essay drawing with pencil

Essay on Drawing

500 words essay on drawing.

Drawing is a simplistic art whose concern is with making marks. Furthermore, drawing is a way of communicating or expressing a particular feeling of an artist. Let us focus on this unique form of art with this essay on drawing.

                                                                                                              Essay On Drawing

Significance of Drawing                                    

Drawing by itself is an art that gives peace and pleasure. Furthermore, learning the art of drawing can lead to efficiency in other mediums.  Also, having an accurate drawing is the basis of a realistic painting.

Drawing has the power to make people more expressive. It is well known that the expression of some people can’t always take place by the use of words and actions only. Therefore, drawing can serve as an important form of communication for people.

It is possible to gain insight into the thoughts and feelings of people through their drawings. Moreover, this can happen by examining the colour pattern, design, style, and theme of the drawing. One good advantage of being able to express through drawing is the boosting of one’s emotional intelligence .

Drawing enhances the motor skills of people. In fact, when children get used to drawing, their motor skills can improve from a young age. Moreover, drawing improves the hand and eye coordination of people along with fine-tuning of the finger muscles.

Drawing is a great way for people to let their imaginations run wild. This is because when people draw, they tend to access their imagination from the depths of their mind and put it on paper. With continuous drawing, people’s imagination would become more active as they create things on paper that they find in their surroundings.

How to Improve Drawing Skills

One of the best ways to improve drawing skills is to draw something every day. Furthermore, one must not feel pressure to make this drawing a masterpiece. The main idea here is to draw whatever comes to mind.

For drawing on a regular basis, one can make use of repetitive patterns, interlocking circles , doodles or anything that keeps the pencil moving. Therefore, it is important that one must avoid something complex or challenging to start.

Printing of a picture one desires to draw, along with its tracing numerous times, is another good way of improving drawing skills. Moreover, this helps in the building of muscle memory for curves and angles on the subject one would like to draw. In this way, one would be able to quickly improve drawing skills.

One must focus on drawing shapes, instead of outlines, at the beginning of a drawing. For example, in the case of drawing a dog, one must first focus on the head by creating an oval. Afterwards, one can go on adding details and connecting shapes.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Conclusion of the Essay on Drawing

Drawing is an art that has the power of bringing joy to the soul. Furthermore, drawing is a way of representing one’s imagination on a piece of paper. Also, it is a way of manipulating lines and colours to express one’s thoughts.

FAQs For Essay on Drawing

Question 1: Explain the importance of drawing?

Answer 1: Drawing plays a big role in our cognitive development. Furthermore, it facilitates people in improving hand-eye coordination, analytic skills, creative thinking, and conceptualising ideas. As such, drawing must be used as a tool for learning in schools.

Question 2: What are the attributes that drawing can develop in a person?

Answer 2: The attributes that drawing can develop in a person are collaboration, non-verbal communication, creativity, focus-orientation, perseverance, and confidence.

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All-in-One Guide to Colored Pencils

There’s a lot to like about drawing with colored pencils. They’re utterly convenient—a handful of colored pencils and a pad of paper are all you really need to start creating. Prep time and cleanup are practically non-issues, the materials are light and portable, and you don’t need messy or toxic solvents. At the same time, colored pencil drawing lends itself to highly refined and exquisite works of art that rival those created with any other medium.

Aside from their convenience and versatility, much of the appeal of colored pencils is the control they offer. You can do loose work, tight work or anything in between. You can use colored pencil to tint a drawing with light strokes that let the color of the paper show through, or you can use colored pencil to create a solid deposit of many layers of color. Because colored pencil is primarily a dry medium, there’s no drying time to worry about. You can walk away from the work and come back and pick up right where you left off. You can start and stop at any time.

Colored pencil offers the pleasures and rewards of both drawing and painting. Whatever other medium you enjoy, you’ll find colored pencil a worthwhile addition to your repertoire.

Enjoy these colored pencil techniques & tips, perfect for beginners or artists new to colored pencil drawing and painting. Learn how to draw with colored pencils  and start working with colored pencils.

TYPES OF PAPER USED FOR DRAWING WITH COLORED PENCILS

Any good drawing paper is acceptable for colored pencil, but a fine-toothed, firm, durable paper or illustration board is best for extensive layering and burnishing. Not all papers can stand up to the pressure of the pencil, especially if you’re layering multiple colors, burnishing and blending. Paper with a rough surface can produce interesting textures, but rough surfaces aren’t conducive to the application of even deposits of color. Experiment with different papers until you find the ones best for your work. Here are some good surfaces to begin with:

• Hot-pressed watercolor paper , which has a smooth surface, is suitable to work on because it will take many layers of color and give good results when the deposit of colored pencil is blended.

• Bristol board is a good, lightweight board with two types of surfaces: plate , which is very smooth and is excellent for layering and blending; and vellum , which has a more textured surface and is less amenable to blending and burnishing.

• Charcoal paper , which comes in a variety of colors with smooth and textured sides, is suitable for various techniques.

COLORED PENCIL TIPS AND COLORED PENCIL TECHNIQUES

With these basic colored pencil drawing techniques & tips , you’ll be ready to start drawing right away. Discover these colored pencil shading and blending techniques. You can also learn more about creating textures in your colored pencil drawings with Painting Textures in Colored Pencil with Gary Greene .

• Shading: produced with an even, side-to-side stroke that creates a smooth even layer of color; a light touch will deposit a faint amount of color for graduated colored pencil shading.

• Hatching: a series of evenly spaced, parallel lines that leave a little white or color of the underlying surface visible; hatching in colored pencil adds texture to your compositions.

• Cross-hatching: hatching overlaid at an angle to build up layers of color or value; keep the pencil tips sharp to create fine, even lines.

• Burnishing: layers of colored pencil applied with strong, even pressure so the colors blend or intermix, completely covering the paper with a smooth solid color; a stump or tortillion or a smooth metal tool rubbed with even, heavy pressure in a circular motion against a deposit of color will also burnish the color. Burnish light-colored areas first.

• Blending: produced by applying heavy, even pressure with a pigmentless blending pencil or a white or light-colored pencil (such as cream or light gray), creating slick, evenly blended color; a stiff bristle brush can be used to blend colors as well. Colored pencil blending techniques can help add depth to your colored pencil drawings. Burnishing or blending with pale ochre creates an aged or antique look for metallic surfaces. Alternatively, you can use cloud blue to suggest atmospheric perspective. A colorless marker can also be used to blend layers of color together. Permanent markers are good for making washes or underpaintings in colored pencil drawings.

• Scumbling: an irregular or broken deposit of one color over another allowing the underlying color to be visible through the top layer.

• Sgraffito: produced by scratching through a thick upper layer of color pencil with a sharp instrument to expose underlying color or paper; this is a useful technique to draw cat whiskers in colored pencil, wisps of hair in a colored pencil portrait or other fine linear details. Be careful not to damage the surface of your paper.

• Solvent effects: using a solvent such as mineral spirits—applied with a cotton swab or brush—softens the colored pencil deposit and creates a wide range of interesting colored pencil effects.

MUST-HAVE COLORED PENCIL TOOLS

• Good sharpener: A good quality hand-held sharpener is a must; an electric sharpener saves time and energy.
• Colorless blender: A colored pencil with a core made of pigmentless wax can be used to blend colors or soften edges without adding more color.
• Erasers: White plastic erasers will remove or manipulate colored pencil marks; eraser pencils and sticks are useful for concise erasure.
• Eraser shields: This small, flat metal tool with openings of various shapes can be used for precise, controlled erasure.
• Cotton swabs: These can be used for burnishing or for applying solvents.
• Knives: Use these or other sharp instruments for sgraffito.
• Spray workable fixative: Use fixative to protect a finished drawing and prevent wax blooms.
• Sturdy storage box: Keep your pencils orderly and protected.

Colored pencils are stable and permanent. Their cores are made of very finely ground pigment bound with hard wax. Watercolor pencils are made with water-soluble cores; oil-based colored pencils have soft cores that are soluble in solvents such as mineral spirits. Some colored pencils are made without wood casing.

 SAFETY AND CLEANUP

Colored pencils are probably the safest professional art materials available. There’s almost no risk of ingestion of pigments. If you do use solvents in your colored pencil paintings, ensure that your workspace has proper ventilation. Observe normal safe studio practices, and take care to dispose of pencil shavings neatly.

How do watercolor pencils differ from other colored pencils? Watercolor pencils look and feel like wax-based colored pencils, but the binder in the core is water-soluble. This allows the artist to use a wet brush to blend the colors and make colorful washes, soft edges and many other effects. You might be shocked when you see the paint-like results of colored pencils. You can discover even more keys to painting with colored pencils in, Painting Light with Colored Pencil Paperback by Cecile Baird. Watercolor pencils are an exciting medium because they enable the artist to switch from drawing to painting instantly.

Are different brands of colored pencil compatible? Yes, but the hardness of colored pencils’ cores varies by brand. Layering softer pencils over hard is easier than the reverse. Wax-based colored pencils can be used with watercolor pencils but won’t react to water in the same way.

How can I correct and prevent wax bloom? Wax bloom is a whitish buildup of wax that comes from a heavy deposit of wax-based colored pencil. To remove wax bloom, wipe the surface of the paper with a soft tissue. Then to prevent wax bloom from reoccurring, lightly spray the drawing with two to four layers of workable fixative. Keep the surface of the paper clean by using a soft brush to sweep away stray particles of color and dust, especially after employing a technique such as sgraffito (scraping away a layer of color).

How should I store and display colored pencil art? Spray finished colored pencil drawings with a final, non-workable fixative to protect them from smearing. Drawings are best stored flat in boxes or a flat file with sheets of glassine or white drawing paper between the drawings. For better protection of your best drawings, consider matting. Colored pencil art should be displayed under glass to protect it from damage and pollutants.

Are colored pencils permanent? Colored pencils are very stable but are only as permanent as the surface they’re on. Creating your art on acid-free paper will ensure that it lasts a long time. Protect your colored pencil art from rapid changes in humidity or temperature, and take special care to store it away from heat.

This Mediapedia article by Gary Greene first appeared in the July/August 2009 issue of The Artist’s Magazine. Click here to subscribe.

Want to learn even more about drawing & painting with colored pencil? Delve deep into the world of drawing with colored pencil with The Ultimate Guide to Colored Pencil by Gary Greene.

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This video is a part of a 3D drawing and drawing tutorial for beginners. It is related to learn how to draw 3d dragon step by step, 3d dragon drawing, how to draw 3d art on paper, 3d drawing and 3d drawings on paper. Pencil Sketch drawing

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The Joy Of Art: An Essay On My Hobby Drawing

Essay On My Hobby Drawing: Drawing is one of the most ancient forms of human expression. From cave paintings to modern art, drawing has always been an important medium for humans to convey their thoughts and emotions. Drawing as a hobby is a wonderful way to explore your creativity, reduce stress, and improve your focus. In this essay, I will share my personal experience with drawing as a hobby, discuss the benefits of drawing, and provide tips for beginners to improve their skills.

In this blog, we include the Essay On My Hobby Drawing , in 100, 200, 250, and 300 words . Also cover Essay On My Hobby Drawing for classes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and up to the 12th class. You can read more Essay Writing in 10 lines, and essay writing about sports, events, occasions, festivals, etc… The Essay On My Hobby Drawing is available in different languages.

Benefits Of Drawing As A Hobby

Drawing as a hobby has several benefits that go beyond the joy of creating a beautiful piece of art. Drawing can help reduce stress and anxiety by providing a meditative and relaxing activity. When we draw, we enter into a state of flow that takes our mind off our worries and focuses it on the present moment.

Drawing can also be therapeutic. Art therapy is an established form of therapy that uses art as a means of expression and healing. Drawing can help us express our emotions, thoughts, and feelings in a non-verbal way. This can be especially helpful for those who find it difficult to express themselves through words.

Another benefit of drawing is that it can improve our focus and mindfulness. When we draw, we have to pay attention to the details of what we are drawing. This requires us to be fully present in the moment, which can improve our overall mindfulness and awareness.

My Experience With Drawing

I started drawing as a hobby when I was a child. I would spend hours creating doodles and sketches in my notebook. As I got older, I continued to draw, but I never considered it to be more than just a fun pastime. It wasn’t until I started experiencing stress and anxiety in my adult life that I realized the therapeutic benefits of drawing.

Drawing has become a form of meditation for me. When I draw, I am fully immersed in the process, and my mind is free from worries and stress. Drawing has also helped me express my emotions in a non-verbal way. When I am feeling overwhelmed or anxious, I can sit down and draw, and it helps me feel more centered and calm.

Drawing Techniques And Tools

Drawing is a skill that can be improved with practice. There are several drawing techniques and materials that can help beginners improve their skills. One of the most important things for beginners is to start with simple shapes and lines. This will help you develop a steady hand and improve your control over the pencil or pen.

There are several drawing materials that beginners can use, including pencils, pens, charcoal, and pastels. Each material has its own unique qualities, and it’s important to experiment with different materials to find the ones that work best for you.

In addition to the materials, there are several drawing techniques that beginners can learn. These include shading, perspective, and composition. Learning these techniques can help beginners create more realistic and dynamic drawings.

Inspiration And Motivation

Inspiration for drawing can come from anywhere and everywhere. Some people find inspiration in nature, while others are inspired by music or literature. One of the best ways to find inspiration is to explore different art forms and styles. This can help you develop your own unique style and vision.

Motivation is also an important factor in the drawing. Like any skill, drawing requires practice and perseverance. It’s important to set goals and challenges for yourself to stay motivated. You can also find motivation by joining a community of artists or taking a drawing class.

Drawing as a hobby has several benefits that go beyond the joy of creating a beautiful piece of art. Drawing can reduce stress, improve focus and mindfulness, and be therapeutic. Learning drawing techniques and experimenting with different materials can help beginners improve their skills. Finding inspiration and staying motivated are also important factors in becoming a skilled artist. Drawing is wonderful.

Read More: My Hobby Essay

FAQ’s On Essay On My Hobby Drawing

Question 1. Why is drawing my hobby?

Answer: However, I can tell you that people have different reasons for taking up drawing as a hobby.

