What Pencil is Best for Shading: A Comprehensive Guide for 2024

When it comes to shading, having the right pencil can make all the difference. Whether you’re an artist, designer, or just someone who likes to doodle, finding the best pencil for shading can take your work to the next level.

Pencils come in a variety of types and grades, each with its unique characteristics. For shading, you’ll want to look for pencils with soft leads that can produce a range of tones. The most common types of pencils for shading are graphite and charcoal.

Graphite pencils are the most widely used and come in a range of grades from 9H (hardest) to 9B (softest). The higher the number, the softer the lead, which means it will produce darker tones. Charcoal pencils, on the other hand, are made from compressed charcoal and come in a limited range of grades. They produce a darker, richer tone than graphite pencils and are ideal for creating dramatic shading effects.

When choosing a pencil for shading, it’s essential to consider the type of work you’ll be doing. If you’re working on a detailed drawing, you may want to opt for a graphite pencil with a harder lead, such as an HB or 2H. If you’re looking to create a more expressive or dramatic piece, a charcoal pencil may be the way to go.

Ultimately, the best pencil for shading will depend on your personal preferences and the type of work you’re doing. In the next section, we’ll take a closer look at the different types of pencils available and what to consider when making a purchase.

Best Pencils for Shading

If you’re an artist or an art student, you know how important it is to have the right tools for the job. When it comes to shading, having the right pencil can make all the difference. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best pencils for shading. We’ve done the research so you don’t have to. Below are our top picks for pencils that will help you achieve the perfect shading in your artwork.

Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set – 14 Pieces Graphite Pencils

If you’re looking for a versatile set of pencils for shading, the Brusarth Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set is a great option to consider.

Pros

• With 14 pre-sharpened professional quality graphite pencils, you’ll have a wide variety of hardness options to choose from for all your artwork needs.
• The pencils are eco-friendly and contain evenly distributed graphite, resulting in a longer-lasting point. They’re also extra break-resistant, making them easy to sharpen and erase.
• These pencils are perfect for budding artists and amateurs of all ages looking to develop their drawing skills, with great shading and blending capability for crafting detailed illustrations and textured shading like a professional artist.

Cons

• Some users have noted that the pencils are thinner and shorter than standard pencils, which may require more frequent ordering.
• While the set provides a nice variety of sizes, some users may prefer a wider range of hardness options.
• The pencils may not be suitable for more advanced or professional graphic and artistic applications on paper and matte drawing film.

Overall, the Brusarth Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set is a solid choice for anyone looking for a versatile set of pencils for shading. Whether you’re a beginner or a more experienced artist, these pencils offer great quality and value for the price.

YUANCHENG Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set

If you’re looking for a versatile set of pencils that can offer you a range of hardnesses for graphite sketching, then the YUANCHENG Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set is worth considering.

Pros

• Includes a range of hardnesses for graphite sketching
• Portable and eco-friendly
• Great for shading and blending

Cons

• Some users may prefer a larger set of pencils
• May not be suitable for professional artists
• Some users may find the pencils too soft or too hard for their liking

This set of 12 graphite pencils offers a range of hardnesses for the pencil artist, including 14B, 12B, 10B, 8B, 6B, 4B, 2B, B, HB, F, H, and 2H. The pencils are portable and come in a sturdy hexagonal barrel. The graphite is even, smooth, and blends easily. The pencils are also non-toxic and eco-friendly, conforming to ASTM D-4236 and EN71 standards.

The YUANCHENG Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set is great for shading and blending capability, allowing you to create detailed illustrations and textured shading like a professional artist. The set is organized and is great for students working on craft or construction paper, detailed sketching, high-level artistic skills, and even for hobbyists who love scrapbooking.

If you’re looking to develop your drawing skills, then this set of pencils is a good gift for family, neighbors, friends, and children. The manufacturer promises a replacement or an immediate refund if you’re not 100% satisfied with your purchase.

In summary, the YUANCHENG Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set is a versatile set of pencils that can offer you a range of hardnesses for graphite sketching. Its portability and eco-friendly features make it a great choice for budding artists and amateurs of all ages looking to develop their drawing skills.

Heshengping Sketching Pencil Set

If you’re looking for a versatile sketching pencil set, the Heshengping Sketching Pencil Set might be worth considering.

Pros

• This set includes 14 pre-sharpened sketching pencils of varying lead hardness, which gives you a lot of options for shading and detailing your drawings.
• The hexagonal shape of the pencils prevents them from rolling off your work surface, which is a nice touch.
• The pencils are said to have a smooth writing feel, which can make them more enjoyable to use.

