Drawing is a form of artistic expression that has been practiced for centuries, and the materials used to create these works of art have evolved over time. There are nowadays so many supplies we can try and use. Most brands have a wide range of supplies and colors, each with unique characteristics and benefits, making us want to buy everything!
The truth is that a pencil and paper are all that you really need in the beginning! With time, you will want to try out different techniques and new materials. Begin first with a supply that appeals to you and then buy gradually as you feel the need.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most popular materials used for drawing, including pencils, pens, watercolors, markers, pastels/charcoals, and of course, digital drawing!
- Pencils
- Pens
- Watercolors
- Markers
- Pastels, Charcoals
- The importance of trying different supplies
Pencils
→ The graphite pencils are graded from hard (H) to soft (B). 9H is the hardest, 9B is the softest, and HB is in the middle. H pencils are good for clear and light lines, while B pencils are better for softer, tonal lines. 2B is the one that I use the most.
→ The mechanical pencils are amazing for precision work and are definitely between the materials I use for my drawings! I absolutely love the 0.3 or 0.5 tip size! It helps me a lot in drawing really detailed artwork. Besides, I prefer them to be thinner, so it does not show my mistakes a lot, and it is easy to erase. It’s perfect if you want to draw lines that will help you with your perspective or proportions. The only thing that can be annoying is that usually, you can find them only with HB or 2B.
It is either I leave my drawing this way (I love the look of the unfinished drawing!) or I continue adding lines and colors.
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Pens
A very large range of pen options is available, so much so that it can be overwhelming.
Technical pens, fountains, cartridge pens, roller-ball, ballpoint, fineliners, etc., come with a wide range of nibs and can be used for quick sketches and also detailed drawings. It is important when using pens to experiment in order to find what is or is not possible, what you like or do not like.
→ In my case, I use Artline 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3,….0.9. Or also Micron pens. I love them because they have a lot of different tip sizes. Besides, the color is consistent and dries really quickly without leaving marks.
Then, I add colors, which can be markers, watercolors, or colored pencils… Again, we have a lot of choices!!
→ Colored pencils are available in many different colors and forms; some of them are water-soluble, which means you can add some water to make it look like watercolor. Some colored pencils make definite lines, while others make softer lines and can be blended easily.
Watercolors
Watercolor is a highly versatile and popular medium due to its many benefits. Not only is it affordable and easy to transport, but it also allows artists to create a wide range of effects, from bold and opaque to delicate and translucent. Watercolor is also forgiving, allowing artists to easily make changes and corrections to their work. Its transparency and luminosity are unique qualities that give it a soft and dreamy aesthetic appeal that is difficult to achieve with other mediums. All of these factors make watercolor an excellent choice for artists of all skill levels who want to create beautiful and captivating drawings and illustrations. I use it for my architectural and landscape illustrations, and it always gives a magical look. It is an amazing hobby that calms your mind and makes you more relaxed.
Markers
Markers produce bright, vivid colors that can add a pop of life to any artwork. Additionally, they are great for blending, which makes them ideal for shading and highlighting. They come in a range of tip sizes, from ultra-fine to broad, so artists can create intricate, detailed designs or broad strokes with ease. Moreover, markers dry quickly, allowing artists to work quickly and layer colors without worrying about smudging. Finally, they are versatile and can be used on a variety of surfaces, from paper to canvas to wood. All in all, markers are a popular choice for artists who value precision, versatility, and vibrant colors.
Materials to use for drawing
Pastels, Charcoals
Pastels and charcoals can be used to create a wide range of effects, from soft and subtle to bold and dramatic, making them ideal for both detailed drawings and loose, expressive sketches. The excellent blending properties of pastels and charcoals allow artists to create smooth transitions between colors and shades, which is useful for creating realistic portraits and landscapes. Additionally, pastels and charcoals can be used to create a range of textures, from smooth and velvety to rough and gritty, adding depth and interest to the artwork. Lastly, these mediums are relatively easy to use and require minimal equipment to get started, making them accessible for artists of all levels.
The importance of trying different supplies
Experimenting with different art supplies is an important aspect of the artistic process that can yield numerous benefits. Firstly, by trying out a range of materials, you can identify which supplies best suit your particular style and techniques. This can help you to achieve the desired effects in your artwork, and can even save you time and money in the long run.
Moreover, exploring a variety of art supplies can also help to expand your creative horizons. Each medium has its own unique properties that can create unexpected and exciting results. For instance, using watercolors can lead to beautiful washes and blends, while markers can produce bold and striking lines. By trying out new materials, you can push your artistic boundaries and open up new avenues of expression.
Lastly, experimenting with different art supplies can help you improve your technical skills. Each medium requires different techniques to master, such as blending techniques for colored pencils or layering techniques for pastels. By trying out new materials, you can challenge yourself to learn and develop new skills that can enhance your overall artistic abilities. This can lead to greater confidence in your work and a more diverse range of techniques in your artistic toolbox.
Materials to use for drawing
So, here are the materials I use for my drawings. As I always say it, the best way to learn is to experiment!
Let me know what are your favorite drawings supplies!
If you still have time, check out my other blog posts or come say hi in Instagram!