Best Drawing Pencil Brands for Artists and Designers in 2024

Drawing pencils are essential tools for artists, designers, and anyone who enjoys sketching or doodling. These pencils come in a variety of grades, ranging from hard and light to soft and dark, and are made by many different brands. Finding the right drawing pencil can be overwhelming, but choosing a high-quality brand can make a significant difference in the quality of your artwork.

When selecting the best drawing pencil brands, the critical thing to consider is the quality of the lead. The lead's consistency, smoothness, and durability are essential factors that can affect the final outcome of your drawing. Other factors to consider include the pencil's grip, weight, and eraser quality.

In this article, we've researched and tested some of the most popular drawing pencil brands to help you find the perfect one for your artistic needs. Whether you're a professional artist or a beginner, we've got you covered. So, let's dive in and explore the best drawing pencil brands on the market.

Best Drawing Pencil Brands

If you're an artist, you know how important it is to have the right tools for the job. When it comes to drawing, having a high-quality pencil can make all the difference. With so many brands and types of pencils on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That's why we've compiled a list of the best drawing pencil brands to help you find the perfect pencil for your artistic needs. Whether you're a beginner or a professional, these brands offer a range of options to suit your style and preferences.

Faber-Castell Graphite Sketch Pencil Set

If you're an aspiring artist or art student looking for a complete sketching pencil set, the Faber-Castell Graphite Sketch Pencil Set is a great choice. The set includes six artist quality graphite pencils in various degrees of lead hardness that are ideal for sketching, graphic design, shading, urban sketching, mixed media art, dimension art, and portraits.

Pros

• The ergonomic, hexagonal shape and smooth graphite make these pencils versatile and diverse tools for artists and beginners alike.
• The break-resistant lead is glued the entire length of the pencil to ensure limitless drawing and easy sharpening.
• Made from reforested wood grown from FSC certified sustainable forestry, Faber-Castell graphite pencils are proudly manufactured with carbon-neutral production, making them an eco-friendly choice.

Cons

• The set includes only six pencils, so if you need more variety in lead hardness, you'll need to purchase additional pencils separately.
• Some artists may prefer a softer lead than the 6B pencil included in the set.
• The pencils are not waterproof, so they may smudge if exposed to moisture.

The Faber-Castell Graphite Sketch Pencil Set is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to elevate their drawing skills. The pencils are of high quality and provide a smooth and balanced laydown for superior performance. The break-resistant lead ensures that the lead will not fall out during use or sharpening, making these pencils a durable and flexible option for the art student and aspiring artist.

In summary, if you're looking for a complete sketching pencil set that provides versatile and diverse drawing pencils, the Faber-Castell Graphite Sketch Pencil Set is an excellent choice.

Mr. Pen Sketch Pencils for Drawing

If you're looking for an affordable set of high-quality sketch pencils, Mr. Pen's Sketch Pencils for Drawing is a great option.

Pros

• This set offers a wide range of graphite hardness for various shading effects and line thicknesses.
• The pencils are suitable for writing, drawing, sketching, hatching, and professional graphic and artistic applications on paper and matte drawing film.
• The super-bonded lead wears evenly and is easy to erase and sharpen.

Cons

• Some users reported that the pencils can break easily if not sharpened properly.
• The tin case may not be as durable as expected.
• The set does not include any blending tools.

With 14 graphite pencils ranging from 6H to 10B, this set offers the core range of harnesses of graphite sketch pencils for the pencil artist. The high-quality materials and manufacturing processes guarantee durable and unbeatable product quality.

The pencils are particularly suitable for writing, drawing, sketching, and hatching, as well as for 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 great choice for both beginners and professionals.

While the pencils are generally durable, some users reported that they can break easily if not sharpened properly. Additionally, the tin case may not be as durable as expected. Finally, the set does not include any blending tools, which may be a drawback for some users.

Overall, if you're looking for an affordable set of high-quality sketch pencils, Mr. Pen's Sketch Pencils for Drawing is definitely worth considering.

MARKART 14-Piece Graphite Drawing Sketching Pencil Set

If you're looking for a versatile set of drawing pencils that can cater to all your artwork needs, then the MARKART 14-Piece Graphite Drawing Sketching Pencil Set is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The set includes 14 pre-sharpened professional quality graphite pencils with a wide variety of hardness for all your artwork needs.
• The pencils are non-toxic and eco-friendly, conforming to strict ASTM D-4236 and EN71 standards.
• The pencils have great shading and blending capability, allowing you to craft detailed illustrations and textured shading like a professional artist.

Cons

• The package is not suitable for children under three years old.
• The pencils may not be as durable as some other high-end brands.
• The set does not come with a sharpener.

