Watercolor and sketching go together like peanut butter and jelly. But finding the right pencil to sketch with before you paint can be tricky. You need something that lays down a light line, erases easily, and won’t bleed when wet. After trying tons of different options, I’ve narrowed it down to my top five favorite pencils for sketching with watercolor.
Here’s a quick look at my top picks:
- Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Sketch Pencils: Overall best for smooth lines and erasability.
- Palomino Blackwing 602: For artists who prefer a darker, bolder line that still erases well.
- Derwent Graphic Medium Pencils: Great value set with a range of hardnesses.
- Prismacolor Turquoise Graphite Drawing Pencils: Ideal for detailed work and controlled shading.
- Kneaded Eraser: Perfect to remove graphite from paper.
Top 5 Best Pencils for Sketching Watercolor – Reviewed
1. Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Sketch Pencils
Faber-Castell 9000 pencils are a classic for a reason. They offer consistent quality and smooth graphite that’s a dream to work with, making them a reliable choice for watercolor artists needing a light sketch.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent erasability – crucial for clean watercolor paintings.
- ✅ Smooth graphite lays down easily without scratching the paper.
- ✅ Available in a wide range of hardnesses, so you can find your perfect line weight.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey compared to some other brands.
- ❌ Some may find the lighter grades too faint for their taste.
- ❌ Need to be sharpened carefully to avoid breaking the lead.
Verdict: These are a fantastic all-around choice if you’re looking for a dependable pencil that erases cleanly and provides smooth lines. Great for beginners and experienced artists alike.
2. Palomino Blackwing 602
The Palomino Blackwing 602 has a cult following, and it’s easy to see why. It’s known for its smooth, dark line and unique rectangular eraser. This is a great pencil for artists who like a bit more boldness in their initial sketch.
Pros:
- ✅ Produces a rich, dark line that’s still easy to erase.
- ✅ The rectangular eraser is really handy for precise erasing.
- ✅ High-quality construction and a luxurious feel.
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than most other pencils.
- ❌ The eraser refills can be hard to find and are also pricey.
- ❌ The dark line may not be ideal for very light and delicate watercolor washes.
Verdict: If you’re willing to splurge on a premium pencil and enjoy a darker line, the Blackwing 602 is worth a try. It’s a joy to use and delivers exceptional results.
3. Derwent Graphic Medium Pencils
If you are new to watercolor sketching, a set of Derwent Graphic Medium Pencils might be just the ticket. This set gives you a great range of lead hardnesses to experiment with, allowing you to find the perfect pencil for your style.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent value for money, especially for a set.
- ✅ Good range of hardnesses, from 9B to 9H.
- ✅ Decent erasability, particularly with the harder grades.
Cons:
- ❌ The softer grades can be a bit smudgy.
- ❌ Not as smooth as some of the higher-end options.
- ❌ The wood casing can sometimes be a bit rough.
Verdict: A solid choice for beginners or anyone who wants a versatile set of pencils without breaking the bank. It is a great way to explore different line weights and shading techniques.
4. Prismacolor Turquoise Graphite Drawing Pencils
Prismacolor Turquoise pencils are known for their smooth, consistent graphite and their ability to hold a point well. This makes them excellent for detailed work and controlled shading, perfect for adding depth to your watercolor sketches.
Pros:
- ✅ Very smooth graphite that glides across the paper.
- ✅ Holds a point well, making it ideal for fine details.
- ✅ Good range of hardnesses available.
Cons:
- ❌ Erasability can be a bit tricky, especially with the softer grades.
- ❌ Can be prone to breakage if not sharpened carefully.
- ❌ Some artists find the graphite a bit too soft for their liking.
Verdict: These are an excellent choice for artists who prioritize detail and smooth shading. If you like to create intricate sketches before painting, these pencils are worth considering.
5. Kneaded Eraser
While not a pencil, a kneaded eraser is an absolute must-have for watercolor sketching. Unlike regular erasers, it lifts graphite from the paper without damaging the surface, making it perfect for creating subtle highlights and removing unwanted lines.
Pros:
- ✅ Doesn’t damage the paper surface.
- ✅ Can be molded into different shapes for precise erasing.
- ✅ Long-lasting and reusable.
Cons:
- ❌ Doesn’t completely erase dark lines.
- ❌ Can become less effective over time as it absorbs graphite.
- ❌ Needs to be kneaded regularly to keep it clean.
Verdict: An essential tool for any watercolor artist. It’s gentle, effective, and allows you to create subtle adjustments to your sketches without damaging the paper.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right pencil for sketching watercolor can feel overwhelming, but here are a few key things to keep in mind:
- Hardness: Pencils are graded on a scale from 9H (hardest, lightest) to 9B (softest, darkest). For watercolor sketching, you generally want to stick to the H and HB range. These pencils lay down a light line that’s easy to erase and won’t bleed when wet.
- Erasability: This is crucial! You want a pencil that erases cleanly without leaving smudges or damaging the paper. Test the erasability of different pencils before committing to a large set.
- Smoothness: A smooth pencil will glide across the paper without scratching, creating a more pleasant sketching experience and preventing damage to your watercolor paper.
- Paper Type: Consider the type of watercolor paper you’ll be using. Rougher papers may require a slightly softer pencil to create a consistent line, while smoother papers work well with harder pencils.
- Your Style: Ultimately, the best pencil is the one that feels most comfortable in your hand and suits your individual sketching style. Experiment with different brands and hardnesses to find your perfect match.
FAQs
Q: What’s the best pencil hardness for watercolor sketching?
A: Generally, H or HB pencils are ideal. They provide a light line that’s easy to erase and won’t bleed when you add water.
Q: How do I prevent my pencil lines from bleeding when I paint with watercolor?
A: Use a harder pencil (H or higher) and avoid pressing too hard. Erase any excess graphite before you start painting.
Q: Can I use a mechanical pencil for watercolor sketching?
A: Yes, you can! Just make sure to use a lead that’s in the H or HB range and that it erases cleanly. I like to use a 0.5mm lead to get a very fine line.
Q: What type of eraser is best for watercolor sketching?
A: A kneaded eraser is your best bet. It’s gentle on the paper and lifts graphite without smudging.
Q: Where can I buy these pencils?
A: Most art supply stores carry a wide range of graphite pencils. You can also find them online at retailers like Amazon.
Conclusion
Finding the right pencil for sketching with watercolor can make a world of difference in your artwork. Whether you prefer the smooth lines of the Faber-Castell 9000, the bold darkness of the Palomino Blackwing 602, or the versatility of the Derwent Graphic Medium Pencils, there’s a perfect pencil out there for you. And don’t forget the kneaded eraser – it’s an essential tool for any watercolor artist. Happy sketching!
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