Coloring Books For Adults Are The New Spa Day: A Fun Guide To Your Next Creative Obsession

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Let me guess. You thought coloring books were just for kids, right? Plot twist: coloring books for adults are the self-care trend you didn’t know you needed. Whether you’re trying to de-stress after a chaotic workday, looking for a screen-free hobby, or just want an excuse to break out your childhood crayon stash (no judgment), coloring is having a serious grown-up glow-up.

So grab your markers, your favorite cup of tea (or wine, we’re not judging), and let’s dive into everything you need to know about adult coloring books, from styles and supplies to where to snag the best ones.

Why Coloring Books for Adults Are a Total Vibe

Coloring isn’t just playtime anymore—it’s a form of meditation, a creative outlet, and even a way to bond with friends. People are loving it for:

Stress relief: Repetitive motion + color = relaxation magic
Mindfulness: Focus on the present moment, one color at a time
Creativity boost: No need to be “artsy”—just add color!
Digital detox: Finally, something fun that doesn’t involve a screen

Types of Coloring Books for Adults (Yes, There’s One for Every Mood)

Adult coloring books are as diverse as your Netflix queue. Here’s a roundup to help you find your perfect match:

✨ For the Zen Seeker: Mandalas and Patterns

Intricate mandalas, geometric shapes, and repeating patterns are ideal for zoning out and relaxing. They’re kind of like visual white noise. Try:

Color Me Calm by Lacy Mucklow
Stress Relief: Coloring Book for Adults and Kids, Bold and Easy, Simple and Big Designs for Relaxation Featuring Animals, Landscape, Flowers, Patterns, Cute Things And Many More (Bold & Easy Coloring) by Coco Wyo
Girl Moments: Coloring Book for Adults and Teens Featuring Cute Cozy Daily Activities for Relaxation (Cozy Spaces Coloring) by Coco Wyo
100 Amazing Patterns by Jade Summer

🌿 For the Nature Lover: Flowers, Forests, and Animals

Love a walk in the woods or flowers in your hair? Nature-themed books bring that vibe to your lap. You’ll love:

Secret Garden by Johanna Basford
Millie Marotta’s Animal Kingdom

🚀 For the Daydreamer: Fantasy & Surrealism

Unicorns, fairies, and fantastical worlds? Yes, please. These books are for anyone who ever wanted to live in a storybook.

😂 For the Sass Queen: Snarky & Sweary Coloring Books

Sometimes you just need a good laugh. Or a good curse word. These irreverent books are your stress relief with a side of sass.

Calm the Fck Down* by Sasha O’Hara
People of Walmart Coloring Book (yes, it’s real)

📚 For the Nostalgic: Vintage & Retro Themes

Old-school charm and cozy aesthetics, from 50s housewives to vintage travel posters.

🌟 For the Pop Culture Junkie: Fandoms and Franchises

Love Harry Potter, Star Wars, or Bridgerton? There’s probably a coloring book for that.

Harry Potter Coloring Book
Outlander Coloring Book by Diana Gabaldon

Where to Buy the Best Coloring Books for Adults

You’ve got options—whether you love that bookstore smell or prefer shopping in PJs.

Online

Amazon – Massive selection with reviews to guide you
Etsy – Unique, indie-made options and downloadable PDFs
Book Depository – Great international picks + free shipping

In Stores

Barnes & Noble – Solid collection with top-rated titles
Local indie bookstores – Support small businesses and discover hidden gems
Art & craft stores like Michaels – Sometimes you can even test markers!

Pro tip: If you’re looking for something totally custom, consider personalized coloring books for adults on Etsy. Yep, you can literally color in your own name.

Best Coloring Tools for Adult Coloring Books

You don’t need a studio full of art supplies, but using the right tools makes a huge difference.

🖌 Colored Pencils

Best for: Control, blending, and detail work

Look for: Prismacolor, Faber-Castell, or Crayola for a budget option

🖊 Markers

Best for: Bold, vibrant colors and large spaces

Look for: Tombow Dual Brush Pens, Staedtler Triplus, or Sharpie (just check if the pages bleed!)

📁 Gel Pens

Best for: Metallics, glitter, and adding flair

Look for: Gelly Roll pens or any set that sparkles

📃 Crayons

Best for: That cozy, nostalgic feeling (and if you’re coloring with kids, too!)

Look for: Crayola or even scented ones if you’re feeling fancy

Don’t forget a good pencil sharpener, some blotter paper if your markers bleed, and maybe even a lap desk if you’re coloring on the couch.

FAQ: Coloring Books for Adults

Q: Are adult coloring books really therapeutic?

A: Totally. Studies have shown that coloring can reduce anxiety and improve focus. It’s like meditation with better accessories.

Q: Can I use markers in all coloring books?

A: Not always. Check the paper weight—some books have thin pages that bleed through. If that’s the case, stick to pencils or put a sheet of paper underneath.

Q: I’m not creative—will I still enjoy it?

A: 100%! No artistic talent required. It’s about relaxing and having fun, not making a masterpiece.

Q: What’s the best way to store my supplies?

A: Use a makeup bag, craft organizer, or even a tackle box. Keep it cute and functional.

Q: Are there digital coloring books?

A: Yep! Apps like Pigment and Lake are great for on-the-go coloring on your tablet or phone.

Final Thoughts: Your Inner Artist Is Calling

Coloring isn’t just a hobby—it’s a mini-vacation for your brain. Whether you’re channeling your inner zen master, coloring out your stress with sass, or just vibing with some floral designs and a podcast, adult coloring books are the creative escape to make life easier, at least for a little while.

So go ahead—treat yourself to a new set of gel pens, pour a glass of wine, and color your heart out. You’ve earned it.