• Some people find drawing to be a relaxing and meditative activity that helps them reduce stress and anxiety. Others enjoy the creative process and the satisfaction of creating a beautiful piece of art. Some people use drawing as a means of expressing their emotions and thoughts in a non-verbal way.
• Drawing as a hobby can also be a way of challenging oneself and improving one’s skills. Learning new techniques and experimenting with different materials can be a fun and rewarding experience.
• Ultimately, the reasons for why drawing is your hobby are unique to you and may be influenced by your personal experiences, interests, and passions.

Question 2. How do you write a drawing essay?

Answer: Writing a drawing essay involves describing and analyzing a visual artwork, such as a painting, sculpture, or graphic design. Here are some steps to follow:

• Choose an artwork: Select an artwork that you want to write about. It’s best to choose a piece that you have seen in person, but if that’s not possible, find a high-quality image of the artwork to use as a reference.
• Observe and analyze: Look at the artwork carefully and take notes on what you see. Note the colors, shapes, lines, and textures used in the piece, as well as any patterns or motifs. Think about the overall composition of the artwork and how the various elements work together to create a visual impact.
• Research the artist and the artwork: If you’re writing a formal essay, you’ll want to research the artist and the artwork to provide context and background information. Find out when and where the artwork was created, what inspired the artist, and what artistic movements or styles influenced the piece.
• Develop a thesis statement: Your thesis statement should summarize the main point you want to make in your essay. It might be an analysis of the artwork’s meaning, an exploration of the techniques used by the artist, or a comparison of the artwork to other works in its genre.

Question 3. What is your favorite hobby and why is drawing?

Answer: Drawing can be a favorite hobby because it allows for self-expression and creativity. It can also be a relaxing and therapeutic activity that helps to reduce stress and anxiety. Furthermore, drawing can be a way to improve fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Additionally, with practice, it can lead to the development of a unique style and a sense of accomplishment.

Question 4. How do you mention drawing in hobbies?

Answer: If you want to mention drawing as one of your hobbies, you can do so in a variety of ways. Here are a few examples:

• “In my free time, I enjoy drawing. It’s a creative outlet that allows me to express myself and explore new ideas.”
• “One of my hobbies is drawing. I find it to be a relaxing and meditative activity that helps me unwind after a busy day.”

Question 5. How do you describe your drawing?

• Describe the subject matter: What is your drawing depicting? Is it a landscape, a portrait, a still life, or something else?
• Highlight the style: What techniques did you use in your drawing? Are there any unique features or elements that make it stand out?
• Comment on the composition: How did you arrange the elements in your drawing? Did you use any particular techniques to create balance or movement?
• Explain your intention: What message or feeling were you trying to convey with your drawing? What inspired you to create it?

Pencil drawing techniques: Pro tips to sharpen your skills

Sharpen your skills with these pencil drawing techniques, for both graphite and coloured pencils.

Pencil drawing techniques

Use the right tools, advanced tips.

These pencil drawing techniques from top artists will help you take your drawing skills to the next level, whether you're using graphite pencil or coloured pencils. 

For many artists, pencil drawing is the skill that introduced them to the art world, and even if you've moved on to a different medium, understanding how to draw with a pencil can help you improve your skills elsewhere. These pencil drawing techniques cover everything from the basics of mark-making to advanced processes to push you out of your comfort zone. 

We'll also offer advice on the tools and materials you need to know, such as blending stumps, paper options, and different erasers. For some extra inspiration, check out the most unbelievably realistic pencil drawings we've ever seen.

Short on time? The video above, from character designer Bobby Chiu , runs through some pencil drawing techniques in action. For more in-depth advice on composition to how to capture light and shadow, take a look at our art techniques article, for practical buying advice see our guides to the best pencils and best pencil sharpeners . Or, for inspiration, take a look at this roundup of unbelievably realistic pencil drawings .

01. Use the right grip 

The first step is to master how to hold a pencil correctly . Chiu recommends holding the pencil like you could a piece of charcoal, and using the side of the lead to draw, rather than the point. This helps keep the pencil sharper for longer.

"When covering large areas, I shade with my pencil perpendicular to the line I'm drawing to get wide, soft lines," he adds. "For details, I hold my pencil parallel to my lines to get sharp, narrow marks. The only time I use the point is when I'm working on intricate details."

"It is important to consider where you are making your mark from – fingers, wrist or shoulder," adds artist Jake Spicer .

02. Consider your lines

The kind of marks you're making will shape the feel and look of your pencil drawing. Things like how fast you draw a line and the weight you put into a stroke will change the look of the line. "A heavy line 
is dark and definite; a lightly drawn line is pale and exploratory," says Spicer. "When you are starting out, try to avoid uncertain, feathery marks."

03. Start with an underdrawing

Many artists prefer to start their pencil drawing by laying out the scene with a rough, light underdrawing – this can be especially useful if the end game is a precise line drawing. "Having a more fluid foundation helps you see the end result without the intimidating commitment of getting everything perfect," says artist Timothy von Reuden . 

For a pencil underdrawing, make sure you use a hard lead (around 2H) to ensure the lines are light and easy to erase. Alternatively, you could use a digital underdrawing, printed at 1 per cent Opacity. Either way, make sure this acts as a foundation rather than a strict guide. "I strongly believe in letting intuition take over in the creation process, so I work with the underdrawing more as a guideline," continues Von Reuden.

04. Work left-to-right

Pencils are prone to smudging, and the softer they are, the more difficult it is to keep things clean. However, planning which area of the composition you work on first can help. Essentially you don't want to be resting your hand on areas you've already drawn, which means that unless you have an unusual pencil grip, you want to be working top to bottom. Then right-handers should work left to right, and lefties move right to left.

05. Try a blind contour drawing

One common exercise to start out with is blind contour drawing. "Set up a subject in front of you and fix your eye on the top of it, placing your pencil on your paper. Without looking down at the paper, trace your eye around your subject, following its edges and contours, and as you do so, let your pencil follow the same journey on the paper," explains Spicer. "Draw in a single, unbroken line and don’t look back at the drawing until you are finished."

The result will look odd and incorrect, but that's not a problem. The aim of this is to help you draw confidently and unselfconsciously, and it's a great way to overcome a fear of staring at a blank page. "Repeat the exercise regularly as a warm up to get your hand working together with your eye," suggests Spicer.

You can adapt the exercise by flicking your eye down to the page at regular intervals, and trying to adjust your line style and weight to accurately describe what you see (you're still using one, unbroken line). "Don’t aim for precisely accurate proportion, instead aim for an honest process of looking and mark making, without overthinking the drawing," he concludes.

06. Vary line thickness

Varying the thickness of the line you use help guide your viewer through your drawing, explains Von Reuden. Thicker lines can help indicate importance, or tell the viewer that something is in the foreground of the scene. They can also be used to distinguish between two separate, overlapping objects – a thicker line on the outside of an object an help differentiate the outside lines of the subject matter from the lines that represent the details within. 

In the example above, you can see how different line weights can be combined to make a form appear more three-dimensional.

07. Mix up shading techniques

There are lots of different pencil drawing techniques relating to shading. Chiu uses two main approaches. The first is with all the lines going in the same direction. "This makes my shading appear more cohesive, and helps my details pop out from the lines I'm using for shading," he explains.

The second method involves working in patches of shading, to help define shape. "Patches of lines go around the form, which help keep things in perspective," he says. This technique is also great for backgrounds and creating texture.

08. With detail work, control your lines

If you're working on a detailed area, be wary of your pencil line. "When it comes to creating cleaner and tighter line work, staying consistent is key," says Von Reuden. "Not only should you be aware of the look of your line but also the pressure you’re applying to the pencil and on the paper. Be actively aware at this stage and don’t rush it." He suggests regularly stepping back to check the overall effect of your work, and ensure you're keeping your line steady throughout.

09. Master blending

US-based artist Jennifer Healy has a specific process for blending her coloured pencil work. She starts with an outline, to check the form is correct before committing to coloured pencil (it's much harder to erase coloured-in areas than an outline). It also helps her plan where the highlights and shadows will fall. 

She then builds up colour using subtle layers. "I like to start out with soft gentle layers to gain a better idea of lighting placement, shadows and the colour palette," she says. After each layer she blends gently using the blending stump.

Once she has reached a stage she's happy with, she moves on to the final step: adding an outline. For this final layer, Healy uses coloured pencils alone, and does not blend with a stump.

10. Start lightly and build from there

"When I start drawing, I plan and explore using loose lines, and avoid committing too early with hard, dark lines," says Chiu. "As I progress my lines will change, so checking and rechecking my work is vital. I darken my lines and add details at the end. I don't focus on one area for too long to prevent overdrawing."

11. Clean up after yourself

Your eraser can be just as important as the pencil itself. There are a few different types (see the Tools section for more on this), but whichever you choose you want to make sure it's close to hand whenever you're working. "Whenever a line gets too thick, I either erase the entire line or try to line up the eraser edge to slim down the existing line," says Von Reuden. "I like to clean up during the entire process and at the end do a final sweep to make sure I didn’t miss an area before calling it done."

12. Check and recheck

Before you move on to stronger lines and detail work, it's essential to make sure you have the correct form down. Chiu's advice is to check and check again. "I have to nail down my drawing's underpinnings before I can add details. I really avoid guessing at the details; I want to make sure things are symmetrical and look right before putting down stronger and harder lines." 

He also suggests looking at your work in a mirror or through a camera. Considering different vantage points is a great way to highlight if anything is off. "I constantly ask myself, does this feel right? If anything seems off – even if I can't immediately put my finger on what it is – I trust my gut and troubleshoot my drawing before continuing."

13. Know when to stop

The majority of artists have a tendency to tinker with their work – even after they've signed their name. "I can always find something to change if I look hard enough, so it can be difficult to tell when a piece is truly finished," says Chiu. 

However, be wary of overworking your piece. "Eventually, I make a conscious decision to put my drawing away and start something new," he continues. "That's when I consider my drawing done. Well, maybe..."

14. Pick the right pencil

The pencil you choose will have a big impact on both the techniques you can use and the look of your find artwork. Different pencil types are better for different styles of artwork, and you also need to consider the hardness of your lead.

Traditional graphite pencils are available in a scale of hardness from 9H (hard, pale) to 9B (soft, dark), with HB and F sitting the middle of the range. "Typically, the H grades are suited to technical drawing, while B grades are ideal sketching pencils," explains Spicer. He suggests a 2B or 3B pencil is a good place to start with general pencil drawings.

Then you need to pick the type of pencil. Traditional graphite pencils tend to round out quickly, and so need regular sharpening to produce a consistent-sized tip. The softer your pencil, the more sharpening you'll need to do. Traditional pencils are great for shading, especially larger areas.

The other main option is a mechanical pencil (see our guide to the best mechanical pencils for drawing ). These offer clean, crisp edges, and are better at maintaining a consistent line. You don't need to sharpen them, either. If you're creating a large artwork, bear in mind that a mechanical pencil can slow the drawing process. For a more in-depth look at your options, take a look at our guide to the best pencils .

15. Sharpen correctly

"Some drawings require a fine, sharp point for pinning down a crisp line, others a broad, flat side to the pencil lead for blocking in tone. Sometimes, a blunt point can serve your purposes," says Spicer. "Whatever your preference, ensure you always have a sharpener on hand."

Again, there are a few options here. Choose between a regular handheld sharpener (portable, easy to use), a desk-mounted helical sharpener (typically longer-lasting, and will grind the pencil to a longer point) or a craft knife (get the point you want, but there's some danger of slicing your fingers off). 

16. Protect your paper

This is a valuable pencil drawing technique for beginners: put a piece of paper under my hand to avoid smudging your drawing while you're working. It seems obvious, but it can be the downfall of a great piece of work!

Healy also prefers to mount her paper on a board, attaching it using a layer of matte medium . This helps keep things neat, and provides a solid surface to work on.

17. Explore different paper textures

The surface texture you're working on will make a big difference to the effects you can create. This is referred to as the grain or 'tooth' of the paper. A rough tooth is more visible, and the ridges will grip the colour from your pencils.

With a smooth tooth, the ridges are very fine, and there's less grip. Healy finds this kind of paper provides an easier surface for blending coloured pencils, although she warns that it's also easy to run the colour off the surface.

18. Invest in a putty eraser

There are a few different types of eraser, and each is suited to different things. Many pencils have a small eraser head, which is ideal for thinning out lines that get too thick. However, don't rely on this alone: you'll also want to invest in a kneaded eraser. This has a putty-like consistency (it's sometimes called a putty eraser), and you knead it before and after use. 

"A kneaded eraser is best for lightly picking up the coloured pencil binding off the paper. This works wonders when correcting mistakes, or if you’re deliberately lifting colour from an area such as the eyes," says Healy. A gum eraser has a more solid consistency, and is better if you're trying to fully erase a coloured-in area.

19. Try a stump for soft blending

How you blend your work can have a big impact on the final result. For a soft blended effect, try a blending stump. 

"After each light layer, I very gently blend the coloured pencils with the stump," says Healy. "Don’t push too hard or the colour will stick, making it more difficult to softly blend. I repeat this process as often as I need. After many layers it produces a very soft and delicate look."

This technique requires a little trial and error, though. Healy warns that if you blend too softly, the stump can pick up colour that you've already layered on the paper.

20. Unify your colours

Having a uniform approach to colour will help bring cohesiveness to your work. "It’s a good idea to make sure that your artwork has unifying colours," says Healy. "This consists of a particular colour palette, mood and a way of spreading these across the entire art piece."

She also suggests creating a harmonious base by using tinted paper or adding a background wash of colour (in paint). "This will show through whatever you lay down on top of it, thus giving it an appearance of cohesion. When I use coloured pencils, I’m fond of using tinted paper produced by Kraft."

21. Try different approaches to outlines

The next drawing technique concerns line weight. As well as demarcating different objects, lines can help emphasise shadows. "Thicker lines can fade and disappear into the shadows, which can help convey the 3D form," explains Chiu.

Beyond that, different artists have different approaches to lines – you need to find the style that's right for you. "I prefer to use a distinct outline in my artwork, whether it’s using thin outlines or bold outlines," says Healy. "It can help pinpoint the viewer’s eye to a certain area. It also gives a stylised look, if that’s what you are hoping to achieve."

Chiu, however, prefers a different approach. "I try to avoid outlining my drawings because this tends to make things look flat and deadens the 3D effect. Breaks and spaces in my lines show form in the lights and shadows."

