When you sit down with a fresh coloring page or a new coloring book, your favorite colored pencils or markers, and a little time to yourself, you’re not just filling in spaces with color. You’re connecting to something bigger: the story behind the art. 💞

In the last year, AI-generated coloring books and coloring pages are becoming more common. You can find them on Amazon or on random websites all over the internet. While AI art is super impressive and has so much potential, there’s something truly special about choosing hand-drawn coloring pages created by real artists. Of course, I am a bit biased, because on pokiandkiwi.com we only offer hand-drawn coloring pages, but I think a lot of people feel the same. That is why I am writing this article.

Let’s explore why hand-drawn coloring pages are so much better than AI-generated ones, and why they bring more joy to your coloring experience.

The Unique Touch of Human Creativity

Hand-drawn coloring pages are made with care, passion, and human imagination. Artists put their hearts into every detail, making sure each design is full of their personality. They often have a personal message or meaning behind their designs. This special touch makes coloring more fun and meaningful.

At Poki and Kiwi, all of our designs are inspired by two very real cats. Their unique personalities and quirks bring meaning to our creations, connecting us all through art. 💞

AI-generated designs, on the other hand, are impressive, but they can’t offer the same connection to a real artist. Right now, AI-generated coloring books are fairly easy to spot. They often feature a lot of greyscale or odd details. But those flaws will improve quickly. Soon we’ll see perfect AI-generated coloring books flooding the market, and kids growing up will learn how to express their creativity with these books. It’s a little bittersweet, but it’s also reality.

A Connection to the Artist

When you color a hand-drawn design, you’re connecting with the artist’s vision. Every line and pattern reflects their creativity and hard work. Of course they use tools and alter their designs on a computer or IPAD, but it's still their work of art with meaning and intention. It’s like collaborating with them to bring their art to life.

Design Quality and Variety will soon be equal

Hand-drawn designs come in all kinds of themes, like intricate mandalas, cute animals, stunning florals, and abstract patterns. Artists are always coming up with fresh ideas and making sure their designs are fun and rewarding to color. They also create pages that work for different skill levels, whether you’re a beginner or a pro.

At the moment, AI-generated designs often rely on pre-set patterns, which can make them look either boring or overly perfect. However, it’s likely that soon the quality of AI designs will match, or even surpass, that of hand-drawn pages.

But for me, it’s not really about the quality... it’s about treating yourself to something real. I love industrially produced coffee mugs: they’re flawless and practical. But I just LOVE the coffee mugs I purchased at the art fair last week by local artists. They are cute and special and I appreciate them so much, knowing that a real human poured their time and effort into creating them.

Supporting Real Artists

When you choose hand-drawn coloring pages, you’re supporting real artists who put their heart and soul into their work. Many artists rely on this as their main source of income, and your support helps them keep creating beautiful designs.

A More Relaxing and Authentic Experience

Hand-drawn coloring pages offer a warm, authentic experience. Every line and curve shows the artist’s personal touch, making your time spent coloring more enjoyable. Even the little imperfections in hand-drawn designs add charm and character that AI simply can’t replicate.

Read more:

• Mindfulness and Coloring: How it Helps, Techniques & Benefits
• Printable Cat Coloring Pages: Fun Designs for All Ages
• How to Start Coloring as an Adult: A Beginner’s Guide & Products

What do you think?

I definitely believe that most coloring pages will be AI-produced in the future. It’s just so convenient for teachers, parents, and adults! But I also think there will always be a time and place where people want to connect with artists and color their unique vision. While AI designs are practical, they simply can’t replace the warmth and creativity of a hand-drawn page.

Personally, I feel that all coloring pages and books created by AI should be clearly labeled as such. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with AI designs! But I believe customers deserve to know what they’re purchasing.

Check out Poki and Kiwi’s collection to find stunning hand-drawn designs that are perfect for your next coloring session!