Charcoal Pencils

Discover a whole new world of Charcoal Pencils with ArtStore Online.

At ArtStore Online, we seek to bring you the best Charcoal Pencil brands available and have a wide range of art supplies from trusted and respected brands from around the world. Discover our Charcoal Pencil brands including Conte A Paris, Derwent, Faber-Castell, Generals, STAEDTLER and more!

Whether you are an avid designer, illustrator or a complete beginner, we will strive to help you with whatever Charcoal Pencils you need.

What are charcoal pencils?

Charcoal pencils are drawing tools made from compressed charcoal encased in a wooden barrel, much like traditional graphite pencils. They come in various hardness levels, ranging from soft to hard, allowing artists to achieve different line weights and textures. Charcoal pencils produce rich, dark marks on paper and are particularly valued for their ability to create dramatic contrasts and expressive lines. They are commonly used for sketching, shading, and creating bold, gestural drawings. Charcoal pencils offer versatility and control, making them popular among artists working in various mediums, including drawing, sketching, and illustration.

What are charcoal pencils good for?

Charcoal pencils are versatile drawing tools that are well-suited for various artistic applications. Here are some key uses for charcoal pencils:

Sketching: Charcoal pencils are excellent for sketching due to their ability to produce bold, expressive lines. Artists often use them to quickly capture the essence of a subject or to outline the composition of a drawing.

Shading and Tonal Work: Charcoal pencils are prized for their ability to create rich, dark tones and subtle gradations. Artists can achieve a wide range of values by varying the pressure and density of their marks, making charcoal pencils ideal for shading and creating depth in drawings.

Creating Dramatic Effects: The dark, velvety texture of charcoal makes it well-suited for creating dramatic contrasts and atmospheric effects. Charcoal pencils can be used to add emphasis and impact to specific areas of a drawing, or to create moody, evocative scenes.

Life Drawing and Figure Studies: Many artists prefer charcoal pencils for life drawing and figure studies due to their versatility and ability to capture the dynamic energy of the human form. The expressive quality of charcoal lends itself well to capturing the nuances of gesture, movement, and expression.

Mixed Media Art: Charcoal pencils can be used in combination with other drawing and painting materials, such as graphite pencils, ink, pastels, and acrylic or watercolour paints. Artists often incorporate charcoal into mixed media artworks to add texture, depth, and visual interest.

Overall, charcoal pencils are valued by artists for their expressive qualities, versatility, and ability to create bold, dynamic drawings with rich, velvety textures. Whether used for quick sketches or detailed, finished artworks, charcoal pencils offer endless creative possibilities for artists of all levels and styles.

What is the difference between charcoal and graphite pencils?

Graphite pencils contain graphite and clay, offering precise lines and control suitable for detailed rendering, while charcoal pencils, made from compressed charcoal, create bold, expressive marks with rich, dark tones and textured surfaces. Graphite pencils produce uniform lines and are easily erased and smudged for blending, whereas charcoal pencils offer a softer, more organic feel, albeit being more prone to smudging and less forgiving when erased. Both types of pencils have their unique advantages, with graphite pencils excelling in precision and versatility, while charcoal pencils are prized for their expressiveness and dramatic effects.

Do you need special paper for charcoal pencils?

While special paper isn't strictly necessary for charcoal pencil drawings, selecting the appropriate paper can greatly enhance your artwork. Opt for paper with a textured surface, such as drawing or pastel paper, to provide the necessary "tooth" for charcoal to grip. Choose heavier weight, acid-free paper to prevent warping and ensure the longevity of your drawings. Consider the colour of the paper to complement your artistic vision, and check compatibility with fixatives if you plan to use them. Ultimately, experimenting with different papers will help you find the best fit for your charcoal pencil drawings.