This set of drawing pencils is perfect for beginners, experienced graphic designers, and professionals alike. The pencils allow for great shading and blending capability, making it an ideal choice for crafting detailed illustrations and textured shading.

The set includes 14 pre-sharpened professional quality graphite pencils with a wide variety of hardness for all your artwork needs. The pencils are also non-toxic and eco-friendly, conforming to strict ASTM D-4236 and EN71 standards. This makes it a great choice for those who are environmentally conscious.

However, the set is not suitable for children under three years old, and the pencils may not be as durable as some other high-end brands. Additionally, the set does not come with a sharpener, which may be a drawback for some users.

Overall, if you're looking for a versatile set of drawing pencils that can cater to all your artwork needs, then the MARKART 14-Piece Graphite Drawing Sketching Pencil Set is definitely worth considering.

Dyvicl Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set - 12 Pieces Drawing Pencils 10B, 8B, 6B, 5B, 4B, 3B, 2B, B, HB, 2H, 4H, 6H Graphite Pencils for Beginners & Pro Artists

If you're looking for a high-quality drawing pencil set that won't break the bank, the Dyvicl Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The set includes a wide range of soft to hard graphite pencils, making it easy to create a variety of tones and textures in your drawings.
• The pencils are made with even, smooth graphite that blends easily, making them a pleasure to work with.
• The hexagonal barrel design of the pencils makes them easy to grip and control, even for beginners.

Cons

• Some users have reported issues with the pencils breaking easily, particularly when sharpening them.
• The set doesn't include any erasers or sharpeners, so you'll need to purchase those separately if you don't already have them.
• The pencils may not be suitable for more advanced artists who require a wider range of shades and textures.

Overall, if you're looking for a solid set of drawing pencils that won't break the bank, the Dyvicl Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set is definitely worth considering. The pencils are high-quality and easy to work with, and the range of soft to hard graphite makes it easy to create a variety of tones and textures in your drawings. However, if you're an advanced artist who requires a wider range of shades and textures, you may want to look elsewhere.

Norberg & Linden XL Drawing Set

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

Pros

• The set includes a wide range of pencils and tools, making it suitable for everyone from novices to professionals.
• The travel case is well-designed and has plenty of room for all your supplies.
• The set comes with a 100-page sketch pad, so you can start drawing as soon as you open the box.

Cons

• The kneaded eraser is quite hard, which can make it difficult to shape.
• Some users have reported that the pencils are prone to breaking.
• The quality of the charcoal sticks could be better.

This complete drawing set is perfect for anyone who wants to get started with drawing or improve their skills. The set includes 12 premium graphite pencils, 3 charcoal pencils, 3 graphite and 3 charcoal sticks, a kneaded eraser, a plastic/vinyl eraser, a sandpaper block, 3 paper blending stumps, a pencil extender, an art knife, and a 100-page drawing pad. The travel case is well-designed and has plenty of room for all your supplies.

The range of pencils and tools included in the set means that it is suitable for everyone from novices to professionals. The pencils range in size from the thickest 8B to the finest 5H, which allows you to create a wide range of drawing lines. The art pencils for drawing and shading also allow you to develop your technical skills.

The set also comes with a 100-page sketch pad, so you can start drawing as soon as you open the box. This makes it a great option for anyone who wants to get started with drawing right away.

However, there are some downsides to the set. The kneaded eraser is quite hard, which can make it difficult to shape. Some users have also reported that the pencils are prone to breaking, which can be frustrating. Finally, the quality of the charcoal sticks could be better.

Overall, if you're looking for a complete drawing set, the Norberg & Linden XL Drawing Set is a great option.

Matthiola Sketching Pencil Set

If you're looking for a versatile set of professional-grade drawing pencils, then the Matthiola Sketching Pencil Set is an excellent option.

Pros

• With 24 pre-sharpened pencils, including a wide variety of hardness levels and three charcoal pencils, this set has everything you need to create detailed illustrations and textured shading.
• The hexagonal shape of the pencils prevents them from rolling off the table and makes them easy to grip for precise control.
• Made from high-quality graphite and encased in lightweight and durable basswood, these pencils are both strong and smooth, allowing for wonderful coverage and minimizing the amount of broken points.

Cons

• Some users have reported that some of the pencils in the set were not sharpened, making them smaller than expected right out of the box.
• While this set includes a wide range of hardness levels, some artists may prefer even softer or harder pencils for their specific needs.
• The packaging of the set is fairly basic and may not be as aesthetically pleasing as some other pencil sets on the market.

