If the letters and numbers on the side of your new graphite drawing pencil have you confused, you’re not alone.
At first glance, they do look random and meaningless. Just like trying to read a passage of Mandarin Chinese without ever taken a class.
In fact, they are like a sort of language. A code, if you will.
Allow me to crack it for you.
The letters and numbers are part of a scale that goes from the sharpest, lightest pencils to the softest, darkest ones.
H’s are sharper than B’s and B’s are softer than H’s. Your regular HB pencil is right smack in the middle.
What about the numbers beside the H’s and B’s?
They play a part to, by telling you how dark/light your pencil is. For example, a 5H pencil is going to be lighter than a 2H pencil and a 6B pencil will be much darker than a B.
Pros and Cons
Both pencil types are just as “good”, though there are definitely some drawbacks to both.
Pros of H pencils…
- H pencils are a better choice if you are coloring in something light.
- You have to sharpen them less often. Which is super important for artists on the go!
Cons of H pencils…
- Sometimes it is harder to shade with H pencils.
- Because they are so sharp, it is easy to scratch the paper.
Pros of B pencils…
- B pencils are a better choice if you are coloring in something dark.
- Easier, more efficient shading.
Cons of B pencils…
- You have to sharpen them more often.
- When using a lot of B pencils on the same page, you may get some on your hands. Trust me, I know. It ain’t pretty.
I recommend using both H and B pencils, as this makes for great contrast and shading. Also, it will “balance out” some of the cons.
Standards may vary
Keep in mind that every pencil company is different. A pencil that is considered “3B” by one may be “4B” by another. Some companies get even more complicated by adding F’s and X’s to their scale.
Picking favorites
I rarely use more than four or five pencils in the same drawing because 1) I don’t really need much more than that at a time and 2) that way they are easier to carry.
I’ve developed a set of “favorite” pencils that I use for most drawings.
They are…
- 2H
- B
- HB
- 3B
I encourage you to work with your style and find your own.
Let’s Talk! What are your favorite drawing pencils? Let me know in the comments section. I love hearing from you.
Related: How Many Heads
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