Faber-Castell PITT Charcoal Pencils - 3 Pack
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Product Information
Full details
The Faber-Castell PITT Charcoal Pencils set is designed for artists and illustrators looking for high-quality, professional-grade drawing tools that provide deep contrast and smooth application. These wax-free and oil-free pencils offer a distinct greyish-blue charcoal tone that excels at blending and layering, making them an excellent choice for detailed sketches. While they offer superior depth and control compared to traditional charcoal sticks, users should note that they require careful handling to prevent unwanted smudging due to their soft composition.
All features
| Model Part Number | FC117498 |
|---|---|
| Brand | Faber-Castell |
Extended Product Information
FAQs
Are these pencils oil-based?
No, Faber-Castell PITT Charcoal Pencils are wax-free and oil-free.
Can I use these with other charcoal products?
Yes, they blend perfectly with natural charcoal sticks and compressed charcoal blocks.
Do I need a special eraser?
While they are easy to erase, a kneadable eraser is recommended for lifting charcoal and creating highlight textures.
Why is the shade blueish?
This is a characteristic of high-quality natural charcoal; the blueish-grey hue is a traditional trait that provides a more sophisticated finish than pure lamp-black.
How do I make the drawing permanent?
Use an artist-grade fixative spray to seal the charcoal once the drawing is complete.
Troubleshooting
Pencil core breaks during sharpening
Ensure you are using a sharp, high-quality sharpener and apply gentle, even pressure when turning the pencil.
Drawing smudges too easily
Use a sheet of tracing paper or a piece of scrap paper under your hand while drawing to prevent accidental smearing.
Line appears faint on paper
Ensure you are using the correct grade; try switching to the 'soft' pencil for deeper, darker coverage.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Versatile range of three hardness levels
- Deep black pigment with professional blueish undertones
- Smooth application that mimics traditional charcoal sticks
- Highly blendable for seamless shading
- Easy to erase for corrective work
Cons
- Prone to smudging if not handled or fixed
- Softer grades wear down quickly with heavy use
- Requires frequent sharpening for fine detail work
Setup, Compatibility & Care
For optimal results, use these pencils on paper with a slight "tooth" or texture, such as sketch paper or charcoal-specific paper, as this helps the charcoal particles grip the surface. When sharpening, use a high-quality artist-grade sharpener to avoid snapping the soft charcoal core. To protect your finished work, it is highly recommended to use a fixative spray, as the loose charcoal particles are susceptible to smudging even after application. When not in use, store the pencils in a flat, dry place and avoid dropping them, as the internal charcoal core is brittle and can break under impact.