Hey there, fellow art enthusiasts! It’s me, Dee, from ArtsyDee, and I’m thrilled to share my latest discoveries with you. With 17 years of experience as an art and graphics teacher under my belt, I’ve seen the evolution of drawing tools and know just how essential the right equipment is to an artist’s creative journey.
So, buckle up and join me as we dive into “Drawing Tools Unleashed: Top Picks for Every Artist in 2023,” a handpicked collection of the finest drawing tools that cater to artists of all skill levels and styles. Let’s rediscover our love for art and take our creations to new heights together!
**This page may contain affiliate links to products I have used or recommend. If you purchase something from this page, I may receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you.**
The Essential List of Drawing Tools
Drawing pencils: Alright, first things first, you’re going to need some trusty drawing pencils. Graphite pencils are great for sketching and shading, so be sure to have a range of them, from 2H to 6B, to cover all your bases.
Colored pencils: Now, if you’re looking to add a splash of color to your masterpieces, colored pencils are where it’s at! Grab a pack of your favorite shades and get ready to create some vibrant finished drawings.
Pencil sharpeners: You can’t have pencils without pencil sharpeners, am I right? It’s like PB without the J. Pick up a good ol’ manual pencil sharpener for quick touch-ups, or splurge on an electric pencil sharpener for that extra bit of convenience.
Drawing board: Keep things steady with a drawing board. You’ll thank me later when you’re working on that intricate piece and your hand doesn’t wobble like a bowl of Jell-O.
Sketchbook: A trusty sketchbook is like a diary for your drawings. Keep all your doodles, ideas, and masterpieces in one place – perfect for tracking your progress and impressing your friends!
Kneaded eraser: Your new best friend for fixing mistakes and adjusting your sketches. It’s like a magical putty that can be molded to erase even the tiniest details.
Blending tools: Smooth out your shading and make your work look pro with some blending tools. You can use blending stumps, tortillions, or even just a Q-tip.
Brush tip pen: Want to add some bold lines and depth to your drawings? Brush tip pens are perfect for inking and outlining your work. Plus, they’re super fun to use.
Watercolor pens: Ready to dabble in some watercolor action? Watercolor pens are a great way to get started, giving you the control of a pen with the flow of watercolors.
Drawing glove: Say goodbye to smudges! A drawing glove will keep your hands clean and your work smudge-free. Trust me, it’s a game changer.
Basic drawing tools: Don’t forget the basics! A ruler, compass, and protractor are always good to have around, especially when you’re working on something precise
Drawing Tools: Top Pens for Artists
If you are looking specifically for a good drawing pen these are my top recommendations:
- Copic Multiliner SP: This pen is a favorite among artists for its high-quality ink and durable tip. It comes in a range of sizes, from 0.03mm to 1.0mm, making it suitable for a variety of drawing styles. The pen is refillable and the nibs are replaceable, making it a great investment for artists who use pens frequently.
- Sakura Pigma Micron: These pens are known for their archival-quality ink, which is waterproof and fade-resistant. They come in a range of sizes, from 0.2mm to 0.8mm, and are great for detailed drawings and illustrations. The pens are also available in a variety of colors.
- Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pen: These pens are known for their high-quality ink and long-lasting tips. They come in a range of sizes, from superfine to brush, making them suitable for a variety of drawing styles. The pens are also available in a variety of colors.
- Uni Pin Fineliner: These pens are a great budget option for artists. They have a durable tip and come in a range of sizes, from 0.05mm to 0.8mm. The pens are also waterproof and fade-resistant.
Top Colored Pencils to Explore…
Here is a comprehensive list of the best colored pencils for artists and creatives in 2023:
- Faber-Castell Polychromos: These pencils are known for their high-quality pigments and lightfastness. They come in a range of 120 colors and have a thick, break-resistant lead. The pencils are also waterproof and smudge-proof.
- Prismacolor Premier: These pencils are a favorite among artists for their soft, smooth lead and vibrant colors. They come in a range of 150 colors and are great for blending and layering. The pencils are also waterproof and smudge-proof.
- Caran d’Ache Luminance: These pencils are known for their high-quality pigments and lightfastness. They come in a range of 76 colors and have a thick, break-resistant lead. The pencils are also waterproof and smudge-proof.
