Drawing Pencils for Shading
There are a few things you need to know before purchasing the best drawing pencils for shading. Quality and price are important factors, but so is the lead type. We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 drawing pencils for shading based on these criteria, as well as user reviews.
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What is a Drawing Pencil for Shading?
A drawing pencil is a thin wood cylinder that has been sharpened to one end, with a piece of graphite (or another pigment) in the other end. These are typically used to create shaded drawings, such as sketches, portraits, or landscapes.
When trying to achieve a softly shaded look, graphite pencils are an excellent option as they create a darker mark when applied more heavily. Though they are used in a variety of different art forms, graphite pencils are most associated with sketching.
How to Choose a Drawing Pencil for Shading
The graphite content within each pencil will affect how dark your shading mark will be, so it’s important to take this into consideration when choosing a pencil for your shading needs.
Graphite – This is the most common drawing pencil type, making up around 90% of pencils worldwide. It is soft and dark, making it perfect for creating subtle shading.
Mixed media – These are a hybrid between graphite and charcoal, offering the best of both worlds. They have a smooth application, creating a dark mark, but can be easily erased when you’re done, unlike graphite.
Charcoal – Filled with soft charcoal dust, charcoal pencils are best suited to bold shading. They are great for bold sketching and creating larger areas of shadow.
Graphite pencils come in a range of different ‘grades’, with the most common being 2B. This refers to the hardness of the graphite, with B being the softest and 2H being the hardest. The higher the number attached to the pencil, the harder the graphite, and thus, the lighter the mark it will leave on the paper.
4 Best Drawing Pencils for Shading used by Pros
- Faber-Castell Graphite Drawing Pencils – These are a popular choice for artists of all levels, made from high-quality graphite, with a sturdy wooden casing. They are great for sketching and shading and come in a range of different grades.
- Derwent Graphite Drawing Pencils – These pencils are available in a huge range of different grades, making them a fantastic option for artists of all skill levels. They are also a great choice for shading.
- Caran d’Ache Luminance Artists’ Graphite – These pencils have a unique blend of graphite and clay, giving them a creamy/sketchy feel, as well as a smooth application. They are perfect for blending and creating soft marks, making them ideal for shading.
- Prismacolor Premier Turquoise Graphite Pencils – These pencils have a soft graphite lead, making them perfect for blending and creating subtle shading. They come in a range of different grades, making them a great choice for beginner and professional artists alike.
1. Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Sketch Pencil
Whether you are a beginner or a professional, the Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Sketch Pencil is the perfect tool for your next project. This pencil is made with high-quality graphite that gives you smooth and even shading. The pencil also has a comfortable grip that makes it easy to hold and use. With its precision tip, the Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Sketch Pencil is perfect for drawing fine lines and detailed sketches.
2. Derwent Graphic Pencil
If you’re passionate about drawing, then you know that having the right tools can make all the difference. That’s why artists love Derwent Graphic Pencils. These pencils are perfect for shading and creating richly detailed drawings.
With Derwent Graphic Pencils, you’ll be able to achieve a wide range of tones and shades. Whether you’re looking to add depth and dimension to your drawings, or simply want to create a more realistic effect, these pencils will help you get the job done.
So if you’re serious about your art, be sure to check out Derwent Graphic Pencils. With these pencils in your toolkit, you’ll be able to take your drawings to the next level.
3. Caran D’ache Graphite Line
Caran d’Ache is a company that produces some of the best drawing pencils for shading on the market. Their pencils are made from high-quality graphite, which gives them a smooth, rich color that is perfect for creating shadows and depth in your drawings.
This brand of graphite pencils comes in a variety of different sizes and hardness levels, so you can find the perfect one for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a soft pencil for delicate shading or a harder one for more precise lines, Caran d’Ache has you covered.
If you’re looking for the best drawing pencils for shading, look no further than Caran d’Ache. Their high-quality graphite pencils will give your drawings the depth and shadows you’re looking for.
4. Prismacolor Premier Turquoise Graphite Pencils
Prismacolor Premier Turquoise Graphite Pencils are perfect for drawing and shading. The pencils have a smooth, creamy texture that glides across the paper, making them ideal for detailed work. The pencils are made with high-quality graphite that is perfect for achieving rich, dark tones.
6 Quality Drawing Pencils for Shading Brands
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, having the right tools is essential for creating beautiful works of art. When it comes to drawing pencils, there are many different types and brands to choose from. Here are an additional 6 quality brands of drawing pencils that are great for shading:
5. Amazon Basics Sketch and Drawing Art Pencil
Amazon Basics Sketch and Drawing Art Pencils are the perfect tools for any artist. They come in a set of 12, which includes six different pencils for shading. The pencils are made of high-quality wood and graphite, and they’re perfect for both beginners and professionals. With their classic black barrels and sleek silver ferrules, these pencils will make any artist’s work look great.
6. Castle Art Supplies 26 Piece Drawing and Sketching Pencil
Castle Art Supplies 26 Piece Drawing and Sketching Pencil Art Set is a great set for those who want to get started with drawing and sketching. The set includes pencils for shading, drawing, and sketching, as well as a sharpener and eraser. The pencils are made of high-quality wood, so they are durable and will last long. The set also comes with a carrying case, so you can take it with you wherever you go.
7. Cool Blank Professional Drawing Pencil
A good set of drawing pencils is a must-have for any artist, whether they’re a beginner or a professional. With 52 different pencils to choose from, this set has all the bases covered. From light shading to dark shading, there’s a pencil that will suit every need.
The pencils are made from high-quality materials and are designed to last. They’re also comfortable to hold and easy to use, so artists of all levels can get the most out of them. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been drawing for years, this set is a great addition to your art supplies.
8. Norberg & Linden XL Drawing Pencil Set
If you’re looking for a top-quality pencil set for your shading needs, look no further than the Norberg & Linden XL Drawing Pencil Set. This set comes with 12 pencils in a range of lead sizes from 2H to 6B, so you can find the perfect lead for any project.
The pencils are made from high-quality cedar wood and feature extra-long 4mm leads that are perfect for precision shading. The set also includes a sharpener and eraser, so you have everything you need to get started.
9. Adkwse Shading Pencils
Adkwse Art Supplies, Sketching Drawing Kit Set with Shading Pencils is one of the most comprehensive and affordable drawing pencil sets on the market. It comes with 12 shading pencils that are perfect for both beginners and professionals. The pencils are made of high-quality materials and they are very easy to use. With this set, you will be able to create beautiful sketches and drawings.
10. H & B Drawing Pencils Set
H & B Drawing Pencils Set is the perfect set of drawing pencils for those who need a little bit of everything. With 12 different pencils to choose from, this set offers a wide range of options for artists of all levels. The pencils are made with high-quality materials and come in a convenient carrying case, making them the perfect choice for those on the go.
Conclusion
We shared a list of 10 of the best drawing pencils for shading for your consideration. We hope that they would have helped you make an informed decision when you make your next purchase.
When it comes to drawing, having high-quality drawing pencils for shading are an incredibly important part of the process. Whether you’re sketching something from life or using it as a creative outlet, drawing pencils for shading is an essential tool for shading and adding texture and other details to your work.
Which of the top 10 drawing pencils for shading will you buy? Share in the comments below.
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