Faber-Castell Graphite Aquarelle Pencil Set - 5pk

The Faber-Castell Graphite Aquarelle is a high-quality water-soluble pencil designed for artists. ...

Best current price£12.81from eBay

All Offers

3 offers from £12.81 - £14.00

View price history by clicking the chart icon.

eBayFaber-Castell Graphite Aquarelle Pencils Wood Set Of 5 Watercolour Sketching
£3.99 delivery
£12.81
Visit shop
Hobbycraft Trading LtdFaber-Castell Graphite Aquarelle Set 6 Pack 1X9.1x23.5cm
£4.95 delivery
£14.00
Visit shop

Product Information

Full details

The Faber-Castell Graphite Aquarelle set is an essential tool for illustrators and fine artists looking to bridge the gap between traditional graphite drawing and watercolour painting. This versatile collection allows for smooth, dry sketching that transforms into fluid washes upon contact with water, offering superior control for mixed-media projects. While the set provides excellent professional-grade quality, beginners should note that the water-soluble nature of the pigment requires intentional application techniques to avoid smudging or unintended activation before the work is finalized.

All features

Model Part Number117897
BrandFaber-Castell

Extended Product Information

FAQs

Can I use these pencils like normal graphite pencils?

Yes, they function perfectly as standard dry pencils for sketching, though they will smear if exposed to moisture.

Is the ink permanent once dry?

Once the water-soluble graphite has dried, it is relatively stable, but it can be reactivated if you apply water to it again.

Does this set include all five hardness grades?

The set covers the spectrum of HB, 2B, 4B, 6B, and 8B for a wide range of shading densities.

Can I use these on canvas?

While they work best on paper, they can be used on gessoed surfaces, though the water-solubility performance may vary.

How do I clean the included brush?

Rinse the brush in clean water immediately after use and reshape the bristles with your fingers before letting it air dry.

Troubleshooting

The pigment is not dissolving evenly.

Ensure you are using high-quality watercolour paper; standard drawing paper does not hold water well and may cause the graphite to clump.

The pencil tip breaks frequently.

Check your sharpener blade; if it is dull, it will crush the lead rather than cut it. Use a dedicated sharpener designed for soft artist leads.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • High-quality, professional-grade pigment output
  • Extra-durable core prevents frequent lead snapping
  • Excellent versatility for mixed-media and traditional techniques
  • Environmentally conscious design and manufacturing
  • Complete starter kit includes a dedicated brush

Cons

  • Not suitable for standard permanent sketching if humidity is high
  • Limited to five hardness grades
  • Requires proper storage to prevent accidental water exposure

Setup, Compatibility & Care

To ensure the longevity of your Faber-Castell Aquarelle pencils, store them in a cool, dry place. Because the core is sensitive to moisture, avoid leaving them in humid areas or near water sources until you are ready to paint. When sharpening, use a high-quality manual sharpener to preserve the integrity of the break-resistant 3.3mm lead. When applying water, start with a minimal amount on your brush to prevent oversaturating the paper, which can lead to buckling if using lighter-weight sketching sheets. We recommend using cold-press watercolour paper (140lb/300gsm) for the best results.

Price History

DatePrice
Visit shop