- Derwent Coloursoft: These pencils are a great option for artists who prefer a softer lead. They come in a range of 72 colors and are great for blending and layering. The pencils are also waterproof and smudge-proof.
Other Top Drawing Tools to explore…
I’ve compiled a list of my favorite drawing tools that cater to various other artistic needs.
Mr. Pen Geometry Set with 6 Inch Swing Arm Protractor
I highly recommend giving the Mr. Pen Geometry Set a try due to its comprehensive selection of drawing tools for all levels and its convenient storage pouch.
Pros
- Complete geometry set for various levels
- Compact, reusable pouch for easy storage
- Inch and centimeter measurements included
Cons
- Flimsy packaging
- Compasses may feel smaller than expected
- Some plastic pieces might be prone to scratches
I recently purchased the Mr. Pen Geometry Set with 6 Inch Swing Arm Protractor, and we’re thoroughly impressed with the assortment of drawing instruments. It has everything one needs for math classes and other drawing purposes, and the pricing is quite reasonable.
IPXEAD 11 Piece Geometric Drawing Template Set
This is a great investment for anyone looking to upgrade their drawing tools with a versatile and high-quality template set.
Pros
- High-quality materials
- Wide range of applications
- Generous 11-piece set
Cons
- Metric system only
- Some repeated hole sizes
- Thickness may feel a bit thin for some users
The wide range of applications for these templates, from art design to architecture, makes them an ideal choice for students and professionals. The generous 11-piece set provides a template for every occasion, making creating intricate patterns and designs easy.
Yoruii Multi-Function Drawing Tool Magcon
This versatile drawing tool is a must-have for designers, artists, and architects seeking convenience and precision in their work.
Pros
- High-quality, durable stainless steel construction
- Multifunctional: straight/curved ruler, compass, protractor
- Compact and portable design
Cons
- May not be suitable for larger drawings
- Magnets on arms could be stronger
- Learning curve required for optimal use
The Yoruii Multi-Function Drawing Tool Magcon is a handy and efficient tool for creatives in need of accurate, intricate designs. Ifound the stainless steel construction to be durable and wear-resistant, so it’s ensured to last through several projects.
Mogyann Drawing Pens
We recommend Mogyann Drawing Pens for a beautiful range of pen sizes and a waterproof ink that is perfect for various drawing projects.
Pros
- Wide variety of 12 size tips
- Premium, non-toxic ink
- Waterproof and quick-drying
Cons
- Smaller nibs may run out fast
- Not as deep and rich black as other brands
- Potentially less durable
The ink in these pens is of high quality – it doesn’t fade, is non-toxic, odorless, and ensures our work is preserved for a long time. The waterproof and quick-drying features were a bonus, as they expanded the range of scenarios in which I could use the pens.
N NOROCME Blending Stumps & Tortillions Set
A comprehensive and versatile set for artists looking to improve their charcoal and graphite drawing skills.
Pros
- Wide variety of sizes and tools
- Top-quality compressed paper
- Includes a sandpaper pencil sharpener
Cons
- May not work well for heavy-handed artists
- Durability could be better
- Not ideal for professional use
With 13 different tools in total, this set has an excellent range of sizes for blending and smoothing pastels, charcoal, and graphite artwork.
The sandpaper pencil sharpener included in the set is a handy bonus; it helps us maintain our charcoal, drawing pencils, stumps, and tortillions in great shape. This is especially useful for sketch drawings, where sharper tools are essential for achieving fine details.
YARKOR 10 Inches Artist Proportional Scale Divider
The YARKOR 10 Inches Artist Proportional Scale Divider is a valuable addition to any artist’s toolbox, offering accuracy and ease of use.
Pros
- High-quality, durable materials
- User-friendly and versatile tool
- Ideal for various drawing applications
Cons
- Can be accidentally adjusted if not handled cautiously
- Plastic construction may feel flimsy
- No clear instructions for additional accessories
This proportional scale divider is particularly helpful in working on small details and intricate designs, as it simplifies the process of replicating precise proportions. The divider is quite easy to use, and even without prior experience with such tools, we were able to incorporate it into our creative routines with minimal fuss.
KALOUR 76 Drawing Sketching Kit Set
The KALOUR 76 Drawing Sketching Kit is a versatile and comprehensive choice for artists of any skill level, perfect for exploring various drawing techniques.
