If you're curious about how Derwent Charcoal Pencils measure up against other brands like General’s, here's what our research found: Derwent offers a nice mix of quality and versatility.
Their set includes a helpful range of pencils—one light, two medium, two dark charcoal pencils, and a white highlighting pencil. This makes them great for trying out different shading techniques, whether you're doodling or working on detailed art.
What really stands out about Derwent is how they blend the simple handling of a pencil with the rich feel of charcoal. They mix charcoal with top-notch clays in a wooden casing, which cuts down on the mess you'd usually get with regular charcoal sticks.
According to our research, folks seem to enjoy how smooth these pencils are and how well they blend, making it easy to achieve those nice, layered tones.
As for sharpening, it's something to watch out for. Some artists mentioned that the tips can break if you're not careful. So, using a dedicated pencil sharpener or even a knife might be smart for keeping them in good shape and making them last longer.
All in all, Derwent Charcoal Pencils are a solid pick for both seasoned artists and newcomers to charcoal. They're easy to carry around too—the sturdy tin they come in can withstand some travel, which is handy for artists who like to work on the go.
When you compare them to other brands like General’s, Derwent is often noted for its easy blending and the subtle gradients it can achieve.
However, you might want to sample a few brands to see which fits your style best. Derwent is definitely a strong contender if you’re after a dependable and quality set of charcoal pencils.