The Materials I use in my Tutorials

If you’ve ever wondered exactly which pencils, paper, and tools I use in my tutorials, this page has everything in one place.

I keep my supplies simple, just high-quality materials that make drawing easier, help you build clean layers, and allow you to get smooth, realistic results without frustration.

Below, you’ll find all my go-to tools for coloured pencil, watercolour pencil and graphite drawings, along with Amazon links if you’d like to try them yourself.

Note: As an Amazon associate I make a small commission on purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support :)

Faber-Castell Polychromos Coloured Pencils

These are my favourite pencils for adding fine detail. Polychromos are oil-based, meaning they stay sharp for longer, glide smoothly, and allow you to build beautiful layers easily.

I use these in most of my coloured pencil tutorials. They’re perfect for realistic textures such as fur and leaves.

Amazon link: https://amzn.to/2KVIoa4

Prismacolor Premier Coloured Pencils

Prismacolor pencils are much softer, which makes them wonderful for smooth blends and rich colour transitions.

If you struggle with patchy colour or harsh lines, Prismacolor can make blending much easier. I often switch between Polychromos and Prismacolor depending on the project.

Amazon link: https://amzn.to/3hD8v1q

Paper: Strathmore Bristol Board Smooth

This is the paper I use for almost every coloured pencil drawing.

As coloured pencil drawings rely on light layers, it’s important to choose a paper that can handle lots of layering without breaking down. Smooth bristol board creates clean transitions and a polished, realistic finish.

I prefer Smooth over Vellum because it gives a softer, more refined look.

Amazon link: https://amzn.to/3YynvVO

Faber-Castell Matt Graphite Pencils

These are a game-changer if you dislike the shine that standard graphite pencils leave behind.

Matt pencils create dark, even tones. Like coloured pencils, graphite needs to be built up gradually in light layers, and these pencils make that process much easier.

Amazon link: https://amzn.to/44qdCZT

Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Pencils

My go-to watercolour pencils. They blend beautifully with water and allow you to create vibrant colours, then add sharp details on top once the paper is dry.

They’re very forgiving and perfect for beginners.

Amazon link: https://amzn.to/49Lbjnu

Arteza Hot Press Watercolour Paper

For watercolour pencils, I use hot pressed paper because it has a smoother surface than cold pressed, making it easier to add fine details once the water has dried.

This paper handles multiple layers of water and pencil without buckling.

Amazon link: https://amzn.to/3wL2ag2

 

Tools and Accessories

Swordfish Ikon Pencil Sharpener (Hand-Crank)

I prefer a hand-crank sharpener because it creates a long, sharp point that is perfect for detailed work. It also lets you replace the blade if it becomes blunt — something you can’t do with most sharpeners.

Amazon link: https://amzn.to/38e4wWd

Staedtler Sharpener (Great Travel Sharpener)

A simple, reliable sharpener that’s brilliant for quick sharpening during a drawing session.

Amazon link: https://amzn.to/4caQPGs

Pencil Extender

When your pencils get short, this tool lets you use them right down to the very end — especially helpful for Prismacolor.

Amazon link: https://amzn.to/36JknKX

Dugato Brushes (for Watercolour Pencils)

I use a variety of brush sizes, and this set gives you a nice selection without being overwhelming.

Amazon link: https://amzn.to/3TvKCO2