As an artist, you know that the quality of your tools can make or break your work. One of the most important tools in your arsenal is your pencil. Whether you’re sketching, shading, or adding fine details, the right pencil can elevate your work to the next level. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best artist pencils.
When it comes to artist pencils, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost is the type of lead. Different grades of lead produce different effects, from light and sketchy to dark and bold. You’ll want to consider the type of work you’ll be doing and choose a lead grade that suits your needs.
Another important factor to consider is the quality of the pencil itself. Cheaper pencils may have inconsistent lead or poor construction, which can lead to frustration and lower quality work. Investing in a high-quality pencil can make a significant difference in your art.
When choosing the best artist pencils, it’s important to consider both the type of lead and the quality of the pencil. By doing so, you can ensure that you have the right tools to bring your artistic vision to life. In the following sections, we’ll explore some of the top options on the market and help you make an informed decision.
Best Artist Pencils
If you’re an artist, you know that having the right tools can make all the difference. When it comes to pencils, there are a lot of options out there, from graphite to charcoal to colored pencils. But which ones are the best? In this article, we’ve rounded up the top artist pencils on the market to help you find the perfect set for your needs. Whether you’re a professional artist or just starting out, these pencils will help you create beautiful, detailed drawings with ease.
Amazon Basics Sketch and Drawing Art Pencil Kit
If you’re looking for an all-in-one drawing and sketch supply kit, the Amazon Basics Sketch and Drawing Art Pencil Kit is a great option for artists of all skill levels.
Pros
- Includes a variety of pencils, charcoal pencils, and compressed sketch sticks for experimenting with or combining different drawing techniques.
- Comes with essential art supplies like erasers, a blender/smudge stick, and a dual-barrel sharpener.
- Conforms to ASTM D4236 safety standards.
Cons
- The included knife must be used to sharpen the charcoal pencils.
- The grip has no texture, which may be uncomfortable for some users.
- The quality of the pencils and charcoal sticks is not top-tier.
This kit is perfect for artists who want to create dynamic works of art with intricate shading and blending or simply sketch and doodle ideas. The variety of pencils and charcoal sticks allows for experimentation with different drawing techniques, while the included erasers, blender/smudge stick, and dual-barrel sharpener make it easy to correct mistakes and keep your tools sharp. However, the charcoal pencils must be sharpened with the included knife, and the lack of texture on the grip may be uncomfortable for some users. Overall, the Amazon Basics Sketch and Drawing Art Pencil Kit is a great value for its price and a good choice for artists of all skill levels.
Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils Set
If you’re looking for a high-quality set of colored pencils, the Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils Set is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The set includes 72 pencils arranged in color families, making it easy to select the perfect shade for your project.
- The soft yet durable core ensures that the pencils won’t crumble under pressure and will hold their point.
- The intensely pigmented, rich, creamy colors are perfect for smooth coverage and effortless layering, blending, and burnishing.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the pencils don’t work well on certain types of paper, such as glossy or coated paper.
- A few users have noted that the pencils can be difficult to sharpen without breaking the lead.
- The fold-out tutorial may not be useful for more experienced artists.
The Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils Set is a great choice for anyone looking to create beautiful artwork with vibrant colors. The soft yet durable core ensures that the pencils won’t crumble under pressure, making them perfect for both beginners and experienced artists. Additionally, the set includes 72 pencils arranged in color families, making it easy to select the perfect shade for your project.
The intensely pigmented, rich, creamy colors are perfect for smooth coverage and effortless layering, blending, and burnishing. However, some users have reported that the pencils don’t work well on certain types of paper, such as glossy or coated paper. Additionally, a few users have noted that the pencils can be difficult to sharpen without breaking the lead.
Overall, the Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils Set is a great investment for anyone looking to create beautiful artwork. With its high-quality pigments and soft yet durable core, these pencils are sure to help you achieve stunning results.
PANDAFLY Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set
If you’re looking for a high-quality pencil set for your art needs, the PANDAFLY Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set might be just what you need.
Pros
- A wide variety of hardness for all your artwork needs, including 12 pre-sharpened graphite pencils (14B 12B 10B 8B 6B 4B 2B B HB F H 2H).
- The special bonding makes the graphite leads extra break-resistant, and gives them superior long-lasting point strength. They are easy to sharpen and erase.
- Non-toxic and eco-friendly friendly pencils conform to strict ASTM D-4236 and EN71 standards. Sketch Pencils are made of the all-too natural and environmentally friendly material. The graphite is even, smooth, blends easily.
