Artiste Compressed Charcoals - Assorted Greys - Pack of 12

These compressed charcoal sticks by Artiste offer high quality and versatility for artists of all ...

Best current price£4.28from UK Office Direct

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UK Office DirectArtiste Compressed Charcoals Assorted Greys (Pack Of 12)
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Office StationeryArtiste Compressed Charcoals Assorted Greys Pack of 12 DOA 551031
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B&QB&Q - Compressed Charcoals Assorted Greys (Pack Of 12)Doa
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wilkoDocrafts Artiste Grey Compressed Charcoals - 12 Pack
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£14.00
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Product Information

Full details

The Artiste Compressed Charcoals are designed for artists of all skill levels seeking a versatile medium that bridges the gap between traditional drawing and painterly washes. These high-quality charcoal sticks offer exceptional coverage and bold, smooth application for sketching and detailing, though users should be mindful that their soft, compressed nature makes them prone to breakage if handled with excessive pressure.

All features

Model Part Number551031
BrandArtiste

Extended Product Information

FAQs

Can I use these on canvas?

Yes, they can be used on primed canvas, though they will perform best on surfaces with some tooth to hold the pigment.

Are these sticks permanent?

Charcoal is a friable medium. Once your drawing is complete, it is highly recommended to apply a high-quality fixative to ensure the work is protected from smudging.

What kind of water brush works best?

Soft synthetic round brushes work well, as they hold enough water to blend without flooding the charcoal.

Can I sharpen these sticks?

Yes, you can sharpen them using a sandpaper block to create a fine point for intricate detailing.

Are these non-toxic?

Artiste materials are generally manufactured for standard artistic use, but always ensure proper ventilation and avoid inhaling charcoal dust.

Troubleshooting

Charcoal stick is leaving too much dust on the page

Tap the paper gently or use a vertical easel setup so that excess dust falls away from the artwork rather than being ground into the tooth of the paper.

Lines are too faint when using as a wash

Apply a heavier layer of dry charcoal before introducing water to ensure enough pigment is present for the desired saturation level.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Excellent for both fine line work and large area coverage
  • Water-solubility adds a new dimension to standard charcoal drawing
  • Consistent and smooth pigment distribution
  • Ideal for a wide range of skill levels

Cons

  • Compressed charcoal can be fragile and break if dropped
  • Requires fixative to prevent smudging on finished work
  • High pigment density can be messy on hands and clothing

Setup, Compatibility & Care

To prepare your workspace, place your paper on a sturdy board to prevent warping if using water-soluble techniques. These sticks are compatible with most charcoal and pastel paper surfaces. When using them with water, use a high-quality watercolor brush to prevent bristle shedding. Always store the sticks in a flat, dry environment and consider using a kneaded eraser for lifting highlights, as standard erasers may not be sufficient for the dense pigment. Because these charcoals are fragile, keep them in their original packaging or a padded storage box to prevent snapping.

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