Best Pencil for Drawing and Shading: Top Picks for Artists

Best Pencil for Drawing And Shading: Choosing the right pencil for drawing can really improve your artwork. It might seem simple, but there’s more to it than just grabbing any pencil. You’ll need to think about things like the pencil’s material, how hard or soft it is, and which brand makes it.

In this guide, we’ll show you ten of the best drawing pencils available today. We’ll explain what makes each pencil stand out, list their pros and cons, and help you decide which one fits your drawing style and needs. Whether you’re a professional artist, an art student, or someone who likes to sketch for fun, this guide will help you pick the perfect pencil to bring your ideas to life.

1. Faber-Castell 9000 Series

The Faber-Castell 9000 Series is a popular choice for artists because it offers high-quality graphite and a wide range of pencil types. Whether you’re looking for light, thin lines or dark, bold shading, this series has you covered, with options from harder pencils like 2H to softer ones like 9B. Each pencil is made with smooth graphite, making them great for detailed drawings or simple sketches. They are about 7 inches long, which is a comfortable size for most people, and their hexagonal shape gives a better grip for more control when drawing.

One of the standout features of the Faber-Castell 9000 Series is its durability. The pencils are made from cedar wood, making them sturdy and less likely to break, even when sharpened to a fine point. They also have a sleek, shiny finish that gives them a polished, professional appearance. However, they don’t come with an eraser, so you’ll need to have one separately. the Faber-Castell 9000 Series is a reliable choice for artists, offering strength and versatility for various drawing techniques.

Specifications

Grades Available: 2H, H, HB, B, 2B, 4B, 6B, 8B, 9B
Material: High-quality graphite
Length: Standard 7 inches
Shape: Hexagonal
Eraser: No
Wood Type: Cedar
Break Resistance: Yes
Finish: Lacquered

Features

Smooth Application: The Faber-Castell 9000 Series pencils offer a smooth and consistent application, ideal for various drawing techniques.
Excellent Lightfastness: The high-quality graphite ensures that your drawings remain vibrant and resistant to fading.
Good for Fine Details and Shading: These pencils are perfect for detailed work and smooth shading.
Easy to Sharpen: They sharpen well, producing a fine point without breaking.
Consistent Quality Across Grades: Each grade in the series maintains high quality, providing reliable performance.

Pros

Versatile for Various Drawing Styles: From detailed sketches to broad strokes, these pencils are versatile enough for different artistic styles.
High Durability: The durable construction and break-resistant lead make them a long-lasting choice.
Rich Pigmentation: The pencils offer rich, deep blacks and subtle grays, enhancing the depth of your work.

Cons

May Be Pricier Than Competitors: Faber-Castell pencils are often more expensive than other brands.
Some Users Find Softer Grades Break Easily: Softer grades, such as 6B and 8B, may break more frequently during use.
Limited Availability in Some Regions: Depending on your location, these pencils might be harder to find.

2. Staedtler Mars Lumograph

The Staedtler Mars Lumograph pencils are made for artists and professionals who need good, reliable tools. They come in different types, like harder pencils (2H and H) for lighter lines and softer ones (6B, 8B, 9B) for darker shading. These pencils work well for drawing, shading, and adding fine details. Each pencil is 7 inches long and has a hexagonal shape that makes it easy to hold.

The pencils are made from eco-friendly wood, so they are strong and don’t break easily, even when sharpened. They don’t have erasers, but they have a smooth, matte finish that looks nice. Staedtler Mars Lumograph pencils are known for being durable and easy to use, making them a great choice for anyone who needs accurate drawing tools.

Specifications

Grades Available: 2H, H, HB, B, 2B, 4B, 6B, 8B, 9B
Material: Graphite
Length: 7 inches
Shape: Hexagonal
Eraser: No
Wood Type: Sustainably sourced wood
Break Resistance: Yes
Finish: Matte

Features

High-Quality Graphite for Smooth Lines: The graphite core ensures a smooth, consistent application of lines.
Excellent for Both Sketching and Detailed Work: Suitable for a wide range of artistic applications.
Eco-Friendly Production: Made from sustainably sourced wood, making it an environmentally conscious choice.
Available in a Wide Range of Grades: Provides flexibility for different drawing techniques.
Good for Shading and Blending: The pencils are ideal for creating smooth gradients and blending.

Pros

Durable and Long-Lasting: Known for their durability and resistance to breakage.
Smooth Application Without Smudging: Provides a clean, precise line that doesn’t smudge easily.
Great for Beginners and Professionals Alike: Their versatility and ease of use make them suitable for artists of all skill levels.

