Comparing graphite pencils.

Graphite comes in many different forms for artists to enjoy. Simple light sketches to deep monochrome masterpieces can be achieved through simply knowing which graphite pencils are right for your artwork. Faber-Castell graphite pencils provide an unmatched graphite experience for artists with attention to high-quality included in every detail of their making. The popular Castell 9000 and Pitt Graphite collections are professional grade graphite pencils both with qualities that make them similar yet individually irreplaceable.

Castell 9000 Graphite Pencils

Castell 9000 Graphite Pencils carry the largest selection of graphite with 16 degrees of hardness to enjoy including: extra soft and very deep black (8B, 7B, 6B), extra soft and very black (5B), very soft and very black (4B, 3B), very soft and black (2B), soft and black (B), medium soft and medium black (HB, F), hard (H), harder (2H), very hard (3H), extra hard (4H), extra extra hard (5H), and particularly extra hard (6H).  Castell 9000 is also available in jumbo size with five degrees of lead hardness available including: 8B, 6B, 4B, 2B, and HB. Learn more about the graphite degrees of hardness, here.

The extensive range of graphite available to artists through this collection allow for exciting effects and contrasts in shade. Castell 9000 graphite pencils are a staple to every great artist collection; writing, technical drawing and precise work, quick drafts, sketches, and realistic portraits can all be achieved with these pencils. Launched by Count Alexander von Faber-Castell in 1905, these pencils have become a firm favorite with professional artists and illustrators. The Castell 9000 is one of Faber-Castell’s most popular and well-known Pillar product groups along with the: Pitt Artist Pen®, Polychromos® Color Pencil, and the Albrecht Dürer® Watercolor Pencil.

Pitt Graphite Pencils and Crayons

There is something to be admired about the soft dark qualities that purer forms of graphite exude. Purer forms of graphite allow artists to create dark ink-like drawings and artwork with tonal impressions and depth. We dedicated our Pitt Graphite Collection to highlight these qualities. Pitt Graphite is available in the form of pure pencils with four degrees of graphite hardness including: extra soft and very deep black (9B, 6B), very soft and very black (3B), and medium soft and medium black (HB) and graphite crayons available in four degrees of hardness: extra soft and very deep black (9B, 6B), very soft and very black (4B), and very soft and black (2B). Pitt Graphite Pure Pencils earn their “pure” name due to their design. Instead of being encased in wood like Castell 9000 Graphite Pencils, they are wrapped in a plastic sleeve to maintain the purity of the graphite while still protecting the hand of the artist. 

The Pitt Graphite range provides all creatives with an extensive range of pencils and crayons in different grades of hardness ideal for sketching, graphite design, shading, and large scale work. The graphite crayon is especially good for large sketches, large scale work, and frottage techniques thanks to their rich, intense graphite laydown. Utilize the tip, edges, and flat sides of the crayon to create additional line variants.  

It is important to understand the different qualities of our favorite graphite materials to achieve the best result for your art. No matter your genre of art, there is a perfect graphite collection for you. Shop the entire Castell 9000 and Pitt Graphite collection here and keep a look out for our NEW Pitt Graphite Matte pencils coming soon.