Table of Contents
Understanding the Difference Between Student and Artist-Grade Pencils
What Are the Benefits of Using Coloured Pencils in Mixed Media Work?
Why Are Lightfast Ratings Important for Coloured Pencil Artists?
Why Are Lightfast Ratings Important for Coloured Pencil Artists?
Understanding the Difference Between Student and Artist-Grade Pencils
At our store, we offer a carefully curated selection of both student and artist-grade pencils. We believe in empowering artists at all levels by providing access to the finest art supplies. Whether you're just starting out or looking to upgrade your drawing materials, our staff is here to guide you in making the right choice.
What Are the Benefits of Using Coloured Pencils in Mixed Media Work?
Coloured pencils are a versatile addition to any mixed media workflow. They can be layered over watercolour, ink, or acrylic backgrounds to add detail, depth, and contrast without overwhelming the base. Their precision makes them perfect for enhancing fine lines, textures, and edge work that can be difficult to achieve with brushes alone. Many artists combine coloured pencils with graphite, pastels, or markers to balance vibrancy with texture or luminosity. Their dry application means they’re ideal for travel sketching or indoor studio work without mess or long drying times. Plus, they work on a variety of surfaces—from standard paper to textured boards or canvas. Whether you're burnishing highlights or refining shadows, coloured pencils bring control and subtlety to any layered composition.
Why Are Lightfast Ratings Important for Coloured Pencil Artists?
Caran D’Ache Museum Aquarelle Colour Pencils
$6.27
Faber-Castell Pitt Pastel Pencils Set
$39.96
Conte Pastel Pencils
$7.48
Lightfastness refers to a pigment’s resistance to fading when exposed to light, and it’s an essential consideration for artists creating work meant to last. Coloured pencils vary widely in their lightfast ratings, with some pigments prone to fading within months under direct sunlight. Professional-grade pencils often include ASTM or Blue Wool ratings that indicate how well a colour holds up over time. Choosing pencils with high lightfastness ensures that your work maintains its vibrancy and detail for years to come, whether framed under glass or displayed in natural light. This is particularly important for commissioned pieces, gallery exhibitions, or portfolio collections. Understanding and selecting pencils with strong lightfast properties allows artists to confidently invest time and energy into work that remains true to their vision long-term.
How Does The Sydney Art Store Support Coloured Pencil Artists of All Levels?
Whether you're just starting your artistic journey or refining an advanced portfolio, The Sydney Art Store provides tools and resources tailored to your needs. Our range of coloured pencils spans from accessible student sets to high-end artist-grade options, all selected for their performance and durability. Beyond pencils, we offer complementary materials such as blending tools, erasers, sharpeners, and fixatives, allowing you to create a well-rounded and effective toolkit. We also carry various mediums and techniques to help you experiment and discover new creative possibilities. For artists looking to grow their skills or expand their techniques, The Sydney Art Store serves as a trusted source of materials and inspiration, providing everything you need to push your artwork to new heights.