Pros
- Wide range of pencil types and vivid colors
- Convenient extra art accessories included
- High-quality sketchbook and watercolor paper
Cons
- Sketchbooks are on the smaller side
- Might not be suitable for professional artists
- Could be overwhelming for complete beginners
After trying out the KALOUR 76 Drawing Sketching Kit Set, I was impressed by its variety of pencil types and vivid colors, which allowed us to create various styles of artwork. Colored pencils, graphite pencils and even charcoal pencils allow you multiple creative possibilities.
I also appreciated the extra art accessories included, such as blending stumps, a metal sharpener, a vinyl eraser, a pencil extender, sandpaper block, and an artist brush.
Angrox Geometric Drawings Templates Set
This versatile and comprehensive drawing tool set is perfect for artists, architects, and students alike.
Pros
- Wide variety of 11 templates and 4 measuring tools
- Clear plastic with easy-to-read markings
- Comes with a storage envelope
Cons
- Uses metric system only
- Plastic feels somewhat flimsy
- Aluminum could have been a better material choice
The Angrox Geometric Drawings Templates set includes a wide range of tools that will really cater to most of your drawing needs. From various geometric shapes to detailed measuring tools, I could work on multiple projects using just this single set.
LitEnergy A4 LED Light Tracing Box
We highly recommend the LitEnergy A4 LED Light Tracing Box for its slim design, adjustable brightness, and wide range of applications.
Pros
- Lightweight and ultra-thin
- Adjustable brightness with a touch switch
- Eyesight-protective design
Cons
- Sensitive light control
- Limited working area
- USB-powered only (adapter not included)
The LitEnergy A4 LED Light Tracing Box, has a slim design and a lightweight construction. With a thickness of only 0.2 inches, it’s easy to carry around and work with. The overall dimension is L14.2″ x W10.6″ x H0.2″, and the visual working area is 9″ x 12″, which is sufficient for most of our projects.
The adjustable brightness feature is fantastic, as it allows you to work with varying levels of light depending on your preference. You can simply keep pressing the touch switch until you achieve your desired brightness. The LED lamps are flicker-free and provide an even illustrated surface, which is a thoughtful eyesight-protective design.
Zonon Circle Drawing Maker
This adjustable circle drawing tool is a cost-effective alternative for artists and drafters looking for precise round measurements.
Pros
- Durable aluminum alloy material
- Easy to carry with compact size and flannelette bag
- Adjustable expansion design for versatile circle sizes
Cons
- Lacks rubber base for stability
- Can be tricky to adjust at times
- May scratch surfaces without extra protection
I discovered that the Zonon Circle Drawing Maker is a practical tool for drafting and creating circles of various sizes. Made from aluminum alloy, it is durable and long-lasting, giving you the confidence that it will remain a staple in your drawing toolkit. Its compact size, measuring about 4.92 inches in diameter, and the included flannelette bag made it effortlessly portable for on-the-go creativity.
The adjustable expansion design sets the Zonon Circle Drawing Maker apart. All I had to do was rotate the golden edges, which allowed me to create circles of different sizes based on our specific requirements. This feature proved invaluable in creating precise round measurements for my drafting projects.
However, we noticed that the tool lacked a rubber base for stability, making it a bit challenging to adjust without moving the entire device. A rubberized grip could have made a significant difference in providing friction for easier adjustments. Additionally, without added protection, the tool has the potential to scratch surfaces while in use.
In conclusion, the Zonon Circle Drawing Maker is a versatile and affordable option for artists seeking an adjustable circle drawing tool. While it could benefit from minor improvements like a rubber base, its durable material and adjustable design make it a valuable tool for various creative projects.
Amazon Basics Sketch and Drawing Art Pencil Kit – 17 Piece Set
This all-in-one drawing kit is perfect for beginners as well as experienced artists looking for essential tools to create and explore different sketching techniques.
Pros
- Comprehensive 17-piece set
- Suitable for various skill levels
- Affordable price
Cons
- Charcoal sticks can be fragile
- Limited number of pencil/charcoal types
- Eraser quality could be improved
As an artist, I found the Amazon Basics Sketch and Drawing Art Pencil Kit to be a versatile collection that caters to different artistic styles. The set includes everything you need to start sketching, from pencils to charcoal and other useful drawing tools. My experience using this kit was enjoyable, as it allowed me to experiment with various techniques and refine our skills.
