Best Drawing Pencils Starter Kit for New Artists
The Derwent Graphic Drawing Pencists is the top pick for most beginners. It offers a full range of 12 graphite grades. The set includes a tin case, which keeps pencils organized. Its main limitation is that it lacks a wooden box, but the sturdy tin is sufficient.
Starting with drawing pencils can feel overwhelming. There are many sets, each with different graphite grades and extras. This roundup helps you choose a kit that fits your skill level and budget.
We focused on sets that include a variety of hardness grades, from hard H to soft B. Good kits also come with erasers, sharpeners, or a protective case. Each product below is a real Amazon listing with verified customer reviews.
Before you buy
Our top picks
Derwent Graphic Drawing Pencils, 12 Count
This set includes 12 graphite pencils ranging from 9B to 9H. The pencils are made from high-quality cedar wood. They sharpen easily and produce smooth lines. The tin case is sturdy and keeps pencils secure.
Pros
- Full range of hard and soft grades
- Smooth, consistent graphite
- Durable metal tin
Cons
- No included sharpener
- Tin can be bulky for small bags
Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Sketch Pencil Set
Faber-Castell is known for high-end art supplies. This set offers 12 graphite pencils with excellent break resistance. The wood is sustainably sourced. Each pencil has a matte finish that resists slipping.
Pros
- Premium quality graphite
- Break-resistant leads
- Sustainably sourced wood
Cons
- Lacks extreme H grades
- Cardboard box less durable
STAEDTLER Mars Lumograph Drawing Pencils
STAEDTLER is a trusted brand in drawing. This 12-piece set covers a wide range of grades. The leads are easy to erase and do not smudge easily. The pencils are made with high-quality wood.
Pros
- Smooth, erasable graphite
- Wide variety of grades
- Trusted brand
Cons
- No protective case
- Smaller range than some sets
Winsor & Newton Studio Collection Drawing Pencils
This set provides 12 pencils at an affordable price. It includes a range from 2H to 8B. The pencils are well-made for everyday sketching. The tin case is compact and practical.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Good graphite quality
- Comes in a tin
Cons
- Less consistent than premium brands
- Limited extreme grades
Amazon Basics Sketch and Drawing Pencil Set
This kit includes 17 pieces: 12 graphite pencils, 3 charcoal sticks, a sharpener, and an eraser. It is ideal for beginners who want variety. The pencils are decent for practice. The case is a cardboard box with a sleeve.
Pros
- Great value for a full set
- Includes charcoal and accessories
- Suitable for beginners
Cons
- Not professional grade
- Cardboard packaging less durable
Prismacolor Premier Graphite Drawing Pencils
Prismacolor offers a 12-piece set with a full spectrum from 9H to 9B. The pencils are known for their smooth, dark lines. The wood is high quality and sharpens well. The set comes in a sleek metal tin.
Pros
- Excellent range of hard and soft grades
- Rich, dark graphite
- Elegant metal tin
Cons
- Higher price point
- Pencils are thin and may break if dropped
Cretacolor Fine Art Graphite Pencils
This set includes 10 graphite pencils in a wooden box, plus a sharpener and eraser. The pencils are known for their high pigmentation. The wooden case is attractive and sturdy. The range covers 8B to 2H.
Pros
- Beautiful wooden case
- Includes sharpener and eraser
- High-quality graphite
Cons
- Fewer pencils than some sets
- Wooden box is heavier
Compared at a glance
| # | Model | Graphite grades | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Derwent Graphic Drawing Pencils, 12 Count | 9B to 9H (12 pencils) | Best overall for beginners | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Sketch Pencil Set | 2H to 8B (12 pencils) | Best for professional quality | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | STAEDTLER Mars Lumograph Drawing Pencils | 6B to 4H (12 pencils) | Best for detailed work | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | Winsor & Newton Studio Collection Drawing Pencils | 2H to 8B (12 pencils) | Best value for money | 8.7 | Check price |
| 5 | Amazon Basics Sketch and Drawing Pencil Set | 2H to 8B (12 pencils) | Best complete kit under budget | 8.4 | Check price |
| 6 | Prismacolor Premier Graphite Drawing Pencils | 9H to 9B (12 pencils) | Best for artists who want a full range | 8.9 | Check price |
| 7 | Cretacolor Fine Art Graphite Pencils | 8B to 2H (10 pencils) | Best for artists who want a complete set | 9.0 | Check price |
Good to know
What is the difference between H and B pencils?
H pencils have hard leads that produce light lines. B pencils have soft leads that create darker, thicker lines. The number before the letter indicates the degree: 2H is harder than H, and 2B is softer than B.
How many pencils do I need as a beginner?
A set of 12 pencils is ideal. It offers a range of grades without being overwhelming. You can experiment with different shades. Later, you can buy individual pencils to fill gaps.
Are expensive pencils worth it?
Higher-priced pencils often have better quality wood and lead. They may break less and produce smoother lines. However, for beginners, mid-priced sets offer good value. You can upgrade as your skills improve.
Can I use regular pencils for drawing?
Regular writing pencils are typically HB grade. They are fine for basic sketches. But drawing pencil sets offer a variety of grades for more control. For serious drawing practice, a dedicated set is recommended.
How do I sharpen drawing pencils?
Use a good quality sharpener designed for art pencils. Some artists prefer a craft knife for a longer point. Always sharpen over a trash bin. Be careful not to break the lead.
What paper should I use with drawing pencils?
Smooth paper is best for detailed work. Textured paper like watercolor paper works for rough sketches. For graphite, a medium tooth is fine. Many artists use sketchbooks with 80-100 lb paper.
How do I store my pencils to prevent breakage?
Keep them in a case or box. Avoid tossing them loose in a bag. A tin or wooden box protects them. If you carry them, use a pencil roll or case.
Can drawing pencils be erased completely?
Graphite can be erased easily if you use a quality eraser. Harder pencils leave lighter marks that erase well. Soft pencils may leave a faint shadow. Use a kneaded eraser for delicate corrections.
Our pick
For most beginners, the Derwent Graphic Drawing Pencils are the best choice. They offer a complete range of grades and excellent quality. If you need a budget option with extras, the Amazon Basics set is a smart pick. But for quality and durability, invest in Derwent or Faber-Castell.
