Best Artist Grade Colored Pencils

of Apr 2024

Colored pencils are an essential art tool for artists and art enthusiasts. They are popularly used for drawing, coloring, and shading. The quality of colored pencils varies depending on the manufacturer, the cost, and the intended use. Artist-grade colored pencils are typically expensive, but they offer superior quality and a wider range of colors than student-grade pencils. This article provides valuable tips to help you choose the best artist-grade colored pencils.

Tip 1: Consider the Brand

A brand's reputation is an essential factor to consider when selecting artist-grade colored pencils. Different brands produce different types of colored pencils, and some brands are better known for their quality, durability, and pigmentation. It is also wise to research the company's history and product development to understand the quality and differences between the different colored pencil brands available.

Tip 2: Check the Pigmentation

One of the main differences between artist-grade and student-grade colored pencils is the pigmentation. Artist-grade pencils typically offer more vibrant, long-lasting, and intense colors than student-grade pencils. The pigments in artist-grade pencils also blend easily, allowing artists to achieve smooth gradients and color transitions. Before purchasing artist-grade pencils, it is recommended to check the color swatches or reviews to ensure that the pigmentation is of good quality.

Tip 3: Look for Lightfastness Ratings

Lightfastness ratings indicate how resistant colored pencils are to fading when exposed to light. Artist-grade colored pencils should have lightfastness ratings of excellent or very good. This means that they will retain their color intensity and vibrancy even after prolonged exposure to light. It is advisable to check the manufacturer's website or product packaging for the lightfastness rating before purchasing any colored pencil set.

Tip 4: Consider the Type of Lead

Artist-grade colored pencils are available in two types of leads - wax-based and oil-based. Wax-based pencils are popular for drawing and coloring, while oil-based pencils are ideal for shading and blending. Wax-based pencils offer a smooth and creamy texture, while oil-based pencils have a harder texture but produce a more vibrant color. The choice between wax-based and oil-based pencils is often a matter of personal preference and the intended use. Therefore, it essential to test both types of lead to determine which one suits your style and technique.

Tip 5: Evaluate the Color Range

Artist-grade colored pencils offer a wide range of colors that allow artists to express their creativity and imagination fully. Therefore, it is essential to consider the color range when selecting colored pencils. A good set of artist-grade colored pencils should have at least sixty different colors, including primary, secondary, and tertiary colors. The color range should also include a variety of shades, tints, and tones to ensure that artists have everything they need to create unique and appealing artwork.

Tip 6: Check the Quality of the Wood

The quality of the wood used in making the colored pencils is another crucial factor to consider. Cheap or low-quality wood can quickly break or split, leading to wastage of the pencil leads. Therefore, it is essential to consider the type of wood and the manufacturing process. The ideal wood for artist-grade colored pencils is cedar, which is lightweight and has a smooth texture. The pencils should also have a robust and well-polished exterior to prevent breakage and make it easy to sharpen them without damaging the lead.

Tip 7: Price

Artist-grade colored pencils can be quite expensive, and the price is often a crucial factor when selecting colored pencils. However, it is essential to understand that the price often reflects the quality of the pencils. Therefore, it is advisable to invest in a high-quality set of colored pencils that will last longer and provide better results than cheap or low-quality pencils. It is also worth noting that some expensive sets have additional features, such as removable leads or a wider color range, that can be beneficial for artists.

Conclusion

In conclusion, selecting the right set of artist-grade colored pencils requires careful consideration of the brand's reputation, pigmentation, lightfastness ratings, type of lead, color range, quality of the wood, and price. By following these valuable tips, you can choose colored pencils that meet your specific needs and help you create beautiful and compelling artwork.