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Graphite Pencils 

Supply list

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​I've compiled a list of graphite materials at Blick, www.dickblick.com, to make it easier for you to prepare for the course. To visit this list, please go to: http://www.dickblick.com/lists/blicku/0RFX4ALVDOD1B/publicview/

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In case you prefer to buy your supplies locally, find out about the different Plaza Art locations on https://www.plazaart.com/

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You may have already some of the materials, so check every item to see if you need it.

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MATERIAL LIST

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Graphite pencils:  9B, 7B, 5B, 3B, HB, and 2H

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  • Similar numbers will do too, for example 6B instead of 7B is OK. The idea is to have around 6 pencils in a variety of hardness, mostly B type (dark) and less H type (light)

  • I recommend Caran D’Ache Grafwood Pencils (Metal Box, Set of 6). They have 2 advantages:

    1. The outside color of the pencil matches the intensity of the lead, so it is very easy to identify the darkness without having to look at the code written on the pencil.

    2. They are a bit thicker than average, allowing for a longer tip (although that means they need a wider-than-average pencil sharpener)

  • The Grafwood pencils are expensive compared to a regular pencil. If you want to spend less, any good brand of pencils is OK

  • Graphite pencils have a characteristic metallic luster that is appealing. However, their darks are not as deep as if they were matt. If you prefer a matt, thus darker look, use Mars Lumograph black pencils.

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Sharpener

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  • For the Grafwood pencils, I recommend Dahle 155 Professional Pencil Sharpener.

  • If you want a less expensive option, a simple hand-held sharpener will work for most of the pencils. Just keep in mind that if you use an oversized pencil like Caran D’Ache Grafwood, you will need a sharpener that works with that size.

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Drawing pad sized 18 x 24 in

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  • I recommend Strathmore 400 Series Drawing Pad, 24 Sheets, but any other brand will do.

  • Optionally you could add a smaller pad for convenience (Strathmore 400 Series Drawing Pad, 11x14", 24 sheets) just for the exercises that don't require a large sheet, but you can also use a part of a large sheet for the small drawings.

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Drawing board for 18 x24 in. pad

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Erasers

  • I recommend having two types:

    • General’s Kneaded Eraser Jumbo

    • General's Factis Mechanical Eraser

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Blending stumps

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Artist Chamois

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Sandpaper Block

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Ruler 18"

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  • I recommend either a steel ruler like the Westcott Flexible Stainless-Steel Ruler or a transparent ruler.

  • The steel ruler is more durable, but the transparent ruler comes in handy to see through.

 

Optional

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