People have often asked me what kind of tools I use so I thought I’d answer some questions. I have used many products over the years. some good..some not so good. I’m continuously trying new materials so these may change over time. I do however encourage you to explore you own niche that works for you. Here is what works for me.
I. PENCILS
A. Wood-cased pencils: Derwent graphic pencils: There are many grades of pencil which can range from 9H (lightest) to 9B (darkest). Although there are many grades, I find most of them unnecessary. I use only 4 which include. 2H, HB, 3B and 6B.
- Staedtler® Mars Technico Lead Holder: Lately I've been using the Steadtler lead holders and they are really starting to grow on me. They're very ballanced and I may end up switching to Steadtlers in the future.
B. Mechanical Pencils: Staedtler 925 05: I started using this brand when I started drafting. They are really solid pencils and feel great. I'm not too pickly about my mechanical pencils but I do however recommend this brand. I use mechanical pencils for technical drawings, also great use for tight corners and small details.
II. ERASERS
C. Kneaded Eraser: This eraser can knead into any shape which is great for highlighting,cleaning,and for achieving many different effects.
D. Blue tak: Thanks to a Mike Sibley's discovery, blue tak can be used for lightening areas of graphite from the paper without ruining details previously lain down.
E. Plastic Eraser: I don't use plastic erasers that often but they're great for erasing large areas.
F. Eraser Stick: I use the paper mate eraser stick for erasing small areas and for getting rid of grid lines.
G. Tuff Stuff Eraser Stick: This is an erasing tool that has a fine tip in which I use for picking out highlights and creating other cool effects in my drawings.
III. BLENDING
H. Tortillions: Blending tool I use to blend the tightest corners.
I. Blending Stumps: I uses a variety of sizes for blending stumps. I also use many other materials such as Q-tips, Tissue paper etc. Its always good to experiment with different materials to explore the wide variety of textures that can be achieved.
IV. PAPER
J. Strathmore Bristol 300 series 100 IB. I use many papers in my work depending on the drawing, I find the Strathmore exceptional for many reasons. It has just the right amount of tooth..not too little and not too much. With this paper there are too sides, One with a smoother surface and one with a rougher surface so its very versatile. I also recommend papers such as…
- Fabriano Artistico Hot Press Watercolor Paper
- Arches Hot Press Watercolor Paper.
V. OTHER
K. Grid Ruler: Well, if you plan on being accurate with your drawings, you'll of coarse need a ruler. I like to use a see through grid ruler that so I can see underlines when I'm working.
L. Brush: Although the brush can be used to blend, I mainly use the brush for the sole purpose of cleaning off my paper to get rid of crumbs and other debree.
M. Electric Pencil Sharpener: For a speeder process you should get yourself a decent electric pencil sharpener. I hated having to constantly pick up pencil shavings around my work with the ordinary pencil sharpener. I was messy and sometimes caused undesired marks on my paper.
N. Drafting Dots: Want to keep your paper still without ruining the paper? Believe me, as a draftsman I've learned the hard way. Use drafting dots… they can be applied quick and easy. Other tapes will not do so well and may cause ripping of your paper or other un wanted markings that you probably don't want.
