Having the right tools is necessary for any artist looking to create high-quality artwork. While there are countless tools available, there are ten essential drawing tools that every artist should possess. With these essential tools, artists can create beautiful, detailed, and unique works of art that impress and inspire others. Whether a beginner or an experienced artist, having the right tools is essential to creating your best work.
- Pencils for sketching and shading. Graphite and charcoal both work well. Colored pencils bring drawings to life with vibrant hues. Look for artist-grade with rich pigments.
- An eraser is also crucial. Soft erasers won’t damage paper and can remove marks. Kneaded erasers can be molded into shapes to erase details.
- Paper is the most fundamental element of a drawing and perhaps the least understood.
- A good-quality, acid-free spiral-bound sketchbook for sketching. Choose a weight that won’t bleed through with ink or watercolors.
- Fine-tipped drawing pens are used to create clean lines and intricate patterns.
- Charcoal to capture undulating edges and swift movements.
- Blending tools like tortillons and stumps to blend graphite or charcoal. Also used with pastels to create soft edges and layering.
- Rulers and dividers for straight lines and accurate proportions
- Brushes for applying fixatives and solvents for charcoal, graphite, and pastels on paper.
- And lastly, proper lighting is essential for seeing the details. Natural daylight or a studio flood lamp with adjustable settings work well.
Essential Drawing Tools: Who Doesn’t Love a Good Pencil?
The humble pencil is the first stop for artists who want to express their ideas on paper. Its accuracy and versatility are vital to fine art, realism, figure drawing, and sketching.
Types of pencils and their uses:
- Graphite pencils help sketch and outline. They come in different hardness levels and can be erased.
- Charcoal pencils give a dark black shade, which is ideal for shading drawings.
- Colored pencils: There is a wide selection of colors, perfect for detail and layering. They can also be mixed; some are water-soluble, enabling tinted washes.
- Mechanical pencils: precision and control for technical drawings or linework. Replaceable lead tips, no need to sharpen.
Plus, there are accessories to help you draw, such as kneaded erasers, sharpeners, and blending stumps.
Try different pencils and find the ones that suit you best.
Pro tip: keep your pencil sharpener clean by removing wood shavings or graphite residue. That way, it will sharpen smoothly each time.
An eraser can make mistakes vanish faster than you can say, “Abracadabra!”
Essential Drawing Tools: Erasers to the Rescue
Erasers are a must-have for any artist. They come in various shapes and sizes, with each type offering unique advantages. For instance, the fine tip of some erasers provides precision when correcting mistakes and making adjustments.
Specific erasers can smudge graphite or charcoal, quickly creating gradations and textures. High-quality erasers are also non-abrasive, ensuring minimal damage to paper surfaces. Electric erasers offer convenience for those who work in larger areas.
The concept of using an abrasive material to erase marks dates back centuries. Ancient Greeks and Romans utilized pumice stones, which have since evolved into modern rubber and polymer-based erasers.
It’s incredible how this simple tool has been pivotal in refining fine art over generations. Of course, paper is essential for any artwork; without it, you’d just be staring at a blank wall!
Essential Drawing Tools: Paper Where It All Begins
Size matters when creating art—larger sheets allow more creative freedom, and smaller sheets are better suited for quick sketches. Weight determines paper thickness and durability. Lightweight newsprint paper is best for practicing sketching, and heavier acid-free paper is for more permanent, detailed drawings.
Texture ranges from smooth to rough surfaces, and the color of the paper can add unique effects. White is popular, but tinted papers can enhance certain subjects.
The weight of paper is measured using several different methods, each with its own purpose and application. Here are the main ways paper weight is determined:
Pounds (lbs)
Paper weight is commonly measured in pounds (lbs) in the United States.[1] [2] This measurement is based on the weight of 500 sheets (one ream) of paper in its basic uncut size[3]. The basic size varies depending on the type of paper. For example:
- Watercolor paper has a basis size of 22″ x 30″
- Drawing paper has a basis size of 24″ x 36″
This can lead to confusion, as papers with the same pound weight but different basis sizes may not weigh the same.[3] For instance, 80 lb drawing paper and 80 lb watercolor paper will have different actual weights due to their different basis sizes.