Cons

Some Grades May Be Too Soft for Detailed Work: Softer grades can be less precise for fine details.
Can Be More Expensive Than Other Brands: The quality comes at a higher price point.
Limited Availability in Some Stores: Finding these pencils may be challenging in certain locations.

3. Koh-I-Noor 1500 Series

The Koh-I-Noor 1500 Series pencils come in different types, like 2H, H, HB, B, 2B, 4B, 6B, and 8B. They are made from high-quality graphite, making them great for drawing and shading. Each pencil is 7 inches long and has a hexagonal shape, making it easy to hold.

These pencils are made from strong cedar wood, so they don’t break easily, even when sharpened. They don’t have an eraser, but the smooth lacquered finish gives them a nice, polished look. The Koh-I-Noor 1500 Series is a good choice for artists who need sturdy and dependable pencils for detailed work.

Specifications

Grades Available: 2H, H, HB, B, 2B, 4B, 6B, 8B
Material: Graphite
Length: 7 inches
Shape: Hexagonal
Eraser: No
Wood Type: Cedar
Break Resistance: Yes
Finish: Lacquered

Features

Smooth Application and Excellent Blending: These pencils are designed for a smooth, blendable application.
Good for Both Fine Lines and Shading: Versatile enough for detailed work and shading.
Wide Range of Grades for Versatility: Provides a comprehensive range of hardness for various techniques.
Comfortable Grip: Ergonomically designed for a comfortable drawing experience.
High-Quality Lead: Ensures consistent performance across all grades.

Pros

Affordable Compared to Other High-End Brands: Offers good quality at a lower price point.
Great for Beginners: The affordability and performance make it a good choice for newcomers.
Good Durability: Designed to withstand frequent use and sharpening.

Cons

Softer Leads Can Break Easily: Softer pencils might be prone to breakage.
Some Users Report Inconsistency in Quality: There can be variability in the quality of the pencils.
Limited Availability in Some Regions: Availability might be restricted depending on your location.

4. Derwent Graphic Pencils

Derwent Graphic Pencils come in different grades like 2H, H, HB, B, 2B, 4B, 6B, and 8B, each suited for different drawing styles. They’re made from high-quality graphite for smooth lines. Each pencil is 7 inches long, hexagonal for easy grip, and made from strong, sustainably sourced wood that resists breaking. They have a matte finish for a professional look but don’t include erasers.

Specifications

Grades Available: 2H, H, HB, B, 2B, 4B, 6B, 8B
Material: Graphite
Length: 7 inches
Shape: Hexagonal
Eraser: No
Wood Type: Sustainably sourced wood
Break Resistance: Yes
Finish: Matte

Features

Smooth and Consistent Application: Delivers a reliable performance for various drawing techniques.
Ideal for Detailed Work and Shading: Provides precision and smooth shading capabilities.
Good for Layering and Blending: The pencils can be layered to achieve different textures and effects.
Wide Range of Hardness Grades: Offers a variety of grades for different artistic needs.
Eco-Friendly Production: Made with environmentally friendly materials.

Pros

High-Quality and Durable: Known for their long-lasting performance.
Excellent for Professional Artists: Suitable for detailed and professional work.
Good Value for the Price: Offers high-quality features at a reasonable cost.

Cons

Softer Leads May Wear Down Quickly: Softer pencils can wear down faster with heavy use.
Can Be Difficult to Find in Some Areas: Availability might be limited in certain regions.
Limited Color Options: Focuses solely on graphite, without colored pencil options.

5. Blackwing 602

Blackwing 602 pencils come in Soft and Firm grades. They are made of graphite, are 7.5 inches long, and have a square shape for easy handling.

Made from California cedar, these pencils are fairly strong and resist breaking. They have a matte finish and include a replaceable eraser, so you can keep using them without worrying about the eraser wearing out.

Specifications

Grades Available: Soft, Firm
Material: Graphite
Length: 7.5 inches
Shape: Square
Eraser: Replaceable
Wood Type: California cedar
Break Resistance: Moderate
Finish: Matte

Features

Unique Square Design for Better Grip: The square shape provides a comfortable and secure grip.
Smooth Application with Rich Pigmentation: Delivers a smooth, high-quality line with deep pigmentation.
Replaceable Eraser for Longevity: The replaceable eraser extends the life of the pencil.
Ideal for Sketching and Shading: Versatile enough for both fine and broad strokes.
Good for Both Fine and Broad Strokes: Provides flexibility for different drawing styles.

