When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

Best Graphite Pencils For Drawing (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a reliable tool to make your artwork a masterpiece, then a graphite pencil for drawing is an excellent choice. These pencils are perfect for artists of all levels, including beginners, hobbyists, and professionals. They offer a wide range of tones and shades, making it easy for you to bring your creative visions to life.

Before investing in a set of graphite pencils for drawing, it is important to consider a few factors. Firstly, consider the lead grade. A lead grade refers to the softness or hardness of the lead used in the pencil. For drawing, pencils with a softer lead are the best option, as they allow you to create a wider range of tones. Secondly, consider the composition of the pencil. Some pencils are made of pure graphite while others are a combination of graphite and clay. The composition of the pencil affects its durability and resistance to breakage. Lastly, consider the brand and price. The right brand offers reliable performance, and the price range should be affordable and reasonable within your budget.

Are you an art enthusiast looking for a reliable drawing tool to enhance your creative endeavors? Are you planning to purchase a set of graphite pencils for drawing but don't know which one to choose? Have you ever wondered how the composition of the pencil affects its durability? If these questions caught your attention, continue reading to find out more about graphite pencils for drawing – the ultimate tool for artists of all levels.

10 Best Graphite Pencils For Drawing

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for drawing, sketching, and other artistic applications that require a range of graphite pencils.
2
This product is ideal for artists who want a complete set of high-quality drawing tools and a convenient carrying case.
3
The product is ideal for drawing, sketching, shading and can be used by both beginner and professional artists.
4
This product is ideal for drawing and shading with its set of 14 graphite pencils designed for artists.
5
The product is ideal for artistic sketching and drawing with its range of graphite pencil tones.
6
The product is ideal for drawing and sketching, with break-resistant bonded lead and a metal case for storage.
7
This product is ideal for artists, architects, and writers who need different sized mechanical pencils for drawing or writing.
8
The product is ideal for artists and beginners who need a complete drawing kit with high-quality pencils and a portable sketchbook.
9
The product is ideal for drawing and writing with a wide range of shades, using high-quality graphite cores without the need for wood.
10
This product is ideal for sketching and drawing with black graphite pencils, providing rich dark tones and shading control.
The product is ideal for drawing, sketching, and other artistic applications that require a range of graphite pencils.
This product is ideal for artists who want a complete set of high-quality drawing tools and a convenient carrying case.
The product is ideal for drawing, sketching, shading and can be used by both beginner and professional artists.
This product is ideal for drawing and shading with its set of 14 graphite pencils designed for artists.
The product is ideal for artistic sketching and drawing with its range of graphite pencil tones.
The product is ideal for drawing and sketching, with break-resistant bonded lead and a metal case for storage.
This product is ideal for artists, architects, and writers who need different sized mechanical pencils for drawing or writing.
The product is ideal for artists and beginners who need a complete drawing kit with high-quality pencils and a portable sketchbook.
The product is ideal for drawing and writing with a wide range of shades, using high-quality graphite cores without the need for wood.
This product is ideal for sketching and drawing with black graphite pencils, providing rich dark tones and shading control.

1. Graphite Sketch Pencil Set By Faber-Castell

The Faber-Castell graphite pencils are perfect for both beginners and professional artists. They have a hexagonal shape that offers a comfortable grip and is easy to hold, making them ideal for sketching, graphic design, and shading. Made of finely ground graphite and clay, these pencils provide a smooth and balanced laydown for superior performance. The set includes six artist quality graphite pencils in various degrees of lead hardness: 2H, HB, B, 2B, 4B, 6B.

Faber-Castell graphite pencils feature a break-resistant lead that is glued the entire length of the pencil to ensure limitless drawing and easy sharpening. These pencils are made from reforested wood grown from FSC certified sustainable forestry, and they are manufactured with carbon neutral production. The CO2 emissions caused by the manufacturing process of this item are neutralized by certified projects.

Since 1761, Faber-Castell has been creating art and school supplies for kids, adults, and professional artists. The Faber-Castell Sketch Pencil Set is a high-quality drawing supply that offers durability and flexibility to the art student and aspiring artist.