22. Draw on your own experiences

"Dip into your experiences to add a special layer of authenticity to your piece," suggests Healy. "This means using something like a memory, feeling or scent when creating your work. For example, the special feeling you experienced when sitting down with a friend at a coffee shop, or a memory of a childhood experience. You can be abstract or use hyperrealism. Whatever you choose makes the piece unique to you. I’ve found that people resonate with these pieces the most."

23. Use contrasting concepts

One drawing technique Healy uses in her work is to use contrasting concepts within a piece of work, for example, juxtaposing beauty and ugliness. "I’ll use the beauty of colours, flowers, the softness of skin or hair, and the female form. I’ll also tend to use something that’s the opposite to all of that, such as bones, insects, sharp teeth, or anything that may provide discomfort to the viewer," she elaborates. "Somehow this provides an interesting concept to a piece. Especially when the ‘ugly’ parts are harder to spot at first. To me this is a very stark representation of what life is like."

24. Try combining pencils with watercolour

While pencils on their own can be used to create a wealth of different effects, it can be interesting to combine them with other media. For example, in her work, Healy likes to combine watercolour and coloured pencils. It's important to start with watercolour and then layer coloured pencils on top, she explains, because pencils can create a waxy surface that repels liquid, and prevents the watercolour from soaking into the paper. 

"This is a fun technique to test out," she says. "Both mediums have unique qualities and textures. Combining the two elements creates a medium all of its own."

Also read: The best watercolour pencils you can buy right now

25. Break out of your comfort zone

While these pencil drawing techniques should help you understand the essentials of the medium, sometimes you need to throw the rules out of the window and find what works for you. "There’s nothing wrong with stepping outside of the box if it means achieving the effect you want," says Healy. "Trial and error will occur when you step outside of that box. But don’t be intimidated! The process is entirely fun."

26. Create fabric

Fabric can range from sleek and shiny to matte and dull. How you shade it will help sell the idea of the fabric you’re trying to depict. For this sketch, von Reuden is trying to capture the golden folds of material found in the original image. He began by outlining the shapes and blocking out areas of shadow.

27. Categorise your fabric

Von Reuden explains how you can add value and shading to create further layers of depth and weight. He says, "when drawing and recreating fabric, the types of wrinkles created can all be placed under three separate categories: hanging/relaxed, stretched/tension, and scrunched/compressed." 

"Hanging fabric tends to be loose and have a flowing appearance. Stretched fabric creates long lines, usually with a point of support. Compressed fabrics bunch into each other, creating scrunched-looking areas."

Some of this advice comes from ImagineFX , the world's best-selling magazine for digital artists. Subscribe here .

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A Beginner's Guide to Drawing With Pencil

February 01, 2019 By Jessie Oleson Moore filed under Art Blog .

Drawing with pencil is an art form that you can jump into at any age. It requires very few supplies and — honestly! — isn’t hard to learn. In fact, if you know how to hold and use a pencil (check!), you already have the basic graphite skills needed to start working with this versatile medium. Our beginner’s guide to drawing with pencil can help you with the rest.

Skeptical? Try the quickie sketching tutorial below. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to make your first pencil drawing of a simple object. And once you master these basics, you’ll have the skills (and confidence) to move on to more complex subjects. Get ready to make your mark!

What You Need

There are a few tools you need to get started on your sketching journey.

David Pennington/Unsplash

Clearly! But in the art world, there’s more to choose from than the standard #2. Pencils are graded by both number and letter, with “H” being harder and “B” being softer (or blacker). Within each letter category, there are numbers denoting degrees of hardness or softness; the higher the number, the softer the pencil.

Confused? That’s okay! You don’t have to know exactly what letter/number you need, or even what you’ll be drawing, to buy pencils. Simply pick up a variety of H and B pencils (even fancy models won’t set you back much) and you’ll be covered.

What about mechanical pencils? Yes, they can be great. They never require sharpening and are terrific for line work, hatching and cross-hatching. They’re not as good as regular pencils for soft shading, though. If you’re serious about drawing with pencil, it’s a great idea to figure out what types of tip (fatter? finer?) and graphite hardness you like, and then take the leap into buying a high-quality mechanical pencil.

Pencil Sharpener

You’ll need a good one. A great choice for beginners is a manual pencil sharpener with two openings. Each will sharpen the pencil to a different type of tip, so this will give you a lot of drawing versatility.

Picsfive/Getty Images/iStockphoto

Erasers aren’t just for do-overs and clean-ups. They can also used for shading and special effects. Even if your pencil has an eraser on the end, it will be worn down in no time. A soft gum eraser or a “big pink” eraser (like the eraser on the end of a pencil but larger) are both great, low-cost choices.

If you’re just getting started with pencil drawing, you probably don’t want to be using expensive paper from the get-go. You’ll want to invest in two types of paper: sketch paper, which is cheap and ideal for testing out ideas and refining techniques; and higher-quality archival drawing paper , which is thicker and has a gentle “tooth” that’s ideal for graphite, for when you’re ready to work on a final piece. You can even transfer the sketches you’d like to develop into finished pieces onto good paper using transfer paper.

Drawing with Pencil in Four Easy Steps

Apply the basics of this tutorial in all your drawing endeavors.

1. Choose a Reference Image

If you’re just getting started, a photograph is a great reference choice because it won’t move or change on you as you work. Go with something basic like a flower or simple object. In this example, we’ll use a donut.

2. Make an Outline

Draw the basic shape of your object, but don’t worry about realism here. It’s okay to take some liberties.

3. Add Tones and Textures

Once you’re happy with your basic sketch, you can start filling in and refining your drawing. Evaluate your reference image for distinct textures to convey in your drawing. In the case of the donut, the “cake” part has a slightly uneven texture. You could start by filling in that area using small light circular motions (known as scumbling).

To add some definition, darken the scumbling around the edges or add hatching (linear lines) or cross-hatching (crisscrossing lines) to portions of the radius of the donut that correspond with the darker portions of the reference image.

4. Refine Your Drawing

Finesse your drawing by using various pencil marks to shade and highlight certain areas . Using a variety of tones will suggest color even in a black-and-white piece. Start slow (you can always make an image darker, but making it lighter is more difficult) and pause every now and again to look at your image from a distance. It will help you determine what areas need more shading.

You can take the drawing as far as you’d like from this point, working it into a highly detailed work or leaving it more loose. Follow your intuition and make the drawing your own!

Photos via Unicorn Love unless otherwise noted

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Get more must-know tips from a pro and complete four projects step-by-step in our class Startup Library: Learn to Draw .

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14 Responses to “A Beginner's Guide to Drawing With Pencil”

I want to start my drawing career

I want to know how to create so I can be making money 🥲

I was scech some objects,on my childhood.want to be start my drawing skills now,more information.thanks for your support.i will follow this platform, when i start my sceching clearly...

I love to draw I’m not very good at drawing but I’m getting better I’m only 10 and I started at 3 and this guide is very helpful

I love drawing and I'm good but my imagination sucks....I have drawers block!

Interested in learning to sketch

This is a terrible guide

I would like to pencil draw . Would like to learn black and white & colors.

I would like to learn

I want to learn how to draw

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Pencil drawing for beginners: All you need to know

Hello artists, I feel like I’ve posted a little too much about painting in the last few weeks and thought, Why not go back to drawing a bit, especially pencil drawings and sketches?

When I first started with art as a child, I was inspired by my dad’s pencil and charcoal drawings. He has a good eye for value and can make amazing drawings using pencils. On the other hand, I’m a huge color person. I love my palettes and I find paint super therapeutic. However, throughout the years, I grew pretty tight on schedule and I realized that the idea of painting daily is very unrealistic for the life I am living, and to keep the habit of practicing art every day, I decided to make sketching and pencil drawing part of my daily routine which improved my drawing skills and taught me so much about it.

So in this article, I will be sharing with you tips to walk you through what you need to know so you can improve or get started with pencil drawing for beginners.

This page contains affiliate links, meaning I earn a commission if you use those links. Please read my Disclosure for more details.

What do I need to start pencil drawing?

Material-wise, you technically need pencils and good paper to draw on.

Best Pencils for Pencil Drawing Beginners

You might have seen tons of tutorials online about all the different numbers of pencils and other supplies you need in order to start drawing. But if you want my advice, I think a beginner could start with anything. Any pencil will do the job.

I first started drawing using basic pencils I got at the craft store, and then about 2 months later, I saved up enough to get this mechanical pencil from Amazon. I highly recommend it; it’s extremely durable and very comfortable to hold, and the eraser is actually efficient and causes no smearing. I get the 0.5 lead because it’s perfect for both drawing and writing on planners. Also, getting a mechanical pencil will save you money on pencil sharpeners and erasers.

Once you have gotten used to drawing with a mechanical pencil, you can start building up your collection. Different numbers on pencils mean different things, like opacity, level of blackness, level of roughness…

Here’s what the letters on the pencils mean:

This Faber-castell set is perfect for beginners and very affordable.

This one right here is another favorite of mine, and I had a bunch of people asking about where to get it from after a video I posted on Pinterest!

Last but not least, if you make the choice of getting a fancier set that comes with pencils, sharpeners, blending stumps, erasers, and so on. You can get this set from Amazon .

Best sketchbooks for beginners in pencil drawing 

Now the paper you actually draw on matters so much more than the pencils you’re using. Papers come in different textures and weights; some of them are great for pencil drawing because they are thick and textured, and others suck because they are super thin. The moment you try to erase a mistake you made, you risk ruining the whole thing and making holes in your cheap paper. And for that, I recommend you get papers that go anywhere above 135 gsm.

‘Cartridge’ paper is the standard type of paper that pencil artists use for pencil and graphite drawings. It has just enough grains to produce a pleasing, slightly textured pencil line. Most sketch pads with cartridge paper are white, but some brands produce an off-white, which is warmer and prettier, in my opinion.

I personally bought this Premium sketchbook. It is one of the best on the market.

And whenever I want to get an off-white sketchbook, I buy this Strathmore 400 one.

How to actually start practicing pencil drawing

1- draw and sketch basic shapes.

Keep it simple; that’s the first tip I would give you. In drawing classes, the first thing students start drawing is basic shapes: circles, rectangles, squares, etc. The way you do it is to sketch it using shorter, inconsistent lines instead of drawing one continuous line. Perfection is the enemy of creativity.

You want to focus on creating the general shape instead of committing to creating a final version of whatever you are trying to draw or sketch. Just remember that it’s not going to be perfect, and it’s not supposed to be anyway!

Once you are happy with your 2D shapes and want to step it up to more of a 3D effect, the first thing you need to know is: What does it mean for a shape to be 3D?

Well, my friends! might sound stupid, but it means giving the 2D shape more dimension, depth, and value. And in order for you to do that as an artist, you would first think, Where’s my light source?

A light source will help you figure out where to shade and where to highlight so you can make your drawing realistically 3-dimensional.

Take a look at this sphere right here. Can you tell me where the light is coming from?

Exactly! You guessed it right!

It is now time for you to start experimenting with different light sources, shapes, and dimensions. The more you practice, the easier it gets.

2- Draw and sketch things around you

Your next step is to start practicing still life. I used to sketch flowers, eyes, and my hands all the time. These kinds of drawings are called studies. Because they are done following the academic way of studying objects and drawing them.

Always start with basic shapes and work your way to the details. A beginner’s biggest mistake is getting caught up in the details.

Read this article: 5 DO’s and DON’Ts for Painting and Drawing: Secrets to a Successful Session

3- Draw a still-life

Make a still-life scene and try to recreate it with graphite or pencils. This will slowly introduce you to learning more about composition , art elements , art principles , and how to draw value . Or you can simply subscribe to my blog and read the articles I post weekly 😉 

On the other hand, if you prefer to develop your skills in portrait drawing, practice from references and statues, like the famous David statue.

4- Practice anatomy 

Also called Écorché drawing. In French, the word écorché means ‘flayed figure’.

For all artists, but especially those interested in figure drawing, studying the anatomy of the human body is what will help you design and draw a body with no reference in the future.

When you understand how muscles and bones are shaped underneath the skin, you will be able to draw and try out different figures, postures, and poses and play with different compositions.

Sorry to tell you, but as an artist, you need to study anatomy the way doctors do! 

Joking, but you do actually need to go beyond the front, side, and back forms of the figure. You need to really understand how muscles function alone and in groups so that you can draw the figure in any kind of motion you can imagine.

Start at study drawing the skeleton to know how the body moves and maintains equilibrium, then move to muscles and movement. Study how the form of the muscle changes as the figure moves. Remember that your end goal is to be able to draw from your imagination with no reference. 

Check out this book , it’s really helpful.

5- 80% practice and 20% theory

My last tip would be the 80-20 rule. There’s no shortcut to mastering drawing and painting but practice, knowledge, and consistency. Practice will improve your skills, but without knowledge, you will be practicing your mistakes over and over. 

You can read this article to learn the right way to follow as a self-taught artist: Art Standards: your go-to plan to learn more about art as a self-taught artist . 

Art supplies might help you achieve your desired outcome, but they won’t make great art for you. You can also read this article for more insights on this: Do I need to buy expensive art supplies to make great art?  

Conclusion:

Drawing is the right way to start in art, whether your goal is to become an artist or just have fun, I highly recommend you sketch and doodle on a daily basis because it increases your awareness of your surroundings, increases your intuition and memory, and makes you see the world as an artist .  

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18 comments.

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Muy interesante todo ésto aquí… Yo soy una persona que le gusta dibujar ya estoy grande tengo 53 años y apenas estoy aprendiendo a dibujar… tengo una pregunta que me gustaría que me contestara… Cuando hago un dibujo, yo miro que le ponen algún brillo con lápiz blanco y yo intento pintar con lápiz blanco y no pinta nada,. quisiera saber cómo resalta cuando pintan con lápiz blanco, o que me digan la marca del lápiz o pluma de tinta blanca, para así yo comprarlo,muchas gracias.

Hola querida, me alegro mucho que hayas encontrado interesante el artículo. En cuanto al bolígrafo de tinta blanca. Yo personalmente uso este de tinta acrílica blanca. Aquí está el enlace para ello en Amazon. link ( https://amzn.to/3Z0UYGJ )

Hi Khaoula,

My name is Yolanda. I just ran into your blogs and love them. What is the sketch book with Chinese or Japanese writing ? Those are awesome! Thanks in advance ☺️

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Pencil Drawing for Beginners

Pencil drawing is a fun pastime and a great way to hone your artistic skills. Learning drawing for beginners is relatively easy, as you don’t need too many supplies and the basic techniques are relatively easy to learn.

