Best Drawing Pencil Sets for Students Starting Out
Stepping into the world of drawing can be both exciting and overwhelming—especially when it comes to choosing the right tools. For students just beginning their artistic journey, selecting the right drawing pencil sets for students can make a significant difference in skill development, confidence, and creative expression. With a wide variety of pencil grades, brands, and applications available, knowing where to start is crucial. This guide will walk you through the best pencil sets for beginners, what makes them effective, and how to choose the one that suits your style.
Why Pencil Choice Matters for Beginners
Graphite pencils are the backbone of drawing. They’re used for everything from light sketching to rich shading and fine detailing. However, not all pencils are created equal. The grade of graphite—ranging from hard (H) to soft (B)—affects the tone, texture, and control of your marks.
For beginners, having a range of pencil grades allows exploration of values, line quality, and shading techniques. A good starter set helps students understand how different grades behave, which is essential for building foundational skills.
Understanding Pencil Grades: HB vs. 2B and Beyond
One of the most common questions from new artists is whether to use HB or 2B pencils. According to a Quora discussion, the answer depends on your drawing goals. HB pencils are harder and produce lighter, more precise lines, making them ideal for technical sketches or outlines. 2B pencils are softer, offering darker, smoother strokes that work well for shading and expressive lines.
As a rule of thumb:
| Pencil Grade | Hardness | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| H to 4H | Hard | Fine lines, technical drawing, light sketching |
| HB | Medium | General-purpose drawing, outlines |
| 2B to 6B | Soft | Shading, texture, expressive strokes |
For students, a set that includes a variety of these grades provides the flexibility to experiment and learn how different pencils affect the final artwork.
Top Drawing Pencil Sets for Students to Consider
Let’s dive into some of the most recommended pencil sets for beginners. These selections are based on quality, usability, and value—perfect for students who are just getting started.
1. Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Pencil Set
Highly recommended by art educators and professionals alike, the Faber-Castell 9000 series is a staple in many beginner kits. This set includes a full range of graphite grades from 6H to 8B, allowing students to explore everything from light sketching to deep shading.
What makes this set stand out is the consistent graphite quality and the smooth feel on paper. According to The Pencil Room Online, the 9000 series offers excellent control and durability, which is important for students learning pressure sensitivity and tonal variation.
Pros:
- Wide range of grades (6H–8B)
- High-quality graphite core
- Break-resistant bonding
Best for: Students who want a versatile, long-lasting set with a professional feel.
2. Staedtler Mars Lumograph Drawing Pencil Set
Another top-tier option is the Staedtler Mars Lumograph. Known for its precision and clean lines, this set is ideal for students who are interested in detailed work, such as architectural drawing or realistic portraits.
The graphite in the Lumograph pencils is finely milled, offering less smudging than softer brands. This makes it easier for students to maintain clean sketches and control tonal transitions. The set typically includes grades from 6H to 8B, covering a broad spectrum of drawing needs.
Pros:
- Minimal smudging
- Crisp, clean lines
- Durable wood casing
Best for: Students focusing on precision and realism in their drawings.
3. Tombow Mono Professional Drawing Pencils
For students drawn to expressive sketching and rich tonal work, the Tombow Mono series offers a unique experience. These Japanese-made pencils are known for their velvety graphite and deep black tones, especially in the softer grades.
According to The Pencil Room Online, Tombow pencils excel in creating soft textures and dramatic shading. They’re ideal for students exploring gesture drawing, charcoal-like effects, or tonal studies.
Pros:
- Rich, dark values
- Smooth application
- Excellent for tonal range exploration
Best for: Students interested in expressive, tonal drawing styles.
4. Derwent Graphic Pencil Set
Derwent, a British brand with a long history in art materials, offers a solid entry-level set with the Graphic range. These pencils have a slightly grittier texture, which can be useful for students learning how to layer graphite and create texture.
The Derwent Graphic set typically includes 12 pencils from 6H to 9B, providing a well-rounded toolkit for beginners. While they may wear down faster than Faber-Castell or Staedtler, they are still a reliable and affordable option.
Pros:
- Good variety of grades
- Textured feel for shading practice
- Affordable price point
Best for: Students looking for a budget-friendly, all-purpose set.
5. General’s Semi-Hex Graphite Drawing Pencils
For students in the U.S., General’s Semi-Hex pencils offer a domestic alternative with surprisingly good performance. These pencils have a unique semi-hexagonal barrel that provides a comfortable grip, especially for younger artists.
Though the graphite is not as refined as in European brands, General’s pencils are great for practice and classroom settings. The sets usually include HB to 6B grades, suitable for most beginner projects.
Pros:
- Ergonomic grip
- Made in the USA
- Good for classroom use
Best for: Students in school art programs or casual learners.
How to Choose the Right Drawing Pencil Set
When selecting a pencil set, students should consider the following:
- Range of Grades: A good set should include at least 6–12 pencils covering H to B grades.
- Graphite Quality: Look for consistent, smooth graphite that doesn’t break easily.
- Casing Material: High-quality wood (like cedar) sharpens better and resists splintering.
- Smudge Resistance: Softer pencils smudge more; harder ones offer cleaner lines.
- Price vs. Longevity: Investing in a slightly higher-quality set can save money in the long run.
Ultimately, the “best” set is the one that matches the student’s drawing style, goals, and budget. It’s also worth noting that many professionals continue to use the same sets they started with—proof that a good beginner set can last well into an artist’s career.
Additional Tools to Complement Your Pencil Set
While pencils are the core of any drawing kit, students should also consider a few essential accessories:
- Kneaded Eraser: Ideal for lifting graphite without damaging paper.
- Blending Stumps: Help smooth out shading and gradients.
- Sharpener: A quality manual sharpener ensures clean tips and less breakage.
- Sketchbook: Choose acid-free paper with a slight tooth for best results.
Final Thoughts: Start Simple, Stay Curious
Starting out in drawing doesn’t require an expensive or complex setup. A well-chosen pencil set can open the door to countless hours of learning, experimenting, and creating. Whether you gravitate toward the precision of Staedtler, the richness of Tombow, or the versatility of Faber-Castell, the right tools will support your growth as an artist.
For more insights on pencil types and their applications, check out The Pencil Room Online’s beginner guide. And if you’re still unsure about pencil grades, this Quora discussion offers a detailed comparison of HB and 2B pencils in practice.
Remember: your pencil is not just a tool—it’s a bridge between imagination and expression. Choose wisely, and let your creativity take the lead.