DEEP DIVE

The best colouring app? It’s a draw.

We’ve narrowed the list down to three. From here it’s up to you.

Colouring, whether in a physical book or on your iPhone or iPad, is said to help reduce anxiety, provide focus and reduce stress after a long day. Here are three of our favourite colouring apps.

Lake

Lake partners with artists to create books in a variety of styles. Simple brushes and palettes make it easy to create something beautiful, whether you’re colouring quirky people, cuddly animals, cheery typography or abstract shapes. And when you subscribe to Lake, a substantial portion of the proceeds goes directly to the artists.

Lake offers a broad range of illustration styles. Each book includes one free design.

Tayasui Color

Tayasui Color has a minimalist design but a surprising range of advanced features. This app only offers 12 illustrations and four tools, which keeps you from getting overwhelmed.

Tayasui Color’s designs were created by Paris-based illustrator Olivia de Bona.

April

April is a classic paint-by-numbers activity that doubles as a meditative experience. It’s an especially great way to destress. There’s no danger of colouring outside the lines or picking the wrong hues; in April it’s impossible to make a mistake. Complete a painting to get a real sense of accomplishment – and a feeling of warm nostalgia.

After meticulously colouring abstract shapes, zoom out to admire your work of art in April.