Pencil drawing is the process of using a pencil—whether that’s a charcoal , graphite or coloured pencil —to create an artwork. The process and techniques of pencil drawing can look slightly different for each of these pencil mediums, but I’ll explain more about that later.

In this guide, learn everything you need to know about pencil drawing for beginners. From choosing the right drawing tools, to the essential techniques and exercises. Plus, get some tips on how to improve at drawing and ideas for what to create.

Disclaimer: Fine Art Tutorials is a reader supported site. When you make purchases through links on this site, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Pencils: Find the perfect pencil for your practice

The best pencil for your drawing practice will depend upon what you want to achieve. Pencils range in hardness and the materials that the core (also called lead) is made from. These two variable properties both have an effect on the artist’s drawing experience and outcome of the artwork.

Pencils range in hardness from around 6H (hard) to 12B (soft). HB pencils have a medium hardness, as do pencils labelled as F. With softer pencils, artists can achieve a greater range in values, compared to harder pencils. If you draw with a 8B, 12B or 6B pencil, you will be able to render deep shadows, as more of the softer pencil core will impart on the paper. However, with hard (H-6H), the lines will look finer, more precise and fainter. Hard pencils are easier to erase and suitable for technical drawings, but you won’t be able to achieve the range of tones and values that you would with softer pencils.

The next thing to consider when choosing your perfect pencil is the pencil medium you will draw with. Graphite pencils are made from graphite, which is a type of carbon. This results in smooth lines and stable mark-making. Charcoal pencils are made from vine or willow that has been heated to a high temperature. It is often used for sketching as it’s loose, easy to apply, can be smudged and erased easily. Coloured pencils are either made from oil or wax and artist grade coloured pencils usually use pigments that are lightfast. These pencils are soft, blendable, layerable and the best artist grade pencils are incredibly bright and pigmented.

Pencil drawing supplies

When learning to draw with pencil you really don’t need to invest in all the best drawing tools to get started. All you really need is a pencil, paper and eraser to clean up mistakes. However, if you’re looking for some new supplies and need some recommendations, if you want to try some new materials, or if you’re just a bit of an art supplies addict, here are some of our top picks.

Get a few different graphite pencils in different hardness levels when if you’re a beginner to drawing. Some of the best brands of graphite pencil include the Faber Castell 9000 Series which feel smooth to draw with and have a grey-silver tone. Another great brand of professional graphite pencils is Caran d’Ache , they are some of the smoothest and highest quality brand of graphite on the market. However, they’re on the expensive side. If you’re looking for a cheaper pencil, Staedtler are both great choices.

General’s Peel and Sketch charcoal , is a wrap pencil. So instead of sharpening with a blade, peel back the paper to reveal more of the charcoal beneath. It’s high quality, soft charcoal that is resistant to snapping and breaking. Create deep shadows and smooth lines with ease.

Coloured Pencils

The best artist grade coloured pencils are the Faber-Castell Polychromos pencils and Prismacolor pencils . These pencils are soft and blend beautifully, making them ideal for shading and creating coloured textures in your drawings. The colours are bright and highly pigmented, meaning they won’t fade over time. These pencils are oil based and harder in texture compared to wax based pencils. This means that the pencil core will wear down less quickly and details appear fine and sharper on the surface.

Bruynzeel coloured pencils are a more affordable option for those just getting started with the medium. They are artist grade, but have a smaller colour range than some of the more expensive options.

Drawing paper

The best drawing paper for your artwork will depend on the medium you’re using. If you want to achieve ultra small details in your drawings, choose a smooth paper like Bristol Board . Bristol Board paper works best with graphite medium.

For mediums like charcoal and coloured pencils, use a paper with more tooth. This enables loose particles to adhere better and aids layering with mediums like coloured pencil. Mix layers of colours and make seamless blends with paper like Pastelmat . Pastelmat has a velvety texture that clings on to particles of pencil. It’s acid-free, thick and professional quality. Coloured pencils will appear bright and saturated on the surface, and it reduces the need for fixative and varnish.

Mixed media paper like Clairefontaine Mixed Media Pad is great for a using with a range of media. It’s great quality and cheaper than some of the more specialist papers.

Sketchbooks are a great tool for jotting ideas down when inspiration strikes, planning compositions for larger drawings and experimenting with new techniques. Stillman and Birn sketchbooks come in a range of paper weights. They’re professional quality, with acid free pages that won’t yellow or degrade over time. They’re ideal for using with graphite, charcoal and coloured pencils.

To get crisp, clean lines in your drawings, a good sharpener is a must. A plastic one will get the job done and keep costs low. They’re simple to use and easy to replace if it gets lost or broken.

To sharpen the edges of charcoal, use a sanding block or a knife. Charcoal pencils are too brittle to use with regular sharpeners.

With graphite and coloured pencil, you can use a regular sharpener, but a good quality one will preserve the core, meaning that your pencils will last longer. Sharpeners like the Derwent Super Point Manual Sharpener , or the X Acto Mighty Electric Pro sharpener will both do the job excellently.

There are many different kinds of erasers , made from different materials that work in different ways. Kneadable gum erasers are gentle on paper fibres, and mouldable into any shape. It’s useful to have on of these erasers for detail work, or subtly erasing highlights in a drawing. Another eraser that’s useful to have is the Tombow Mono Zero eraser . This eraser has a small width, making it great for erasing those tiny details.

Drawing for beginners: Tips

If you’re just starting out with drawing, there are some tips and techniques that you can use to improve your skills and make your drawings more professional.

The first step is to choose the right tools for the medium you want to work in. Graphite pencils are great for creating fine lines and detailed shading, while charcoal pencils are best for bold, smudgy strokes. Coloured pencils can be used to add bright, vibrant colours and textures to your drawings.

Once you’ve got the right tools, the next step is learning some basic drawing techniques. Shading techniques like cross hatching, stippling, and hatching will add texture and depth to your drawings.

When it comes to choosing a drawing style or approach, there are many different options to consider. Some popular styles include realistic pencil drawings, line art and loose sketches. Grab a sketchbook and practice, you will begin to learn what your favourite subjects and techniques are, which is the first step in honing your own personal art style .

Choose a reference for drawing

When finding a reference for pencil drawing , there’s inspiration all around! Keep a sketchbook handy and try out different drawing ideas whenever you get the chance. You could opt to find your own references, take photos of landscapes, cityscapes, wildlife and draw your own interpretations of the photos you take.

Another option is to draw en plein air. Take a sketchbook with you when you’re hiking and jot down sketches of your surroundings. You could also do a series of drawings or paintings based on the same subject, when you’re drawing outside, such as flowers, trees, people and buildings. This is a really great way to capture the atmosphere of a scene from life.

If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to choosing a subject for pencil drawing, try looking online for examples. If you are interested in figure and portrait drawing, try using a 3D mannequin software to create poses to take inspiration from. Or you could try drawing photographs of models from databases, created specifically for artists to practice life drawing. Sites like Line of Action allow you to choose the type of life model and type of image, from animals to people, facial expressions and more.

Drawing techniques

There are a number of pencil drawing techniques artists can use to create a sense of realism and achieve their desired effects. Blending is a fantastic technique for creating soft edges in a drawing, for example, the soft shadows cast in a portrait, or the blurred edges of a mountain in the distance. Get a tortillion to create blended effects in your drawings.

Another technique that can be used to create realistic drawings is cross hatching . This involves creating a series of intersecting lines, with the edges pointing in different directions and varying in thickness. Cross hatching creates a rich texture , perfect for adding shadows and shading to your drawings.

Finally, stippling is another great way to create texture and depth in your pencil drawings. This technique involves using dots to build up shadow and contrast in a drawing. Try using different coloured pencils to add variation in your stippling patterns.

Pencil drawing process: Step by step

Plan the composition.

Planning the composition before you start drawing is a great way to ensure that your drawing is well balanced. Create some thumbnail sketches in a sketchbook and plan where your focal point will be and how all the different elements in your drawing will fit together. Sketch the rough shapes and make sure not to spend too long on them. I spent less than 20 seconds drawing the basic shapes of the bird, so I could gauge the best placement for the focal point . When you’re happy with the plan, it’s time to scale it up to create your final piece.

Create the outline

Start by creating an outline of the subject. If you want to be especially accurate with drawing the proportions of the piece, use the grid method to scale up an image from a smaller drawing or a photograph.

Draw with light pressure so that you can easily erase lines if you make a mistake. Work from the centre of the drawing to the outside, starting with larger shapes and gradually adding in detail. Remember to take breaks as you work so that your arm doesn’t get too tired!

Add shading and texture

Next, it’s time to add some shading and texture to your drawing. For realistic drawings, aim for a variety of tones and textures to bring your drawing to life. In this drawing, I used the hatching technique to create the appearance of feathers on the white-eye bird. I’m using Polychromos pencils in burnt umber and white, on a Toned Tan sketchbook by Strathmore.

Use harder leads and sharpened pencils for crisp lines, and softer lead for creating smooth blends. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different shading techniques in your drawings—for example, cross hatching can create some really interesting patterns! If you want to create transitional shades and a more realistic representation of light and shadow, blend the pencil with a tortillion.

Work on the details

Finally, add any last touches to your drawing to bring it to life. Add in any small details that you may have missed, and focus on adding a sense of depth by increasing the contrast in areas of light and shadow. Increase the shadows by applying more pressure to the pencil. Lift highlight details from mid tone areas with a fine tipped eraser like the Tombow Mono Zero . I added the final details, like the reflection in the eye, the brightest feathers and the reflections on the branches and buds with a white pencil. If you’re working on toned paper , using a white pencil is a great way to make those details pop!

Drawing exercises for beginners

Trying a variety of drawing exercises alongside completing your drawing projects will broaden your drawing abilities and provide great warm ups for larger pieces. Get a sketchbook and don’t be afraid to fill it with practice drawings—these don’t have to be a finished product, just small sketches that you can use to experiment with different techniques and develop your skills.

Some drawing exercises for beginners that can help you improve at pencil drawing include:

• Gesture drawing : This is a great exercise for artists interested in figure drawing or portrait drawing. Instead on focussing on drawing a perfectly accurate figure, try to focus on capturing the movement and gesture of the form. Read our guide on the process of gesture drawing, so you can create more dynamic and fluid drawings.

• Line drawing : Another useful exercise for beginners is to try drawing with just lines, rather than trying to shade or create texture in the piece. Experiment with different line weights and patterns to create different effects, and focus on using your pencil as a tool for creating shape and form.

• Shading exercises: Try creating a smudge drawing. This is where you shade your drawing then blend all the lines of the form so that they appear blurry. It’s a great exercise which will force you to focus on the edges of the artwork and create a more realistic representation of light and shadow.

How to improve at pencil drawing

There are many different tips and techniques that can help you improve at pencil drawing , such as:

• Practising regularly: One of the keys to improving at any skill is practising consistently. Whether you’re trying a new technique or working on a specific project, make time in your schedule for regular pencil drawing practice. This will allow you to build your skills gradually over time and see real progress in your work. Practice your drawing exercises and give yourself time for freeform drawing and doodling.

• Focusing on fundamentals: In order to get better at pencil drawing , it’s important to focus on the foundational elements of good drawing, such as composition , line accuracy, and shading techniques. By mastering these key principles, you can create more polished and visually interesting drawings.

• Seeking feedback: Another great way to improve at pencil drawing is to get feedback on your work from other artists and art educators. Whether you’re looking for tips on improving specific techniques or advice on how to develop your ideas, seeking out feedback can help you identify areas where you need to refine your skills and focus your practice. We have a Facebook group for readers of Fine Art Tutorials—here you can meet like minded artists, post your work, ask for feedback and support others on their artistic journey!

Pencil drawing ideas

You may have lots of ideas for what to draw, but if you’re stuck for inspiration, here are some pencil drawing ideas :

• Still life drawings: Try drawing a range of still life objects, from inanimate objects like fruit and flowers to more complex subject matter like tabletop scenes. This is a great way to hone your still life observational skills and focus on different elements of composition, such as negative space or depth.

• Landscape drawings: Whether you’re drawing a realistic landscape or creating a more stylised piece, landscape drawing is one of the most popular subjects for artists. Try experimenting with different techniques and tools to achieve different effects, from loose watercolour washes to detailed pencil shading.

• Portrait drawings: An iconic subject for artists, portrait drawing can be especially challenging but also incredibly rewarding. Try drawing different people, from friends and family or even yourself. You can also experiment with different methods such as contour drawing or proportion grids to improve your skills. Try drawing with the Loomis Method —this will help you draw the head from scratch .

• Animal drawings: From wildlife subjects to pets, there are endless possibilities for pencil drawing ideas when it comes to animal subjects. Try drawing a bird, or a smaller animal first, then work your way up to more complex subjects. If you want to learn processes for how to draw various animals easily, check out our easy drawing ideas guide.

• Figure drawings: Whether you draw from imagination or use a reference photo, figure drawing is another popular subject for artists who enjoy pencil drawing. Try working on different poses and compositions, such as standing or sitting figures and groups of people. You can also experiment with different materials, such as charcoal pencils or shading pastels to achieve different effects.

The best way to improve your pencil drawing skills is to keep practicing, experimenting, and challenging yourself. Whether you’re working on a specific project or just sketching for fun, the key is to enjoy the process of learning and creating. If you’re interested in learning more about drawing, check out our complete list of drawing tutorials .

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• Charcoal & Pencil Drawing - Pencil Drawing

pencil drawing , drawing executed with an instrument composed of graphite enclosed in a wood casing and intended either as a sketch for a more elaborate work in another medium, an exercise in visual expression, or a finished work. The cylindrical graphite pencil , because of its usefulness in easily producing linear gray-black strokes, became the successor of the older, metallic drawing stylus, with which late medieval and Renaissance artists and tradesmen sketched or wrote on paper, parchment, or wood.

Although graphite was mined in the 16th century, the use by artists of pieces of natural graphite, inserted in a porte-crayon (“pencil holder”), is not known before the 17th century. Then minor graphite details were included in sketches, notably in landscape renderings by Dutch artists. During that century and most of the 18th, graphite was used to make preliminary sketch lines for drawings to be completed in other media, but drawings completely finished with graphite were rare.

