Derwent Strong Core Long-Lasting Drawing Pencil Set, 12-Piece

Pencils, one of the most essential tools of human written communication, are also universal tools for sketching, drawing and shading.  Drawing pencils are produced in several different graphite grades, allowing the user to produce everything from fine lines to textured shading. The grades can range from 4H to 12B, with B-grade numbers indicating the graphite’s level of blackness or softness and H-grade numbers indicating its level of hardness. Pencils with a higher H number will create cleaner, lighter tones that are less susceptible to smudging, while pencils with a higher B number produce richer, darker tones that are ideal for shading.

Pencil sets include a collection of varying lead grades, so you can use different tones to create depth and dimension. Gauging your volume of usage is the first step to determining which pencil set is right for you. For example, if you just need pencils for stretching out ideas or causal doodling, a 40-piece art set may not be necessary. Those kits, which can include items like charcoal pencils, multiple erasers and sharpeners, and shading tools, are better suited for more complex art projects.

• Pencils with a hexagonal casing have well-defined edges that make them easy to grip, giving users superior control. They also won’t roll off your work surface as easily.
• Look for pencil sets that are made from non-toxic, eco-friendly materials.
• For beginner sketchers, some artists recommend using H-scale pencils as a foundation for your drawings, then finishing with darker B-scale pencils.
• Gripping the pencil as close to the point as possible will give you more control but will produce heavier, darker lines.
• To avoid smudging your work, place an extra piece of paper under your hand and consider using a blending stick for smoother shading.