Charcoal & Graphite Supplies

Characteristics of Graphite

Graphite is smooth, precise and easy to control, which is why it’s a go-to for many artists.

• Erasability: Unlike charcoal, graphite can be erased cleanly, making it perfect for refining details.
• Hardness range: The harder the graphite, the lighter the stroke. Softer grades allow for deep shadows.
• Ideal for fine details: Great for line work, shading and controlled gradients.

  If you prefer a refined, polished look, Faber-Castell 9000 Art Set 12 and STAEDTLER Mars Lumograph Pencilsare excellent picks.

Characteristics of Charcoal

Charcoal is raw, bold and expressive. It’s the opposite of graphite in many ways—darker, smudgier and more intense.

• Blends effortlessly: Charcoal spreads easily for deep shading and dramatic effects.
• Messier but impactful: Unlike graphite, charcoal requires a fixative to prevent smudging.
• Perfect for expressive work: Great for gesture drawings, figure sketches and high-contrast artwork.

  For rich, dramatic sketches, try Derwent Charcoal Pencil Set of 6 for control or Conte A Paris Compressed Charcoal Sticksfor deep, velvety blacks.

When to Use Charcoal vs. Graphite

Still not sure which to choose? Here’s a simple guide:

• Use graphite for clean, detailed drawings, technical sketches or when precision is key.
• Use charcoal for bold, expressive work, dramatic shading or life drawing.
• Mix both for a dynamic effect—graphite for outlines and details charcoal for deep shadows and contrast.

  If you like having both options, the Derwent Shade and Tone Mixed Media Setincludes both in one convenient set.

Types of Charcoal and Graphite Drawing Tools

Graphite Pencils vs. Graphite Sticks

Graphite tools vary depending on your drawing style and technique.

• Graphite pencils: Standard and great for fine lines, details and controlled shading. STAEDTLER Mars Lumograph Pencils are a classic choice.
• Graphite sticks: Softer, bolder and better for large areas of shading. Derwent XL Graphite Tin 6 is great for expressive strokes.

  Graphite pencils are ideal for technical work and fine details, while graphite sticks are better for bold, energetic sketches. If you enjoy both, having a combination of the two can give you the most flexibility in your drawing process.

Charcoal Pencils vs. Compressed Charcoal vs. Vine Charcoal

Charcoal also comes in different forms, each with a unique feel.

• Charcoal pencils: Best for controlled lines with less mess. Try Faber-Castell Pitt Charcoal Pencils.
• Compressed charcoal: Rich, bold and deep. Great for dramatic shadows. General’s Compressed Charcoal Sets are a must-have.
• Vine charcoal: Lighter, super blendable and best for underdrawings. Winsor & Newton Willow Charcoal Packs are perfect for soft shading.

  Want to experiment with colour in your sketches? The Derwent Graphitint Pencil Tinsadd a subtle colour tint to traditional graphite.

Other Essential Tools

Some accessories can completely change how you work with charcoal and graphite.

• Blending stumps: Make shading effortless. STAEDTLER Blending Stump Set is perfect for smooth transitions.
• Kneaded erasers: Lift pigment without damaging the paper.
• Fixatives: Set charcoal so it doesn’t smudge over time.

  For a complete starter kit, the Raffine Life Drawing Setincludes all the essentials.

Techniques for Using Charcoal and Graphite

Shading and Blending Techniques

Shading adds depth and realism to your drawings. Here are a few go-to methods:

• Graphite shading: Use light strokes and build-up layers for smooth gradients.
• Charcoal shading: Apply in broad strokes and blend with fingers or stumps.
• Cross-hatching: Layer fine lines in different directions to create texture.

  For effortless blending, Faber-Castell Pitt Graphite Pencilsoffer a smooth, even finish.

Layering for Depth and Contrast

Layering creates dimension and contrast. Here’s how:

• Start light and gradually darken to create soft transitions.
• Use a combination of hard and soft graphite to build texture.
• For charcoal, start with vine charcoal, then layer compressed charcoal for rich blacks.

  The Derwent Graphitint Mixed Media Setis perfect for layered drawings with subtle colour.

Fixing and Preserving Charcoal & Graphite Art

Charcoal and graphite can smudge easily, so proper preservation is key.

• Spray with fixative to lock in details.
• Use a case like Derwent Graphitint Pencil Tins to keep work safe.
• Frame finished pieces under glass to protect them from dust and damage.

  For long-lasting artwork, Faber-Castell Goldfaber Sketch Setoffers durable, high-quality pencils.

Adding Highlights with an Eraser

One often-overlooked technique is using an eraser to create highlights.

• A kneaded eraser can lift graphite or charcoal to create soft highlights in hair, skin or reflections.
• A fine-tip eraser is great for precise highlights in eyes, water or metallic surfaces.
• Try erasing into a heavily shaded area to add contrast and dimension.

  Pairing a kneaded eraser with the Derwent Charcoal Pencil Set of 6allows for greater control over highlights and shadows in your work.

Combining Charcoal and Graphite in a Single Drawing

Mixing these two mediums can create incredible results.

• Use graphite for controlled outlines and detailed textures.
• Add charcoal for a bold contrast, deep shadows and atmospheric effects.
• Blend them together in background areas for a smooth transition between light and dark.

  The Derwent Shade and Tone Mixed Media Setis a perfect starting point for artists who want to combine both materials in their work.

Where to Buy Charcoal & Graphite Drawing Supplies in Australia

The right tools can transform your drawing experience. Whether you need precise graphite pencils, rich charcoal sticks or must-have accessories, you’ll find them all at Discount Art & Craft Warehouse.   Explore a wide range of charcoal and graphite drawing supplies and take your sketches to the next level. Shop now!