Best Artist Pencils for Professional Drawing and Sketching in 2024

As an artist, you know that the quality of your tools can make or break your work. When it comes to pencils, there are countless options on the market, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. However, if you're looking for the best of the best, you'll want to consider artist pencils.

Artist pencils are designed specifically for professional artists and serious hobbyists. They come in a range of hardness levels, from soft to hard, and are made with high-quality materials that allow for precise and consistent lines. They're perfect for everything from sketching to shading to fine details.

When choosing the best artist pencils for your needs, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the hardness level that will work best for the type of work you do. Second, look for pencils that are made with high-quality materials and are well-crafted to ensure a smooth and consistent drawing experience. Finally, consider the range of pencils offered in a set to ensure you have the tools you need for your project.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the top artist pencils on the market and help you choose the perfect set for your needs.

Best Artist Pencils

If you're an artist, you know that having the right tools is essential for creating your best work. One of the most important tools in any artist's arsenal is a good set of pencils. Whether you're sketching, shading, or adding fine details to your artwork, having the right pencils can make all the difference. In this article, we've put together a list of the best artist pencils on the market to help you find the perfect set for your needs.

Amazon Basics - Premium Colored Pencils, Soft Core, 24 Count (Pack of 1), Multicolor

If you're looking for a high-quality set of colored pencils that won't break the bank, Amazon Basics has you covered with their Soft Core Colored Pencils.

Pros

• The set comes with 24 premium colored pencils that are perfect for fine detail drawing, sketching, shading, and layering.
• The artist-quality lead provides a soft and smooth application in a variety of rich, saturated pigments.
• The pencils are pre-sharpened, saving you time, and easy to resharpen as needed. They also have thick cores that resist breakage and provide longer-lasting use.

Cons

• The set doesn't come with as many colors as some other sets on the market.
• The pencils may not be as vibrant as more expensive options.
• Some users may find that the pencils don't blend as well as they would like.

If you're a beginner or just looking for a basic set of colored pencils, the Amazon Basics Soft Core Colored Pencils are a great choice. They come in a convenient tin storage case with a detachable lid and a built-in tray to keep the pencils organized and protected. Plus, they conform to ASTM D4236, so you can be sure they're safe to use. Overall, these pencils are a great value for the price and perfect for anyone looking to experiment with colored pencils without breaking the bank.

PANDAFLY Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set

If you're looking for a high-quality artist pencil set, the PANDAFLY Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The set includes 12 different hardness levels, giving you a wide variety of options for all your artwork needs.
• The graphite leads are extra break-resistant and have superior long-lasting point strength, making them easy to sharpen and erase.
• The pencils are non-toxic and eco-friendly, conforming to strict ASTM D-4236 and EN71 standards.

Cons

• Some users may find that the pencils are not as smooth as other high-end artist pencils.
• The set only includes one of each hardness level, so if you use a particular hardness level frequently, you may need to purchase additional pencils separately.
• The packaging may not be as durable as other artist pencil sets.

If you're looking for a set of artist pencils that are high-quality, non-toxic, and eco-friendly, the PANDAFLY Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set is a great choice. With a wide variety of hardness levels to choose from, you'll be able to create a range of artwork, from detailed sketches to bold, dramatic drawings. The graphite leads are extra break-resistant, making them easy to sharpen and erase, and the pencils conform to strict safety standards, so you can feel good about using them. While some users may find that the pencils are not as smooth as other high-end artist pencils, overall, this set is a great value for the price.

In addition to being great for personal use, the PANDAFLY Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set also makes a great gift for artists of all ages. Whether you're a beginner or a professional, this set has everything you need to create your best work. So if you're in the market for a new set of artist pencils, be sure to check out the PANDAFLY Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set today!

Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils Set

If you're looking for a complete set of artist pencils for your next project, the Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils Set is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The set includes 72 pencils, arranged in color families, for easy selection.
• The advanced formulation results in soft, buttery cores that hold their point and resist crumbling.
• The pigmented colors are rich and creamy, making them perfect for layering, blending, and burnishing.

Cons

• Some users find the pencils to be a bit hard and not as soft as they would like.
• The fold-out tutorial may not be useful for more experienced artists.
• The tin box may not be as durable as some users would like.

This set of artist pencils can help you achieve the perfect shade and texture on paper, eggshell, canvas, wood, and more. The pencils are tested and trusted by over 2.5 million customers worldwide and come with a unique money-back guarantee.