Although pencil drawings were much less commonly produced by artists of those centuries than sketches in chalks , charcoal , and pen and ink , the use of graphite gradually increased among painters, miniaturists, architects, and designers. By the late 18th century, an ancestor of the modern pencil was constructed in the form of a rod of natural graphite fitted into a hollow cylinder of wood. Not until 1795, however, did the French inventor Nicolas-Jacques Conté devise a method of producing pencil rods from mixtures of graphite and clays, a true prototype of the modern graphite pencil. Conté’s technical improvement made possible the production of fine pencils the strokes of which could be controlled, varying from type to type in softness and hardness, darkness and lightness. These excellent quality graphite pencils encouraged wider use by 19th-century artists, and pencil drawing became commonly used for studies and preliminary sketches. The graphite pencil could be used on almost any type of drawing surface, a fact that helped make it indispensable in the artist’s studio.

Although graphite pencils provided a substantial range of light–dark effects and the opportunity for tonal modeling, the greatest masters of pencil drawing always kept the elements of a simple linearism or limited shading that were appropriate to pencil drawing. This concept of pencil drawing contrasted with that sometimes employed in the 18th and 19th centuries in which extensive tonal modeling of three-dimensional forms and elaborate effects of light and shade were produced by artists and miniaturists by rubbing the soft graphite particles with a stump, a tightly rolled piece of soft paper or chamois.

The preciseness and clarity associated with the use of a moderately hard graphite pencil were developed in the highly selective draftsmanship of the 19th-century French Neoclassicist Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres . His figure sketches and portrait studies were the epitome of pencil drawing in which lucid contours and limited shading combined to create a spirit of elegance and restraint. Many artists throughout Europe accepted this manner, including such German draftsmen as Adrian Ludwig Richter, who preferred the hardest of pencils and sharpest of points to produce wirelike delineations of figures and landscapes. Softer and darker graphite pencils offered appropriate effects to artists whose tastes required more freedom and spontaneity. The sketches of the Romantic artist Eugène Delacroix , created swiftly and filled with flamboyant and undetailed strokes, had a suggestiveness of dramatic figures and compositions . Vincent van Gogh chose a broad carpenter’s pencil for powerful, blunt strokes. To emulate the brilliant atmosphere of Provence , Paul Cézanne employed the pencil, especially in his sketchbooks, to produce highly reductive landscape sketches that made expert use of graphite’s inherent silvery value.

One of the most sensitive users of the graphite pencil in the 19th century was the French artist Edgar Degas . A master pastelist and draftsman with coloured chalks and charcoal, Degas created pencil drawings of warmth and charm that were quite unlike the cool, classic works of Ingres or the highly animated, sometimes violent sketches of Delacroix. Degas, with high selectivity, combined graciously fluid outlines with soft, limpid tonal shadings.

Into the 21st century, artists continued to use the graphite pencil as a device for autonomous artworks as well as for sketching and for making preliminary rehearsals of conceptions later carried out in painting or sculpture—e.g., Henri Matisse , Amedeo Modigliani , Pablo Picasso , and others whose taste for basically linear conceptions is revealed in their graphic works.

Essay on Pencil

Students are often asked to write an essay on Pencil in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Pencil

The pencil: a powerful tool.

Pencils are important tools for learning and creativity. They’re made of wood, graphite, clay, and a rubber eraser.

Creation of Pencils

Pencils are made by mixing graphite and clay, shaping it into thin rods, and baking them. These rods are then encased in wooden cylinders.

The Usefulness of Pencils

Pencils are used for writing, drawing, and coloring. They’re essential in schools, offices, and homes. Their marks can be easily erased, making them perfect for drafting and sketching.

Symbol of Knowledge

Pencils symbolize knowledge and learning. They’re a key part of education worldwide, helping us to express our thoughts and ideas.

250 Words Essay on Pencil

The humble pencil: a tool of change.

The pencil, a simple writing instrument, has been an integral part of human civilization, contributing to the spread of knowledge and ideas. Its simplicity and accessibility have made it a universal tool for communication, transcending linguistic and cultural barriers.

Historical Significance

The pencil’s history dates back to the 16th century when a large graphite deposit was discovered in England. Initially wrapped in string or sheepskin for stability, it evolved into the ‘lead’ pencil we know today. However, it’s not lead but graphite, a form of carbon, which provides the distinctive mark. The pencil’s evolution reflects human ingenuity and our constant pursuit of better tools for expression.

Symbol of Creativity and Learning

The pencil is more than just a tool; it’s a symbol of creativity and learning. It is the first writing instrument that a child holds, fostering early literacy and numeracy skills. For artists, it’s a tool for expressing their innermost thoughts and emotions. The eraser at the end signifies the human capacity to correct mistakes, embodying the concept of resilience and continuous learning.

The Pencil in the Digital Age

In the digital age, the pencil continues to hold its relevance. Digital styluses replicate the feel of traditional pencils, bridging the gap between technology and human touch. Moreover, the pencil’s eco-friendly nature makes it a sustainable choice in an era of environmental consciousness.

In conclusion, the pencil, in its simplicity and versatility, continues to be an indispensable tool. It stands as a testament to human creativity and our relentless quest for knowledge and expression.

500 Words Essay on Pencil

Introduction, the history of the pencil.

The invention of the pencil can be traced back to the ancient Romans, who used a thin metal rod to leave a light but readable mark on papyrus. However, the modern pencil, as we know it, came into existence in the 16th century when graphite was discovered in England. The term ‘pencil’ comes from the Latin word ‘pencillus’, meaning ‘little tail’, which referred to the small ink brushes used for writing in the Middle Ages.

Graphite was found to be an excellent material for writing due to its ability to leave marks on a surface. Initially, graphite sticks were wrapped in string or sheepskin for stability. Later, the wood-cased pencil was born when Nicholas-Jacques Conte, a French scientist, invented a method to make pencil leads by mixing graphite with clay.

Function and Utility

The pencil’s simplicity is its greatest strength. It does not require any additional elements like ink or electricity to function, making it accessible to people of all ages and from all walks of life. Moreover, the pencil’s design has evolved to include variants like the mechanical pencil, which provides more precision, and colored pencils, which add vibrancy to art.

The Pencil’s Impact on Society

The pencil has played a crucial role in advancing human knowledge and creativity. It has been the silent partner in many great works of literature, scientific theories, architectural marvels, and artistic masterpieces. The pencil has democratized the act of writing, making it accessible to all and not just the elite, thereby promoting literacy and education.

In conclusion, the pencil, despite its simplicity, holds a unique and enduring place in human history and society. It is a testament to human ingenuity, adapting and evolving with the times while retaining its core function. As we move towards an increasingly digital world, the pencil still maintains its relevance, reminding us of the power and beauty of creating something with our own hands. The pencil is not just a writing tool; it is a symbol of our capacity to imagine, create, and communicate.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

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18 Best Drawing Pencils for Professionals and Beginners Who Love to Sketch

Photo: Mounzer Awad This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

In most creative fields, it's impossible to get away from one important tool—a pencil. It doesn't matter if you're an architect, a professional fine artist, or you're just learning to draw ; a good graphite pencil is an essential part of any artist's supplies.

And while we've gone over how to select the best colored pencils , there are a whole other set of considerations when thinking about the right graphite pencil to add to your collection. In fact, you'll probably—like most artists—wind up using several different pencils depending on the effect you're looking for.

Figuring out the best pencils to bring your sketches and designs to life can appear challenging, but much of it comes down to personal preference. Once you get the hang of which brand you prefer, you can mix and match different pencil grades in order to expand your sketching capabilities. You'll see that much of what we suggest are pencil sets , which allow you to experiment with a wide variety of lines and shading, but each brand will also sell their pencils individually once you need to restock.

So check out our guide to the best pencils for drawing, and once you stock up, head over to our list of the best sketchbooks so that you can start drawing.

How to Select the Best Drawing Pencil

Photo: Jess Watters

When selecting the perfect graphite pencil, the first thing to consider is your drawing style . Technical drawings and detailed artwork with fine lines will require different pencils than those used for shading and sketching figures. Do you use dark, thick lines in your sketches or prefer lighter, thinner strokes? Understanding your personal artistic style and needs will help you narrow down the selection when searching for a good drawing pencil.

Keep in mind that most artists use more than one type of pencil. In fact, many manufacturers sell drawing pencil sets that come with a selection of graphite pencils in different grades . This will allow you to switch between tools depending on the requirements of a particular image.

Pencil Grading Scale

Photo: smbhax

Once you know what type of artwork you need the pencil for, you need to understand the different grades of graphite pencils . Even though we often refer to lead in pencils, there is actually no component of lead used in them. Whereas colored pencils are made with wax and pigment, graphite pencils are a mixture of graphite and clay. The combination of these two components allows for smooth strokes, but graphite pencils will give different lines depending on how much clay is present. Generally, the more clay in the pencil, the harder the pencil—and lighter the stroke—will be.

In the United States, we commonly think of the number 2 pencil, which is standard for schools and test-taking. The American number scale for pencils ranges 1 to 4 (including 2.5), but the rest of the world uses a different grading scale. Most manufacturers use the HB scale , where “H” stands for hardness and “B” for blackness. A standard number 2 pencil corresponds to HB on this scale.

The HB scale ranges from 9H, a hard pencil that leaves fine, light marks, to 9B, a soft pencil with a high ratio of graphite that leaves bold, dark marks. While every manufacturer gives each pencil a designation on the scale, it's all relative to a given brand, so remember that a 6H pencil from one manufacturer might give a slightly different stroke than a 6H pencil from another.

Once you understand the type of lines you can expect from your pencils, it's easy to mix and match to create a graphite pencil set that will meet your needs as an artist.

Best Graphite Drawing Pencils

Photo: Igor Ovsyannykov

Check out our selection of high quality drawing pencils that are ideal for every level of artist. If you're new to drawing, then picking up a set will allow you to try different types of pencils and discover which grading suits you best.

Derwent Medium Graphic Drawing Pencils (set of 12)

Derwent | $17.21

Available in different sets filled with a wide variety of grades, both beginners and professionals swear by Derwent . You can select between soft, medium, and hard sets depending on your subject matter and people note that the pencils are easy to sharpen to a point, as well as a flat shape. This allows for detailed work, as well as shading. And the hexagonal shape makes them easy to grip.

Prismacolor Premier Graphite Drawing Pencils (18 piece set)

Prismacolor | $19.99

Prismacolor's graphite drawing set is a good introductory kit when starting to sketch. It comes with seven graphite drawing pencils of different grades, as well as four woodless graphite pencils. These create beautiful, broad strokes when used on their side, and allow you to experiment with a variety of tools. As an added bonus, the pencil set includes water-soluble graphite pencils, which transform into a wash when brushed with water. All told, the drawing kit is a great way to start sketching seriously.

Staedtler Mars Lumograph Graphite Pencil Set (set of 12)

Staedtler | $14.15

Many artists swear by Staedtler ‘s range of drawing pencils. Their Mars Lumograph is known for its consistency and lack of breakage, making them great for detailed work. They also erase cleanly, meaning you won't be left with stray smudges on the paper. Staedtler's standard set provides 6B, 5B, 4B, 3B, 2B, B, HB, F, H, 2H, 3H, and 4H drawing pencils, making it extremely versatile. “I've been using Staedtler Lumograph professionally for over 30 years and in that time I've found no better,” says artist and art educator Mike Sibley. “I even give them away at my workshops.”

Lyra Rembrandt Art Design Pencils (set of 12)

Lyra | $20.19

For a good value, you can't beat Lyra Art Design Pencils . The graphite is rigid enough that it works for technical drawing, and with 17 different grades available, there's no shortage of shading you can accomplish. One reviewer writes, “The finest pencils for drawing. High-quality graphite that is smooth and easy to blend. A wide variety of hardness for all your artwork needs.”

Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Sketch Pencil Art Set (set of 12)

Faber-Castell | $11.44

Faber-Castell is a German brand known for high-quality art supplies, and the  Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Sketch pencils are no exception. The brand makes sets with a variety of grades included or you can purchase single packs of pencils in each grade. Known for their consistency and durability, they sharpen easily and don't often break. Plus, Faber-Castell's handy tin makes the pencils highly portable. It's no wonder they are an artist's favorite, no matter the style or skill level.

Tombow Mono Professional Drawing Pencils (set of 12)

Tombow | $16.98

Japanese manufacturer Tombow is known for its high-density pencils, meaning they sharpen easily and the point stays longer. The Mono pencil is known to run a bit dark and is virtually smudge-proof. The dark lines of the Tombow Mono can almost mimic inks, making it a favorite of artists who focus on linework and tracing.

Cretacolor Monolith Woodless Graphite Pencil Set

Creatacolor | $26.53

Woodless pencils may cost a bit more, but they generally last longer than the typical wood-encased pencils. Cretacolor woodless pencils are perfect for shading and the graphite in them is water-soluble, allowing you to create soft washes over the page. Creatacolor's kit also comes with a kneaded eraser and sharpener, giving you all the tools you need in one box.

Koh-I-Noor Woodless Graphite Pencils (Set of 12)

Koh-I-Noor | $18.21

These Koh-I-Noor pencils are woodless, meaning that they are all graphite surrounded by a thin layer of lacquer. While this makes them fragile, it also has some advantages. One is that these pencils don't need to be sharpened much, and a second, quite important, point is that they lay down a thick layer of color. Artists love them for blending and smudging, particularly when creating shadows. They also produce nice smooth lines without a lot of texture.

General Semi-Hex Drawing Pencils (4-Pack)

General Pencil | $4.50

The General Pencil Company has been in production since 1889 with products whose quality has stood the test of time. In art supply stores, you'll often find that you have to purchase them per pencil, but this four-pack gives you better value—especially if you prefer the softer graphite. The set contains HB, 2B, 4B, and 6B pencils.

Prismacolor Ebony Graphite Drawing Pencil (12-pack)

Prismacolor | $7.34

The Prismacolor Ebony Graphite pencil, which has a 2B grade, is a beautiful choice for rich, velvety lines. It is easily blendable and soft, and while it won't create jet-black lines—it gets close for graphite. Due to its softness, you'll need to sharpen it often, and many swear by it for shading that is difficult to achieve without using charcoal.

ARTEZA Woodless Drawing Pencils (Set of 12)

Arteza | $15.99

This set of 12 woodless pencils covers all the grading you'll need for sketching. The comprehensive kit includes pencils from 6B to 4H and gives you the range needed to complete all types of drawing–from quick, gestural strokes to more precise artwork. ARTEZA boasts that the “woodless pencil contains more graphite, making it last longer and shade larger areas.”

