Pencils are probably the second drawing medium we are introduced to as children (crayons being the first) and by many are thought of as “kids’ stuff”. But no!

Pencils are responsive, sensitive coloured (even grey-scaled) vessels that are extremely versatile and are worth far more respect than they currently command.

To obtain the best results one must use quality materials. Pencils are no different and the same must be said for the surface one works on.

I work exclusively with Berol “Prismacolour” and Faber Castell “Polychromos” coloured pencils. Their colours are rich, soft and respond well when used on heavy, acid-free papers and (Canson) pastel board. I prefer a coloured background, especially earthy browns and deeper greys. Stronger colours make the pencil shades “stand up”.
The beauty of working with two types of coloured pencils is in the huge palette that one is presented with. I am particularly impressed with the French Greys and ochre colours in the Berol range and the warm greys of the Faber Castell range.

Working on Canson pastel board is just the best! The board is Canson paper glued to mountboard and it’s acid-free, which makes for a strong, but responsive surface to work on. It is very forgiving especially when one makes a mistake and has to employ an eraser.

You can apply the pencils in a cross-hatch manner or by laying down single strokes. It sounds very time-consuming and in some cases it is, but it’s a rewarding way of working with, and showing respect for the medium.

I always commence my drawings by working out my palette through test strips and laying out my pencils in a manner to an operation! I draw up my work with (usually) a light warm grey pencil, which is just visible and easy to “paint” over or erase.

Always tape your work to a board and work “away” from your drawing to avoid smudging (which on pastel board is minimal).

If you haven’t experienced painting with pencils why not try it sometime!