The Matthiola Sketching Pencil Set is an excellent choice for artists of all levels who are looking for a versatile set of high-quality drawing pencils. Whether you're creating photorealistic drawings, illustrations, or sketches, this set has everything you need to bring your vision to life.

The wide variety of hardness levels and included charcoal pencils offer plenty of options for creating different textures and tones, while the hexagonal shape and lightweight design of the pencils make them easy to use and control. Overall, this set is an excellent investment for anyone looking to take their art to the next level.

ROCOD Sketch Pencils Set

If you're looking for a complete sketching pencil set that is perfect for detailed illustrations, realistic drawings, and craft creation, the ROCOD Sketch Pencils Set is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The hexagonal design of the pencils provides comfortable grip and control, making your drawing experience more comfortable.
• The high-quality bonding of the graphite leads gives them excellent permanent point strength, making them easy to sharpen and erase.
• The set comes with a customized metal gift case that meets all your needs and is easy to carry.

Cons

• Some users may prefer a wider range of pencil hardness options.
• The included eraser may not be of the highest quality.
• The pencils may not be suitable for heavy shading or smudging techniques.

The ROCOD Sketch Pencils Set is a great option for both beginner and experienced artists looking for a complete set of high-quality drawing pencils. The hexagonal design of the pencils ensures a comfortable grip and excellent control, while the high-quality bonding of the graphite leads makes them easy to sharpen and erase. The set comes with a customized metal gift case that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing, making it an excellent gift for friends and family.

The only potential downsides to this set are that some users may prefer a wider range of pencil hardness options, and the included eraser may not be of the highest quality. Additionally, the pencils may not be suitable for heavy shading or smudging techniques. Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and complete sketching pencil set, the ROCOD Sketch Pencils Set is definitely worth considering.

Norberg & Linden XXL Drawing Set - Sketching and Charcoal Pencils. 100 Page Drawing Pad, Kneaded Eraser, and Graphite. Art Set for Kids, Teens and Adults

If you're looking for a complete drawing kit to start sketching, the Norberg & Linden XXL Drawing Set is definitely worth considering. With a wide range of graphite and charcoal pencils, a 100-page drawing pad, and a variety of accessories, this kit has everything you need to get started.

Pros

• The set comes with a wide range of pencils, from 8B to 5H, allowing for precise drawing lines and shading.
• The kit includes a sketch pad and all the necessary accessories, making it perfect for beginners and professionals alike.
• The carrying case is compartmentalized, making it easy to keep everything organized and accessible.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the quality of the pencils and accessories is not as high as they expected.
• The carrying case is made of plastic, which may not be as durable as other materials.
• The set may be overwhelming for beginners who are not familiar with all the different types of pencils and accessories.

If you're looking for a complete drawing kit that has everything you need to get started, the Norberg & Linden XXL Drawing Set is definitely worth considering. With a wide range of pencils, a 100-page drawing pad, and a variety of accessories, this kit is perfect for beginners and professionals alike. The carrying case is compartmentalized, making it easy to keep everything organized and accessible.

One of the biggest advantages of this set is the wide range of pencils it includes. With pencils ranging from 8B to 5H, you'll be able to create precise drawing lines and shading. The set also includes a sketch pad and all the necessary accessories, making it perfect for anyone who wants to start sketching right away.

However, some users have reported that the quality of the pencils and accessories is not as high as they expected. Additionally, the carrying case is made of plastic, which may not be as durable as other materials. Finally, the set may be overwhelming for beginners who are not familiar with all the different types of pencils and accessories.

Overall, if you're looking for a complete drawing kit that has everything you need to get started, the Norberg & Linden XXL Drawing Set is definitely worth considering. With its wide range of pencils, sketch pad, and accessories, it's perfect for anyone who wants to start sketching right away.

STAEDTLER Mars Lumograph Art Drawing Pencils

If you're looking for a reliable and high-quality drawing pencil set, then STAEDTLER Mars Lumograph Art Drawing Pencils are definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Premium quality drawing pencil with unbelievably break-resistant lead!
• Particularly suitable for writing, drawing, sketching and hatching, as well as for professional graphic and artistic applications on paper and matte drawing film
• Design set of 12 finely graded consistent degrees in portable metal storage tin: 6B, 5B, 4B, 3B, 2B, B, HB, F, H, 2H, 3H, 4H

Cons

• The price may be a bit high for some people
• The lead may be too hard for some people's liking
• The pencils may not be suitable for all types of drawing and sketching

STAEDTLER Mars Lumograph Art Drawing Pencils are a premium quality drawing pencil set that is perfect for artists, graphic designers, and illustrators. The set includes 12 finely graded consistent degrees in a portable metal storage tin, ranging from 6B to 4H. The super-bonded lead wears evenly and is easy to erase and sharpen, making it an ideal creative companion for drawing and sketching purposes.

