When it comes to color pencils, quality matters. Higher-quality color pencils can make a significant difference in the final outcome of your artwork. So, how do you know if the color pencils you're using are good quality? Here are some things to consider:
Pigment Content
One of the most important factors to consider when evaluating the quality of color pencils is the pigment content. Higher-quality color pencils have more pigment in the colored lead, which means they will produce richer, more vibrant colors. The highest-quality color pencils are oil-based, which means they contain more pigment and produce smoother, more blendable color.
Wax or Oil-Based
Color pencils can be either wax-based or oil-based. Wax-based color pencils are generally less expensive, but they produce less vibrant colors and are more difficult to blend. Hard wax is the lowest quality, while soft wax is better quality. Oil-based color pencils are more expensive, but they produce richer, more vibrant colors and are easier to blend.
Ease of Use
Good quality color pencils should glide easily across the page and lay down color with little effort. They should not require a lot of pressure to produce color, and they should not leave any gaps or skips in the color. If you find that you have to press hard to get the color to appear, or if the color skips or leaves gaps, it may be a sign that the color pencils are not high quality.
Durability
Another important factor to consider when evaluating the quality of color pencils is their durability. Good quality color pencils should be able to withstand the pressure of being sharpened without breaking or cracking. They should also be able to withstand the test of time, meaning they should not fade or lose their color over time.
Brand Reputation
Finally, it's worth considering the reputation of the brand when evaluating the quality of color pencils. Some brands are known for producing high-quality color pencils, while others are known for producing lower-quality products. Researching the brand and reading reviews from other artists can help you determine if the color pencils you're considering are likely to be good quality.
