Bulk Drawing Pencils for Artists and Classrooms
For most artists and classrooms, the Palomino Blackwing 24 Count box offers the best balance of smoothness, durability, and value, though its soft core may require frequent sharpening. If you need a range of hardness grades, the Staedtler Mars Lumograph 12 Pack is a top choice, but it comes at a higher per-pencil cost.
Buying drawing pencils in bulk is a smart move for artists, teachers, and hobbyists who go through pencils quickly. A good bulk pack saves money and ensures you have a consistent supply for sketching, shading, and detailed work.
But not all bulk packs are equal. Some offer a range of hardness grades, others focus on a single softness, and some are better for students than professionals. We compared the most popular options on Amazon to help you choose the right one for your needs.
How to pick the right one
What we recommend
Palomino Blackwing 24 Count Box
The Palomino Blackwing is a legendary pencil favored by animators and illustrators. Its extra-smooth, soft graphite lays down rich, dark lines that are perfect for shading and expressive sketches. The iconic flat shape and erasable finish add to its appeal. Each pencil comes with a replaceable eraser, and the 24-count box is a great value for serious artists.
Pros
- Exceptionally smooth and dark graphite
- Elegant design with functional eraser
- Ideal for shading and expressive line work
Cons
- Single grade only, no variety
- Soft core may break if sharpened aggressively
Staedtler Mars Lumograph 12 Pack
Staedtler Mars Lumograph pencils are known for their high-quality, break-resistant leads. This 12-pack includes a mixed set of grades, typically from 6B to 4H, allowing you to achieve fine details and broad shading. The wood is easy to sharpen, and the pencils are made from sustainably sourced cedar. Ideal for drawing, sketching, and even technical drafting.
Pros
- Wide range of hardness for varied techniques
- Break-resistant leads reduce waste
- Consistent quality across all grades
Cons
- Higher per-pencil cost than some bulk packs
- Some users find the coating slippery when sharpening
Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Pencil Set (12 or 24)
Faber-Castell 9000 pencils are a staple in many art studios. They offer a perfect balance between hardness and darkness, making them great for precise shading and building up tones. The 24-count box provides a wide selection of grades (from 8B to 6H) at a reasonable per-pencil price. The hexagonal shape prevents rolling off your desk.
Pros
- Excellent for smooth, even shading
- Wide range of grades available
- Durable leads that resist breaking
Cons
- Some users report inconsistent darkness between batches
- Eraser not included on all models
Prismacolor Turquoise Drawing Pencils (12 Pack)
Prismacolor Turquoise pencils offer a smooth, blendable graphite at a budget-friendly price. The 12-pack typically includes a range of popular grades like 2H, HB, B, 2B, 4B, and 6B. They sharpen well and hold a point, making them suitable for both detailed line work and soft shading. A solid choice for students and hobbyists.
Pros
- Affordable for the quality
- Smooth laydown without scratchiness
- Color-coded ends for easy identification
Cons
- Not as durable as premium brands
- Limited grade selection compared to larger sets
General’s Cedar Pointe Drawing Pencils (12 Pack)
General’s Cedar Pointe pencils are made in the USA with a soft, dark core that is great for bold sketching and portraiture. The cedar wood is sharpened easily to a fine point. This 12-pack usually includes multiple grades like 2B, 4B, and 6B, offering flexibility. They are often praised for their rich, velvety lines.
Pros
- Very soft and dark for dramatic shading
- Made in the USA with quality materials
- Good for large-scale drawings
Cons
- Not ideal for fine details due to softness
- Requires frequent sharpening
Cretacolor Fine Art Graphite Pencils (24 Pack)
Cretacolor’s Fine Art Graphite line is designed for artists who demand precision and performance. The 24-pack contains a full spectrum of hardnesses from 9B to 9H, allowing for detailed technical work and bold artistic expressions. The leads are highly pigmented, producing deep blacks and clean, light grays. The hexagonal barrel is comfortable to hold.