Cons

• Some reviewers have reported issues with the lead smudging or smearing, which can make it difficult to achieve clean lines.
• While this set includes a good range of lead hardness, it may not be the best choice if you need very specific lead types for your artwork.
• The quality of the pencils may not be as high as some more expensive sets, so they may not last as long.

Overall, the Heshengping Sketching Pencil Set is a decent option for artists who need a range of lead hardness options for their work. However, if you need very specific types of lead or want the highest quality pencils, you may want to consider other options.

Sketching Pencil Drawing Pencils Set-26pcs, Art Supplies Drawing Kit,Graphite Charcoal Pro Draw Pencil Set,gift for Adults Beginners Artist for drawing sketching Grey | 26 Pack

If you are looking for a complete set of drawing pencils, the Sketching Pencil Drawing Pencils Set-26pcs is a great option for both beginners and professionals.

Pros

• The set includes 14 sketching pencils, 3 charcoal pencils, 3 paper blending stumps, 2 erasers, 1 art knife, 1 pencil extender, 1 sandpaper block, and 1 pencil case, providing everything you need to create your artwork.
• The charcoal pencils and graphite sticks with different hardness levels allow you to create a wide range of shades and enhance your sketching technique.
• The set is portable and easy to carry, making it perfect for use at home, school, office, or while traveling.

Cons

• The set does not include a sharpener, so you will need to purchase one separately if you need it.
• Some customers have reported that the quality of the paper blending stumps is not very good.
• The pencils may not be as durable as higher-end brands, so they may need to be replaced more frequently.

This drawing set is perfect for anyone who wants to create, learn, explore, hone, and enhance their drawing and sketching skills. It is also an excellent gift for birthdays, Christmas, New Year, or any other occasion. The Sketching Pencil Drawing Pencils Set-26pcs is a great option for those who are just starting out or for those who want a complete set of drawing pencils at an affordable price.

PANDAFLY Charcoal Pencils Drawing Set

If you’re looking for a versatile set of charcoal pencils for sketching, shading, coloring, layering, and blending, the PANDAFLY Charcoal Pencils Drawing Set is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The set includes 12 unique, vivid, richly pigmented light-fast premium color charcoal pencils, perfect for creating realistic portrait art.
• The soft thick 0.4mm lead cores are ultra-smooth and lay down color evenly, making blending, shading, shadowing, and layering effortless.
• The charcoal particles are mixed with the finest clays and wood encased, making these pencils safe, non-toxic, super pigmented, smooth, layered nicely, and easy to sharpen.

Cons

• The pencils are not sharpened, so you’ll have to sharpen them yourself.
• Some users have reported that the pencils crack or break when sharpened, so you’ll need to be careful when sharpening them.
• The set only includes 12 colors, so if you need a wider range of colors, you’ll need to purchase additional sets or individual pencils.

If you’re an artist looking for a high-quality set of charcoal pencils that are versatile and easy to use, the PANDAFLY Charcoal Pencils Drawing Set is an excellent choice. With their soft, thick lead cores and vivid, richly pigmented colors, these pencils are perfect for creating dynamic works of art. Plus, they’re safe, non-toxic, and easy to sharpen, making them a great choice for artists of all skill levels.

RAAM REFINED Colored Pencils

If you’re looking for high-quality colored pencils with a wide range of vibrant colors, then the RAAM REFINED Colored Pencils are a great option.

Pros

• These artist-grade colored pencils contain a higher proportion of pigment, resulting in richer, bolder colors that are more lightfast and easier to blend.
• The pencils are safe and non-toxic, certified by ASTM-D4236 and free from most common allergens.
• The superior metal box packaging with trays inside provides ample space for storing and selecting colors, making it an ideal gift for friends and children during holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Cons

• Some users may find the price to be a bit higher compared to other colored pencils on the market.
• The pencils may break more easily than other brands if not handled with care.
• The set does not include a pencil sharpener.

If you’re an artist or coloring enthusiast looking for high-quality colored pencils with a wide range of vibrant colors, the RAAM REFINED Colored Pencils are an excellent choice. The artist-grade pencils contain a higher proportion of pigment, resulting in richer, bolder colors that are more lightfast and easier to blend. Additionally, the pencils are safe and non-toxic, certified by ASTM-D4236, and free from most common allergens. The superior metal box packaging with trays inside provides ample space for storing and selecting colors, making it an ideal gift for friends and children during holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas.