Cons
- The pencils might not be suitable for professional artists who require a higher quality set.
- The packaging might not be as durable as expected.
- The set does not come with a carrying case.
The PANDAFLY Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set is perfect for budding artists and amateurs of all ages looking to develop their drawing skills. The set includes a wide variety of hardness levels, making it ideal for drawing, sketching, and doodling. The pencils are made of high-quality graphite, which is even, smooth, and blends easily.
The special bonding makes the graphite leads extra break-resistant, and gives them superior long-lasting point strength. They are easy to sharpen and erase, making them perfect for artists who want to create their best work on paper, sketchbooks, or other mediums.
The non-toxic and eco-friendly friendly pencils conform to strict ASTM D-4236 and EN71 standards, making them safe for use by artists of all ages. The set is also the perfect gift for all art-loving students, artists, kids, and friends.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a high-quality pencil set that is perfect for beginners and amateurs, the PANDAFLY Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set is an excellent choice. With its wide variety of hardness levels, high-quality graphite, and eco-friendly materials, this set is sure to help you create your best work yet.
MARKART 14-Piece Graphite Drawing Sketching Pencil Set
If you’re looking for a versatile and high-quality set of artist pencils, the MARKART 14-Piece Graphite Drawing Sketching Pencil Set is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- With 14 pre-sharpened pencils ranging from 12B to 4H, this set offers a wide variety of hardness levels to suit all your artwork needs.
- Non-toxic and eco-friendly, these pencils conform to strict ASTM D-4236 and EN71 standards, ensuring a safe and smooth writing experience.
- The pencils offer great shading and blending capabilities, allowing you to create detailed illustrations and textured shading like a professional artist.
Cons
- While this set is ideal for drawing, sketching, and doodling, it may not be the best choice for more advanced or specialized artwork.
- The pencils may not be as durable as higher-end options, so they may not last as long with frequent use.
- Some users may find that the pencils are not as smooth or easy to use as other artist pencils on the market.
Overall, the MARKART 14-Piece Graphite Drawing Sketching Pencil Set is a great choice for beginners, experienced graphic designers, and professionals alike. Whether you’re looking to develop your drawing skills or create your best work on paper, these artist pencils offer endless possibilities and are definitely worth considering.
Artisto Drawing and Sketching Pencil Art Set
If you’re looking for a complete artist pencil set to unleash your creativity, the Artisto Drawing and Sketching Pencil Art Set might be the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- Comprehensive range of pencils, charcoal sticks, blending tools, erasers, and sharpeners
- Captivating contrasts and eye-catching highlights with black and white charcoal pencils
- Effortless blending for a professional touch with blending stumps
Cons
- Not suitable for children under 13 years old
- Some users reported issues with the erasers smudging the paper
- The case might not be sturdy enough for heavy use
This set offers a complete range of tools for artists of all levels to nurture their creative endeavors. Experiment with different grades of drawing pencils, charcoal sticks, blending tools, erasers, and sharpeners to achieve intricate details, bold lines, and smooth shading.
The black and white charcoal pencils allow you to create striking contrast and highlights in your sketches, while the blending stumps ensure seamless blending for a professional touch. The set comes in a compact case, making it easy to carry and store.
However, some users reported issues with the erasers smudging the paper, and the case might not be sturdy enough for heavy use. Keep in mind that this set is not suitable for children under 13 years old.
Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile and comprehensive artist pencil set, the Artisto Drawing and Sketching Pencil Art Set is definitely worth considering.
hhhouu Drawing Set Arts Professional Kit Graphite & Colored Charcoal Pencils Painting tools for Kids, Teens Adults With Kneaded Eraser, Paper Pencil, Sharpener BW-CPS-N01
If you’re looking for a complete and professional art drawing supplies set, the hhhouu Drawing Set Arts Professional Kit Graphite & Colored Charcoal Pencils Painting tools for Kids, Teens Adults With Kneaded Eraser, Paper Pencil, Sharpener BW-CPS-N01 may be worth considering.
