Starting a drawing or colouring project does not require every pencil and marker on the shelf. A small set of materials that suits your surface and technique is often easier to learn with than a large assortment chosen only by colour. Craftables stocks sketchbooks, graphite pencils, coloured pencils, watercolour pencils, brush markers and other creative materials. This guide explains what each is for and what to check before ordering.
Begin with the kind of mark you want to make
If you want to practise outlines and shading, ordinary graphite pencils and a sketchbook are a straightforward pairing. For layered colour without water, try coloured pencils. Watercolour pencils suit drawings where you want to add a water-based wash or blend after applying pigment. Brush markers work for flexible strokes, lettering and illustrations, but the paper must be suitable for the marker formula. You do not need to master all four at once.
Compare popular drawing materials
| Material | Useful for | Check before buying |
|---|---|---|
| Graphite pencils | Sketching, outlines, shading, value studies | Grade range, sharpening needs and paper texture |
| Coloured pencils | Dry colour layering, details and controlled blending | Colour selection, lead softness and surface |
| Watercolour pencils | Drawing that can be softened or blended with water | Paper's ability to handle moisture |
| Brush markers | Lettering, fluid strokes and graphic colour | Ink type, bleed-through, tip shape and surface |
| Sketchbooks | Practice, planning and keeping work together | Page size, paper weight, texture and binding |
Graphite pencils: learn pressure and values
Graphite grades can help you create lighter or darker marks. As a general convention, H grades are harder and often produce lighter lines, while B grades are softer and can make darker, broader shading. Actual results also depend on paper and pressure. Start with a few grades rather than changing tools every stroke. Try drawing the same simple object with a light outline, medium tone and darkest shadow to see how the values compare.
Browse art supplies to compare graphite pencil sets, sketching pencils and journals. Check individual listings for the included grades and number of pieces.
Coloured pencils versus watercolour pencils
Standard coloured pencils are useful when you want to build dry layers with controlled edges. Apply light pressure first and add layers until the colour reaches the strength you want. Watercolour pencils can create both pencil marks and painted-looking effects when used with a compatible brush and water. The pigment behaviour varies between products: test a few strokes on a spare page before wetting a finished drawing.
These approaches can be combined, but not all papers tolerate moisture equally well. A thin sheet may buckle when wet. For wet techniques, choose paper intended for the medium and follow the product's instructions for water use and drying time.
How to select a sketchbook
Paper weight, texture and binding can make a greater difference than cover design. Smaller journals are portable; larger sheets offer more room for gestures or illustrations. Smoother paper is convenient for fine lines, while a more textured surface can hold a different pencil mark. Decide whether you mainly want dry graphite practice, colour sketches or wet media. A sketchbook sold as a drawing journal is not automatically a watercolour pad.
Before buying, check the paper's stated weight, number of pages and dimensions. If you plan to tear out finished work, also consider the binding style.
Brush markers: test bleed-through and tip control
Brush-tip markers can create narrow lines or broader strokes depending on pressure and tip movement. Some are water-based and others use different ink formulas, so avoid assuming every marker will blend with the same technique. Test the marker on a sample of your intended paper to check for feathering, bleed-through and the dry colour. Placing a spare sheet beneath your work helps protect the pages below.
For practice, draw a sequence of thin upward strokes and wider downward strokes, then repeat with a consistent rhythm. The goal is control rather than speed.
What about fabric and pre-printed colour-in projects?
Fabric markers, paint sticks and textile paints may need different preparation, setting and washing care from paper markers. Always read the product directions and check that the colour medium is intended for the item's fabric or coating. A pre-printed colour-in bag, pencil case or canvas can be a useful way to practise filling shapes without sketching the whole design. For cotton textiles, compare the surface and care instructions before applying colour. The cotton versus felt guide explains the differences between common craft surfaces.
Choose a practical first kit
- For pencil drawing: a small graphite set, a compatible sketchbook, sharpener and eraser.
- For colourful illustrations: coloured pencils or a basic marker set and paper tested with that medium.
- For water-soluble effects: watercolour pencils, suitable paper and a brush.
- For group activities: check project age guidance, quantities, drying time and whether the surface needs special media.
For a guided project with coordinated supplies, consider craft kits. For broader DIY projects and decorations, see the Crafts collection.
Quick checks before checkout
Review the included piece count, dimensions, recommended surfaces, and cleaning or storage guidance. Check whether brushes, water containers, paper or additional tools are supplied or must be purchased separately. A useful starting set is one you can practise with consistently, not necessarily the one with the highest number of colours. Compare the actual listing details and choose materials matched to the result you want to make.
Related guides: beginner craft project ideas.