One of the most impressive features of these pencils is their unbelievably break-resistant lead. You can use them for a long time without worrying about the lead breaking, which is especially important for artists who need to work on detailed drawings for extended periods of time. The pencils are also particularly suitable for writing, drawing, sketching and hatching, as well as for professional graphic and artistic applications on paper and matte drawing film.

However, the price of these pencils may be a bit high for some people, and the lead may be too hard for some people's liking. Additionally, the pencils may not be suitable for all types of drawing and sketching.

Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality drawing pencil set that will last you a long time and help you create stunning artwork, then STAEDTLER Mars Lumograph Art Drawing Pencils are definitely worth considering.

Nicpro Mechanical Pencil Set

If you're looking for a mechanical pencil set that offers various line widths and hardness, the Nicpro Mechanical Pencil Set is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The set includes 6 mechanical drafting pencils, 12 tubes of refill, 3 erasers, 9 cap eraser refills, 2 sharpeners, and a mechanical pencil case, making it a great value package.
• With 4 line sizes and 3 hardness, this pencil set offers versatility for your daily use, and the lead writes smoothly without breaking easily.
• The full-metal body provides ideal weight balance for fatigue-free writing and drawing, and the lead advances easily with a click. The pencil case also includes a sharpener in the cap of the 2.0 mm mechanical pencil.

Cons

• Some users may find the rhombus textured rubber grips and metal threaded anti-skidding designs uncomfortable.
• The case may not be as durable as other pencil cases, and the pencils may fall out if not secured properly.
• The pencils may not be suitable for heavy-duty use and may need frequent refilling.

The Nicpro Mechanical Pencil Set is perfect for teachers, students, artists, professionals, and engineers alike. It's a great gift for anyone who loves writing, drafting, drawing, sketching, or architectural working. With a 100% risk-free purchase, you can order today without any hesitation.

Prismacolor Premier Graphite Drawing Pencils With Erasers & Sharpeners

If you're looking for a professional-quality drawing pencil set, the Prismacolor Premier Graphite Drawing Pencil Set is a great option.

Pros

• You get 14 different professionally graded lead values, allowing you to draw everything from highlights to mid-tones and shadows.
• The woodless graphite pencils can be used sharp for details or blunt for coverage, and there's no wood casing to slow you down.
• The water-soluble pencils lay down rich, dark marks and can be mixed with water to create a transparent wash.

Cons

• The softer pencil leads break very easily, but that's because they're higher quality graphite pencils.
• The sharpener isn't great.
• The 8B pencil tends to break easily.

This set comes with seven Turquoise drawing pencils with hardened cores that resist breakage, four versatile woodless graphite pencils that can be used dull for coverage or sharpened, plus three water-soluble ebony pencils that create intensely dark marks. To keep your sketches tight, the kit comes with both a kneaded eraser that can be shaped to any area you want to erase and a vinyl Magic Rub eraser that's perfect for delicate surfaces. Meanwhile, the sanding board makes it easy to create powdered mixes and unique points. The kit is completed with a steel pencil sharpener.

Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality drawing pencil set, the Prismacolor Premier Graphite Drawing Pencil Set is definitely worth considering.

Prismacolor Ebony Graphite Drawing Pencils

If you're looking for a versatile pencil that can handle sketching, portrait and figure drawing, and illustrations, the Prismacolor Ebony Graphite Drawing Pencils are a great choice. The large core diameter provides extra-smooth, jet black lines that are easily blendable, making these pencils a must-have for any artist's arsenal.

Pros

• The intensely dark ebony graphite helps set your art apart.
• The rich, velvety smooth laydown makes it easy to create beautiful drawings.
• The cores resist cracking and breakage, ensuring that your pencils last longer.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the lead breaks easily during sharpening.
• The pencils may not be as jet black as advertised.
• The price point may be a bit high for some buyers.

These pencils are specifically designed for sketching, portrait and figure drawing, and illustrations, and they excel at all three. The intensely dark ebony graphite helps set your art apart, giving it a unique and striking appearance. The rich, velvety smooth laydown makes it easy to create beautiful drawings, even if you're a beginner.

One of the best things about these pencils is their versatility. They can be used for a wide range of drawing styles and techniques, from rough sketches to detailed illustrations. The large core diameter provides extra-smooth, jet black lines that are easily blendable, allowing you to create a wide range of effects.