Pros
- Extensive range of grades for any project
- Smooth and consistent application
- Professional quality at a competitive price
Cons
- Some users find the paint coating chips easily
- Not as widely available as other brands
Amazon Basics Sketch and Drawing Pencil Set (16 Pack)
This Amazon Basics set offers a comprehensive introduction to drawing pencils without breaking the bank. It includes 16 pencils with a range of grades, along with accessories like a sharpener and eraser. While not as high-end as artist-grade pencils, it is perfect for students, casual doodlers, and those just starting to explore graphite drawing.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Comes with accessories
- Good for practice and classroom use
Cons
- Leads may be less consistent
- Not suitable for professional work
How they stack up
| # | Model | Grade | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Palomino Blackwing 24 Count Box | Soft (equivalent to 2B) | Artists who want a premium sketching pencil with a smooth, dark core | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Staedtler Mars Lumograph 12 Pack | 6B to 4H (12 different grades) | Artists and students needing a full range of hardness grades | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Pencil Set (12 or 24) | 8B to 6H (24 pencils in standard set) | Artists who prefer a reliable, classic graphite pencil with excellent layering | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | Prismacolor Turquoise Drawing Pencils (12 Pack) | Various, often includes 2H to 6B | Artists who want a balance of quality and affordability | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | General’s Cedar Pointe Drawing Pencils (12 Pack) | Often 2B, 4B, 6B (12 pencils) | Artists who prefer a softer, darker line for expressive drawing | 8.6 | Check price |
| 6 | Cretacolor Fine Art Graphite Pencils (24 Pack) | 9B to 9H (24 pencils) | Artists who want a professional-grade pencil with a wide tonal range | 8.4 | Check price |
| 7 | Amazon Basics Sketch and Drawing Pencil Set (16 Pack) | Varied, typically includes HB, 2B, 4B, 6B | Beginners and classrooms on a budget | 8.0 | Check price |
Frequently asked questions
What is the best bulk pack for professional artists?
For professionals, the Staedtler Mars Lumograph 12 Pack or the Faber-Castell 9000 24 Pack are excellent choices. They offer a wide range of grades and consistent quality that meets professional standards.
Are single-grade packs better than mixed packs?
It depends on your work. If you always use the same hardness, a single-grade pack like the Palomino Blackwing (soft) might be ideal. If you need variety, a mixed pack is more convenient and cost-effective.
How many pencils do I need for a classroom?
For a classroom, a bulk pack of 24 or more is recommended. Budget-friendly options like the Amazon Basics 16 Pack or the Prismacolor Turquoise 12 Pack (buy multiple) are good for students.
What is the difference between H and B pencils?
H pencils have hard leads that produce light, precise lines. B pencils have soft leads that produce dark, thick lines. HB is in the middle. Your choice depends on whether you need fine detail or bold shading.
Do these pencils come with erasers?
Some packs come with erasers, like the Palomino Blackwing which has a replaceable eraser on each pencil. Others, like Staedtler Mars Lumograph, do not include erasers, so you may need a separate eraser.
Can I use these pencils for technical drawing?
Yes, pencils like the Staedtler Mars Lumograph and Faber-Castell 9000 have a range of hard grades (H) suitable for technical and architectural drawing. Look for sets that include H or 2H grades.
Are expensive pencils worth the price?
Expensive pencils often have higher quality graphite that is smoother, more consistent, and less prone to breaking. If you are a serious artist, the investment can improve your work. For casual use, budget options are sufficient.
What is the best way to store bulk pencils?
Keep pencils in a cool, dry place to prevent the wood from warping. Use a pencil case or box to avoid breaking the leads. Some bulk packs come in sturdy boxes that are suitable for storage.
Our pick
If you are a professional or serious hobbyist, the Staedtler Mars Lumograph 12 Pack is the best choice because of its exceptional lead quality and range of grades. For those who prioritize a smooth, dark sketching experience, the Palomino Blackwing 24 Count is worth the splurge. Budget-minded users will find the Prismacolor Turquoise 12 Pack a reliable and affordable option.
