Starting with the right tools makes all the difference. When I began drawing, I didn’t know which pencils to pick or what paper to use. I wasted time and money on drawing supplies that didn’t work out for me. But you don’t have to make the same mistakes.
In this guide, I’ve rounded up the best beginner-friendly drawing supplies to set you up for success. From pencils and paper to erasers and easels, I’ve covered it all. Each summary is packed with tips and recommendations to help you feel confident in your choices.
Ready to set yourself up with tools that work? Let’s get started.
1. Best Drawing Pencils for Beginners
Choosing the right pencil is more important than you might think. Graphite pencils are the backbone of most drawings, and understanding their grades is a game-changer for beginners.
This post explains the different grades of pencils, from hard (H) to soft (B), and how they impact your work. Hard pencils create fine, light lines, while soft pencils are great for shading and creating dark tones.
The guide recommends starting with a basic set that includes a range of grades like HB, 2B, and 4B. It explains why high-quality brands such as Staedtler and Derwent produce smoother results compared to cheaper options. For beginners, it’s all about balancing affordability and quality.
The guide also shares practical tips, such as how to keep pencils sharp and why softer pencils wear down faster. Whether you’re sketching light outlines or adding bold shadows, the right pencil makes everything easier and more enjoyable.
Read more about drawing pencils here…
2. Best Easel for Drawing
An easel isn’t just for painting—using one for drawing can improve your posture and perspective while reducing strain. This post breaks down the three main types of easels: table-top, A-frame, and H-frame. Each one has unique benefits, making it easier to find the right fit for your space and needs.
Table-top easels are compact and great for small spaces, while A-frames are lightweight and portable. H-frames, on the other hand, offer superior stability and are ideal for larger projects. Beginners often prefer table-top easels for their affordability and convenience.
The guide also explains how to adjust your easel to avoid hunching over and straining your neck or back. This practical advice helps make your drawing sessions more comfortable and productive.
Plus, there’s a list of beginner-friendly brands like Melissa & Doug and U.S. Art Supply to help you get started without breaking the bank.
3. Best Erasers for Drawing
Erasers are essential for drawing, but not all erasers are the same. This guide explains the differences between kneaded, vinyl, and gum erasers and how each one serves a unique purpose.
Kneaded erasers are soft and moldable, making them perfect for lifting graphite without smudging. Vinyl erasers, on the other hand, are ideal for precise corrections, while gum erasers work well for large areas but crumble easily.
The post highlights trusted brands like Prismacolor and Faber-Castell, which are known for their effectiveness and durability. It also includes tips on using erasers creatively, such as lifting highlights in shaded areas or creating texture in your drawings.
With clear guidance on when and how to use each type, this guide takes the guesswork out of choosing the right eraser. Whether you need fine details or bold corrections, having the right tools on hand will make a big difference.
Read about choosing erasers here…
4. Best Mechanical Drawing Pencils
Mechanical pencils are great for beginners because they don’t need sharpening and deliver consistent results. This post explains the key features to look for, such as lead size, grip comfort, and durability.
For most beginners, a 0.5mm or 0.7mm lead size is ideal for sketching and fine details. The guide also compares top brands like Pentel and Rotring, highlighting their reliability and ease of use. Some pencils even include built-in erasers, making them a convenient all-in-one tool for drawing.
The post offers tips on how to refill leads, choose lead hardness, and use mechanical pencils for various techniques. With these insights, you’ll feel confident about adding mechanical pencils to your drawing toolkit.
Read about mechanical pencils for drawing here…
5. Best Pastel Pencils
Pastel pencils are perfect for adding vibrant color to your drawings while maintaining precision and control. This post explains how pastel pencils work and why they’re a great option for beginners who want to experiment with color.
The guide highlights beginner-friendly brands like Stabilo CarbOthello and Caran d’Ache, which offer smooth application and rich pigments. It also includes tips on blending colors and creating soft gradients without smudging.
Practical advice on maintaining your pencils, such as using the right sharpener and keeping them clean, makes this guide especially useful. If you’re looking to add color to your work without committing to messy pastels, pastel pencils are a fantastic choice.
Read more about pastel pencils here…
6. Paper for Pencil Drawing
The paper you choose impacts the quality of your drawings just as much as your pencils. This guide breaks down the essentials: texture, weight, and tone.
Smooth paper, like Bristol board, is perfect for fine details and crisp lines, while textured paper, like Canson Mi-Teintes, is better for shading and blending.
Heavier paper, over 80 lb (120 gsm), resists tearing, handles erasing well, and supports layering. Acid-free options keep your work from yellowing over time. Toned paper, in gray or tan, lets you add highlights and shadows for dynamic results.
Sketchpads are ideal for portability, while loose sheets work best for larger or framed pieces. By choosing the right paper for your style, you’ll notice an immediate improvement in how your tools perform.
Read more about drawing paper here…
7. Best Type of Pencil with Watercolor
Water-soluble pencils are a versatile tool for blending drawing and painting. This guide covers two main types: watercolor pencils and water-soluble graphite.
Watercolor pencils, like Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer, are vibrant and easily activated with a damp brush for smooth washes. Derwent Inktense pencils offer bolder, ink-like results that remain bright after drying.
For subtle effects, water-soluble graphite pencils, like Staedtler Mars Lumograph Aqua, let you blend soft grays with a brush. The guide also stresses the importance of heavyweight paper to prevent warping and brushes with soft bristles for smooth application.
These tools allow beginners to experiment with mixed media and create layered, textured artwork with ease. Whether sketching or adding washes of color, water-soluble pencils bring flexibility to any project.
Read more about choosing the right pencils here…
Choosing the Right Drawing Supplies: Final Thoughts
Starting with the right drawing supplies saves you time, money, and frustration. With these beginner-friendly tips, you’ll feel confident choosing tools that suit your needs and style.
Save this guide for future reference and share it with anyone else starting their drawing adventure!
This is one of my drawings. If you’d like to see more, take a look here
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Hi, I’m Kevin Hayler
I’ve been selling my wildlife art and traveling the world for over 20 years, and if that sounds too good to be true, I’ve done it all without social media, art school, or galleries!
I can show you how to do it. You’ll find a wealth of info on my site, about selling art, drawing tips, lifestyle, reviews, travel, my portfolio, and more. Enjoy