Pros
- Comes with a wide variety of charcoal and graphite pencils, blending stumps, erasers, sharpeners, and other tools
- High-quality charcoal pencils that are safe, non-toxic, and easy to sharpen
- Portable travel size pencil case for easy transportation
Cons
- Not suitable for those who only need a few pencils
- Some users may prefer a different brand of pencils
- The quality of the pencils may not be as high as some professional-grade options
If you’re looking for a comprehensive art set that includes everything you need to get started, the hhhouu Drawing Set Arts Professional Kit Graphite & Colored Charcoal Pencils Painting tools for Kids, Teens Adults With Kneaded Eraser, Paper Pencil, Sharpener BW-CPS-N01 is a great option. With 6 charcoal pencils, 14 graphite sketch pencils, 12 colored charcoal pencils, and a variety of other tools, you’ll have everything you need to create beautiful works of art. The high-quality charcoal pencils are safe, non-toxic, and easy to sharpen, making them a great choice for artists of all levels.
The portable travel size pencil case makes it easy to take your art supplies with you wherever you go. Whether you’re traveling or just need to move your supplies from one location to another, the case will keep everything organized and protected. The set also makes a great gift for family, friends, or anyone who loves to draw.
While the hhhouu Drawing Set Arts Professional Kit Graphite & Colored Charcoal Pencils Painting tools for Kids, Teens Adults With Kneaded Eraser, Paper Pencil, Sharpener BW-CPS-N01 is a great option for those who need a comprehensive art set, it may not be suitable for those who only need a few pencils. Additionally, some users may prefer a different brand of pencils or find that the quality of the pencils is not as high as some professional-grade options.
S & E TEACHER’S EDITION 220Pcs Wood-cased pencils
If you’re looking for an affordable set of artist pencils, the S & E TEACHER’S EDITION 220Pcs Wood-cased pencils might be a good option for you.
Pros
- The set includes 220 pencils, providing you with plenty of pencils to use.
- The pencils are pre-sharpened, making them ready to use right out of the box.
- The set comes with a wooden case, making it easy to store and transport the pencils.
Cons
- The pencils are #2 HB pencils, which may not be suitable for all types of artwork.
- The erasers on the pencils may not be as effective as some other erasers.
- The pencils may not be as durable as some other artist pencils on the market.
This set of artist pencils is ideal for those who need a large number of pencils at an affordable price. The pre-sharpened pencils are convenient and the wooden case makes it easy to keep your pencils organized. However, the #2 HB pencils may not be suitable for all types of artwork, and the erasers on the pencils may not be as effective as some other erasers. Additionally, the pencils may not be as durable as some other artist pencils on the market.
Four Candies Mechanical Pencil Set
If you’re looking for a mechanical pencil set that’s perfect for writing, drawing, and sketching, the Four Candies Mechanical Pencil Set might be the one for you.
Pros
- The set contains everything you need to get started: 6pcs 0.7mm drafting pencils, 360pcs HB lead refills, 3pcs 4B erasers, 9pcs eraser refills, and a plastic storage case.
- The rhombus textured rubber grip is designed to be more non-slip, comfortable to hold, and not tired when writing for a long time.
- The metal pen body provides ideal weight balance and feels comfortable in hand, which can finish writing or drawing more efficiently with higher quality.
Cons
- The lead core is made of resin and graphite, which is more durable and not easy to break, but some users may prefer a different type of lead.
- The product is relatively new, so there are not as many reviews as some other mechanical pencil sets.
- The set is only available in one size, 0.7mm.
The Four Candies Mechanical Pencil Set is a great choice for anyone looking for a comprehensive set that includes everything you need to get started with writing, drawing, and sketching. The rubber grip and metal pen body make it comfortable to use for extended periods of time, and the set comes with plenty of lead and erasers to keep you stocked up for a while. However, if you prefer a different type of lead or a different size, this might not be the set for you.
FineNolo Colored Pencils Set
If you’re looking for a versatile set of colored pencils for your art projects, the FineNolo Colored Pencils Set is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The set includes 36 colored pencils, a sharpener, and an eco-friendly pencil tube, making it easy to store and find the color you need.
- The soft, thick cores of the pencils allow for smooth layering, making it easy to create complex and detailed artwork.
- The innovative oil-based core of the sketching pencils is sturdier and more pigmented than other brands, and it holds a finer point without leaving a waxy film.
Cons
- The packaging is made of cardboard and doesn’t have any padding to prevent the pencils from sliding around.
- The color range could be improved to offer more hues and shades.
- The hexangular barrel design may not be comfortable for everyone to grip.
