Why Adult Coloring Books Are Making a Comeback (and Why You Should Try One)

Adult coloring books aren’t a fad. They were a fad in 2015 when everyone bought one, colored three pages, and put it on a shelf. What’s happening now is different. People are coming back to coloring for the same reason they’re putting their phones down more often — because the alternative stopped feeling good.

If you haven’t picked up a coloring book in years, here’s what you might be missing.

It’s Active Relaxation

Scrolling is passive. Your brain receives input but doesn’t create anything. Coloring is the opposite — your brain has to make decisions (which color, how much pressure, where to start) while your hands execute. This combination of light decision-making and repetitive hand movement creates a meditative state that genuinely reduces stress. It’s not just calming — it’s engaging enough to keep your mind from wandering back to your inbox.

It Doesn’t Require Talent

This is the underrated part. Drawing, painting, playing music — all creative activities that come with a learning curve and the risk of feeling like you’re bad at them. Coloring removes that barrier entirely. The illustration is already done. You just fill it in. There’s no wrong way to color a mandala or a cityscape. The result always looks good because the structure is already there.

The Illustrations Have Gotten Better

Early adult coloring books were mostly mandalas and geometric patterns. They were fine, but repetitive. Today’s coloring books feature detailed, original illustrations — travel scenes, architecture, nature, florals, and thematic collections that make each page feel like a mini art project. The Art of Travel Coloring Book by Everpath Studio, for example, features intricate cityscapes and coastal scenes that are genuinely beautiful even before you add color.

It Replaces Screen Time Naturally

Most people who say they want less screen time don’t have a replacement activity. “Put the phone down” is advice without a solution. Coloring gives your hands and eyes something to do that’s satisfying enough to make you forget about the phone. It fills the same mental space — low effort, mildly stimulating, something to do while listening to music or a podcast — without the blue light, the comparison spiral, or the notification interruptions.

It Works for Any Age

Adult coloring books work for teenagers, college students, working professionals, retirees, and everyone in between. They’re used in therapy settings, classrooms, waiting rooms, and living rooms. The simplicity of the activity is what makes it universally accessible.

How to Start

Pick a book with illustrations you actually want to color. This sounds obvious, but it matters. If the art doesn’t excite you, you won’t pick it up. Choose a theme that resonates — travel, nature, architecture, florals, or abstract patterns.

Get a decent set of colored pencils. You don’t need the expensive 72-piece set to start. A basic 24-pack will do. Prismacolor and Faber-Castell are solid choices at any price point.

Set aside 20 minutes. Light a candle, put on some music, and color one section of one page. Don’t try to finish the whole thing in one sitting. The point is the process, not the completion.

Browse the Collection

Everpath Studio publishes coloring books for adults and kids across multiple themes. Every book features clean layouts, quality paper, and illustrations designed for focused, enjoyable coloring.

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Prefer to print at home? Digital coloring packs are available for instant download on Etsy.

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