The Best Wooden Colored Pencils

Understanding Colored Pencil Types

Colored pencils are primarily categorized by their core composition: wax-based and oil-based. Wax-based pencils are the most common, offering vibrant colors and a waxy sheen when layered heavily. They are excellent for blending and achieving soft transitions. Oil-based pencils, while less common, provide a smoother laydown with less waxy buildup, making them ideal for detailed work and achieving sharp lines. Some artists prefer a hybrid or gel-based pencil for unique properties.

Pigment Quality and Lightfastness

The quality of the pigment directly affects the vibrancy and permanence of your artwork. Look for pencils with high pigment load, meaning a rich concentration of color. Lightfastness refers to a pigment's resistance to fading when exposed to light over time. Artists aiming for professional results or pieces intended for display should prioritize pencils with excellent lightfastness ratings, often indicated by numbers or stars on the pencil barrel or packaging.

Core Hardness and Blending Capabilities

Colored pencils come in varying degrees of hardness, typically ranging from soft (like 2B on a graphite scale) to hard (like 4H). Softer cores lay down more pigment and blend more easily, making them suitable for layering, burnishing, and achieving smooth gradients. Harder cores are better for fine details, sketching, and maintaining sharp points, but they require more pressure for intense color. Consider your preferred drawing style and the types of effects you wish to achieve when evaluating hardness.

Construction and Ergonomics

The casing of the colored pencil is typically wood, but the type of wood can affect sharpening ease and durability. Cedar is a popular choice for its strength and pleasant aroma. Consider the shape of the pencil barrel; hexagonal barrels prevent rolling, while round barrels might feel more comfortable for some artists. The quality of the glue holding the core to the wood also matters, preventing breakage during sharpening.

Comparison Tips

• Test Swatches: Before committing to a large set, consider purchasing smaller sets or individual pencils to test color vibrancy, blendability, and layering capabilities.
• Read Reviews: Look for reviews from experienced artists who discuss pigment quality, lightfastness, and how well the pencils perform for different techniques.
• Consider Your Medium: If you primarily work on smooth surfaces, softer pencils might be ideal. For textured papers, a mix of hardness might be beneficial.
• Sharpening Experience: Pay attention to how easily the pencils sharpen without breaking the core. A good quality wood casing contributes to a smooth sharpening process.