any discounts or promotions?

The homepage prominently displays a “Free Shipping on Orders $50+” offer.

Other discounts or promotions may be available through newsletters, special events, or seasonal sales.

Is there an accessibility statement on Derwentart.com?

Yes, Derwentart.com includes a link to an “Accessibility Statement,” indicating their commitment to web accessibility standards.

How does Derwentart.com ensure product quality?

Derwentart.com highlights its commitment to quality through detailed descriptions of product features like “100% lightfastness” meeting ASTM 6901 standard and “premium core strength,” alongside their long history of manufacturing.