However, some users may find the price to be a bit higher compared to other colored pencils on the market. Additionally, the pencils may break more easily than other brands if not handled with care. Finally, it’s worth noting that the set does not include a pencil sharpener, so you’ll need to purchase one separately if you don’t already have one.

Overall, the RAAM REFINED Colored Pencils are a great choice for artists and coloring enthusiasts looking for high-quality, vibrant colored pencils with a wide range of colors.

HAIHAOMUM Sketch Pencils for Drawing HB

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for shading, HAIHAOMUM Sketch Pencils for Drawing HB might be a good choice for you.

Pros

• The HB graphite pencil is a good all-purpose pencil that can be used for extreme fine lines and light, even shading.
• Made of non-toxic and eco-friendly materials, these pencils are safe for artists of all ages.
• The classic hexagonal design provides optimal comfort when holding these sketching pencils.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the pencils break easily, especially the softer and darker leads.
• The lack of erasers at the top of the pencils might be inconvenient for some users.
• The quality of the pencils might not be as high as more expensive options.

If you’re a beginner or looking for a set of pencils for occasional use, HAIHAOMUM Sketch Pencils for Drawing HB might be a good option for you. These pencils are budget-friendly, non-toxic, and easy to hold. However, if you’re a professional artist or looking for high-quality shading pencils, you might want to consider more expensive options.

Pencil Buddies Sketch Pencils

If you’re looking for a versatile and eco-friendly set of pencils for shading, the Pencil Buddies Sketch Pencils are a great option.

Pros

• The triangular design provides control and comfort, reducing hand fatigue, making it suitable for all, including kids.
• The set includes 12 pro-quality triangular pencils (8B-6H) for artists, illustrators, and designers, making it a versatile drawing set.
• The graphite is smooth and blendable, encased in premium basswood, conforming to safety standards, making it non-toxic and eco-friendly.

Cons

• The set doesn’t include any erasers, sharpeners, or other accessories.
• Some users may prefer round pencils over triangular ones.
• The pencils are not labeled with their degree of hardness, which may be inconvenient for some users.

The Pencil Buddies Sketch Pencils are a premium and gift-worthy set of pencils that are extra break-resistant, easy to sharpen, and great for doodling, drafting, and drawing. The non-toxic and eco-friendly design is perfect for those who are environmentally conscious. The triangular design provides control and comfort, reducing hand fatigue, making it suitable for all, including kids.

The set includes 12 pro-quality triangular pencils (8B-6H) for artists, illustrators, and designers, making it a versatile drawing set. The graphite is smooth and blendable, encased in premium basswood, conforming to safety standards, making it non-toxic and eco-friendly. However, the set doesn’t include any erasers, sharpeners, or other accessories, which may be inconvenient for some users. Additionally, some users may prefer round pencils over triangular ones, and the pencils are not labeled with their degree of hardness, which may also be inconvenient for some users.

Overall, the Pencil Buddies Sketch Pencils are a great option for those looking for a versatile and eco-friendly set of pencils for shading.

MARKART Drawing Sketching Pencil Set

If you’re looking for a high-quality drawing pencil set, the MARKART Drawing Sketching Pencil Set is a great option to consider.

Pros

• This set includes 14 pre-sharpened professional quality graphite pencils with a wide variety of hardness for all your artwork needs.
• The pencils are non-toxic and eco-friendly, conforming to strict ASTM D-4236 and EN71 standards, making them safe for all ages.
• The set offers great shading and blending capability, allowing you to create detailed illustrations and textured shading like a professional artist.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the pencils can break easily if dropped or applied with too much pressure.
• The set doesn’t include a case or pouch to store the pencils, making it less convenient for travel or storage.
• The pencils may not be suitable for more advanced artists who require a wider range of hardness levels or more specialized pencils.

The MARKART Drawing Sketching Pencil Set is ideal for beginners, experienced graphic designers, and professionals alike. With its excellent shading and blending capabilities, this set is perfect for drawing, sketching, and doodling. The non-toxic and eco-friendly pencils provide a smooth writing feeling, making them a top-quality sketch pencil for writing.

While the pencils are high-quality, some users have reported that they can break easily if dropped or applied with too much pressure. Additionally, the lack of a case or pouch to store the pencils can make them less convenient for travel or storage. Finally, more advanced artists may find that the set doesn’t offer enough hardness levels or specialized pencils.