The FineNolo Colored Pencils Set is a great choice for artists of all levels. The set includes everything you need to get started with your art projects, including a sharpener and an eco-friendly pencil tube. The soft, thick cores of the pencils allow for smooth layering, making it easy to create complex and detailed artwork. The innovative oil-based core of the sketching pencils is sturdier and more pigmented than other brands, and it holds a finer point without leaving a waxy film. However, the packaging is made of cardboard and doesn’t have any padding to prevent the pencils from sliding around. Additionally, the color range could be improved to offer more hues and shades. Finally, the hexangular barrel design may not be comfortable for everyone to grip. Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile set of colored pencils, the FineNolo Colored Pencils Set is definitely worth considering.
PRINA 76 Pack Drawing Set Sketching Kit
If you’re looking for a comprehensive and affordable drawing set, the PRINA 76 Pack Drawing Set Sketching Kit is a great option.
Pros
- The kit includes a wide variety of pencils, including watercolor, oil-based, and metallic pencils, as well as charcoal pencils and wooden graphite sketching pencils, making it perfect for drawing, sketching, shading, layering, blending, and more.
- The set comes with a refillable water brush pen, a vinyl eraser, a kneaded eraser, a sandpaper pencil pointer, paper blending stumps, a paintbrush, and a travel case, making it easy to keep all of your drawing tools organized and portable.
- The included sketchbook features 3 different colors of sketch paper, making it suitable for different styles of drawing, and comes with a 7-step drawing tutorial on “how to draw,” making it a great option for beginners.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the black marker in the set has a strong odor and needs to be thrown away.
- While the set is great for beginners, professional artists may find the quality of the pencils to be lacking.
- The travel case may not be large enough to hold additional drawing supplies.
Overall, if you’re a beginner artist or looking for an affordable drawing set with a wide variety of pencils and accessories, the PRINA 76 Pack Drawing Set Sketching Kit is a great option.
STAEDTLER Mars Lumograph Art Drawing Pencils
If you’re looking for a premium quality drawing pencil that is break-resistant and easy to erase and sharpen, the STAEDTLER Mars Lumograph Art Drawing Pencils are a great choice.
Pros
- The super-bonded lead wears evenly, making it easy to erase and sharpen.
- The design set of 12 finely graded consistent degrees in a portable metal storage tin is perfect for artists on the go.
- First-class materials and manufacturing processes guarantee outstanding and unbeatable product quality.
Cons
- The price point may be a bit higher than other artist pencils on the market.
- The set only includes graphite pencils, so if you need colored pencils, you’ll need to purchase them separately.
- The pencils may not be suitable for certain types of paper or drawing surfaces.
These artist pencils are particularly suitable for writing, drawing, sketching, and hatching, as well as for professional graphic and artistic applications on paper and matte drawing film. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, these pencils will help you achieve the desired effect.
The super-bonded lead wears evenly and is easy to erase and sharpen, making it a great choice for artists who want to achieve precise lines and shading. The design set of 12 finely graded consistent degrees in a portable metal storage tin is perfect for artists on the go, as it allows you to take your pencils with you wherever you go.
First-class materials and manufacturing processes guarantee outstanding and unbeatable product quality. The pencils are made with high-quality materials that are designed to last, so you can be confident that your investment will pay off in the long run.
In summary, if you’re looking for a premium quality artist pencil that is break-resistant and easy to erase and sharpen, the STAEDTLER Mars Lumograph Art Drawing Pencils are a great choice.
MARTCOLOR Drawing Sketching Pencils Set
If you’re looking for a versatile artist pencil set, the MARTCOLOR Drawing Sketching Pencils Set is a great option.
Pros
- The set includes a variety of pencils, charcoal sticks, blending stumps, erasers, and more, making it a comprehensive kit for artists of all levels.
- The pencils are made of natural and environmentally friendly materials, and are non-toxic and conform to strict safety standards.
- The high-quality pigments and smooth lead cores make these pencils ideal for detailed illustrations, shading, and layering.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the erasers could be of better quality.
- The pencils may not be suitable for professional artists who require a wider range of shades and textures.
- The set comes with a large number of accessories, which may be overwhelming for beginners who are just starting out.
This set is perfect for artists who want a comprehensive kit that includes a wide range of pencils and accessories. The natural and environmentally friendly materials used in the pencils make them a great choice for those who are conscious about the environment. However, the erasers may not be of the highest quality and the set may not be suitable for professional artists who require a wider range of shades and textures.
The MARTCOLOR Drawing Sketching Pencils Set is a great gift for advanced artists, beginners, kids, art students, hobbyists, and starters. It’s perfect for detailing, sketching, drawing, shading, and blending. If you’re looking for a versatile artist pencil set, this is definitely worth considering.
