Pencils – how to choose the right one?
It seems like there shouldn't be any big questions about such a basic and familiar invention as a pencil. However, there are so many different uses for them that sometimes you can get lost among the pencils. Let's take a look at how to choose the best ones for you.
What to look for when choosing pencils?
This is one of the most versatile stationery tools. You can use them to write, draw, color, and sketch. Both adults and children enjoy using pencils. So if you are choosing these tools, first of all, decide what you will do with them. Do you just want a tool for taking notes, or are you planning to color mandalas or create paintings?
Types of pencils
First of all, these are colored pencils and ordinary ones. The gray (ordinary) pencil is certainly familiar to everyone and is used for taking notes, drawing, and underlining text. The marks it leaves on paper can be removed with an eraser.
Simple pencils can be further divided into:
- carved ones that require a sharpener to sharpen;
- automatic pencils, which work similarly to ballpoint pens. That is, when the graphite runs out, you press a button and the lead lengthens. These pencils are convenient because you don't have to waste time sharpening them, they don't get dirty, but you have to keep buying refills.
Gray graphite pencils come in regular or artistic pencils. They are sold in sets containing pencils of different hardness.
Colored pencils are usually sold in sets of 4 to 48 colors. How many colors do you need? It depends on your needs. If you are buying pencils for a child who has no interest in drawing or coloring at all, but sometimes needs it at school, 4-10 colors will be enough. If you are looking for a set for someone who adores creativity - take as many colors and shades as possible.
Colored pencils can be standard or watercolor, which somewhat combines drawing with painting. When the lead of such a pencil is moistened, it can be poured like watercolor paint.
| Pencil type |
What is it intended for? |
| Simple gray pencil |
Write, draw, scribble, underline text |
| Graphite pencils of various softness/hardness |
For artistic drawing, sketching, hatching |
| Regular colored pencils |
For coloring, drawing |
| Watercolor colored pencils |
For coloring, drawing, painting |
Pencil softness/hardness
Have you noticed those letters and numbers on pencils? The standard and most popular is the medium-hard pencil, which is marked HB. However, you can also find other combinations: 2B, 2H, 6B, etc. What do they mean?
The letter B denotes soft pencils. The larger the number next to this letter, the softer the lead. A softer lead leaves a brighter mark on the paper and wears out faster.
The letter H denotes hardness. The higher it is, the less pronounced the line left by the pencil, and the lead lasts longer.
If you only need a pencil for occasional drawing, writing, or marking, choose HB without question. They are perfect for the office, school, and anywhere else. If you are going to start drawing or study drawing more seriously, you will need pencils of different hardness and/or softness.
Drawing thickness
It is described in millimeters and defines the thickness of the drawing that the pencil leaves on the paper.
Regular pencils often come with an eraser at the end. After all, a separate eraser often gets lost – so what can you do? Then it's very convenient to use an attached eraser.
In the Senukai.lt online store you will find offers from the following brands: Koh-l-Noor, Bic, Colorino, Erichkrause, Centrum, Faber Castell, Stabilo, jolly, Disco, Pelikan, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What pencils should you choose for professional drawing?
The better quality. If it's colored pencils, it's good to have as many colors as possible, and if it's gray graphite, it's good to have as many different softness/hardness as possible.
What pencils should I buy for my child for school?
It depends a lot on how much the child has a penchant for drawing or coloring. If he is drawn to artistic activities, buy as many colors as possible. A standard simple HB pencil is also always needed at school.