Drawing Supplies
Good drawing materials respond predictably to your hand, allowing you to focus on observation and mark-making rather than fighting your tools. Whether you work in graphite, charcoal, or markers, the right supplies make practice more enjoyable and your results more consistent.
This section covers dry drawing media: pencils for sketching and shading, charcoal for bold tonal work, and markers for illustration and rendering. We also include essential accessories like sharpeners, erasers, and blending tools that support your drawing practice.
Our recommendations span different price points and skill levels. Entry-level supplies that perform reliably sit alongside professional-grade materials for serious work. Each product is assessed on material quality, consistency, and value, with recommendations based on specifications and artist feedback rather than marketing claims.
Top Picks for Drawing
Staedtler
Staedtler Mars Lumograph Pencil Set
A professional-standard graphite pencil trusted by architects, designers, and fine artists. The consistent grades and smooth application make these pencils reliable for both technical precision and expressive sketching.
- Excellent grade consistency across the range
- Break-resistant through bonded lead
- Smooth lay-down with minimal wax bloom
- Premium price compared to some alternatives
- Hexagonal barrel may not suit all grips
Mid-range, typically £10-20 for sets
Check priceCopic
Copic Ciao Marker Set
The entry-level range from the industry-standard marker brand. Copic Ciao markers share the same ink system as professional Copics, making them ideal for artists building their first marker collection without the full outlay.
- Refillable and replaceable nibs
- Excellent blending capability
- Huge colour range available
- Significant investment for a full collection
- Requires marker-safe paper for best results
Premium, £3-5 per marker or £25-60 for sets
Check priceStrathmore
Strathmore 400 Series Drawing Pad
A reliable workhorse for dry media sketching. The cream-coloured paper has enough tooth to grab graphite and charcoal without being too rough, making it suitable for both quick sketches and more detailed drawings.
- Excellent tooth for pencil and charcoal
- Medium weight (130gsm) handles erasing well
- Good value for the quality
- Not suitable for wet media
- Spiral binding can catch on sleeve
Budget-friendly, typically £8-15 depending on size
Check priceFaber-Castell
Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pen Set
Premium artist pens that combine archival India ink with a range of tip options. The brush pens are particularly popular among urban sketchers for their expressive line variation and waterproof finish.
- India ink is waterproof and archival
- Brush tips hold their shape well
- Wide variety of tip styles available
- Higher price point than basic fineliners
- Brush tips require more skill to control
Mid to premium range, £15-30 for sets
Check priceBuying Guides
In-depth comparisons to help you choose the right drawing supplies.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What pencil grades do I need for drawing?
For general sketching and drawing, a range from 2H to 6B covers most needs. Harder grades (H) work well for light outlines and technical work, while softer grades (B) create rich darks and expressive marks. Many artists find HB, 2B, and 4B sufficient for everyday use.
Are expensive pencils worth the investment?
Quality pencils offer more consistent grades, smoother application, and better break resistance. For regular practice, the difference in feel and reliability often justifies the modest price increase. However, budget pencils work perfectly well for learning and casual sketching.
What is the difference between graphite and charcoal?
Graphite produces a metallic sheen and allows for fine detail work, making it ideal for precise drawings. Charcoal creates deeper blacks with a matte finish and suits expressive, gestural work. Many artists use both depending on the effect they want to achieve.
How do I prevent smudging in pencil drawings?
Work from top to bottom and left to right (or right to left if left-handed) to avoid resting your hand on finished areas. Use a piece of clean paper under your drawing hand. Once complete, apply fixative spray to protect the drawing from accidental smudging.