While these pencils are generally well-regarded, some users have reported that the lead breaks easily during sharpening. Additionally, the pencils may not be as jet black as advertised, which could be a drawback for some artists. Finally, the price point may be a bit high for some buyers, especially if they're just starting out with drawing.

Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality drawing pencil that can handle a wide range of styles and techniques, the Prismacolor Ebony Graphite Drawing Pencils are definitely worth considering.

Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils Set

If you're looking for a set of colored pencils that are easy to use and come in a variety of colors, the Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils Set is a great option.

Pros

• The set includes 72 pencils arranged in color families, so it's easy to find the right color. The pencils are also named, numbered, and color-coded for easy selection.
• The latest advanced formulation by in-house artists and technicians results in cores with soft, buttery laydown that also defy crumbling under pressure and hold their point.
• The intensely pigmented, rich, creamy colors make it easy to achieve the perfect shade – on paper, eggshell, canvas, wood, and more.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the pencils are not as soft as they would like.
• A few users have reported that some of the pencils have broken tips.
• The fold-out tutorial may not be helpful for more experienced artists.

The Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils Set is a quality set of pencils that are perfect for adult artists, professionals, and colorists. The set is protected and organized in a presentation tin box, making it easy to take with you wherever you go. The set includes a unique fold-out tutorial that enables you to refine your colored pencil skills by re-creating the stunning unicorn illustration on the sleeve cover. The set has been tested by studio experts to beat competitors and is trusted by ultimate judges – the 2.5 million customers worldwide who have purchased it. Plus, it's backed by a unique money-back-PLUS guarantee.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying the best drawing pencils, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Here are some key features to consider:

Lead Hardness

The hardness of the lead determines how light or dark the line will be. If you want to create light lines, you should choose a pencil with a harder lead. For darker lines, choose a pencil with a softer lead. The hardness of the lead is indicated by a number on the pencil, with H indicating a harder lead and B indicating a softer lead.

Pencil Shape

The shape of the pencil can also affect your drawing experience. Some pencils have a round shape, while others have a hexagonal shape. Round pencils are comfortable to hold and can be rotated easily for even wear. Hexagonal pencils, on the other hand, can prevent the pencil from rolling off your desk.

Pencil Size

The size of the pencil can also affect your drawing experience. Thicker pencils are good for shading and filling in large areas, while thinner pencils are good for fine details and precision work.

Pencil Quality

The quality of the pencil can affect the quality of your drawings. Higher-quality pencils are made with better materials and can produce smoother, more consistent lines. Look for pencils made with high-quality graphite and wood.

Price

Price is also an important factor to consider when buying drawing pencils. While higher-priced pencils may offer better quality, there are also many affordable options available that can produce excellent results.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Which pencil grades are recommended for detailed drawing work?

When it comes to detailed drawing work, it's recommended to use pencils that are harder and have higher grades such as 2H, 3H, or 4H. These pencils have a harder lead and can create fine lines that are perfect for detail work. You may also want to consider using a mechanical pencil with a fine lead for even more precision.

What are the top-rated pencil brands for professional artists?

There are several top-rated pencil brands for professional artists, including Faber-Castell, Staedtler, and Derwent. These brands offer a wide range of pencil grades, from soft to hard, and are known for their quality and consistency. Many professional artists also prefer these brands because they are widely available and have a long-standing reputation in the art community.

How do beginners choose the right drawing pencil for learning shading techniques?

Beginners should choose a drawing pencil that is easy to handle and has a smooth lead. It's also important to choose a pencil with a range of grades, as this will allow you to experiment with different shading techniques. For beginners, it's recommended to start with a set of pencils that includes a range of grades from 2H to 6B.

What are the differences between mechanical pencils and traditional graphite pencils for drawing?

Mechanical pencils have a fine lead that can be extended as needed, while traditional graphite pencils need to be sharpened. Mechanical pencils are ideal for technical drawing, while traditional graphite pencils are better for shading and sketching. When it comes to drawing, both types of pencils have their advantages and disadvantages, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Can you list some drawing pencil brands that are highly regarded on art forums?

Some drawing pencil brands that are highly regarded on art forums include Prismacolor, Tombow, and Caran d'Ache. These brands are known for their high-quality leads, wide range of grades, and excellent blending capabilities. They are also popular among artists for their smoothness and ability to create rich, vibrant colors.

What attributes define the best pencil sets for aspiring artists?

The best pencil sets for aspiring artists should include a range of grades, from hard to soft, and should be easy to handle. The set should also include pencils that are suitable for both sketching and shading, and should come in a sturdy case for easy storage and transportation. Additionally, the set should be affordable and widely available, making it accessible to artists of all skill levels.