General's - SketchMate

SketchMate

Everything needed to explore graphite and charcoal drawing techniques

Graphite demands different handling than charcoal, which requires different tools than layout work. This kit recognizes that fundamental truth and provides the specific implements each medium needs. Three graphite pencils span essential hardnesses, 2H for crisp lines, HB for general sketching, 2B for rich darks. Two charcoal pencils offer soft and hard options for tonal work, while the layout extra black pencil delivers deep, matte lines for composition studies.

The sand paddle pointer solves charcoal's sharpening challenge, creating smooth points without the crushing pressure of blade sharpeners. General's All Art sharpener handles graphite pencils with precision. A tortillion blends both graphite and charcoal into smooth gradations, essential for atmospheric effects and soft transitions. The soft white vinyl eraser functions beyond simple corrections, lift graphite to recover paper white, pull highlights from charcoal passages, or cut it into precise shapes for detailed highlight work.

Everything works together as an actual drawing system rather than random supplies thrown in a box. You get the range to explore different approaches while learning how each tool responds.

Drawing and Illustration

Drawing and Illustration Purchase Guide

Drawing and Illustration Materials

Calligraphy Inks - Specialized inks for calligraphy and pen work. Includes traditional sumi ink, colored calligraphy inks, and metallic formulations for decorative writing.

Markers - Professional markers including alcohol-based, water-based, and pigment markers. Perfect for illustration, design work, and mixed media projects.

Pastels - Soft pastels, oil pastels, and pastel pencils for vibrant color work. Excellent for blending and creating rich, textured drawings.

Pencils - Graphite pencils in various hardness grades, colored pencils, and specialty drawing pencils for different techniques and surfaces.

Pens - Technical pens, fountain pens, and specialty drawing pens for precise line work and detailed illustrations.

You May Also Like