Pencils

Graphite pencils are ranked on a scale from hard to soft, known as H grades (hard) and B grades (soft). The higher the number before the H, the harder and lighter the mark; the higher the number before the B, the darker and softer the line. Sitting right in the middle is HB, a popular all-rounder that’s perfect for general drawing or writing. Artists often pick softer grades when they want a dark, smooth finish that glides across the paper, while harder grades are best for fine lines and technical work.

Modern graphite pencils are designed to be easier to sharpen and more comfortable to hold compared to older models, making them a better choice for both casual users and artists.

Pencil Characteristics

When it comes to graphite pencils, the right choice can make all the difference in your sketching and drawing experience. The B grades, such as 2B or 6B, are loved for their soft, dark lines that glide effortlessly across the paper, making them ideal for expressive shading and bold artwork. On the other hand, H grades like 2H or 6H are harder and produce lighter, more precise lines, which are perfect for technical drawing or delicate details. Many artists personally feel that the choice between B and H grades comes down to the style of work and the effect they want to achieve—some prefer the rich, dark tones of the softer grades, while others love the crisp, clean marks of the harder ones.

Graphite pencils come in a wide range of grades, from the very hard 9H to the ultra-soft 9B, giving you the flexibility to create everything from subtle, light sketches to deep, dramatic shadows. The texture of your paper also plays a big role: smoother papers help your pencil glide for even, controlled lines, while rougher papers add texture and character to your marks, enhancing the overall feel of your artwork.

Comfort is another key factor, and the diameter of the pencil can make a real difference. Thicker pencils often feel more comfortable in the hand during long drawing sessions, while thinner pencils allow for greater precision and control, especially when working on fine details.

Top Pencils from Crafter’s Companion

We proudly offer a range of artist-quality graphite and colour pencils under our own brand, so you can trust what you buy without needing to search through other brands like faber castell, derwent, caran d’ache, staedtler, or winsor and newton.

Here’s what we recommend from our stock:

• Spectrum Noir Metallic Pencils (12 pack) — This set includes 12 shimmering metallic colours that work beautifully over dark or light paper, giving a brilliant effect for details and highlights.
• Spectrum Noir AquaBlend Portrait (24 pack) — Soft, blendable watercolour pencils included in a range of 24 rich, painterly tones that don’t crumble or break easily.
• Spectrum Noir DuoColour Aqua Pencils Naturally Floral — Dual-ended pencils offering twice the colours in one set, with a lot of floral-inspired shades included, great for floral work and delicate washes.
• Spectrum Noir Professional Colouring Accessories Blending Solution — Apply this solution over coloured pencil to smooth and blend areas without damaging the texture of your paper.
• Spectrum Noir Colouring Accessories Paper Stump Sander — Keep your paper stumps sharp and ready, so they glide smoothly and avoid rough, uneven work.

There are a lot of options available for artists, with sets offering a wide variety of grades and colours included to suit different styles and needs. Please note that some sets or brands may not be widely sold in all markets, so it’s important to check availability before purchasing.

Mechanical vs Traditional Pencils

A comparison between mechanical and traditional pencils highlights key differences in use and preference, helping artists choose the best tool for their needs.

Traditional wooden pencils offer the feel and flexibility many artists love, especially when they want to sharpen to a fine point or control the diameter of the line. Mechanical pencils, on the other hand, are low-maintenance and consistent, making them ideal for quick, detailed sketching or when you need a durable option that won’t break easily.

Choosing the Right Pencil for Your Project

Your choice of pencil depends on the work you’re doing:

• Sketching — Soft B pencils give darker, richer strokes, perfect for shading.
• Technical drawing — Harder H pencils create clean, fine lines without smudging.
• Everyday use — HB pencils balance hardness and softness, making them a favourite for writing and general sketching.

There are different ranges of pencils available to suit specific artistic needs, from light sketching to deep shading.

Many beginners start with an HB or 2B to get a feel for the differences before adding more specialised grades to their selection.

Caring for Your Pencils

To keep your pencils in good shape:

• Sharpen carefully to avoid wasting the core.
• Store in a case or holder to prevent damage.
• Avoid dropping, as this can cause internal cracks and make the lead crumble or break during use.

These small steps help you get the most from your products and ensure they stay comfortable to hold and apply.

Shop the Crafter’s Companion Range

Looking to add high-quality pencils and accessories to your toolkit? Browse the full range at Crafter’s Companion and pick the products that match your needs. If no products match your search, try adjusting your filters for better results. Our pencils are designed to glide smoothly across the page, ensuring quality results for your artwork. Whether you want to compare grades, build a versatile set, or receive expert help, our team is here to support you. We encourage you to leave a review or read reviews to help others make informed choices. We’re proud to serve UK artists with reliable supplies at fair prices — find your next favourite tools with us today.

FAQs

What is the best pencil from Crafter’s Companion?

It depends on the style of work you’re doing. For metallic highlights, we recommend the Spectrum Noir Metallic Pencils. For watercolour effects, go for the AquaBlend or DuoColour Aqua sets. If you need a reliable and versatile option for various artistic needs, the Works line is also a great choice.

What is the plural for pencil?

The plural of pencil is pencils.

Are HB or 2B pencils better?

HB pencils offer a good balance and are perfect for general drawing and writing. 2B pencils are softer and give darker results, which many artists personally feel work better for shading.

Is a 0.5 or 0.7 pencil better for writing?

A 0.5mm pencil creates finer lines, making it great for precise writing. A 0.7mm is a bit thicker and less likely to snap, making it a durable choice for everyday notes.

What are the best pencils in the world?

The best pencils in the world are often chosen based on personal preference, drawing style, and global availability. Many artists have reviewed and tested various brands to find what works best for them, and rankings can change as new products are introduced or improved.