The best pencil size for sketching depends on the type of sketch you want to create.
Here's a breakdown to help you choose:
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For light sketches, outlines, and guidelines: Use harder leads like 4H-2H. These pencils create very light marks. According to the reference, these are often used in technical drawing.
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For general sketching: A good all-around choice is H, F, HB, or B. The reference says that HB is a popular multi-purpose pencil because it's clear enough for both writing and drawing with minimal smudging.
| Pencil Grade | Hardness/Darkness | Best Use Cases |
|---|---|---|
| 4H - 2H | Hard/Light | Technical drawing, outlines, light sketches, guidelines |
| H, F, HB, B | Medium | General sketching, writing |
