Colour Pencils: A Comprehensive Guide for Artists and Hobbyists

Colour pencils are a versatile and essential tool for artists, illustrators, and hobbyists alike. Whether you are a beginner looking to explore sketching or a seasoned artist aiming for intricate details, colour pencils offer limitless creative possibilities. In this blog, I’ll cover the different types of colour pencils, key factors to consider when purchasing, and tips on how to get the most out of your artistic journey.

Types of Colour Pencils

Understanding the types of colour pencils available can help you choose the right one for your artistic needs.

1. Wax-Based Colour Pencils: These are the most common type and are known for their smooth application. They are ideal for layering and blending but may develop a waxy bloom over time.

   Recommended Brands: Prismacolor Premier, Caran d’Ache Pablo

2. Oil-Based Colour Pencils: Oil-based pencils are firmer than wax-based ones, making them great for detailed work. They resist wax bloom and are more durable.

   Recommended Brands: Faber-Castell Polychromos, Lyra Rembrandt Polycolor

3. Watercolour Pencils: These pencils can be used dry or with water to create a beautiful watercolour effect. They offer the versatility of traditional watercolour paints with the convenience of pencils.

   Recommended Brands: Derwent Watercolour Pencils, Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer

4. Pastel Pencils: Pastel pencils have a soft, chalky texture that mimics pastel sticks. They are perfect for creating soft blends and gradients.

   Recommended Brands: Stabilo CarbOthello, Faber-Castell Pitt Pastel Pencils

5. Inktense Pencils: These unique water-soluble pencils produce vibrant, ink-like colours when activated with water. Once dry, the colour becomes permanent, allowing you to layer additional colours without reactivating previous layers.

   Recommended Brands: Derwent Inktense Pencils

Notable Colour Pencil Brands and Their Features

1. Prismacolor Premier: Known for their soft wax cores, vibrant pigments, and smooth blending capabilities, ideal for creating bold and rich illustrations.
2. Faber-Castell Polychromos: Famous for their oil-based cores, exceptional lightfastness, and ability to hold sharp points, making them perfect for detailed work.
3. Caran d’Ache Luminance: Renowned for their superior lightfastness, creamy texture, and professional-grade pigment quality.
4. Derwent Coloursoft: Well-loved for their velvety smooth texture and rich colour application, great for bold and expressive artwork.
5. Staedtler Ergosoft: Known for their ergonomic triangular design and break-resistant leads, making them a popular choice for beginners and students.
6. Lyra Rembrandt Polycolor: Praised for their oil-based formulation, vibrant colours, and durability, excellent for blending and layering.
7. Stabilo CarbOthello Pastel Pencils: Favoured for their pastel-like application and easy blending on textured paper, ideal for soft and painterly effects.
8. Derwent Inktense Pencils: Celebrated for their vibrant, ink-like colour payoff and permanent finish once dry, making them ideal for bold and dynamic watercolour effects.

What to Consider When Choosing Colour Pencils

1. Pigment Quality: High-quality pigments ensure vibrant and long-lasting colours. Professional-grade pencils tend to have better pigment concentration.
2. Lightfastness: This refers to how resistant a colour is to fading over time. Look for pencils with high lightfastness ratings if you want your artwork to last.
3. Texture and Application: Consider whether you prefer a softer pencil for blending or a harder one for fine details.
4. Blending and Layering Capability: Some pencils are better suited for blending and layering techniques. Testing different brands can help you find your preference.
5. Price: Professional-grade pencils are more expensive but offer superior performance. Hobbyists may find mid-range options more budget-friendly.

Tips for Using Colour Pencils

1. Layering: Build up colours gradually with light layers to create depth and dimension.
2. Blending: Use a colourless blender, blending pencil, or even a solvent to achieve smooth transitions between colours.
3. Pressure Control: Varying the pressure can create different effects, from soft shading to bold, vibrant lines.
4. Sharpening: Keep your pencils sharp for detailed work. Use a high-quality sharpener to avoid breakage.
5. Surface Selection: Choose the right paper for your project. Smooth paper is ideal for detailed work, while textured paper enhances blending and layering.

Recommended Accessories

• Blenders and Burnishers: Help achieve smooth blends and polished finishes.
• Erasers: Kneaded erasers work well for lifting colour and creating highlights.
• Sharpeners: A good-quality sharpener ensures a clean, sharp point.
• Paper: Choose acid-free, high-quality paper to ensure the longevity of your artwork.

Final Thoughts

Colour pencils are a wonderful medium for artists of all levels. With the right tools, techniques, and a bit of practice, you can create stunning works of art. Whether you prefer bold, virant illustrations or delicate, detailed sketches, colour pencils offer endless creative possibilities.

What are your favourite colour pencil brands or techniques? Share your thoughts in the comments!