TOOLS I RECOMMEND
I have gathered a list of all the tools that would be worth investing in, if there was one priority I would say the pens, having good quality pens you can rely on and a variety of sizes is key. The pencil is a close second, the pencil is your foundation, you don’t need the full pack, but should you wish to experiment with pencil grades this would be beneficial. These are my recommendations from what I have learnt over 10 years. Click the links of each item to go direct to purchase. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
PENCILS
The pencils I have used the most and keep coming back to are Faber-Castell and Staedtler Mars Lumograph, both excellent choices and well established brands. They both come in packs of 12, which in my opinion is well worth having the set for a range of tones. I predominantly use the F, H and 2H for my current work as they are crisp and don't smudge and clean lines is vital for my work.
PENS
The pens that I have found that work the best for me are Uni- ball fine liners; they are so smooth, have a consistent line, water and fade proof. There are so many variations out there but I would suggest picking up a variety pack, 5 x fine and delicate or 5 x sketching pack
RUBBERS
Staedtler rubbers are good solid no nonsense rubbers, this comes as a 2 pack. If you want precision the Faber Castell with reloadable rubbers is good for smaller details.
PAPER
The paper choice can be overwhelming, I have found for everyday projects and sketches a pad of paper, the A3 Daley Rowney smooth cartridge paper is always up for the task. For more more high end finished projects Fabriano Smooth 200gsm paper is of real quality.
DRAWING BOARD
I am currently using a Liquidraw A2 drawing board which has 6 adjustable angles and a smooth horizontal ruler. Very smooth and very sturdy, it has rubber feet so it doesn't slip along the desk.
DRAWING INSTRUMENTS
A good sturdy plastic ruler is always a wise idea, 30cm at least, transparent makes it easier to see the drawing underneath and shatterproof is best. A range of circle templates always come in useful, a pack of 2 ranging form 3 - 70mm will cover most circles sizes. A compass sometime provides that extra bit of flexibility once again the Staedtler brand is great