Grams per Square Meter (GSM)
GSM, or grams per square meter, is a more straightforward and internationally used measurement.[2] [4] It indicates the weight of one square meter of the paper in grams. This method allows for easier comparison between paper types, regardless of their basis size.
For example:
- Lightweight paper: around 75 GSM
- Heavyweight card stock: 250-350 GSM
Points (pt)
Points are used to measure the thickness of paper rather than its weight.[1] [5] One point equals 1/1000th of an inch. This measurement is often used for card stock and other thicker papers. Standard point sizes include 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, & 18 points. The higher the point value, the thicker the paper.
Choosing the Right Paper Weight
When selecting paper for a project, consider its intended use:
- Lightweight papers (30-90 GSM) are often preferred for relief printmaking[4]
- Standard office paper is typically 20 lb bond or about 75 GSM[2]
- Heavier papers (200-300 GSM) are more robust and suitable for artwork with heavier media applications [4]
- Watercolor papers are usually 300-425 GSM for optimal performance with water-based media[4]
Understanding these different measurement systems can help you choose the most appropriate paper for your specific needs, whether for printing, drawing, painting, or other applications.
Experiment to discover your favorite type of paper. Keep notes to identify which types best suit your artistic vision.
Essential Drawing Tools: The Sketchbook: A Cornerstone of the Artistic Process
Sketchbooks offer endless possibilities for artists. Here are some attributes to consider when shopping for one or more:
Size: Depending on the artist’s needs, it can be tiny or large. Smaller notebooks are more accessible to carry and ready to draw at a moment’s notice. Larger sketchpads, say 10″ x 13″ and beyond, are more suitable for detailed landscapes, long pose figure studies, and half-length portraits.
Paper Quality: High-quality paper prevents ink from bleeding. The type of paper used depends on the medium. Always choose acid-free paper if you want your drawing to last without discoloring and eventually becoming brittle. Select a paper with sufficient “tooth” to hold the charcoal and pencil strokes without easily smudging.
Color: Carefully consider the paper’s color and surface texture. Do you want a warm white with a vellum (slightly rough) finish? Or a bright, cold white with a calendared (very smooth) surface? Visit your favorite art supply store to carefully inspect (and feel) the manufacturer’s paper sample books before selecting a sketchbook. A good art supply store often has a sample sketchbook to try before buying.
Binding: Spiral-bound sketchbooks allow for easy page flipping and lie flat when fully open. Journals and case-bound blank books will last a lifetime if treated with care. Depending on the circumstances, always have more than one type of sketchbook ready to draw.
Cover Material: Choose from cardboard, leather, fabric, and other less usual materials such as vinyl, wood, or metal. Personalize the cover with collaged clippings, fabric scraps, photos, and found objects.
Number of Pages: Some sketchbooks are perfect for quick studies, others for detailed projects. Take care to have enough pages to explore the subject thoroughly.
Innovative features: Some sketchbooks have built-in pockets for art supplies, others provide perforations for cleanly removing pages, and some are printed with a light grid that helps with drawing straight lines, especially useful for architectural sketches.
Sketchbooks are intimate spaces where personal creativity flourishes. Mark this space with your unique ideas and observations using drawing pens, brushes, and pencils, enabling you to imprint who you are on paper, much like an ex-lover leaves a permanent imprint on one’s heart. Your future self will thank you.
Essential Drawing Tools: Drawing Pens From Quills to Modern Technical Pens
In the past, drawing pens were often crafted from metal or quills, necessitating dipping into ink wells to remain functional. The advent of fountain pens revolutionized the process, introducing self-contained ink reservoirs that eliminated the need for frequent reinking. Subsequently, drawing pens were designed with a specific purpose: to cater to the needs of artists. Today, high-quality drawing pens are an essential tool for many creatives.
Drawing pens are essential tools for fine art. They provide precise lines and a smooth flow of ink. Different tip sizes allow for the experimentation of varying line thicknesses. Waterproof ink prevents smudging, and archival-quality pigment ink resists fading over time.
