Faber-Castell Colour Grip Pencil - Pack of 12
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This guide is for artists, students, and hobbyists seeking vibrant, water-soluble colored pencils with an ergonomic design. The key benefit is the smooth color laydown and blendability, allowing for watercolor effects. A potential caveat is that being water-soluble, they require careful handling to avoid accidental smudging if exposed to moisture. The Faber-Castell Colour Grip pencils feature an award-winning triangular barrel with soft grip dots for comfortable use, easily-sharpened colored lead, and a water-based varnish coating.
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| Brand | Faber-Castell |
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FAQs
Are these pencils truly watercolor pencils?
Yes, the lead is water-soluble, meaning you can activate the colors with water to create watercolor effects, similar to watercolor paints.
Can I use these with other colored pencils?
Yes, they can be used alongside traditional colored pencils. You can blend them dry or use water on the Colour Grip pencils to interact with dry media.
What kind of paper is best for using them with water?
Watercolor paper or heavy-duty drawing paper is recommended when using water, as it can withstand the moisture without buckling or tearing.
How do I clean the grip dots?
The grip dots are part of the barrel. You can gently wipe them with a slightly damp cloth if they become dirty. Ensure the pencil is dry afterward.
Are these pencils suitable for children?
Yes, the ergonomic design and non-toxic, water-based varnish make them suitable and comfortable for children, alongside their artistic capabilities.
How do I achieve smooth color blending?
For dry blending, use light layers and blend with a blending stump or another pencil. For wet blending, apply color and then use a wet brush to spread and blend the pigments.
Troubleshooting
Lead breaks easily when sharpening
Ensure you are using a high-quality sharpener. Sharpen gently and avoid excessive pressure. If the problem persists, check for internal lead damage by carefully examining the pencil.
Colors appear dull when dry
Apply more pressure when coloring, or use a damp brush to activate the water-soluble pigments for brighter, more vibrant effects. Ensure you are using appropriate paper that can handle water.
Pencil smudges unintentionally
This is due to the water-soluble nature. Allow artwork to dry completely before touching. For dry work where smudging is a concern, consider using a fixative spray after completion.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent blendability, especially with water, for watercolor effects.
- Comfortable and ergonomic design reduces hand strain.
- Durable lead that sharpens well for precision.
- Wide color selection for diverse artistic needs.
- Good value for a quality colored pencil set.
Cons
- Water-soluble nature means they can smudge if wet.
- Triangular shape may not be preferred by all users.
- Not ideal for dry, layered techniques without fixative if water is a concern.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Setup: The Faber-Castell Colour Grip pencils require no setup. Simply remove them from the packaging and they are ready to use.
Compatibility: These pencils are compatible with most drawing papers, sketchbooks, and watercolor paper. They can be used with standard pencil sharpeners. For watercolor effects, you will also need brushes and a water source (cup, small container).
Care:
- Store pencils in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve color vibrancy.
- Keep them in their original packaging or a pencil case to prevent damage to the lead and barrel.
- Sharpen with a good quality pencil sharpener to maintain a sharp point and avoid breakage. Clean the sharpener periodically.
- If using for watercolor effects, ensure your artwork is fully dry before handling to prevent smudging.