If you are new to drawing you might not realize that the pencil you use can have a significant effect on how you draw and how it looks. Of course you already know that there are colored pencils but did you know there is a whole grading system for regular pencils? This system is called the HB Graphite Scale. And the H and B stand for Hardness and Blackness. So pencils are graded by how hard the graphite is and by how black it is.

The drawing above shows you the set of pencils I use. it's a nice set of 6 pencils that give me a good range. The total HB Scale looks like this:

Hardest                                      Medium                                      Softest

9H-8H-7H-6H-5H-4H-3H-2H-F-HB-B-2B-3B-4B-5B-6B-7B-8B-9B

I recommend that if you really want to get the most out of your pencil drawing you pick up a set of pencils with a range of Hardness and Blackness and start experimenting with them. You will be amazed at how much it improves your drawings.

A Complete Graphic Pencil Set That Is Perfect For Any Type Of Drawing Work

This 24-piece pencil set covers the complete range of twenty blackness and hardness degrees used in sketching, drawing and graphics. The pencils range from a very soft 9B to a very crisp 9H, with extra pencils provided for the most popular ones in the range. Cumberland Pencil Company, a respected U.K. pencil manufacturer since 1832 makes these fine Derwent brand pencils and the quality is evident in the set. Useful for everything from industrial design work to soft figure drawing, the pencils are designed to take a point without breaking and to last longer under heavy marking and drawing pressure. This set is suitable for a budding artist or a professional and it makes an impressive gift. The 24 pre-sharpened pencils are nestled in a sturdy metal tin with snap-on lid and illustrations on the back showing the intensity effects of the various leads. For hundreds more craft, art and hobby products be sure to visit our National Artcraft Storefront. We have the creative component you need. Buy at Amazon.com

Colored Pencils

I probably don't have to explain the concept of colored pencils but if you are serious about drawing with pencil I recommend you get yourself a nice set from a reputable company.

Coloursoft Pencils by Derwent- Intro Set of Six Colors

Colorsoft Pencils by Derwent- Set of 72 Colors in a Metal Tin