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Browse through our extensive range of Sketching Pencils. Whether you are an avid designer, illustrator or a complete beginner, we will strive to help you with whatever you're after!

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

What type of pencil is best for sketching?

The best type of pencil for sketching depends on personal preference and the desired effect. However, graphite pencils are commonly preferred for sketching due to their versatility, control, and range of hardness. Specifically, a set of graphite pencils with varying degrees of hardness (ranging from 9H to 9B) allows artists to achieve a wide range of line weights and tones. HB or 2B pencils are often favoured for general sketching due to their balance of hardness and darkness, while softer pencils (such as 4B or 6B) are suitable for shading and adding depth. Ultimately, the best pencil for sketching is one that feels comfortable in your hand and allows you to express your artistic vision effectively.

What pencils do I need to start sketching?

To start sketching, you'll want a basic set of graphite pencils that cover a range of hardness levels. Here's a suggested selection:

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.

Eraser: While not a pencil, an eraser is essential for correcting mistakes and refining your sketches. A kneaded eraser is particularly useful for lifting graphite cleanly from the paper.

With these pencils, you'll have a good range of options for sketching and exploring different techniques. As you become more experienced, you may want to expand your collection to include additional hardness levels or specialty pencils for specific effects.

Should I sketch with charcoal or graphite?

Whether you should sketch with charcoal or graphite depends on your personal preferences, artistic style, and the specific effect you want to achieve in your sketches. Here are some factors to consider:

Control and Precision: Graphite pencils offer precise control over line weight and detail, making them well-suited for detailed sketches and technical drawing. If you prefer clean, controlled lines and fine details in your sketches, graphite pencils may be the better choice.

Expressiveness and Texture: Charcoal pencils produce bold, expressive lines with rich, dark tones and a textured surface. They are ideal for creating dramatic contrasts, loose sketches, and expressive gestural drawings. If you enjoy working with bold, dynamic marks and exploring texture in your sketches, charcoal pencils may be more suitable.

Smudging and Blending: Charcoal is more prone to smudging and can be easily blended on the paper to create soft, atmospheric effects. If you enjoy blending and smudging techniques in your sketches, charcoal pencils offer more flexibility in this regard compared to graphite.

Versatility: Graphite pencils are versatile and can be used for a wide range of drawing techniques, from fine lines to soft shading. Charcoal pencils are also versatile, but they are particularly well-suited for expressive drawing and sketching.

Ultimately, the choice between charcoal and graphite for sketching comes down to your personal artistic preferences and the specific effect you want to achieve in your sketches. Experimenting with both mediums can help you discover which one aligns best with your artistic vision and style. Additionally, some artists choose to combine charcoal and graphite in their sketches to take advantage of the unique qualities of each medium.

STAEDTLER Tradition 110 Drawing Pencil