An ergonomic design reduces hand fatigue. Permanent marker pens work on paper, canvas, and non-porous materials like plastic and metal. Cartridge-filled technical drawing pens offer many line widths and control that is not easily achieved with other tools.
Want to elevate your artistic endeavors? Invest in a set of the best drawing pens you can afford and unlock a world of limitless possibilities!
Essential Drawing Tools: Charcoal
Crazy Charcoal! This ancient material sparks creativity and adds an exciting touch to your projects!
- Versatility—Charcoal can be sticks, pencils, or powder. Each form gives diverse results, allowing artists to create a broad range of textures and tones in their drawings.
- Boldness – Charcoal has high pigmentation and transfers easily onto paper. This is great for strong contrasts and adding depth to the artwork.
- Blending Capability – Charcoal blends easily with materials like pencils or pastels. Artists can make smooth changes between shades for realistic effects.
- Expressiveness – Charcoal enables artists to capture what they want with loose strokes. It’s perfect for capturing movement and emotions in figure drawings.
Charcoal for artists’ use is available in many forms, from very soft vine charcoal sticks to highly compressed bars. Powdered charcoal dust is available in jars and, when applied with a chamois, can make a delicate grayscale gradation for depicting clouds, skies, skin, or flowing water.
Essential Drawing Tools: Blending Stumps
Blending Stumps are an excellent tool for artists. They are perfect for mixing tones and colors while allowing for a softer, smoother look. To get the most out of them, keeping them clean and sharp is important. Regularly trimming the tip will help maintain precision when blending.
Multiple stumps with varying levels of hardness are also recommended. The pointy tip of these stumps can add texture and detail to an artwork and blend and smudge.
Blending stumps is a must-have in any artist’s arsenal! They can bring depth to your drawings and make transitions between shades seamless. Blending stumps help artists smudge their mistakes—one blended disaster at a time!
Essential Drawing Tools: Ruler
Having the right tools is non-negotiable in drawing art and creating realism. A good ruler is helpful for figure drawing and sketching. It makes a world of difference in creating precise lines and measurements. Let’s take a look at its features and benefits!
- Accuracy: Helps artists achieve exact measurements and proportions in their drawings.
- Versatility: Can be used for straight lines, angles, and parallel lines.
- Durability: Sturdy materials for long-lasting use.
Rulers come in various shapes and sizes to suit different artistic needs. Some even have extra features like measurements in cm or inches. Some are flexible or curved to help plot rolling surfaces.
Once, I was working on a portrait drawing that required precise facial proportions. My ruler was essential —its straight edge and accurate markings made plotting the location of the model’s features much more accurate.
For an artist, having a ruler is not just important—it’s essential. So, whether you’re starting out or experienced, don’t forget this humble but powerful tool. Invest in the tools that will bring your artwork to life.
Essential Drawing Tools: Brushes
For the drawing artist, brushes can blend graphite and charcoal and spread delicate washes on paper using a solvent such as alcohol or odorless mineral spirits. They can also be used with watercolors, water-based markers, gouache, inks, and transparent dyes, bringing color to otherwise black-and-white drawings.
Round Brushes—Their pointed tips are great for fine lines and textures, and they can also do broader strokes.
Flat Brushes—A flat brush covers large areas, broad strokes, and leaves crisp edges.
Fan Brushes—Bristles spread out like a fan. Excellent for blending and subtle textures.
Filbert Brushes—Rounded edge and flat ferrule give extra control. Perfect for blending colors and soft edges.
Detail Brushes—Small, fine, and extrafine (0, 00, & 000) for intricate details and precise work. Highlights, patterns, texture —the possibilities are endless!
Plus, there are many specialized brushes, such as mops, liners, rigger brushes, and more. Choose wisely—bristle type, size, handle length, etc. Experimenting with different brush types can create a unique style.
Art like “Mona Lisa” or “Starry Night” wouldn’t exist without brushes! Brushes have long been an integral part of art, dating back thousands of years. Brushes have fascinatedly evolved from humble sticks with animal hairs to sophisticated tools.
Artists have experimented with different brush types and sizes to achieve various effects. The brushstroke itself can express emotions, textures, and styles. Today, artists continue to explore new boundaries with specialized brushes and creative techniques.