Palomino Pearl Pencils (box of 12)

Blackwing | $30

Although new, California-based brand Blackwing has already established itself as a favorite among illustrators. The Palomino Pearl pencils feature an elegant white body with a smooth Japanese graphite core of medium hardness—ideal for lettering and line work.

Caran D'ache Graphite Line Gift Box Set 

Caran D'ache | $240.88

Don't be scared by the price. Caran D'ache is for serious sketchers looking to up their drawing game. As Switzerland's only pencil maker, the brand has carried out exacting studies to get things just right, making them the favorite of many artists. This gift set will get you 15 graphic pencils, 3 water-soluble graphite pencils, plus accessories. Some say they are the best drawing pencils on the market, and that once you try them, you'll never go back.

Best Pencil Sharpeners

Photo: londondeposit/ DepositPhotos

If you know you'll be working with graphite pencils frequently, then you'll be in need of a good pencil sharpener to make sure your utensils are always at a point. We've selected a few to help you get started.

Dux Pencil Sharpeners

DUX | $5.99

DUX is the oldest pencil sharpener factory in Germany, so you know you can't go wrong with their utensils. Their pencil sharpener includes openings for slim and oversized pencils and comes in a variety of cute colors to complement your drawing set.

Blackwing Long Point Pencil Sharpener

Blackwing | $15

Unlike most pencil sharpeners, Blackwing ‘s product goes through a two-step process. The first hole is intended to shave away the wood, while the second opening will carve the graphite to a fine point. It includes an automatic brake to prevent oversharpening, too.

Stanley Bostitch Electric Pencil Sharpener

Stanley Bostitch | $66.94

If you're an artist that will be using graphite drawing pencils frequently, then you may want to invest in an electric sharpener. This one by Stanely Bostitch will cut the time it takes to sharpen your pencils in half (it even works with colored pencils!). It also features SharpStop technology so you won't risk oversharpening, and instead keeping them at a perfectly fine point.

Best Mechanical Pencils for Drawing

Photo: Stock Photos from Auttapon Jantham/Shutterstock

While some artists prefer the look and feel of traditional wooden pencils, others prefer the more consistent and controlled marks of mechanical pencils . Refillable and made from plastic or metal, these utensils are ideal for those who prefer long-lasting tools. Depending on the size of lead you choose (0.7, 0.5, etc.), mechanical pencils might be the better choice for creating fine details in your artwork.

Tikky by rOtring Mechanical Pencil (0.7 mm)

rOtring | $6.67

ROtring is the dominant name in the field of technical drawing pens, and this model carries on the tradition. This lightweight drafting pencil has been specially designed to reduce breakage, meaning you'll waste less money on refills. With a retractable tip and comfortable rubber grip, it will quickly become a favorite whether used for drafting or sketching.

Faber Castell Grip 2011 Mechanical Pencil 0.7 mm

Faber-Castell | $18.94

Faber-Castell's Grip 2011 Mechanical Pencil has won design awards for a reason. Rubber dots along the triangular barrel make it extremely comfortable and easy to grip. It also comes with a twist-out eraser and is pre-loaded with lead.

Staedtler Mars 780 Technical Mechanical Pencil

Staedtler | $11.10

If you're looking for a pencil for technical sketching, give the Staedtler Mars 780 a try. Reviewers talk about these pencils as keepsakes that they use for years and only replace when necessary. “I've used this specific lead holder for over a decade and when I lost it I just had to replace it,” one person wrote . “The holder itself is light, with a nice weight given by the metal grip. Despite what you might expect the metal diamond grip is actually very comfortable and pretty smooth.”

Pentel GraphGear 1000 Mechanical Pencil (0.5 mm)

Pentel | $10.88

Work in comfort when you use the Pentel GraphGear mechanical pencil. It is inlaid with soft pads that will feel good on your fingers. Beyond that, the pencil features a dual retractor to both advance and retract your lead with ease.

Looking for more drawing tips? Subscribe to our Drawing Club newsletter .

This article has been edited and updated., related articles :.

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Student Essays

Essay on Drawing | Why I Love Drawing Essay For Students

Drawing is the process of using a pencil, pen or other drawing instrument to make marks on paper. It’s an art form that has been around for centuries and has always held great importance in society. The word “draw” comes from the Old English verb “dragan,” which means “to carry.” Its Latin root, “trahere,” means “to pull” or “to draw.” Drawing is about translating an idea into a visual format, often with time taken to explore different ways of making marks on paper until one feels right.

Read the following short & long essay on drawing that discusses brief history, meaning, importance and benefits of drawing. This essay is quite helpful for children & students for school exam, assignments, competitions etc.

Essay on Drawing | Short & Long Essay For Children & Students

Drawings are made with different kinds of tools and techniques, such as the ballpoint pen or pencil. There are a lot drawing instruments in the world which can help people draw what they want.

>>>> Related Post:     Essay on Art For Children & Students

Brief history of Drawing

Drawing is the technique of applying mark-making material to a surface. It’s one of those skills that we take for granted in this digital age, and yet it’s a skill that has been practiced in one form or another by every culture throughout history, whether on cave walls, parchments, animal skin or paper.

The history of drawing is the visceral history of human culture; it’s the way we’ve defined ourselves as people, telling stories, recording our surroundings and communicating our ideas.

Drawing is Easy

To draw is to put down lines, textures or colors that describe figures, forms and shapes. The act of drawing can be practiced by anyone; it does not require specialized tools beyond a piece of paper and writing utensils (e.g., pencils). Some people practice drawing as an art form (i.e., visual arts), or in a general manner as required by functional needs (e.g., quick sketches, architectural drawings).

My Hobby Drawing

People who love to do a drawing as their hobby, they will choose some kind of art that the most fit with their favorite style. For example: people who love to do a sketching will buy some good quality pencils and paper together with a nice sketchbook so that they can draw anytime and anywhere they want. However, many of them will choose to go to a bigger space where there is a good lighting and a big table so that they can easily sketch on their project.

People who love to do some painting will have some brushes, oil paint and canvas ready at home. When they feel boring or when they want to express something, they will bring all the art materials out and start their project.

Drawing vs Art

Drawing is a form of art where you use a pencil or a marker to create an image on paper. This can include sketching, doodles, cartoons, portraits or more complicated images that are finely detailed. If the image is on paper and you used some type of writing utensil to create it, then it’s a drawing!

Why people enjoy drawing?

Drawing is a great way to relax and de-stress. Also, drawings look beautiful on your bedroom or living room walls. No matter the age, there is always something new to learn about drawing. It could be learning to draw realistic eyes or learning different shading techniques. It is a great exercise for keeping the brain agile. As you continue to draw, especially if you are drawing objects that are unfamiliar to you, you are engaging the part of your brain that is responsible for problem solving

Drawing for children

Drawing drawing is not only child’s play, but also an important tool for his intellectual and creative development, as well as a means of expression.. Most parents believe that drawing is an act of scribbling, so they do not pay attention to this, that is a big mistake! Drawing – it’s not just scribbling. This is something more than that. To draw means to show imagination, fantasy and memories. Drawing is a means of expression for children (and adults). And it is the best way to develop fine motor skills, this is very important. When you draw, you move your hands and fingers, make shapes with your hands. This is the best way to work out.

>>>>> Also Read:    Essay on An Ideal Teacher For Students   

Today we have entered into the computer age. The field of drawing has also been profoundly impacted by drawing. There are a lot of drawing software in the world – but few people can draw artwork by using them. Some of them say “Drawing is simple” but if you are not professional, it is difficult to become familiar with the software. The fact that drawing by using these software has many rules which you need to know.

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Your Friendly Malaysian Writer

Malaysian author and storyteller, why using pencils to write may be more eye-opening than you think.

As much as I avoid romanticising the writer’s life, I do find myself fascinated by famous authors’ creative processes. And what better way of fuelling this fascination than by gawking over their tools of creation?

To be honest, the only reason why I have a LAMY 2000 is because Neil Gaiman used one to draft his novels. I’ve also written with Vim to emulate George Martin’s preference for Wordstar.

But now that I’ve decided to stop blindly going down the path of tool-collecting , I’ve found myself gravitating towards simpler and cheaper options. Enter the pencil.

Learning about pencils—or more specifically, John Steinbeck’s fascination with them—quickly turned into an exploration of Hemingway, Atwood, and Nabokov’s similar preferences for graphite.

And like a kid being peer-pressured into his first drag of a cigarette, I found myself wanting to write with pencils so I too could be cool like the authors I look up to.

The quirk that caught my attention

John Steinbeck’s creative process was thus: sharpen 24 pencils and stick them point up in a container. Start writing. Once a pencil is worked to a dull point—about four to five sentences—it would be stored point down in a separate container.

After all 24 pencils are blunt, they’ll be sharpened once more before the process is repeated.

Now, I wouldn’t say that I followed Steinbeck’s footsteps and ordered four boxes of Blackwing pencils, but I did try out a few lead grades to see which I liked best.

And while those of you in the United States may be used to the #2 (HB) pencil, I found myself actually disliking the light lines. So I’ve defaulted to 4B and I’ve been hooked ever since.

Hooked just like these jackets. Photo: Suad Kamardeen

So why write with a pencil?

Like many of you, I could count the number of times I’ve used a pencil since primary school. But now that I’ve spent some time with it, I can see how it fits into my writing life, and because of that, I’ve decided to regal you with the benefits of using pencils.

They’re cheap

I’ve been using pencils almost exclusively for a couple months now, including for morning pages and journalling, and I have to say, at about MYR 1.50 (USD 0.30) per pop, they’re pretty much the most affordable writing tool out there.

This is compounded by mechanical pencil refills, which cost only MYR 5 (USD 1.20) for a pack of 40 pieces. You know what’s cool about cheap writing tools? You get to focus on the writing.

They write anywhere

I never knew that writing upside down was a problem until I got into fountain pens. Then I realised that ballpoint pens faced the same problem. It’s not like I routinely write while practising yoga, but I sometimes use tilted easels, and that’s enough of an angle to cause skips with my fountain pens. With pencils though? I’m fine as long as the tip touches the paper.

They’re archival

I have to admit that I haven’t  really  put this to the test, but I do have journals from 20 years back that still have my pencil scrawls as dark as the day I had written them. Sure, they can be erased, but it won’t be me doing said erasing. Oh, and graphite is waterproof too.

They last forever

I mean, a pencil gets shorter as you use it, yes, but if you leave it stored in a cupboard for decades, it’ll still work just as it would today. The same goes with a mechanical pencil. Try that with a fountain pen filled with ink. Heck, try that with  any  pen, gel or ballpoint.

Your pencil would probably last as long as this anvil, provided you don’t use it. Photo: Nicolas Hoizey

Unexpected lessons from writing with pencils

Look, a tool’s a tool, and a pen should do the same job as a pencil when it comes to writing, right?

Weirdly enough, I’ve found a different cadence when writing with pencils, almost more mindful of the skritches on paper and the way my letters look once the point turns into a chisel.

Thanks to graphite, I’ve also discovered a few unexpected lessons in general. And you all know how much I enjoy connecting the mundane with faux enlightenment.

So here are a few things pencils have taught me about life.

Everything is temporary

Nothing reminds you of that fact better than a wooden pencil. Not only does it get shorter with use, but the balance changes too. And you’ll find that the same pencil will seem like a totally different one as you spend more time with it.

Couple that with the fact that graphite is erasable and you’ll realise just how temporary life is. It makes you appreciate the moment more, because right here, right now, is what really matters.

Who knows what’ll happen tomorrow? Your life will have shortened, just like the pencil, and your efforts will be recorded somewhere, but one day they’ll disappear too, just like you.

So get to writing, while you’re still filled with life, because tomorrow could be a  very  different day.

You can always fix yourself

I’m pretty light-handed, so I don’t break lead all that much, but there have been times when my cheap sharpener would chip the tip just enough to break at certain angles. The result is two points instead of one, making me feel like I’m writing with a fruit fork.

That’s life for you though. Sometimes you break, and sometimes you grow duller from work. But you’re always a couple of turns away from returning to your old self, sharp and useful as before.

And that’s what we need to remember when life gets us down sometimes, that we can always get back in shape.

Do your job and do it well

The pencil doesn’t call any attention to itself. In fact, it’s so modest that we’ve probably forgotten all about it since pens came into our lives.

But what we take for granted is that the pencil does its job fantastically well. It’s dependable, and it writes even on wood, glass, concrete, or steel.

You know what that’s taught me? That you don’t need to be a remarkable person to do great work. As renowned chef Marco Pierre White likes to say: “Keep it simple. Perfection is lots of little things done well.”

Life is not a zero-sum game

This is more personal than anything. Pencils have taught me that I don’t need to abandon ink just because I’ve recently found joy in graphite, nor do I need to be a pencil zealot.

I like to think of myself as a minimalist, so the tools in my life need to cover as many bases as they can. That was my life with fountain pens, and boy did I write  everything  with them, even if the situation didn’t call for it like, say, filling in immigration cards where the ink’s easily wiped off.

I’ve since learned that it’s okay to have phases, and that I don’t need to Marie Kondo my other hobbies just because I don’t have enough time for everything.

And while it’s great having less clutter in my life, it’s also awesome to be reminded that I have diverse interests and a rich life.

Sometimes it doesn’t need to be one or the other, ya know? Photo: Caleb Jones

In the end, it’s all about you

Here’s a TL;DR: Pencils do change the way I write, but sometimes I feel it’s all in my head.

Because in the end, it doesn’t matter whether your fingers are resting on a keyboard or curled around a pencil, because it’s you who’ll be writing. And as we’ve learned, the you today might not be the you tomorrow.

Your word preferences will change. So too will your constitution against the blank page. You’ll approach the same story with a different lens, or you won’t feel like approaching it at all.

Steinbeck wrote: “For years I have looked for the perfect pencil. I have found very good ones but never the perfect one. And all the time it was not the pencils but me.”

Even though he meant that in the context of pencils, it applies so well to writing in general. Because our magic lies not in the instruments we use, but in our very selves. And maybe it takes exploring all these different tools to learn exactly that.

I don’t have pencils for sale, but I do have a snazzy newsletter for more exclusive content like this. You’ll also get a free guide on how to grow your WordPress audience without spending on ads. Just click the button and be part of the community!

