When you’re just starting out as an artist, choosing the right tools can make a huge difference in your progress. In today’s quick guide, we’re tackling a common mistake beginner artists make: using the wrong pencils. Trust us when we say that picking up the wrong pencil can make your drawing journey unnecessarily frustrating. Let’s break down why some pencils are best left in the pencil case and others are your go-to tools!
In this video, Jess also explores the differences between H and B pencils, and how to master pressure control to create beautiful drawings.
Why H Pencils Suck (2H, 4H, 6H, H Graphite Pencils)
The “H” in H pencils stands for hardness. H pencils have more clay mixed with the graphite, making the lead tough and durable. While this might sound like a good thing, it’s not ideal for beginners. H pencils can easily damage your paper when too much pressure is applied. Beginners tend to press hard when drawing, leading to accidental damage that’s tough to repair. Even if you try to erase the marks, the paper may be left scarred, and the markings can be difficult to remove. If you’re just starting to learn how to manage pressure, H pencils can leave you feeling very frustrated.
What’s the Deal with B Pencils?
On the flip side, B pencils are softer because they contain more graphite than clay. The “B” stands for blackness, and the higher the number (e.g., 6B, 4B), the darker and softer the pencil lead. These pencils are fantastic for creating rich, dark lines and doing tonal work, which is great for advanced artists working on shading and depth. However, for beginners still learning how to control pressure, B pencils can pose their own set of challenges. The darker lines can be difficult to erase completely, which can leave you with unwanted marks on your paper. While B pencils are great for detail and tone, they might not be the best choice when you’re just getting started.
So, What is the Best Pencil to Draw With?
If you’re a beginner, we recommend using an HB or 2B pencil. These pencils offer a balanced combination of clay and graphite, making them soft enough to draw comfortably without the risk of damaging your paper. At the same time, they’re not so dark that mistakes become impossible to erase. HB and 2B pencils give you greater control over your artwork and reduce the frustration of making irreversible mistakes.
Choosing the right pencil is one of the first steps to setting yourself up for success as an artist. Avoid the extremes of H pencils, which are too hard for most beginner needs, and use B pencils with care. The best middle ground? Stick with HB or 2B pencils until you master pressure control and feel more confident experimenting with darker or harder leads.