Pros

  • The hexagonal shape of the pencils offers a comfortable grip and is easy to hold.
  • The break-resistant lead ensures limitless drawing and easy sharpening.
  • The set includes six artist quality graphite pencils in various degrees of lead hardness.
  • They are made from reforested wood grown from FSC certified sustainable forestry.
  • The manufacturing process is carbon neutral and CO2 emissions are neutralized by certified projects.
  • The Faber-Castell Sketch Pencil Set offers durability and flexibility to the art student and aspiring artist.

2. Castle Sketch Set: Complete 40-Piece Artist Kit

The Ultimate drawing set is perfect for both seasoned and starting sketchers. It comes in a robust and good-looking zipper case, which unfolds into organized sections that stand up for simple selection. The carry-anywhere functionality makes it easy to take with you wherever you go.

Curated by in-house artists, this set includes graphite, charcoal and pastel pencils, charcoal and graphite sticks, blenders, and tools to push your creative boundaries. The pencils are balanced and shaped to hold and control, and the premium quality ensures smooth application. The leads are break-defying and made from non-splinter wood, providing reliable performance. The blender is perfect for exploring techniques.

The Ultimate drawing set comes with a detailed and easy-to-follow 20-page book crammed with demos and tips to make the most of the art supplies. The fold-out tutorial allows you to create drawings using different techniques and media.

This drawing set has been tested by our studio experts to beat competitors and trusted by 1.5 million customers worldwide. It is backed by our unique Money-back Plus guarantee, ensuring your satisfaction with the product.

Pros

  • Curated by in-house artists for both seasoned and starting sketchers.
  • Robust and good-looking zipper case.
  • Carry-anywhere functionality.
  • Balanced and shaped pencils for easy control.
  • Premium quality for smooth application.
  • Non-splinter wood and break-defying leads.
  • Blender for exploring techniques.
  • Detailed and easy-to-follow 20-page book crammed with demos and tips.
  • Fold-out tutorial to create drawings using different techniques and media.
  • Tested and trusted by 1.5 million customers worldwide.
  • Money-back Plus guarantee.

3. Sketch Pro Set: 14 Artist Pencils

The Premium Drawing Sketch Pencil Set is a must-have in any artist's collection. With a wide variety of hardness, it includes 14 pre-sharpened professional-quality graphite pencils from 12B to 4H, perfect for all your artwork needs. These pencils allow you to create lines of any thickness and color saturation, making them suitable for crafting fine, detailed illustrations & textured shading.

These non-toxic and eco-friendly friendly pencils conform to strict ASTM D-4236 and EN71 standards, ensuring that they are safe for use by artists of all ages. The smooth writing feeling of these top-quality sketch pencils makes them ideal for writing too.

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

Ideal for drawing, sketching and doodling, this set is perfect for budding artists and amateurs of all ages looking to develop their drawing skills. It also makes a thoughtful gift for family, neighbors, and friends, especially for children.

Purchase the Premium Drawing Sketch Pencil Set without any risk. Your satisfaction is always the highest priority. If you don't feel 100% satisfied, please email the seller freely. They promise you a replacement or an immediate refund.

Pros

  • Includes 14 pre-sharpened professional-quality graphite pencils from 12B to 4H
  • Non-toxic and eco-friendly, conforming to strict ASTM D-4236 and EN71 standards
  • Great shading and blending capability, allowing you to craft detailed illustrations & textured shading like a professional artist
  • Ideal for drawing, sketching, and doodling, perfect for budding artists and amateurs of all ages
  • Makes a thoughtful gift for family, neighbors, and friends, especially for children

Cons

  • – None

4. Sketch Pencil Set: Mr. Pen's Essential Kit.

For the pencil artist who needs a comprehensive set of graphite sketch pencils, this set is the perfect choice. It includes 14 graphite pencils, ranging from 6H to 10B, offering the core range of harnesses for all your writing, drawing, sketching, and hatching needs. Whether you are a beginner, an intermediate, or an expert in the field of pencil art, this set is sure to impress.

These pencils are particularly suitable for professional graphic and artistic applications on paper and matte drawing film. They are made of high-quality materials and manufactured using state-of-the-art processes to ensure unbeatable product quality and durability. The super-bonded lead wears evenly and is easy to erase and sharpen, making it a breeze to work with.

If you want to take your pencil art to the next level, this set of graphite sketch pencils is the perfect tool to help you achieve your goals. It offers a smooth and consistent writing experience, with a range of harnesses to suit all your needs. Whether you are working on a detailed sketch or a bold drawing, these pencils will help you achieve the results you are looking for.