Overall, the MARKART Drawing Sketching Pencil Set is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, versatile drawing pencil set. If you’re looking for a set that offers great shading and blending capabilities and is safe for all ages, this set is definitely worth considering.

Dainayw Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set

If you’re looking for a versatile shading pencil set, the Dainayw Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set might be for you.

Pros

• The set includes 12 pre-sharpened graphite pencils with varying hardness levels to meet all your artwork needs.
• These pencils are non-toxic and eco-friendly, conforming to strict ASTM D-4236 and EN71 standards.
• The pencils provide great shading and blending capabilities, making them ideal for creating detailed illustrations and textured shading like a professional artist.

Cons

• The set doesn’t include any erasers or sharpeners.
• The pencils might not be suitable for more advanced or professional artists who require a wider range of hardness levels.
• The pencils might not be as durable as some other high-end brands.

The Dainayw Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set is a great choice for budding artists and amateurs of all ages looking to develop their drawing skills. The set includes 12 pre-sharpened graphite pencils with varying hardness levels, enabling you to create lines of any thickness and color saturation. These pencils are non-toxic and eco-friendly, conforming to strict ASTM D-4236 and EN71 standards.

The pencils provide great shading and blending capabilities, making them ideal for creating detailed illustrations and textured shading like a professional artist. However, the set doesn’t include any erasers or sharpeners, so you’ll need to purchase those separately. Additionally, the pencils might not be suitable for more advanced or professional artists who require a wider range of hardness levels. Finally, the pencils might not be as durable as some other high-end brands, so you might need to replace them more frequently.

Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile shading pencil set at an affordable price, the Dainayw Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set is definitely worth considering.

PANDAFLY Colour Charcoal Pencils Drawing Set

If you’re looking for a charcoal pencil set that is safe, non-toxic, and easy to sharpen, the PANDAFLY Colour Charcoal Pencils Drawing Set is worth considering.

Pros

• The thick 0.4 mm lead cores are ultra-smooth and lay down color evenly, allowing you to blend, shadow, and layer effortlessly.
• The charcoal particles are mixed with the finest clays and wood encased, making them non-toxic and eco-friendly.
• The set includes a variety of charcoal pencils, including black, white, brown, and suntan, making it a versatile choice for sketching, shading, and blending.

Cons

• The pencils may be prone to breaking when sharpened too aggressively.
• The set may not include enough charcoal pencils for more advanced artists who require a wider range of tones.
• The pencils may not be as pigmented as some other charcoal pencil sets on the market.

If you’re a beginner or intermediate artist looking for an affordable and versatile charcoal pencil set, the PANDAFLY Colour Charcoal Pencils Drawing Set is a good option. The thick 0.4 mm lead cores are easy to blend and layer, and the set includes a range of charcoal pencils to experiment with. However, more advanced artists may find the set lacking in terms of pigment and variety.

MISULOVE Premium Quality Charcoal Pencils Drawing Set

If you’re looking for a versatile set of charcoal pencils for drawing, shading, sketching, and more, the MISULOVE Premium Quality Charcoal Pencils Drawing Set is worth considering.

Pros

• The set includes 12 vibrant skin tone color shades for creating realistic portraits.
• The thick, smooth leads lay down color evenly for blending and shading.
• The charcoal pencils are non-toxic and eco-friendly, conforming to ASTM D4236 certification.

Cons

• The 0.4mm thick leads may be too soft for some users and may break easily.
• The pencils may smudge easily and require fixative spray to prevent smudging.
• The set may not include enough darker shades for some users.

This set of charcoal pencils is ideal for artists looking to create realistic portraits with skin tone colors. The thick, smooth leads make blending and shading a breeze, while the non-toxic and eco-friendly materials make it safe for use. However, the leads may be too soft for some users and may break easily. Additionally, the pencils may smudge easily and require fixative spray to prevent smudging. Overall, the MISULOVE Premium Quality Charcoal Pencils Drawing Set is a great choice for artists looking for a versatile set of charcoal pencils.

ArtSkills Sketch Pencils for Drawing, Graphite Art Pencil Set for Sketching & Shading, 8pc

If you’re in need of a versatile set of drawing pencils, the ArtSkills Sketch Pencils for Drawing, Graphite Art Pencil Set for Sketching & Shading, 8pc is worth considering.

Pros

• The set includes a variety of pencil values, allowing you to create a range of shading values in your artwork.
• The graphite cores of the pencils are easily blended, making it easy to create smooth gradients between shading values.
• These drawing pencils are great for artists of all ages, whether you’re a beginner or have been creating for years.

