Faber Castell Polychromos Pencils and Sets

Polychromos artists' colour pencils are revered worldwide for their exceptional quality, and have become our go-to choice for professional superior coloured pencils. Whether used for graphic arts, free artistic expression, or the precise colouring of plans, these pencils have a high standard that ensures reliable results every time.

Faber-Castell is known for its unwavering commitment to quality, which is applied consistently throughout the manufacturing process of Polychromos artists' colour pencils. The use of top-quality materials ensures that these pencils are equipped with extremely break-resistant leads, maximum light-fastness, the most vivid colours, optimal paintability, and a range of other advantages that are highly valued by professional artists.

In addition to their exceptional quality, Polychromos artists' colour pencils also boast sustainable manufacturing practices. The wood used in their construction comes from certified sustainable forestry, and the coating is an environmentally-friendly water-based varnish that contains no solvents. Furthermore, the lead is protected against breakages with a special glue that covers the entire lead in the wooden shaft.

One of the standout features of Polychromos artists' colour pencils is their ability to produce the finest lines that are difficult to achieve with other pencils. They are also easy to sharpen and hold a sharp point, making them ideal for precise work. Additionally, they are great for layering, and the best results are achieved when you build up the colour in layers. With a range of 120 colours available, these pencils are offered here individually and in assorted sets to meet the needs of every artist.

Overall, Polychromos artists' colour pencils are an exceptional choice for professional artists seeking the highest quality tools that deliver reliable and stunning results. From their sustainable manufacturing practices to their superior quality and versatility, these pencils are a must-have for any artist looking to take their work to the next level.

Our top five Tips for getting the best from Polychromos Pencils

Use Quality Paper

When using Polychromos pencils, it's important to use high-quality paper that can handle multiple layers of colour. Look for paper with a high gsm (thickness) and a slight 'tooth' which means a slightly rough or textured surface. The texture allows the pencil to grip onto the surface of the paper, which can be helpful when trying to create different effects, such as blending or layering.

Layer and Blend Colours

To create depth and dimension in your artwork, layer and blend the polychromos colours using a light touch. Start with a light layer of colour and gradually build up the intensity by adding more layers. Use a blending tool, a colourless blending pencil or Zest-it Pencil Blend to blend colours together for a smooth transition.

Practice Colour Theory

Understanding colour theory can help you create more harmonious and visually appealing artwork. Experiment with complementary colours (colours opposite each other on the colour wheel) and analogous colours (colours next to each other on the colour wheel) to create interesting colour combinations.

Control Your Pressure

Polychromos pencils can produce both bold and subtle colours depending on the amount of pressure you apply. For lighter colours, use a lighter touch and gradually build up the intensity. For darker colours, apply more pressure and use a sharpened point.

Experiment with Different Surfaces

While high-quality paper is essential for using Polychromos pencils, you can also experiment with different surfaces to achieve different effects. Try drawing on different textures and colours of paper, or on other surfaces like wood or canvas.

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