Drawing Pencils

Discover a whole new world of Pencils with ArtStore Online.

At ArtStore Online, we seek to bring you the best Pencil brands available and have a wide range of art supplies from trusted and respected brands from around the world. Discover our Pencil brands including Black Widow, Conte A Paris, Derwent, Faber-Castell, Generals, Prismacolor, STAEDTLER and more!

Whether you are an avid designer, illustrator or a complete beginner, we will strive to help you with whatever Pencils you need.

What are pencils made of?

Pencils are typically made of a combination of graphite, clay, and various additives encased in a wooden barrel. The core of a pencil is primarily composed of graphite mixed with varying amounts of clay, which determines the hardness or softness of the pencil lead. The wooden casing is usually made from cedar wood, which is easy to sharpen and provides a sturdy outer shell for the pencil. Other materials, such as paint for colouring the barrel and a metal ferrule to hold the eraser, may also be used in the construction of pencils.

What are the best drawing pencils for beginners?

For beginners, it's important to have a variety of pencils that cover different hardness levels to explore different techniques and styles. Here are some recommendations for drawing pencils for beginners:

• HB Pencil: This is a versatile pencil with medium hardness, suitable for general sketching and outlining.

• 2B Pencil: Slightly softer than HB, the 2B pencil produces darker lines and is great for shading and adding depth to drawings.

• 4B or 6B Pencil: These pencils are even softer and darker, ideal for creating rich shadows and achieving dramatic contrasts.

• H Pencil: On the harder side, H pencils are good for fine lines, details, and light sketching.

• Charcoal Pencils: Consider adding a couple of charcoal pencils to your collection to experiment with different textures and tonal values.

• Graphite Pencils Set: Investing in a set of graphite pencils ranging from 9H (hardest) to 9B (softest) can provide a wide range of options for shading and drawing.

Some recommended brands include STAEDTLER, Faber-Castell and Derwent. It's also a good idea to try out different brands to see which ones you prefer based on the feel and quality of the pencils. Remember, the best pencils for you ultimately depend on your personal preferences and the specific techniques you want to explore as a beginner artist.

How do I choose the correct hardness for my drawing pencil?

To choose the correct hardness for your drawing pencil, consider the subject matter and desired effects in your artwork. Experiment with different pencils across the hardness scale, ranging from harder (H) pencils for fine details to softer (B) pencils for shading and depth. Understand that you can adjust the pressure you apply to the pencil to control the intensity of your lines. Test pencils on your chosen drawing surface to see how they behave, keeping in mind that softer pencils are easier to blend and layer, while harder pencils offer more resistance to smudging. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your artistic preferences and the specific techniques you plan to use.

What's the difference between graphite and charcoal drawing pencils?

Graphite and charcoal drawing pencils differ primarily in their core material and the effects they produce. Graphite pencils contain a mixture of graphite and clay, offering a wide range of hardness levels for various line weights and shades. They produce clean, precise lines and are ideal for detailed work and technical drawing. Charcoal pencils, on the other hand, are made from compressed charcoal, providing a softer, darker, and more textured mark. They are great for expressive, dramatic drawings, shading, and creating bold contrasts. Charcoal pencils tend to smudge easily and are well-suited for sketching and gestural drawing, while graphite pencils offer greater control and are often used for fine art and illustration.

Can I use watercolour pencils without water?

Yes, you can use watercolour pencils without water. When used dry, watercolour pencils function similarly to traditional coloured pencils, allowing you to apply pigment directly onto the paper. You can create lines, and hatchings, and blend colours together just like you would with regular coloured pencils.

Additionally, you can layer watercolour pencil marks to build up colour intensity and texture. Since watercolour pencils are water-soluble, applying water afterwards will activate the pigment, allowing you to blend and manipulate the colours like traditional watercolour paint. However, using water is not necessary if you prefer to work solely with the dry application of watercolour pencils. It's a versatile medium that offers options for both dry and wet techniques, depending on your artistic preferences and desired effects.

How can I prevent pencil smudging while drawing?

To prevent pencil smudging while drawing, be mindful of where you place your hand and avoid excessive pressure when applying graphite. Consider using a fixative spray to set the drawing once it's complete, and work from one corner of the paper to the other to minimize hand contact with freshly drawn areas. Additionally, using a protective sheet under your hand or wearing a smudge guard glove can help reduce smudging. Finally, consider using spray adhesive to secure your drawing paper in place on your drawing surface. These precautions and techniques can help keep your drawings clean and free from unwanted smudges.