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124 thoughts on “ why using pencils to write may be more eye-opening than you think ”.

Pencils are archival. Graphite is waterproof. My mind is blown. Well, now I don’t have to despair of ever using the cup full of mostly unsharpened pencils. I will have to find my pencil sharpener and then maybe try writing morning pages in pencil.

I love the skritch of pencil for morning pages! Admittedly, I sometimes use ink because of the better contrast, but pencils really are miraculous things for their use cases.

In fact, I’ve learned one new thing since I wrote this post, and it’s that I don’t have to worry about capping my pencils, and it writes all the time!

I take a lot of notes, so removing and reattaching the cap of a pen does get annoying after a while.

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I totally forgot about the archival and waterproof part until I read it here.

started to write with pencils and i write way more than when i have a pen in hand. It’s also allowing me to get in touch with a part of myself that i’ve never explored before.

also i don’t have to be such a paper snob, because there’s no feathering, no bleed through, i can get the notebook i like and don’t have to worry about a thing.

Omg yes! I love me my fountain pens, but there are times when I just want to think on paper, and that doesn’t warrant using my best selections. But fountain pens—and some gel pens, even—don’t work on cheap paper, so the next best alternative is the pencil, which writes much smoother than a ballpoint pen can.

Also, notebooks only seem to have designs or paper, never both, amirite?

Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts, fellow enthusiast!

Morning pages? As in Julia Cameron type of morning pages? If so, I did those for a year or so, need to get back at it. Love this post, Especially about how reading one thing about pencils led to another. Some cool stuff comes tumbling in sometimes when we’re not even looking for it. For just sitting down and writing, I like a softer lead than the number 2 types. Seems to be a better flow for when the writing expands the page. Interesting about the 12 pencils. I might try that. It may work a lot better than only having one and having to resharpen it all the time!

Heck yeah softer leads are better. But there’s a balance, and I think my priority is darkness rather than softness (which Japanese pencils tend to deliver much better than Western ones). Anything beyond 4B is too much though, because then I’d be sharpening my pencils more than I write.

And yup, Julia Cameron’s morning pages. Definitely get back to it. And thanks for leaving such a thoughtful message, kind stranger!

You commented on a post of mine a couple days ago about art. I tried to comment here and didn’t do something right, haha. I didn’t think it went. Happy that it did.

Lol a name to the face (or actually, both, in this case)! Great to have you here and sharing your thoughts. Here’s to starting morning pages once more!

You managed to make me think about aspects of pencil-use that I’d never considered, and I’ve made them my writing tool of choice for years! I have noticed that in some of my notebooks, the pencil marks seem to get fainter with time. But those are usually the ones on the edge of the page that come into contact with my fingers as I flip through trying to remember who did what in an earlier draft. 😅

That’s an interesting technique from Steinbeck. It probably would help me go through pencils at a more even pace. My personal thing has been to write with one pencil at a time, wearing it down and sharpening it until the graphite barely pokes out of the metal portion holding the eraser on. I’m thinking of reconsidering that strategy, since writing feels kind of cramped at that point.

Oh yeah, while graphite is archival and waterproof, it’s not resistant to rubbing, and therein lies its weakness.

So cool to learn about your writing process using pencils. I don’t believe I know anyone who’s used pencils to that point.

And I totally relate with you on physical tools affecting your writing. Julia Cameron has also said this in her Morning Pages interview, that if you use paper smaller than A4, your thoughts tend to be ‘smaller’.

Anyway, loved your comment. Thanks for stopping by!

This is great content! I’ve always been thinking about how writing with a pencil (or pen) compares to typing. I believe physical pens or pencils encourage me to be more thoughtful before writing even if I have an eraser.

Oh yeah, the cadence of words from longhand definitely differs from typing. Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing your thoughts. I appreciate it!

Great that you found your ideal tool, Stuart. Whatever works to get you started and keep you going is worth pursuing. I imagine pencils would be great when you’re out and about and are inspired. But i suspect that Steinbeck would have dumped his pencils in a heartbeat if he’d had access to a computer. As for Shakespeare, it’s amazing to think of how many quills he wore out, writing those amazing plays and sonnets. He used what was available to him but he would have loved an electronic tool.

What an amazing perspective to add to this! Steinbeck and Shakespeare aside, who knows what futuristic writing tool WE’RE missing out on? Maybe Elon Musk’s Neuralink goes into mass production, and things like thought-to-text become a thing. Or maybe we could do without typing entirely and just use gesture for entire phrases.

But speaking of that, would Shakespeare have chosen to learn to type? Or would he have continued on with quills anyway?

This is a great line of thought that I will be pondering over, so thanks for the wonderful comment, Mary!

Liked this. For me somehow my cursive is better, and of course I can erase when my hand takes over as if it has a brain and writes the wrong word, it feel like that or when I write and end up with missing letters. Sometimes its like my writing changes as if it belong to someone else depending on what I use. I pen pal and that has help a great deal to improve my writing skills as well as blogging has.

That’s what I feel when I do morning pages too! Like I start out being myself, then as I go on, my hand gets a life of its own and it’s almost like it’s separate from my mind. Thanks so much for sharing your experience!

its called automatic writing with some cases, but not always. I enjoy Joyce Hifler’s books, they get my mind rolling and I can apply what I read to myself in a blog. I find it will also inspire other blogs withou her influence. In today’s world, man we need inspiration and food for thought so badly! It’s a crazy world. Art and writing have the same potential they always had to facilitate people’s hope. Whether you paint with word or paint on canvas you give a gift that doe heal! This is why I offer Shibui, and encourage people to learn the business end of art. I believe if wee do it very well, we will reach people. The format is now more than with books,even the art world is digital. A new world is here, now how to make it work for us.

I have recently started writing after years of procrastination and I’m really enjoying your posts about writing. They are giving me encouragement and plenty to think about it.

Well, I myself tend to procrastinate a lot when it comes to writing, so comments like yours really do give me the boost to keep writing. Thank you for this!

I taught primary school in a long ago life. Many children learn letters by discovering how letters feel – the shape of them. Pencils and chalk bring the tactile experience into their bodies through their fingers. We can help them learn to love to express themselves with or without a writing tool and maybe , just maybe, they will one day love the art of writing. Maybe even before they reach a double digit age. “ So get to writing, while you’re still filled with life, because tomorrow could be a very different day.” (Loved this!) Thanks!

Lovely story, and teachers are awesome people. Ooo I kinda miss the feeling of chalk, because it’s been ages since I’ve seen a blackboard. Triggers lots of memories though. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts, Doris!

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I love pencils, however, pencils also mean paper and I have more notes and parts of stories in so many notepads, squirreled here and there, in places I can’t keep track of them. Sigh.

Ha! I can totally relate. Which is why I now have a very specific notebook for all my writerly things. Sure, I’d still stumble upon a writing note or two in my other journals, but it’s more controlled now. Thanks so much for stopping by!

Thank you as well!

Reblogged this on The Reluctant Poet .

Thanks so much for this. You’re awesome for sharing!

Thank you for this very intersting post. Writing by hand really offers a special closeness to what is written. xx Michael

Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts, Michael, and for the reblog too. I appreciate it. And yes, can’t go wrong with writing by hand!

Reblogged this on OPENED HERE >> https:/BOOKS.ESLARN-NET.DE .

I’m honoured and I appreciate your repost! :)

Reblogged this on anitadawesauthor.com and commented: Great post, Stuart!

I really appreciate it. Thank you for being awesome :)

So kind…

I like awesome… thanks Stuart…

I love pencils too, to write with and for drawing. I did find the perfect pencil some years back. It was a B Mitsubishi general drawing pencil, the outside green. The lead was smooth, and never had those gritty bits that the pencils so often do. They eventually stopped making them I guess, and so the quest for the perfect pencil continues. Cheers, like this post. PS. I only ever use a scalpel knife to sharpen my pencils NEVER a pencil sharpener.

Your description reminds me of a Mitsubishi 9800 pencil, which I have on my desk right now, which is also green and has some of the best leads I’ve ever used.

Hopefully you find your perfect pencil one day. I’ve heard that the Blackwings (Palomino) and other Mitsubishi models are awesome.

And wow, using a knife to sharpen your pencils really does put you in the group of enthusiasts. I myself am a sharpener person, because time, lol.

Thanks so much for your wonderful comment!

I would actually agree stuart, it is here in the Pencils where the comfort lies over pens. And it feels you had fun there.

Thanks for sharing. Nicely provoking post.

I used to think pencils weren’t comfortable, but now I think the same, that they’re somehow more accessible than pens. Thanks so much for your kind words, Narayan!

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A pencil and a pen sit right under my monitor; the pencil is the one I’m always drawn to when I want to jot something down. For me, there’s something sensual about pencils that pens lack. Kind of like the difference between an old analog camera and a phone camera. You thought of some great life lessons to attach to pencils – very clever! I noticed your article on Vietnam Hill tribes – we were about to go to Vietnam (a trip that would have included time with a hill tribe) when COVID struck, so the whole trip was canceled. It looks like you had a terrific time. Maybe we’ll get there someday… Thanks for the follow!

Aww, shame that you couldn’t make it. I had terrible insomnia at the time, and weirdly enough, even though I had to share my room with a bunch of other people, I had my best sleep up there in the highlands (though the roosters crowed whenever they pleased, and not just in the morning). Wishing that you get there one day!

Yes! As a pen guy, I’ve found that I’m gravitating more towards my pencils these days. There’s just a certain charm to them.

Anyway, thanks for your amazing comment! I enjoyed reading it :)

Isn’t that interesting, about your sleep – maybe you exhausted yourself with impressions? I had the roosters all night long experience in the Jamaican countryside many years ago – it added more color to an already intense trip! ;-) You’re welcome. :)

I’ve always used a pen to write. After reading your post, I was really interested in using a pencil again after such a long time.

Lol, for all you know, you’ll hate it, but that’s fine too. I checked out your site, and realised you’re Indonesian. In that case, apa khabar, neighbour? :D

Haha Maaf, Saya kurang teliti. Saya hanya terlalu menikmati tulisanmu hingga lupa cek kamu darimana.

Kabar saya baik. Bagaimana kabarmu? Senang bertemu teman jiran di blog. Salam kenal. Ijin follow blog awak. 😊

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I do love a sharp pencil! Ironically I used them more in my work life because I could erase but I think I’ll start to use them again. Great piece!

Oh yeah, they definitely deserve a spot in non-work uses to. Thanks so much for stopping by!

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A very simple topic yet written in an intriguing way. I love it😻

Thanks so much. And I love your comment!

Loved this and it inspired a new post for me in which I will be so happy to link back here to you. Yours was entertaining but so much more was said. Great subtext, great post. Good reading

Am super appreciating this. Now I’M inspired that you’re inspired, lol. Please do. Looking forward to read it!

Very interesting, never thought I’d read a whole post about pencils but you put this together well! I love writing with pencils too but i write so hard that my middle finger has literally curved over the years and now its difficult for me to actually write my stories! So typing them may be a better option for me….good post!

Lol, I think school has done that to me too, then I found fountain pens, and I now write with almost zero pressure, even with pencils (which is why I need soft lead grades).

Thanks so much for your kind words. You’ve really made my day :)

Yessss school definitely did it for me! They shud have a whole class on how to properly hold a pencil 😂…And you’re welcome!

I have never thought pencils have such great benefits. Wow. This is awesome. Thank you ❤️

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Well, I guess one of the other benefits of pencils is being able to write about it, then connecting with awesome people like you. Thanks for dropping by!

You can also use a pencil as a weapon. ° ͜ʖ ͡ – On another note, in regards to pencils vs pens, I remember I had a friend who loved using pencils, and his reason was that with a pencil, you can erase your mistakes, but with a pen, everyone sees it. He even hated it when I used pens because he said he hated it when I messed up, and erasing is a lot easier than scribbling out. I hadn’t thought about it for almost two decades, but this post reminded me of that odd conversation. That said, I prefer the pen because it forces me to carefully choose what I write, and I have a heavy hand, so the pencil tips are always breaking. Drawing, writing, don’t matter. It always breaks and the pencil sharpener mauls my pencils, so I probably got jinxed at some point.

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Lol, isn’t it interesting how random things can trigger our memories? Like just earlier, the sight of talcum powder reminded me of when my aunt used to visit, and she used to use that a lot, and I found myself thinking a lot about that era.

While pencils are erasable, I just strike through the mistakes anyway, because nobody has time for erasers, lol.

And I can totally relate to sharpeners killing your pencils. I myself am still looking for the perfect sharpener. Thankfully I have mechanical pencils as a stop gap for the time being.

Anyway, thanks so much for stopping by!

When I started reading this post I thought that you would be talking about each pencil you used during your life, compare pros and cons etc. I was really happy to find out that it wasn’t about that at all. I found the philosophical thoughts and the comparison between pencil and human, graphite writing and life truly inspired. My favorite phrase out of your post. “that graphite is erasable and you’ll realise just how temporary life is. It makes you appreciate the moment more, because right here, right now, is what really matters”. Thank you for this post! definitely enjoyed it :)

It’s awesome reading comments like these, because yours is so well thought out and encouraging. I truly appreciate you sharing your thoughts, and here’s to being the awesome blogger that you are!

I love writing with pens on paper. I think when I was younger I would write with pencils. But you have some good points about it working for so much time. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.

Lauren – bournemouthgirl

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Haha! Great one as usual. Only you Mr Stu can put together so many wonderful insights surrounding so humble (yet powerful) a writing tool. I’m going to raid my son’s pencil case now!!

Aha! I hope using a pencil gives you an added perspective on the writing process. Who knows? Maybe you’ll end up using your son’s pencils to the last bits! Thanks for always stopping by, Kelvin!

Knowing my sons, they’ve already beaten me to it (as in use to the last bits!). LOL!!

Whether it’s pen or pencil doesn’t make you write good stuff. It’s you and your ability to put your thoughts on the paper. It doesn’t matter which tool you use for this purpose.

Exactly! It really is all in our mind. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts!

I can still vividly remember all the times I’ve gone to the garage to sharpen my pencils, as we have a sharpener attached to a cupboard outside. I find that there’s some serenity in the process and getting a pencil to just the right sharpness. Really enjoyed reading all the lessons you’ve learned from writing with pencils. It really shows that if you’re open and think about it enough, you can learn something from practically anything. Thanks for the post!