The set is arranged in color families, making it easy to select the perfect pencil for your project. The cores are soft and buttery, but still hold their point and resist crumbling, making them durable and long-lasting. The pigmented colors are rich and creamy, providing smooth coverage and effortless layering, blending, and burnishing.

While some users find the pencils to be a bit hard, they are still able to achieve beautiful results. The fold-out tutorial is a nice touch for beginners, but more experienced artists may not find it useful. The tin box is handsome and convenient, but may not be as durable as some users would like.

Overall, the Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils Set is a great choice for artists of all levels.

Prina 76 Pack Drawing Set Sketching Kit

If you are looking for a complete artist pencil set that includes everything you need to create beautiful drawings, then the Prina 76 Pack Drawing Set Sketching Kit is a great option to consider.

Pros

• This art pencil set includes a wide range of pencils, including watercolor, oil-based, metallic, and charcoal pencils, allowing you to create different styles of drawings.
• The set comes with a unique 3-color sketch pad that is spiral-bound and has 50 pages, including white, toned tan, and black pages, giving you a variety of options to choose from.
• The kit includes extra drawing and sketching supplies, such as a refillable water brush pen, vinyl eraser, kneaded eraser, sandpaper pencil pointer, paper blending stumps, and a paintbrush, all in a portable zip-up case for easy carrying.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the pencils may not be as durable as they would like, and they may break easily when sharpened.
• The included tutorial may not be very helpful for experienced artists who are looking for more advanced techniques.
• The sketch pad may not be large enough for some users who prefer to create larger drawings.

Overall, the Prina 76 Pack Drawing Set Sketching Kit is a great choice for beginner to intermediate artists who are looking for a complete set of high-quality pencils and sketching supplies. With its wide range of pencils, sketch pad, and extra supplies, this kit is perfect for anyone who wants to experiment with different styles and techniques.

Arteza Drawing Set for Adults

If you're an artist looking for a comprehensive set of pencils and tools to create high-quality sketches, the Arteza Drawing Set for Adults is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• This set includes 33 pieces, including 18 drawing pencils, 3 charcoal pencils, 1 white charcoal pencil, 2 woodless pencils, 1 black Inkonic Fineliner, 3 paper blenders, 1 metal sharpener, 3 erasers, and 1 hobby knife.
• The varying degrees of hardness allow you to choose between 18 graphite pencils ranging from 4H to 14B and 2 woodless pencils (4B, 6B). You’ll also receive 3 black charcoal pencils (soft, medium, and hard) and 1 white charcoal pencil (medium).
• The set is designed and created by artists who are passionate about creating products that inspire. Arteza strives to make their art supplies accessible to all people.

Cons

• Some users may find the number of components overwhelming.
• The quality of the included erasers may not be as high as some artists would prefer.
• The included hobby knife is not very sharp and may need to be replaced.

The Arteza Drawing Set for Adults is perfect for teens, beginners, and pros who want to have all the pencils, blenders, and tools they need to make high-quality sketches. The set is designed and created by artists who are passionate about creating products that inspire. If you're looking for a comprehensive set of pencils and tools to create high-quality sketches, this set is definitely worth considering.

In addition to the wide variety of pencils and tools included in the set, you'll also appreciate the quality of the materials. The pencils are easy to use and blend, and the paper blenders are perfect for creating a variety of effects. The sharpener is also high-quality and will keep your pencils sharp and ready to use.

Overall, the Arteza Drawing Set for Adults is a great choice for anyone looking for a comprehensive set of pencils and tools to create high-quality sketches. With its wide variety of components, high-quality materials, and affordable price point, this set is definitely worth considering.

Ticonderoga® Pastel Pencils

If you're looking for artist pencils that are perfect for creating beautiful artwork, then Ticonderoga Pastel Pencils are definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The latex-free eraser allows for quick corrections, making it easy to fix mistakes.
• Made from durable wood, these pencils are built to last.
• Pre-sharpened for immediate use, so you can start creating right away.

Cons

• Only available in two soft colors, which may not be suitable for all artistic needs.
• The lead may break more easily than other artist pencils.
• The price may be a bit higher than other brands.

These pastel pencils are perfect for artists who want to create beautiful, detailed artwork. The latex-free eraser is a great feature, allowing you to quickly and easily correct mistakes without smudging or ruining your work. The pencils are also made from durable wood, ensuring that they will last for a long time. And with the pencils being pre-sharpened, you can start creating right away without having to waste time sharpening them yourself.