Cons

• The set only includes 2 pencils of each value, so if you use a certain pencil frequently, you may run out quickly.
• Some users may prefer a larger set of pencils with more values to choose from.
• The pencils are not labeled with their values, which may be inconvenient for some users.

The ArtSkills Sketch Pencils for Drawing, Graphite Art Pencil Set for Sketching & Shading, 8pc is a great option for those looking for a set of versatile drawing pencils. With a variety of pencil values included, you can create a range of shading values in your artwork. The graphite cores of the pencils are easily blended, making it easy to create smooth gradients between shading values. These drawing pencils are great for artists of all ages, whether you’re a beginner or have been creating for years.

One potential downside of this set is that it only includes 2 pencils of each value, so if you use a certain pencil frequently, you may run out quickly. Additionally, some users may prefer a larger set of pencils with more values to choose from. Finally, the pencils are not labeled with their values, which may be inconvenient for some users.

Overall, if you’re in need of a versatile set of drawing pencils, the ArtSkills Sketch Pencils for Drawing, Graphite Art Pencil Set for Sketching & Shading, 8pc is worth considering.

Buying Guide

When looking for a pencil for shading, there are a few features to consider before making a purchase. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:

Lead Hardness

The hardness of the lead is an important factor to consider when choosing a shading pencil. The harder the lead, the lighter the shade it will produce. Softer leads will produce darker shades. Look for a pencil with a range of lead hardness options to give you more flexibility in your shading.

Lead Quality

The quality of the lead is also an important factor to consider. Higher quality leads tend to be smoother and more consistent, which can lead to better shading results. Look for pencils with high-quality leads to ensure the best shading experience.

Grip and Comfort

When shading for long periods of time, the grip and comfort of the pencil can make a big difference. Look for pencils with comfortable grips that fit well in your hand. This will help prevent hand fatigue and allow you to focus on your shading.

Price

Pricing is always a factor to consider when making a purchase. While it’s important to choose a high-quality pencil, you don’t want to overspend. Look for pencils that fit your budget while still meeting your shading needs.

Brand Reputation

Finally, consider the reputation of the brand when making your purchase. Look for brands that are known for producing high-quality shading pencils. This will help ensure that you are getting a product that will meet your needs and last a long time.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best shading pencil for your needs and create beautiful shading in your artwork.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which pencil grades are recommended for effective shading techniques?

When it comes to shading, it’s important to have a variety of pencil grades. For effective shading, we recommend using pencils ranging from 2H to 6B. The harder pencils such as 2H, H and HB are great for light shading and drawing outlines, while the softer pencils such as 2B, 4B, and 6B are ideal for creating darker tones and shading.

What are the best pencil types for beginners to use for shading?

For beginners, we recommend using graphite pencils. Graphite pencils are easy to use and come in a range of grades that are perfect for shading. They are also widely available and affordable. You can start with a basic set of HB, 2B, and 4B pencils and gradually add more grades as you become more comfortable with shading.

How do different pencil grades affect the outcome of shading in a drawing?

Different pencil grades affect the outcome of shading in a drawing by producing different tones and textures. Harder pencils such as 2H, H, and HB produce lighter tones, while softer pencils such as 2B, 4B, and 6B produce darker tones. The texture of the shading also varies depending on the pencil grade used. Harder pencils produce a smoother texture, while softer pencils produce a rougher texture.

Can you suggest pencils that are ideal for creating dark shades?

If you’re looking to create dark shades in your drawings, we recommend using pencils with soft leads such as 4B, 6B, and 8B. These pencils are great for creating deep, rich tones and textures. You can also experiment with using different pressure and blending techniques to achieve the desired effect.

What should one consider when choosing a pencil for light shading effects?

When choosing a pencil for light shading effects, it’s important to consider the hardness of the lead. Harder pencils such as 2H, H, and HB are ideal for light shading as they produce lighter tones and textures. It’s also important to consider the paper you’re using, as some papers are better suited for light shading than others.

Are there specific pencils that professionals prefer for detailed shading work?

Professionals often prefer using mechanical pencils for detailed shading work. Mechanical pencils allow for precise control and can produce consistent lines and shading. They also come in a variety of lead grades and thicknesses, making them versatile for different types of shading. However, traditional graphite pencils can also be used for detailed shading work and are a popular choice among professionals.