So grab your drawing tools and let your inner artist run wild! If all else fails, draw a stick figure and call it modern art.
Essential Drawing Tools: Proper Studio Lighting
The importance of proper lighting in an artist’s workspace cannot be overstated. A well-lit environment is crucial for creating a successful drawing, whether working under natural daylight or artificial illumination.
When it comes to natural daylight, an artist’s space should be set up to maximize the benefits of the available light. This can be achieved by positioning the drawing board near a window or using skylights to bring in the natural light. The direction and intensity of the light can also be manipulated using movable louvers or blinds to create a desired effect.
On the other hand, artificial illumination can be achieved through various sources, including overhead, task, and ambient lighting. For example, a desk lamp can provide focused lighting for a specific area, while a floor lamp can create a more general illumination. Additionally, some studios use specialized lighting equipment, such as lamps specifically designed for art, to control the light and shadows.
Control over the light and shadows is crucial for achieving the desired effect in both cases. An artist must be able to manipulate the light to create contrast, depth, and texture, which is only possible with a well-planned and executed lighting scheme. Light has the power to alter the way we perceive an image, making it more or less convincing and evocative of emotion.
To further enhance the drawing experience, some artists opt for a combination of natural and artificial lighting, capitalizing on the benefits of each. For instance, a north-facing window can provide soft, indirect light, while a desk lamp can add highlights and create depth. Other artists might prefer a completely artificial setup, utilizing light sources specifically designed to mimic natural light, such as LED panels that mimic the warm glow of natural sunlight.
Proper lighting is crucial, and a well-planned lighting scheme can make all the difference in creating a successful piece. Whether working under natural daylight or artificial illumination, an artist must have control over the light and shadows to produce a high-quality work that exudes professionalism and artistry.
Drawing is Both an Art and a Skill
To bring creations to life, you need the right tools. Here are ten essential drawing tools every artist should have. They range from pencils and erasers to sketchbooks and reference materials. They’re critical for fine art, realism, figure drawing, and sketching.
It is important to use high-quality tools that fit your style, preferences, and budget. Mechanical pencils offer precision, and charcoal sticks are very versatile. Each tool, with its specific attributes, helps you achieve the desired effects. Investing in these tools can enhance the creative process, but it is by no means demanded.
Figure drawing is crucial. Various figure references can help capture the human form accurately. These references provide anatomical insights and help develop observational skills and an understanding of movement.
We’ve discussed digital resources such as tablets and styluses for digital sketching and painting. Technology has opened up new mediums without sacrificing traditional drawing’s tactile experience.
Don’t underestimate the power of these essential drawing tools. Investing in them will elevate your artwork, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist. Take your artistry to new heights – start building your collection today!
FAQs
What are the essential drawing tools for fine art?
Fine art requires various essential drawing tools, such as high-quality graphite pencils, erasers, sketchbooks, drawing boards, and blending tools.
Why is realism important in drawing?
Realism in drawing aims to depict subjects with accuracy and precision. It helps artists better understand forms, proportions, and light, enhancing their artistic skills.
Can figure drawing tools differ from other drawing tools?
Figure drawing tools may include additional items like anatomical models, proportional dividers, and different types of charcoal to effectively capture the human form and its intricate details.
What should I look for in sketching tools?
Look for sketching tools that offer a variety of line weights, such as mechanical pencils with different lead sizes, fine-tip pens, various forms of charcoal and graphite of multiple hardness, and marker sets with transparent inks. These tools allow you to quickly capture ideas, explore compositions, and add details to your sketches.
Are there any specific tools for creating realistic textures?
Artists can use tools like textured drawing papers, blending stumps, tortillons, or even unconventional materials like sponges and toothbrushes to spatter ink and create improvised textures in their drawings. Rubbing graphite on lightweight paper over rough or embossed surfaces is another way to impart random texture to a drawing.
Is it necessary to invest in expensive drawing tools?
While high-quality tools can enhance the drawing experience, excellent artwork can still be created with affordable options. Like in the kitchen, success in drawing is about understanding how to make the most of what you have on hand rather than relying solely on the most costly ingredients.
