Charcoal Pencils in Art Pencils(333)

How do I keep charcoal dust off my paper?

Charcoal pencils create a lot of dust, and to get it off your paper, you'll need a soft brush like a drafting brush to gently wipe away the dust. You don't want to blow on the paper or brush it away with your hand.

What kind of fixative should I use on my charcoal drawing?

If you are in the process of drawing, you can use a workable fixative so you can continue to work. When you're finished, you'll want to use a permanent fixative in the finish you prefer. Spray outdoors or in a well-ventilated area and hold the nozzle at least 6 inches from the paper. Spray evenly and let dry for at least 12 hours before applying a second coat. A fixative will darken the charcoal so keep that in mind when you're drawing so you can go lighter on areas you don't want too dark.

Are charcoal pencils and charcoal sticks different?

Charcoal sticks are available in various grades of hardness, and you do need to sharpen them to a fine point. A charcoal pencil can be sharpened with a standard sharpener. Charcoal pencils also come in various grades of hardness, but they can be grittier than a stick.