Norberg & Linden XL Drawing Set
If you’re looking for a complete drawing kit that includes everything from pencils to erasers, then the Norberg & Linden XL Drawing Set is a great choice.
Pros
- Start sketching right away with a complete set of drawing supplies
- Equip yourself with sketching pencils of varying sizes for exact drawing lines
- Features a zippered pencil case for easy storage and transportation
Cons
- Some users reported that the woodless pencil broke easily
- The charcoal pencils may be too soft for some users’ preference
- The kneaded eraser may leave small bits behind when used
This drawing set includes 12 premium graphite pencils, 100 sheet drawing pad, 1 ultra soft all-graphite woodless specialist pencil, 2 sharpeners for graphite and charcoal pencils, 3 charcoal pencils in soft, medium and hard, 3 graphite and 3 charcoal sticks in soft, medium and hard, 1 kneaded eraser, one plastic/vinyl eraser, 1 sandpaper block, 3 paper blending stump, 1 pencil extender & 1 art knife.
The Norberg & Linden XL Drawing Set is suitable for novice to professional artists, and can be used by both kids and adults. The pencils range from the thickest, 8B, to the finest, 5H, allowing you to develop technical skills. The set also includes a sketch pad and a kneaded eraser, making it a complete drawing kit.
The travel size case makes it easy to store and transport your drawing supplies. The zippered pencil case is compartmentalized for all your supplies, making it easy to find what you need.
At Norberg & Linden, they stand by their superior quality and customer service with your highest satisfaction or a 100% money back. So, if you’re looking for a complete drawing kit that includes everything you need to start sketching, the Norberg & Linden XL Drawing Set is a great choice.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying the best artist pencils, there are several factors that you should consider to ensure that you get the right product for your needs. Here are some of the key features that you should look for when buying artist pencils:
Lead Type
One of the most important factors to consider when buying artist pencils is the type of lead. The lead can be made from a variety of materials, including graphite, charcoal, and colored pigments. Each type of lead has its own unique properties, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs.
Hardness
The hardness of the lead is another important factor to consider. Harder leads are ideal for fine details and precision work, while softer leads are better for shading and blending. Make sure to choose the right hardness for the type of work you will be doing.
Pencil Shape
The shape of the pencil can also affect its performance. Round pencils are easier to grip and control, while hexagonal pencils are less likely to roll off your work surface. Triangular pencils can also be a good choice, as they provide a comfortable grip and prevent hand fatigue.
Quality
The quality of the pencil is also important. Look for pencils that are well-made and durable, with a smooth and consistent lead. Cheap, low-quality pencils can break easily and produce inconsistent results.
Price
Finally, consider the price of the pencils. While it’s important to choose high-quality pencils, you don’t want to overspend. Look for pencils that offer a good balance of quality and affordability.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best artist pencils for your needs and create stunning works of art.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated pencils for professional artists?
Professional artists often prefer pencils that offer a range of hardness levels, allowing for more versatility in shading and detailing. Some of the top-rated pencils for professional artists include Staedtler Mars Lumograph, Faber-Castell 9000, and Prismacolor Premier.
Which pencils are recommended for realistic sketching?
Realistic sketching often requires pencils that offer a good balance between softness and hardness. Some of the best pencils for realistic sketching include Derwent Graphic, Tombow Mono, and Koh-I-Noor Progresso.
What are the ideal pencils for beginners to start drawing and shading?
For beginners, it’s important to start with pencils that are easy to use and offer good control. Some of the ideal pencils for beginners include Staedtler Noris, Faber-Castell Grip, and Prismacolor Scholar.
Which brands are considered the best for art pencils?
There are many brands that produce high-quality art pencils, but some of the most popular and trusted brands include Staedtler, Faber-Castell, Derwent, and Prismacolor.
What types of pencils do experienced artists prefer for their work?
Experienced artists often have their own preferences when it comes to pencils, but many prefer pencils that offer a range of hardness levels and are easy to blend. Some of the most popular types of pencils among experienced artists include graphite, charcoal, and colored pencils.
What are the highest quality colored pencils for artistic use?
When it comes to colored pencils, artists often look for pencils that offer vibrant colors, good lightfastness, and are easy to blend. Some of the highest quality colored pencils for artistic use include Prismacolor Premier, Faber-Castell Polychromos, and Caran d’Ache Luminance.
