Drawing FAQ’s with Graphite Artist Emma Ferguson

DRAWING FAQ’s with Graphite Artist Emma Ferguson

What are pencil grades?

Pencil grades refers to the strength of graphite that the pencil contains, being how dark/soft and how hard/light, that is signified by the little letters and numbers that you find on the side of a pencil.

Pencils are graded in the following order: 9H, 8H, 7H, 6H, 5H, 4H, 3H, 2H, H, F, HB, B, 2B, 3B, 4B, 5B, 6B, 7B, 8B, 9B, 9xxB.

What’s the difference between soft and hard pencil grades?

Graphite pencils are made from graphite and filler, typically made from clay. Hard pencils contain more filler and are highly compacted for lighter marks, while soft pencils are less compacted, producing darker marks.

The higher the number before the H, the lighter the mark and the harder it will be.

The higher the number before the B, the darker the mark and the softer it will be.

What does H stand for on a pencil?

H on a pencil refers to the pencil grade, and stands for Hard. H pencils contain less graphite and more filler, and are more compacted, to produce lighter lines.

What does B stand for on a pencil?

B on a pencil refers to the Blackness of the pencil. B pencils are much softer than H pencils, and make darker marks.

What does F stand for on a pencil?

F pencils stand for fine point. They are also hard in order to maintain its point.

What is an EE pencil?

EE pencils make black marks with a more matte finish, and contain 50% charcoal and 50% graphite.

What pencil is best for light sketching?

H pencils are fantastic for light sketching as they leave light marks. 4H, 3H and 2H pencils are great for technical drawings and outlines.

What pencil grade is best for shading?

B pencils are perfect for shading, as the softer texture and darker marks. The higher B pencils are also great for blending and smudging.

For dark shading, EE pencils are great, and will leave a very dark mark with a more matte finish.

How do I sharpen my pencils?

The Mont Marte mechanical pencil sharpener is fantastic for getting pencils to a really sharp point.

Mont Marte’s Electric Eraser is great for precision work like erasing highlights or erasing larger areas.

A Sandpaper block is a must for sharpening pencils and erasers

What do I need to get started in graphite art?

To get started in graphite art, you’ll need:

 a good pencil set

Paper

Sharpener

Blending stumps- a great tool for blending graphite and charcoal pencil.

A kneadable eraser

Imagination and Inspiration!

What pencil is best for writing?

For simple sketches and writing, H, F, HB and B pencils are a go-to.  They’re often used as a multi-purpose pencil because it’s clear enough to write and draw but has minimal smudging.

What pencil is best for technical drawing?

For technical drawing, creating guidelines, outlines and light sketches, opt for 4H-2H pencils.

What pencil should I use for watercolour drawings?

To create sketches for watercolour paintings, go for a 9H-5H pencil to create light outlines. You can also use water-soluble graphites and watercolour pencils specifically for this.

How do I choose which pencil to use?

You can use any pencil you like to draw, however, some are more suited to certain techniques and effects than others!

How do I create highlights in my drawings?

Mont Marte’s Electric Eraser is great for precision work like erasing highlights or erasing larger areas.

Best paper for graphite art?

Bristol Paper is a really lovely, high-quality paper perfect for drawing, both in colour and graphite or charcoal. (Any of the diaries in this link will be a great surface)

I also love to use hot-pressed Watercolour paper for my drawings. The Saunders Smooth Hot Pressed 300gsm pads are a lovely, heavyweight paper that's less prone to damage than a low gsm Bristol paper, and it holds graphite really nicely. 

What is the best paper for charcoal?

Opting for a drawing paper with a higher gsm and a bit of “tooth” (texture) to it is ideal for working with charcoal, as it can withstand rougher mark making. Try to stay away from smooth papers as charcoal is a dry medium that requires a bit of texture to bind properly to the paper.

What is the best paper for watercolour pencils?

Watercolour paper is best for use with watercolour pencils. Watercolour paper is available in a wide range of sizes, weights (gsm) and textures, these being smooth (hot pressed), medium and rough (cold-pressed). The higher the GSM, the thicker the paper will be.

What is the best eraser for graphite art?

Faber Castell Kneadable Erasers are one of my favourite tools for drawing, as they can be moulded into any shape needed for rendering drawings. They are also good for lifting light layers of graphite or charcoal at a time without completely erasing the work.

The Tombo Mono Eraser is great for creating really fine detail. You can sharpen it with sandpaper to a fine point for those super small areas.

How do I stop my work from smudging?

Masking fluid is also great for keeping areas of an artwork protected while the piece is in progress. The Masking Fluid by Winsor & Newton and is my favourite.

How do I protect my drawing after it's done?

The best way to protect your drawing after it's done is by using a fixative such as the Micador Workable Mat fixative, the Nuart fixative, or the Krylon Workable Fixatif. You can also frame your work for added protection.

Which pencils are best for kids?

Pencils and drawing are a great way for kids to start exploring their creativity. You can find a great range of kids drawing supplies here.

Which coloured pencils should I choose?

Any you like! There are no limits to the type of pencil you should use, however, some coloured pencils are made for certain techniques.

Where do I find inspiration for drawing?

YouTube, Pinterest, TikTok, Instagram are all great. Check out our socials for inspiration.

What are some tips for budding illustrators/ graphite artists?

"Just keep drawing. Sketch as much as possible, and try to learn from people that inspire you, there are so many fantastic tutorials and classes out there.

The more you practice the more you’ll learn. Just start somewhere and keep trying, and don’t be afraid to experiment!"

Don't forget to show us your drawing skills and tips by tagging us on Instagram @artshedonline for your chance to be featured!

Got questions? Send us an email at customerservice@artshedonline.com.au and our friendly team of artists will do their best to assist you. 

Happy creating!