Embrace the Versatility of Derwent Graphitint Pencils for Your Next Masterpiece

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Hej there! If you’re an artist who loves the tactile feel of traditional graphite but craves a touch of color, Derwent Graphitint pencils might just be your new favorite tool. These uniquely tinted graphite pencils combine the drama and depth of graphite with subtle hues, giving your drawings a vibrant and expressive edge.

Why Choose Derwent Graphitint Pencils?

For artists seeking to experiment with mixed media or add a fresh dimension to their graphite work, Derwent Graphitint pencils could be a true game changer. These pencils bring lovely, subtle shades that inspire creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just looking to expand your collection, these unique pencils are a lovely addition.

Blending graphite with color pigments, this unique formulation creates watercolour pencil pigments combined with graphite. Perfect for mixed media work, this range offers versatile options for artists.

Used dry, Graphitint pencils deliver a subtle hint of color. Add water, and the tint transforms into rich, shimmering shades while maintaining a distinctive graphite sheen.

Here are some key features that make them stand out:

• Subtle Tint: Each pencil offers a hint of color that can be layered and blended, providing an understated vibrancy to your artwork.
• Water-Soluble: When used dry, the pencils give a lovely soft color .  Add a bit of water, and the pigments come alive and blendable with a touch of water and , much like watercolor pencils.
• Unique Effects: The graphite component adds a unique Semi-transparent color, sheen and texture to your drawings, making them a one-of-a-kind.
• Neutral colors: I like the neutral colors in this set.  These take some practice because they look very different dry than wet.

Drawbacks to Consider

While Derwent Graphitint pencils have many benefits, they may not be for everyone. Here are a few potential downsides:

• Limited Color Palette: The color range is more muted compared to traditional colored pencils, which might not suit projects requiring vibrant and diverse colors. (but, they are a fantastic supplement to other pencils, making them a great addition to your artistic collection. )
• Erasing Challenges: Due to the graphite base, these pencils don’t erase as cleanly as regular graphite pencils. This could be a drawback for artists who prefer lots of editing and refining in their work.
• Water Activation: While the water-soluble feature is a plus, it also means that finished pieces can be accidentally reactivated by moisture, which could be challenging for preservation. (but you can use some fixative on top of it)
• Price Point: These pencils can be a bit pricier than standard graphite or colored pencils, which might be a consideration for artists on a budget.
• Colors: I wish there was a more yellow tinted. The 2 browns look very similar when you look at them dry but they are very different when wet.
• Dry Blending:  They do not blend at all when dry. Not a single budge with a blending stick no matter how many layers you put down.

• Learning curve They are a completely different medium than the graphite pencils and watercolor pencils.

How to Get the Best Results

Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, here are some tips to make the most of your Derwent Graphitint pencils:

1. Create a Color Chart: Before you start, make a swatch chart showcasing both the dry and wet effects of each pencil. This will help you plan your palette and understand how the colors will react to water.
2. Use the Right Paper: Graphitint pencils work wonderfully on textured papers like watercolor paper the surfaces grab the pigment well and handle water without buckling.
3. Experiment with Techniques: Try different techniques such as dry blending, wet washes, and layering to see how the pencils react. Don’t be afraid to mix them with other mediums like ink or watercolor.

Personal Experience: Capturing Faces in a Sketchbook

I recently used Derwent Graphitint pencils to draw portraits in my sketchbook. The subtle hues allowed me to emphasize delicate facial features, while the water-soluble aspect let me blend colors seamlessly for a more  expressive finish. Using a textured paper, I found the application smooth, and the colors vibrant when wet.

One of the standout experiences was drawing a series of faces with different expressions. The unique tints in the Graphitint pencils helped me add depth and emotion to each portrait, from soft blushes to shadowed contours.

One thing to note is that these pencils don’t erase completely, which might not be ideal for highly detailed work but adds to their charm and uniqueness. It encouraged me to be more deliberate with my strokes and embrace the natural flow of the drawing process.

Can be bought in sets of 12, 24

Conclusion

If you’re ready to try something new and and maybe take your graphite drawings to the next level, Derwent Graphitint pencils are worth a try. Whether you’re capturing landscapes, wildlife, or drawing faces, these pencils offer a versatile and dynamic way to bring your drawings to life. With their easy blending and unique color pay off, they’re bound to become a part of my sketch supplies.

However, it’s essential to be mindful of their limitations. If a limited color palette, erasing challenges, or price point are concerns, you might want to experiment with a few pencils first before committing to a full set.

Ready to give them a go? Let your creativity flow and see where these pencils take you next! You can get them on Amazon here: Derwent Graphitint pencils