When it comes to pencils, the proof
is always in the drawing and the new
Derwent Procolour don’t disappoint.
Due to its substantial design, the pencil
sits comfortably in the hand and its
solidity gives you the confidence to
wield it with unabashed fervour.
The lead also feels well balanced on
paper. Not too waxy (you can get
softer pencils from Derwent if that’s
what you’re after) and not too brittle.
The high pigment levels are evident
from just the lightest of touches, and
applying greater pressure gives a
wonderful gradation of pure colour
without pushing into the surface of
your paper or support. The pencils
blend well, but the colours might be
best served using a build-up of cross-
hatching that enables the purity of
each colour to sing out. Sharpening is
also a doddle, with the wooden shafts
and leads reacting effortlessly to a
quality metal sharpener or scalpel.
There’s a special relationship we
artists have with what goes on
between the tip of a pencil and our
minds’ eye – it’s a subtle balance of
trust and experience. If you’re new to
the world of pencils, you won’t go far
wrong with Derwent. And if your
allegiances lie elsewhere, it might be
time to gift yourself the chance to try
something new.
Features
n A strong core and
strong point
n Minimal chipping
and dusting for
smudge-free art
n Non-waxy finish
n High levels of
pigmentation in each
pencil with high
opacity
n Suitable for a range
of drawing techniques
n Available in 12, 24,
36 and 72 coloursRating
★★★★★The two-tiered tin keeps the pencils
secure and safe, wherever you
might go with them.Don’t feel too bad when
you sharpen away a
good chunk of each
pencil – the results will
be well worth it.Art tools Pencils
August 2017 95