Pros

Highly Regarded by Artists for Its Quality: Popular among professional artists for its superior performance.
Comfortable to Hold: The unique design enhances comfort during extended use.
Versatile for Different Drawing Styles: Suitable for various artistic techniques and styles.

Cons

More Expensive Than Standard Pencils: The premium quality comes with a higher price tag.
Limited Availability: May not be easily found in all stores.
Breaks More Easily Than Harder Pencils: Softer leads can be more prone to breakage.

6. Tombow Mono Drawing Pencils

Tombow Mono Drawing Pencils come in grades H, HB, B, and 2B, which help with different shading and detail work. They’re made of high-quality graphite and are 7.5 inches long, making them comfortable to hold.

These pencils have a hexagonal shape that prevents them from rolling away and includes an eraser for quick corrections. They are made from recycled wood, which makes them strong and eco-friendly.

With a glossy finish, these pencils not only look nice but are also enjoyable to use. They’re a good choice for artists of all levels because they’re reliable and easy to work with.

Specifications

Grades Available: H, HB, B, 2B
Material: Graphite
Length: 7.5 inches
Shape: Hexagonal
Eraser: Yes (attached)
Wood Type: Recycled wood
Break Resistance: Yes
Finish: Glossy

Features

Smooth Lead for Easy Application: Provides a smooth, consistent application for various techniques.
Good for Fine Details and Shading: Ideal for detailed work and shading.
Eco-Friendly Materials: Made from recycled wood, reflecting a commitment to sustainability.
Comfortable Grip: Ergonomically designed for comfort during use.
High-Quality Eraser: Includes a high-quality eraser for clean corrections.

Pros

Affordable and Widely Available: Offers good value and is easy to find in stores.
Good for Beginners and Professionals: Suitable for a range of skill levels.
Versatile for Various Techniques: Works well for different drawing techniques and styles.

Cons

Limited Range of Grades: Fewer grades available compared to other brands.
Some Users Prefer Other Brands for Shading: Other pencils might be preferred for specific shading techniques.
Softer Leads May Wear Down Quickly: Softer grades can wear down faster with frequent use.

7. Prismacolor Scholar Colored Pencils

Prismacolor Scholar Colored Pencils come in grades 2H, H, HB, B, and 2B, so you can choose the right one for shading and detail. They are made of good-quality graphite and are 7 inches long, which makes them easy to use.

These pencils are round, so they might roll if you put them down. They don’t have an eraser, so you’ll need to use a separate one if you make mistakes. They’re made from cedar wood, which is strong and sharpens well.

The pencils have a shiny lacquer finish, making them look nice and durable. They’re a solid choice for students and artists who need reliable and sturdy pencils.

Specifications

Grades Available: 2H, H, HB, B, 2B
Material: Graphite
Length: 7 inches
Shape: Round
Eraser: No
Wood Type: Cedar
Break Resistance: Moderate
Finish: Lacquered

Features

Smooth Application with Rich Pigmentation: Offers smooth application and vibrant pigmentation.
Good for Layering and Blending: Ideal for creating layered effects and blending.
Affordable for Students: Priced reasonably, making it accessible for students and beginners.
Available in a Variety of Colors: Provides a range of colors for diverse artistic needs.
Comfortable Grip: Designed for ease of use during extended drawing sessions.

Pros

Excellent Value for the Price: Affordable yet provides good quality.
Good for Both Beginners and Advanced Artists: Versatile enough for different skill levels.
Versatile for Various Drawing Techniques: Works well for a variety of techniques and styles.

Cons

Softer Leads May Break Easily: Softer leads can be prone to breakage.
Not as Durable as Higher-End Brands: Less durable compared to premium pencils.
Limited Availability in Some Regions: Availability may vary depending on location.

See This also: Best Pencil Sharpeners for Artists

Conclusion

Choosing the right drawing pencil is essential for achieving the best results in your artistic work. Each pencil reviewed here has its unique features, strengths, and weaknesses, catering to different artistic needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize durability, smooth application, or environmental considerations, there’s a pencil on this list that will suit your requirements.

Consider the type of work you do, your preferred drawing techniques, and your budget when selecting a pencil. Professional artists might lean towards high-quality options like the Faber-Castell 9000 Series or Blackwing 602, while beginners and students might find value in the Koh-I-Noor 1500 Series or Prismacolor Scholar Colored Pencils. For those who enjoy the expressive qualities of charcoal, the General Pencil Company Charcoal Pencils offer an excellent alternative.

By understanding the specifications, features, and pros and cons of each pencil, you can make an informed decision and select the best tool to enhance your creative process. Happy drawing!