However, there are a few drawbacks to these pencils. For one, they are only available in two soft colors, which may not be suitable for all artistic needs. Additionally, the lead may break more easily than other artist pencils, which can be frustrating when you're trying to create detailed work. Finally, the price may be a bit higher than other brands, which may not be ideal for those on a tight budget.

Overall, Ticonderoga Pastel Pencils are a great choice for artists who want to create beautiful, detailed artwork. While there are a few drawbacks, the pros outweigh the cons, making these pencils a solid choice for anyone looking for high-quality artist pencils.

Ticonderoga Noir Black Wood-Cased #2 Pencils

If you're looking for a high-quality artist pencil, the Ticonderoga Noir Black Wood-Cased #2 Pencils are definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The holographic design is eye-catching and elegant.
• The premium stained black wood remains black when sharpened.
• The high-quality latex-free eraser provides easy, clean corrections without smudging.

Cons

• Some users may find the price to be a bit higher than other artist pencils.
• The black color of the pencil may make it difficult to see the graphite on certain types of paper.
• The pencil lead may break more easily than other artist pencils.

These pencils are perfect for artists who want a high-quality product that looks as good as it performs. The holographic design is sure to catch the eye of anyone who sees it, while the premium stained black wood ensures that the pencil will remain black even after being sharpened. The high-quality latex-free eraser is also a great feature, as it provides easy, clean corrections without smudging.

In terms of drawbacks, some users may find the price to be a bit higher than other artist pencils on the market. Additionally, the black color of the pencil may make it difficult to see the graphite on certain types of paper, which could be frustrating for some users. Finally, the pencil lead may break more easily than other artist pencils, which could be a concern for those who need a more durable product.

Overall, the Ticonderoga Noir Black Wood-Cased #2 Pencils are a great choice for artists who want a high-quality product that looks as good as it performs. While they may be a bit more expensive than other artist pencils on the market, the holographic design, premium stained black wood, and high-quality latex-free eraser make them well worth the investment.

Shuttle Art Pencil Kit

If you're looking for a complete drawing kit that comes with everything you need to unleash your creativity, the Shuttle Art Pencil Kit is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• With 103 different items included in the kit, you'll have access to a wide range of pencils, watercolors, and other drawing tools to experiment with.
• The portable zipper case makes it easy to keep your drawing supplies organized and protected while on the go.
• All of the drawing tools and accessories in this kit are made of environmentally friendly materials, so you can feel good about using them.

Cons

• With so many items included in the kit, it may be overwhelming for beginners who are just starting out with drawing and sketching.
• While the pencils are of good quality, they may not be suitable for professional artists who require more specialized tools.
• The sketch pad and watercolor pad included in the kit are relatively small, so you may need to purchase additional paper if you plan on creating larger works of art.

If you're a beginner or intermediate artist looking for a comprehensive drawing kit that includes a wide range of tools and supplies, the Shuttle Art Pencil Kit is a great choice. With 103 different items included in the kit, you'll have access to a variety of pencils, watercolors, and other drawing tools to experiment with. The portable zipper case makes it easy to keep your drawing supplies organized and protected while on the go, and all of the drawing tools and accessories in this kit are made of environmentally friendly materials. However, with so many items included in the kit, it may be overwhelming for beginners who are just starting out with drawing and sketching. Additionally, while the pencils are of good quality, they may not be suitable for professional artists who require more specialized tools. Finally, the sketch pad and watercolor pad included in the kit are relatively small, so you may need to purchase additional paper if you plan on creating larger works of art.

S & E TEACHER'S EDITION 220Pcs Wood-cased pencils

If you're looking for a great value on a large quantity of high-quality pencils, the S & E TEACHER'S EDITION 220Pcs Wood-cased pencils might be just what you need.

Pros

• The removable label makes it easy to organize and store your pencils, and the wooden box can be repurposed for other items such as jewelry or cosmetics.
• With 220 pre-sharpened #2 HB pencils made from high-quality wood, you won't have to worry about running out of pencils anytime soon.
• The soft, smudge-free, and latex-free eraser is conveniently secured to the end of each pencil for easy mistake correction.