Pros

  • Comprehensive set of graphite sketch pencils
  • Range of harnesses from 6H to 10B
  • Suitable for writing, drawing, sketching, and hatching
  • Ideal for professional graphic and artistic applications
  • High-quality materials and manufacturing processes
  • Unbeatable product quality and durability
  • Super-bonded lead wears evenly and is easy to erase and sharpen

5. Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Sketch Pencil Sets Art 8b – 2h Set Of 12

This set of 12 pencils is perfect for artists, designers, and drawing students, as it offers an ideal range of 12 different degrees of hardness. The superior leads are made of finely ground graphite and clay, ensuring pure and premium quality pencils that are smooth and never scratchy. Whether you are a professional artist or a beginner, this set is perfect for all your drawing needs.

The pencils come in a sturdy case that keeps them organized and protected. The case is compact and easy to carry, making it convenient for artists who like to draw on-the-go. The pencils are also easy to sharpen, and the leads do not break easily.

The 12 different degrees of hardness range from very soft to very hard, making it easy to achieve a variety of tones and textures in your drawings. The softer pencils are perfect for shading and creating smooth gradients, while the harder pencils are great for adding fine details and textures.

Overall, this set of pencils is a must-have for anyone who loves to draw. The superior quality and range of hardness make it a great value for the price.

Pros

  • Set of 12 pencils with an ideal range of 12 different degrees of hardness
  • Superior leads made of finely ground graphite and clay
  • Pure and premium quality pencils that are smooth and never scratchy
  • Sturdy case that keeps the pencils organized and protected
  • Compact and easy to carry case, convenient for artists on-the-go
  • Easy to sharpen and the leads do not break easily
  • 12 different degrees of hardness range from very soft to very hard, making it easy to achieve a variety of tones and textures
  • Great value for the price

6. Metal Case Art Pencils: Staedtler Masterpieces

Introducing the premium quality drawing pencil that offers unbeatable break resistance! This drawing pencil is perfect for various applications such as writing, drawing, sketching, hatching, as well as professional graphic and artistic applications on paper and matte drawing film.

This set includes 12 finely graded consistent degrees of pencils that come in a portable metal storage tin. The set includes pencils with degrees of 6B, 5B, 4B, 3B, 2B, B, HB, F, H, 2H, 3H, and 4H, providing a wide range of options for artists and designers.

The super-bonded lead of the pencil wears evenly, making it easy to erase and sharpen. With first-class materials and manufacturing processes, this drawing pencil guarantees outstanding product quality that is unbeatable.

Pros

  • Unbeatable break resistance
  • Suitable for various applications
  • Finely graded consistent degrees of pencils
  • Portable metal storage tin included
  • Super-bonded lead wears evenly
  • Easy to erase and sharpen
  • Outstanding product quality

7. Nicpro Art Pencil Set: Draft, Draw, And Sketch!

The drafting pencils set comes with 6 pencils, 12 tubes of lead refill in 0.5mm, 0.7mm, 0.9mm, and 2.0mm, 3 erasers, 6 cap eraser refills, 2 lead sharpeners, and a storage case.

These drafting pencils are great for beginners, children, and adults alike thanks to their non-slip Comfort Grip, which makes them easy and fun to use. They provide an ideal weight balance for fatigue-free writing and drawing, allowing for more effective and high-quality tasks.

The 2.0mm mechanical pencil comes with a sharpener in the cap, making it easy to sharpen the lead refills when they become difficult to write with. Two extra lead sharpeners are provided to keep the fine point of the 2.0mm lead as it dulls.

Ideal for artists, professionals, teachers, and students alike, these pencils are perfect for writing, drafting, drawing, and sketching.

Pros

  • Includes a variety of lead refill sizes for versatility in writing and drawing
  • Non-slip Comfort Grip makes pencils easy and fun to use
  • Provides an ideal weight balance for fatigue-free writing and drawing
  • Comes with multiple erasers and cap eraser refills for convenience
  • Includes a storage case for easy organization and transport
  • Sharpener in the cap of the 2.0mm pencil makes it easy to sharpen lead refills

Cons

  • – No information provided on the quality of the lead refill

8. Sketchpro Art Set: All-In-One Drawing Kit

Take your artistic expression to the next level with the EGOSONG Professional Art Supplies Drawing Set. This complete artist pencils drawing kit includes drawing pencils and charcoal pencils that offer endless possibilities to mix and match different textures to create unique styles. The versatile charcoal art supplies come with practical tools such as an art knife for crafts, a sketchpad for drawing, graphite sticks, charcoal rods, blending stumps, and sandpaper blocks for sharpening and cleaning your artist tools.