In my time spent drawing with the Amazon Basics Art Pencil Kit, I was able to create intricate shading and blending and simply sketch and doodle my ideas.
I highly recommend the Amazon Basics Sketch and Drawing Art Pencil Kit – 17 Piece Set for those who need essential drawing tools in one package. This kit offers versatility, affordability, and convenience for artists at any skill level.
Amazon Basics Retractable Permanent Markers – Assorted Colors, 8 Count
These Amazon Basics Retractable Permanent Markers are reliable and budget-friendly, making them a solid choice for artists and hobbyists.
Pros
- Vibrant colors with rich pigment
- Works on various surfaces like paper, plastic, and metal
- Quick-drying, fade- and water-resistant ink
Cons
- Issues with retractable mechanism after a few uses
- Some colors may be duplicated in the assorted pack
- Build quality feels less sturdy than premium markers
I tried out the Amazon Basics Retractable Permanent Markers, and I found that the colors were incredibly vibrant, making my drawings and markings stand out on different surfaces like paper, plastic, and even metal. The quick-drying ink is also an asset, as it ensures our work is resistant to fading and water damage.
Amazon Basics Calligraphy Brush Pen, Black, 12 Pack
These pens are perfect for both beginners and experienced calligraphers seeking a budget-friendly option.
Pros
- Versatile use for writing, drawing, and more
- Blendable, water-based black ink
- 12-pack for an affordable price
Cons
- Tip may distort over time
- Not suitable for professional work
- Difficulty in producing fine lines
The Amazon Basics Calligraphy Brush Pens are an excellent choice for those looking to explore calligraphy or brush pen art. The pack includes 12 pens, which means you’ll have plenty to practice with or share with friends. The blendable, water-based black ink creates smooth and expressive strokes, making it a pleasure to work with.
Drawing Styles and Drawing Tools: A Guide for Artists and Creatives
Whether you’re a professional artist or just starting out, choosing the right drawing tools for your style can make all the difference. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.
That’s why we’ve put together this table of popular drawing styles and the tools that are commonly used for each.
I hope this table can serve as a helpful guide as you explore different drawing styles and find the tools that work best for you. So grab your favorite pencils, pens, and paints, and let’s get creative!
| Drawing Style | Drawing Tools |
|---|---|
| Realistic | Graphite pencils (varying hardness), blending tools (tortillons, blending stumps), kneaded eraser, white gel pen |
| Cartoon/Comic | Pens (fine liners, brush pens), markers, colored pencils, lightbox, Copic markers |
| Sketching | Graphite pencils (varying hardness), charcoal pencils, mechanical pencils, erasers, sketchbook |
| Watercolor | Watercolor pencils, watercolor paints, brushes (round, flat), watercolor paper, masking fluid |
| Ink | Dip pens, brush pens, ink washes, India ink, watercolor paper |
| Digital | Drawing tablet, stylus, digital art software (Photoshop, Procreate, Clip Studio Paint), digital pen |
| Landscape | Colored pencils, watercolor paints, oil pastels, charcoal pencils, sketchbook, blending tools |
| Portrait | Graphite pencils (varying hardness), charcoal pencils, blending tools, kneaded eraser, sketchbook |
| Still Life | Colored pencils, graphite pencils, charcoal pencils, pastels, sketchbook, blending tools |
| Mixed Media | Any combination of drawing tools (pencils, pens, markers, paints, pastels, etc.), mixed media paper, glue, scissors, collage materials |
| Calligraphy | Dip pens, brush pens, ink, calligraphy paper, lightbox |
| Pointillism | Fine-tipped pens, markers, colored pencils, dotting tools, sketchbook |
| Surrealism | Colored pencils, graphite pencils, charcoal pencils, ink, sketchbook, blending tools |
Conclusion
Well, my artsy friends, that wraps up our exciting journey through the world of drawing tools in 2023. From the most cutting-edge digital gadgets to the finest traditional art materials, we’ve explored an impressive array of top picks designed to fuel your passion and elevate your work. Remember, as an artist, your choice of tools is an extension of your creative voice.
So, don’t be afraid to experiment and find what truly resonates with you. Keep drawing, keep creating, and keep unleashing your artistic potential! Until next time, this is Dee from ArtsyDee, signing off and wishing you endless inspiration.
Happy creating!
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