Cons

• Some users may find the #2 HB lead to be too soft or too hard for their liking.
• The wooden box may not be as sturdy as some users would prefer.
• While the manufacturer offers a refund guarantee, some users may find the process of returning or exchanging the product to be inconvenient.

If you're a teacher, student, or artist in need of a large quantity of pencils, the S & E TEACHER'S EDITION 220Pcs Wood-cased pencils are definitely worth considering. The removable label and wooden box make organization and storage a breeze, and the pre-sharpened pencils with eraser tops ensure that you're always ready to create.

MARKART Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set

If you're an artist looking for a high-quality set of pencils, the MARKART Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The set includes 14 pre-sharpened graphite pencils with a wide variety of hardness, making them suitable for all your artwork needs.
• These non-toxic and eco-friendly pencils conform to strict ASTM D-4236 and EN71 standards, ensuring a smooth writing feeling and top-quality sketching experience.
• With great shading and blending capability, these pencils allow for crafting detailed illustrations and textured shading like a professional artist. They're perfect for drawing, sketching, and doodling.

Cons

• Some users may find that the set includes more pencils than they need, which could make it feel overwhelming.
• While the pencils are high-quality, they may not be suitable for more advanced artists who require specific types of pencils for their work.
• The packaging could be more durable, as some users have reported issues with the pencils arriving damaged.

Overall, the MARKART Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set is an excellent choice for artists of all levels who are looking for a versatile set of pencils to help them create their best work. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, these pencils offer endless possibilities and are sure to help you unleash your creativity.

STAEDTLER Mars Lumograph Art Drawing Pencils

If you're looking for premium quality drawing pencils, the STAEDTLER Mars Lumograph Art Drawing Pencils are a great option to consider.

Pros

• Unbelievably break-resistant lead for long-lasting use
• Particularly suitable for writing, drawing, sketching, and hatching
• First-class materials and manufacturing processes guarantee outstanding and unbeatable product quality

Cons

• Some users may find the price point to be higher than other options on the market
• The set only includes 12 pencils, which may not be enough for some artists who require a wider range of shades
• The metal storage tin may not be as durable as other packaging options

These pencils are ideal for both professional graphic and artistic applications on paper and matte drawing film. The super-bonded lead wears evenly and is easy to erase and sharpen, making it a reliable tool for all your creative needs.

The set includes 12 finely graded consistent degrees in a portable metal storage tin, ranging from 6B to 4H. The pencils are high-quality and durable, and they produce smooth and consistent lines, making them a great choice for artists of all skill levels.

While the price point may be higher than other options on the market, the unbeatable product quality and long-lasting use make these pencils a great investment for any artist. Overall, the STAEDTLER Mars Lumograph Art Drawing Pencils are a top choice for anyone looking for a high-quality set of artist pencils.

Norberg & Linden XL Drawing Set

If you're looking for a complete drawing set, the Norberg & Linden XL Drawing Set is a great option for both novice and professional artists.

Pros

• The set includes a wide range of pencils, erasers, and other supplies to help you develop your technical skills.
• The travel size case makes it easy to take your art supplies with you on the go.
• Norberg & Linden offers a 100% quality guarantee, so you can feel confident in your purchase.

Cons

• Some users have reported issues with the kneaded eraser being too hard and difficult to shape.
• The quality of the paper in the included sketch pad may not be up to par for more experienced artists.
• The plastic case may not be as durable as other options on the market.

If you're just starting out with drawing or looking for a comprehensive set to take on the go, the Norberg & Linden XL Drawing Set is a great choice. With a variety of pencils, erasers, and other supplies included, you'll have everything you need to start sketching right away. Plus, the travel size case makes it easy to take your art supplies with you wherever you go.

One thing to keep in mind is that some users have reported issues with the kneaded eraser being too hard and difficult to shape. Additionally, the quality of the paper in the included sketch pad may not be up to par for more experienced artists. Finally, the plastic case may not be as durable as other options on the market.

Overall, if you're looking for a complete drawing set that's easy to take on the go, the Norberg & Linden XL Drawing Set is definitely worth considering. And with a 100% quality guarantee from the manufacturer, you can feel confident in your purchase.

Amazon Basics Sketch and Drawing Art Pencil Kit

If you're an aspiring artist looking for a complete pencil set to experiment with different drawing techniques, the Amazon Basics Sketch and Drawing Art Pencil Kit is a great option.

