Faber-Castell Polychromos Artists' Colour Pencils - 20 Pack

Faber-Castell Polychromos Artists' Colour Pencils offer exceptional quality for professional and a...

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eBayFaber-Castell Polychromos 20 Colour Pencils Tin Set Additional New Colours
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Hobbycraft Trading LtdFaber-Castell Polychromos Artists' Colour Pencils Pack Size 20
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Product Information

Full details

The Faber-Castell Polychromos Artists' Colour Pencils are designed for both professional illustrators and dedicated hobbyists who demand high-performance, archival-quality pigment. These pencils provide a superior, buttery-smooth color laydown and exceptional lightfastness, ensuring your artwork remains vibrant for years. While they offer industry-leading versatility, users should note that the oil-based lead requires a high-quality sharpener to maintain the fine tip without breakage.

All features

Model Part NumberFC110020
BrandFaber-Castell

Extended Product Information

FAQs

Are these pencils oil-based or wax-based?

Polychromos pencils are oil-based, which gives them a harder, more precise lead that does not develop a waxy film over time.

Can I use these pencils with water?

No, these are not water-soluble (watercolor) pencils. They are waterproof and permanent once applied to the paper.

What is the best way to blend Polychromos pencils?

You can blend them by layering light pressure, using a colorless blender pencil, or applying a very small amount of mineral spirits with a stump or brush.

Are the colors lightfast?

Yes, they feature maximum lightfastness ratings, meaning they are designed to resist fading and remain stable for decades.

Can these be used for fine art portraits?

Absolutely. Their ability to hold a sharp point and blend smoothly makes them a favorite among portrait artists for rendering fine hairs and skin textures.

Troubleshooting

Lead keeps breaking during sharpening

Your sharpener blade may be dull. Replace the blade or use a dedicated artist-grade pencil sharpener to ensure a clean, smooth cut.

Color is not layering smoothly

Ensure you are using a paper with a slight 'tooth' or texture. Extremely smooth, glossy paper may not hold the pigments as effectively as drawing or mixed-media paper.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Buttery-smooth pigment transfer with minimal effort
  • Highly resistant to breakage during sharpening and use
  • Excellent lightfastness prevents fading over time
  • Works well across various paper types and textures
  • Smudge-proof and water-resistant finish

Cons

  • Requires a high-quality sharpener to prevent lead snapping
  • Oil-based formula is slightly harder to erase than wax-based pencils
  • Premium price point compared to standard student-grade pencils

Setup, Compatibility & Care

To ensure the longevity of your pencils, use a sharpener designed for professional artist-grade wood casings, such as a metal handheld sharpener or a high-quality helical crank sharpener. Avoid using plastic sharpeners with dull blades, as these can cause the wood to splinter and the lead to break. When storing your pencils, keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain the integrity of the oil-based binder. If you are layering heavily, consider using a workable fixative spray between layers to prevent smudging and ensure the colors lock into the paper fibers.

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