Whether you are a beginner, amateur, or a master artist, this professional drawing pencils set gives you a plethora of drawing supplies at your disposal. You can use these artist's drawing media to explore, practice, polish, and hone your skills as an artist. This premium quality portable pencil drawing set is made from the finest quality, high-grade eco-friendly materials that are long-lasting. The compact, lightweight, and portable sketch carrying case with a zipper allows you to store, effectively organize, and carry all your art tools for artists without any hassle, anywhere you go.

This complete 41 pcs pencil sketch art set includes 12 sharpened sketching pencils (5H/ 4H/3H/2H/HB/B/2B/3B/4B/5B/6B/8B), 3 white charcoal pencils/6 charcoal pencils, 3 graphite pencils (6B, 4B, 2B)/3 graphite sticks(soft/medium/hard), 3 charcoal rods (soft/medium/hard), 3 paper blending stumps, 1 double-headed extender, 1 kneaded/1 rubber eraser, 1 sandpaper strip, 1 pencil extender, 1 art knife/sketchpad & carry pouch.

Pros

  • Includes a wide range of art supplies for drawing and sketching
  • Made from high-grade eco-friendly materials that are long-lasting
  • Compact, lightweight, and portable sketch carrying case
  • Allows you to explore, practice, polish, and hone your artistic skills

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for professional artists who require specific tools

9. Progressive Graphite Pencils: 12 Smooth Sketch Tools

Experience the ultimate coloring sensation with these richly pigmented solid color pencils, encased in lacquer for a sleek and stylish finish. With five times the color intensity of traditional wood-cased pencils, these pencils offer superior laydown properties, allowing for easy layering and blending without any waxy buildup. Create dense, even strokes with minimal pressure, thanks to the smooth and creamy texture of these pencils.

These pencils are perfect for producing vibrant and durable pieces of art, as they maintain excellent light permanency. Whether you're a beginner or a professional artist, these pencils are a must-have addition to your collection. So, bring your creativity to life with these amazing solid color pencils today!

Pros

  • Richly pigmented and encased in lacquer for a sleek finish
  • Five times the color intensity of traditional wood-cased pencils
  • Superior laydown properties for easy layering and blending
  • Smooth and creamy texture allows for dense, even strokes with minimal pressure
  • Maintains excellent light permanency for vibrant, durable pieces of art

10. Prismacolor Ebony Graphite Pencils, Black Drawing Pencil Set | 12 Count Sketching Pencils

The Ebony graphite pencils are a must-have for artists looking to create intensely dark and visually striking artwork. These pencils are specifically designed for sketching, portrait and figure drawing, and illustrating, making them a versatile addition to any artist's toolkit.

One of the standout features of these pencils is their rich and velvety smooth laydown. This makes them ideal for creating deep, dark shades and adding depth and dimension to your artwork. The pencils are also highly pigmented, ensuring that your artwork will stand out and make an impact.

In addition to their impressive performance, these pencils are also incredibly durable. The cores resist cracking and breakage, ensuring that you can use them for extended periods without having to constantly sharpen or replace them. This means you can focus on your art without worrying about interruptions or distractions.

The pack includes 12 Ebony graphite pencils, providing you with a range of shades and tones to work with. Whether you're a professional artist or just starting out, these pencils are a great investment that will help you take your artwork to the next level.

Please note that the packaging of the product may vary.

Pros

  • Intensely dark ebony graphite for visually striking artwork
  • Rich and velvety smooth laydown for deep, dark shades
  • Highly pigmented for eye-catching results
  • Durable cores resist cracking and breakage
  • Pack includes 12 pencils for a range of shades and tones

Best Graphite Pencils For Drawing FAQs

How do different grades of graphite pencils affect the drawing process?

The different grades of graphite pencils have a significant impact on the drawing process. Graphite pencils are available in a range of grades from soft to hard, with each grade having its unique properties. The softest grade of graphite pencil is 9B, which produces a dark and rich line. The hardest grade is 9H, which produces a light and fine line.