Pros

• The kit includes 17 pieces, offering a wide range of pencils and sketch sticks to choose from.
• The pencils are of different degrees of hardness, allowing you to create dynamic works of art with intricate shading and blending or simply sketch and doodle ideas.
• The set comes with essential art supplies such as erasers, a blender/smudge stick, and a dual-barrel sharpener.

Cons

• The kit doesn't come with instructions or a guide on how to use each piece, which may be challenging for beginners.
• The kneaded eraser may be too sticky for some users, making it difficult to use.
• The quality of the pencils may not be top-tier, but it's still a great starter kit for those on a budget.

The Amazon Basics Sketch and Drawing Art Pencil Kit is an all-in-one drawing and sketch supply kit that caters to artists of all skill levels. With this kit, you can experiment with or combine different drawing techniques to create your own unique style.

The kit includes six pencils, three charcoal pencils, and four compressed sketch sticks, allowing you to use different techniques to create various effects. The standard eraser, kneaded eraser, blender/smudge stick, and dual-barrel sharpener are also included, making it a complete set for all your drawing needs.

While the kit doesn't come with instructions or a guide, it's a great starter kit for those who want to learn how to draw or sketch. The quality of the pencils may not be top-tier, but it's still a great value for money, considering the number of pieces included in the set.

Overall, the Amazon Basics Sketch and Drawing Art Pencil Kit is a great option for aspiring artists who want a complete set of pencils and sketching supplies to experiment with different techniques.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying the best artist pencils, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you get the right product for your needs. Here are some features to consider when making your purchase:

Lead Hardness

One of the most important things to consider when choosing artist pencils is the hardness of the lead. The hardness of the lead can affect the quality of your work, as well as the ease of use. Softer leads are ideal for drawing and shading, while harder leads are better for outlining and detailing.

Lead Type

Another important factor to consider is the type of lead used in the pencil. There are a variety of lead types available, including graphite, charcoal, and colored leads. Each type has its own unique properties, so it's important to choose the right type of lead for your specific needs.

Pencil Shape

The shape of the pencil can also affect the quality of your work. Some pencils have a round shape, which is ideal for general drawing and sketching, while others have a hexagonal shape, which can provide a more comfortable grip and prevent the pencil from rolling off your desk.

Pencil Size

The size of the pencil can also be an important consideration. Larger pencils are ideal for drawing and shading, while smaller pencils are better for detailing and outlining.

Price

Finally, it's important to consider the price of the artist pencils you are considering. While you don't want to overspend, it's also important to invest in a quality product that will last and provide the results you desire.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best artist pencils for your needs and create beautiful works of art.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated brands of art pencils for professional use?

There are several top-rated brands of art pencils for professional use, including Faber-Castell, Derwent, Prismacolor, and Staedtler. These brands are known for their high-quality materials and consistent performance, making them popular among professional artists.

Which pencils are recommended for both drawing and shading?

Pencils that are recommended for both drawing and shading include graphite pencils, charcoal pencils, and colored pencils. Graphite pencils are ideal for creating fine lines and details, while charcoal pencils are great for creating bold, dramatic strokes. Colored pencils are perfect for adding color and texture to your artwork.

What are the ideal pencil types for artists just starting out?

For artists just starting out, it's recommended to use a set of graphite pencils that includes a range of hardness levels. This will allow you to experiment with different shading techniques and create a variety of textures and effects. You may also want to try using charcoal pencils or colored pencils to add more depth and dimension to your artwork.

Can you suggest the best colored pencils for professional artwork?

Some of the best colored pencils for professional artwork include Prismacolor Premier, Faber-Castell Polychromos, and Caran d'Ache Luminance. These pencils are known for their vibrant colors, smooth application, and lightfastness, making them ideal for creating high-quality artwork that will last.

Which drawing pencils are preferred by artists for realistic sketches?

Artists who want to create realistic sketches often prefer to use graphite pencils that have a soft lead, such as 2B or 4B. These pencils allow you to create a range of values and tones, making it easier to capture the subtle details and nuances of your subject.

What characteristics define a high-quality art pencil for writing and sketching?

Some characteristics that define a high-quality art pencil for writing and sketching include a comfortable grip, consistent lead quality, and durability. The pencil should also be easy to sharpen and erasable, allowing you to make corrections and adjustments as needed. Additionally, the pencil should be versatile enough to create a range of effects and textures, making it a valuable tool for any artist.