Ahaha, yes, just like you learning from a burst pipe, I too see lessons in everything. Sometimes the bad things are the ones with the best lessons.

You know what grinds my gears though? When I have to use subpar sharpeners and they DON’T get my pencils to the appropriate sharpness.

Thanks so much for your wonderful thoughts!

I’ve always been staunchly pens >>> pencils … but reading this made me think I should give graphite another try. Time to break out the sharpener!

Lol I totally get that pen > pencil thing. And interestingly enough, I now use pencils more throughout my day, even though I’ll always make space for my pens as well. Let me know how it goes!

I will! And I forgot to mention how much I appreciated what you said near the end of your post. That minimalism is great, but at the end of the day it’s okay to hold onto stuff for all our various interests. It’s not really clutter because we may return to those hobbies at any time.😁

This is so interesting. I never knew those writers preferred using pencils. You make fascinating points in their favor.

I never knew writers even enjoyed pencils. But after a while, they really do grow on you. Thanks so much for dropping by!

My man, Stuart, great post – it really was. As a person who feels passionate with rollerball pens and cheap writing pads, this was something new and refreshing to give a thought to. I’ll try out my old pencils, tonight if I can.

Rollerballs are awesome too. In fact, all writing tools are amazing. Who knows? Maybe the next thing I’ll try will be typewriters, lol. Anyway, thanks so much for your kind words, Sanjid!

Welcome, my man

I love rollerball pens.

Yeah, they’re awesome

This is a terrific post, thankyou.

And thank YOU for stopping by and sharing your support! :)

I actually still write with pencils, and AGREED, the lighter lines are not good enough. I literally have a 4B on my desk. I have wrist issues and so can’t write for very long, but occasionally I’ll still draft scenes, or the start of manuscripts in pencil. It’s a combination of the trustworthiness of the pencil, the way the greats talk about it, and the nostalgia. A pencil feels like Old Magic.

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Interesting

4B users unite! Though I have to admit, I’ve been trying the Mitsubishi Uni 9800 pencils, and those HB pencils are much darker than my Staedtler 2B ones. I guess the manufacturer really matters.

And yeah, there’s just something so reassuring about a tool that’s built for one thing only. Old Magic indeed.

Strangely enough, I gravitate towards pencils/pens and paper when I’m in the mood for poetry. I wrote my first full-length novel in a book with a pen. It was convenient to whip out the book whenever I was on the train commute or had a moment or two. Only problem was transferring it onto computer – couldn’t read my own damn writing!

High five for writing our first novels longhand! Yeah, it’s awesome to have something we can write in without needing to care about charging batteries, and while bad handwriting is a thing, I also appreciate the fact that what enters my Word Doc will essentially be a second draft. Thanks so much for sharing, btw!

Have you published your novel? If so, what’s it called?

Yup! It’s called Tinhead City KL. I think the publishers have just made it available on Amazon but I’ve yet to update my site.

Too cool! I shall check it out. I’ve yet to move past editing but I can imagine how awesome it would be to publish a novel. Well done!

But, I have to confess to an addiction to highlighters. I love colors.

I tried it today, jury’s still out. I too do not like the lighter #2 line. I found myself focusing on the act of writing (though I often do anyway) but I felt a little freer to say what I wanted. The pencil lowered the bar a bit which was refreshing. Oddly enough I made few mistakes; usually I constantly make errors writing rapidly with a pen. I’ll keep trying to see if there are any effects on my work.

Ugh I hate the #2 too. Whatever writing instrument I use, I want a visible line with the least amount of effort (I hate needing to use more energy than I need, lol), so it’s 4B for me. The downside? The wooden version needs to be sharpened more, so mechanical pencils it is.

Thanks so much for sharing your experience, Hetty! Would love to know what happens after you use a darker pencil.

Gives me an excuse to buy a set

What an interesting article! Really enjoyed this one

Aww thanks so much for stopping by and dropping this wonderful comment!

wonderful post, and I like your concluding comments; it’s all about finding what works for us…

Aw yis. Our minds are weird things, and it’s important to find out how our individual ones work. Thanks for stopping by, Jim!

Typically I would shy away from using pencils as I like things to be neat but this has made me want branch out and give it a go. I’m loving how you’re recent posts have gone from pens to pencils you offer really interesting perspectives on the writing itself which I might not have otherwise considered

Oh I’ll be the #1 person to tell you that I NEVER entertained the idea of pencils. And even then, wooden ones? Ugh.

But then I tried it, thanks to reading about the greats like Steinbeck and Nabokov, and I’ve found that they ain’t that bad. In fact, quite the contrary, I now find them pleasant (except #2. Those make me feel like I’m writing with a dried-out pen).

Thanks for your kind words! They’ve really made my day :)

It’s weird how we can feel a certain way about things until we try them, and you are most welcome!

This gives me less anxiety about having to have a pen around, just grab a pencil. Awesome

Oh yeah, and especially in your line of work, where bodily fluids may get in the way, a pencil would make for a good substitute. Maybe not for the formal paperwork though, lol. Thanks for stopping by!

Darn, so I didn’t need my fountain pen to write. Hope my mother in law doesn’t realize or she’ll ask my pen back ☺️. Great entry my friend, you always make me think.

Lol to be fair, the paper determines which tool I pick as well. Sometimes it sucks using a fountain pen on less-optimal paper. Thanks for sharing your thoughts! Love your comments.

This made me laugh—I’ve been using mechanical pencils and composition books to write the rough drafts of my novels. I still use pen to brainstorm and map my plot lines but pencil seems to do the trick for actually writing. At least that’s the case for this particular project.

Weird because I draft the blog posts in pen and I take notes in pen. But, I also don’t fall asleep writing blog posts some nights while I do fall asleep working on the novels. From a practicality standpoint, pencil makes more sense—I won’t wake up covered in ink in strange places.

Also, when I make notes in the margins of books, I prefer pencil. I tend to makes LOTS of notes in the margins so it’s helpful to erase and rewrite if I end up needing more room.

Oh yeah, I’ve been a ‘book-marginer’ convert recently, and I take that as a sign of respect to the author, that I’m engaging with their material. I do this for non-fiction only though. And yes! Pencils are the best for this.

Also, is it just me? Or do pencils produce a more reliable line than even fountain pens? The amount of pressure I need to use is the same too.

I love that you use all types of writing tools. In the end, there’s no need for absolutes. Different tools for different purposes.

Thanks so much for sharing your creative process! Always a sucker for that.

Pingback: Why Using Pencils To Write May Be More Eye-Opening Than You Think—Reblog from Stuart Danker—Your Friendly Malaysian Writer – Faye E. Arcand

Love this! Started using pencils several years ago because of that same Steinbeck story.

It’s pretty interesting, come to think of it. How one person can affect the decisions of so many after him. I bet we’re not the only ones who tried pencils after reading hit story. Thanks so much for stopping by!

It’s funny how “Marie Kondo” has become a verb. Agree about phases and keeping your hobbyist tools even if you’re setting them aside for awhile. Lovely ode to the pencil. Thanks for sharing.

Haha yeah. I totally didn’t realise I was verb-ing her name until you brought it up, and now I too realise how interesting that it’s become a verb.

Thanks so much for your lovely support!

Very cool post.

And thanks so much for your cool comment!

No prob. My blog site is on forced hiatus. Apparently, WP never got the memo about my email address change. Supposedly, they are working on it.

What a surprising topic. I love it! My husband is an animator and pencils are everywhere. I like the ability to erase. It makes things feel like more of a process, rather than done in one attempt. I use pencils a lot when writing or drawing in little blank books. This article helped me think about why that is. So thank you!

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I have to admit that while pencils give me the ability to erase, I end up just striking through mistakes like I would with a pen, lol. Thanks so much for sharing a slice of your life here. It’s great to know of your other creative pursuits besides your amazing photography :D

This is a good post Stuart. I still use pencil and pen from time to time in my writings. You don’t always have a keyboard handy or voice recorder handy. I consider that pencil to be part of my writer’s arsenal. Blessings and Peace.

Thanks for the kind support! It’s nice to have a variety of tools on standby, and nothing beats the pencil for plain ol’ reliability, and I say this as someone who adores all types of stationery. Love your comment!

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Geometry Nodes from Scratch

Procedural shading fundamentals, stylized character workflow, animation fundamentals, sprite fright, fighting (with) grease pencil.

Other authors:

Introduction.

As an exercise and exploration with Grease Pencil, we decided to create a small test, animating in a traditional 2D way with a 3D background.

This is the final result:

The idea of this test was to get the hand of the process of a 2D animation from beginning to end, and have some test file for GPv3.

First, I started creating the main poses of the animation with a rough sketch, in this stage I just wanted to get the right energy and flow.

After that, I took the poses I had and started to add inbetweens. The method I liked the most and I used during most of the process when coming to inbetweens was to use the same pose and edit and sculpt it to be able to "live" in the pose, but have animation on it.

When I was happy with the timing and spacing of the animation, I decide to delay some parts so that not all the parts of the body would move at the same time, to create the sensation of weight. In this case, I just took the arms and the head and I moved them to create delays. Until this stage all was really fast, drawings were really messy and it was really easy to edit them because you didn't need to make them look good.

Next step was to make the main poses, taking care a bit more of the volumes of the character. Now things start to get more difficult, keeping poses of model in 2D is really complex for a 3D animator used to have the volumes for free.

When I was somehow happy with the main poses, I decided to just focus on the torso and the head. In this case I felt it was easier to animate the head and neck in one layer and the torso in another one. It was easier to edit the parts separated and be able to delay them keeping the animation kind of organize.

After that I decided to add the arms in another layer. Here I really regret not doing another pass defining the arm musculature a bit more and leaving it just as volumes, because later I had to do it when I wanted to do the clean up pass.

Then I did a tight up pass on the face, trying to add the main expressions on the main poses.

After being kind of happy with the main poses, I added the inbetweens, again editing and sculpting the strokes of the main poses I had in the step before.

Then I tried to define the arms a bit more, and I found out that the reference volume I had for the gloves was pretty bad. I tried to do it again and I found out it was kinda difficult for me to get them right, so I asked Beau if he could model and rig for me a glove prop I could use as a guide and I used them to animate them in the main poses (I had to scale and tweak them to look like they are coming close to the camera, or away from it).

3D animators are always gonna 3D

Note of the producer, Fiona: this is a great example of how Blender can help you achieve the level of animation you want, by using the strength of each tool. The flexibility of 2D, the consistency of 3D.

Then I proceded to animate the gloves in the rest of the poses that were already there on the body.

Next step I wanted to do was the clean up step, where you make a really clean and nice line on your drawings. I never have to do it in 3D, I just animate and that's it, so I found this to be the hardest part of all the animation process.

Usually, 2D animators just do each drawing again with the clean up line, because they have already the base of the animation, so one drawing-one pose, but this was really hard for me. I tried to do it, but when I tried to animate the first part of the animation I found out it wasn't going to work.

I went back to whatever was working for me, I took the main poses I had and I split them in different layers, head and neck, torso and arms with the gloves. This made the process much easier because again I was able to edit and sculpting the strokes of the poses I already had and animate them more in a "3D" way.

Note of the producer, Fiona: this is actually a technique used by 2D animators working on action shots or with a lot of superposition (especially hands over body, or something that moves way faster than the rest. This is also very convenient when you need to do retakes as you can focus on one area without risking messing with the others. It can also help in compositing, to play with the depth of field.

So after I pass all the headache of cleaning up the line for the torso and the head, I jump into the arms. In this case, the "clean up" version I had before was really complex and not working, so I had to simplify the amount of lines the arm had, and I added some smears in some of the poses to show the speed of the movement. Also did a draw over the animation of the 3D gloves and I hide them, because they already did their job.

At this moment I was happy with the animation (and a bit tired) so I went to the next step of the process, I added a flat color pass.

Next, I added the shadows for the main poses. Again, in my usual work I never have to go through this process: in a 3D project, after the animation is done, the shot goes away from me and I go to animate another shot, so I don't have much idea about lighting and shadows. I had to check a lot of info and something not bad came out of it. I showed it to the people that know about lighting at the studio, they pointed out that some of the shadows of weren't right, thus I adjusted them.

In this version, some of them were already fixed, but they pointed out more weren't looking good so I did more retakes on them.

This version is the final version with all final shadows animated. It was an interesting and hard step in the animation.

With this the animation was pretty much done, but since the beginning I wanted add some impact frame - a succession of frames with different colors and patterns (usually opposite to each other) that shock your brain to create a bigger impact. In this case I added them on the charging up of the last punch to add extra power up on that moment.

Next, I added a small camera movement, trying to have the feeling that somebody was holding the camera.

After showing the animation around, some people gave me some feedback on the impact frames, so I did some changes on them, trying to make them more dynamic. (here some of the final impact frames)

After all was done I gave the animation to Beau to put it on the background he did and start to do the compositing to make it look epic.

For our fighter we needed a matching setting and decided on a boxing ring with a static crowd. We started with blocking out the scene using primitives and Grease Pencil objects. Next we adjusted the ropes and added compositing FX to increase visual interest.

I took what Pablico was working on and implemented a background. Together we discussed various elements to be placed in the final image like the circular lights. These have no logical purpose as working lights but are placed as a suggestive element. The angle of these elements were very specifically placed so that it didn't take too much attention and to be suggestive standing inside of a boxing ring.

Viewport preview

To tie all of the visual elements together we use various render layers for the boxing ring, crowd, flare and gradient, the animated character and final post-processing. The gradient is a simple sphere object with a gradient texture and the flare contains multiple Grease Pencil objects with visual effects like blur.

These are the various layers forming the final composite.

My main conclusion is 2D animation requires some skills you don't need as much when you do 3D animation: for example keeping the volumes on the character or creating the shadow pass. Also some parts, like the clean up, are really tedious and require a lot of practice to make it good

This animation wasn't a walk in the park, but I learnt a lot about the process and also about how to utilize Grease Pencil in my advantage, like using the strokes as 3D objects, being able to transform and sculpt them. This made my life easier when I needed to animate poses that were similar to another ones.

If you would like to have the blend file, please tell us in the comments.

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I accidentally tapped the enter key, but the bloom makes it feel like a cartoon I watched when I was a kid.

I'd love the blend file. I love the look of the character. I can It feels like a classic cartoon I watched once. It's not old but the bloom gives it a look

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