When an artist uses a soft graphite pencil, the pencil's lead is softer, allowing it to leave more graphite on the paper, creating a darker line. On the other hand, when an artist uses a hard graphite pencil, the lead is harder, leaving less graphite on the paper, creating a lighter line. The in-between grades like HB, B, and 2B are the most commonly used pencils as they offer a balance between lightness and darkness.

Using different grades of graphite pencils can help artists achieve various textures, values, and shading in their drawings. For instance, a soft pencil is ideal for creating dark shadows and bold lines, while a hard pencil is perfect for fine details and light shading.

In conclusion, understanding the different grades of graphite pencils is essential for artists to achieve their desired effects in their drawings. By experimenting with different grades, artists can create a range of textures and tones, bringing their artwork to life with depth and dimension.

How do you sharpen graphite pencils for optimal drawing performance?

To sharpen graphite pencils for optimal drawing performance, there are a few things you can do. First, make sure you have a high-quality pencil sharpener that is specifically designed for graphite pencils. Avoid using cheap sharpeners that can cause the lead to break or become dull quickly.

When sharpening the pencil, make sure to use a light touch and turn the pencil slowly to avoid breaking the lead. If the pencil has a wooden casing, sharpen it so that the point is slightly longer than the casing to prevent the lead from breaking as you draw.

You can also use sandpaper or a sharpening block to sharpen your graphite pencils. Simply rub the pencil gently against the sandpaper or block at a slight angle until the lead is sharp.

Finally, make sure to keep your pencils sharp and well-maintained. Sharpen them regularly and store them in a protective case or container to prevent them from becoming damaged or dull. With a little care and attention, you can ensure that your graphite pencils perform optimally and help you create beautiful, detailed drawings.

What are the advantages of using graphite pencils for drawing?

Graphite pencils are one of the most popular choices for drawing due to their versatility and ease of use. The advantages of using graphite pencils for drawing are numerous. Firstly, graphite pencils come in a range of hardness levels, from soft to hard, which allows artists to achieve a variety of textures and shading effects. Additionally, graphite pencils are easily erasable, making it easy to correct mistakes and refine details in a drawing.

Moreover, graphite pencils are affordable and widely available, making it easy for artists of all skill levels to access them. They are also lightweight and portable, making them a popular choice for artists who need to travel or work on location. Graphite pencils can be used with a variety of paper surfaces, and can even be used in combination with other drawing media such as charcoal or ink.

In summary, the advantages of using graphite pencils for drawing include versatility, ease of use, accessibility, portability, and compatibility with a variety of paper surfaces and other drawing media. These advantages make graphite pencils an excellent choice for artists of all levels who are looking to create beautiful and dynamic drawings.

What is the best type of graphite pencil for drawing?

The best type of graphite pencil for drawing depends on the artist's preference and the desired effect. Graphite pencils come in different grades, ranging from 9H (hard) to 9B (soft). The harder the graphite, the lighter and more precise the line it produces. The softer the graphite, the darker and more expressive the line it creates.

For detailed and precise drawings, harder pencils like 2H or 4H are ideal. They are also suitable for sketching and drafting. For shading and creating darker tones, softer pencils like 2B, 4B, or 6B are recommended. They produce thicker, darker lines and are perfect for creating textures and shadows.

Artists can also use a combination of different pencils to achieve the desired effect. For example, they can start with a harder pencil for outlining and then switch to a softer pencil for shading and adding details.

Ultimately, the best type of graphite pencil for drawing is the one that feels comfortable and produces the desired effect. It is recommended to try different pencils and experiment with various techniques to find the perfect fit.

What techniques can be used with graphite pencils to create different effects in drawings?

There are various techniques that can be used with graphite pencils to create different effects in drawings. One of the most common techniques is shading, where the pressure applied on the pencil is varied to create a range of tones from light to dark. Another technique is hatching, where lines are drawn in a parallel or crosshatch pattern to create texture and depth. Crosshatching involves layering hatching lines in different directions to create a more complex texture. Stippling is a technique where small dots are used to create shading and texture. Smudging or blending can also be used to create a soft, gradient effect. Additionally, erasing can be used to create highlights or to remove excess graphite from certain areas. Experimenting with different techniques can help artists create unique and dynamic drawings with graphite pencils.

Leave a Comment