Materials & Tools
8 guides
How to Sharpen a Pencil for Drawing (Long Point vs Short Point)
Learn how to sharpen a pencil for drawing, when to use a long point vs short point, and how to safely sharpen with a knife for better marks.
July 3, 2026
Blending Stumps and Tortillons: What They Are and How to Use Them
Learn the difference between a blending stump and a tortillon, how to use each one, and which blending tool suits your drawing style.
June 26, 2026
The Best Drawing Supplies for Beginners (What You Actually Need)
New to drawing? This guide covers exactly what drawing supplies for beginners are worth buying — and what you can skip until later.
June 24, 2026
How to Choose Your First Sketchbook
Learn how to choose a sketchbook for beginners: paper weight, size, binding type, and texture explained so you can buy with confidence.
June 22, 2026
Erasers for Drawing: Kneaded, Vinyl, and How to Use Each
Discover the best erasers for drawing—kneaded, vinyl, gum, and more—plus how to use each one to erase cleanly or lift highlights like a pro.
June 17, 2026
The Best Paper for Pencil Drawing and Sketching
Not all paper is equal for pencil work. Learn what weight, texture, and surface type to look for so your graphite glides exactly how you want it.
June 13, 2026
Graphite vs Charcoal: Which Should a Beginner Use?
Graphite vs charcoal: learn the real differences in handling, smudging, and detail so you can pick the right drawing medium from day one.
June 9, 2026
Pencil Grades Explained: What H, B, and HB Mean
Pencil grades explained: H means hard and light, B means soft and dark, HB sits in the middle. Learn the full scale and which grades you actually need.
June 5, 2026