Art pencils function very much like regular pencils. They are used to make marks while writing and drawing. Art pencils look very similar to regular pencils, with a few exceptions. The most noticeable difference between art pencils and regular pencils is that art pencils rarely have erasers attached to the top (art erasers are purchased separately). More important than this, however, is the fact that the graphite in art pencils come in different degrees of hardness and softness. Pencils start at an HB designation, meaning that the graphite is medium hard. Hard pencil leads are designated with a number and an "H." The higher the number, the harder the pencil lead. Soft pencils are designated with a number and a "B." The higher the number, the softer the pencil lead. Soft pencil leads make dark, velvety marks, while hard pencil leads can only make light marks.
Paper is the drawing surface of choice for many artists. Quality art papers should be "acid free." meaning that the paper will not turn yellow and brittle with age. Art papers come in a variety of textures. The more textured the paper, the more texture you will see in your drawings. Many art papers are made for specific mediums like graphite, charcoal and pen and ink.
Paper stubs may be purchased at art stores or made from rolled pieces of paper. Paper stubs are used to smear graphite on a paper to make smooth and realistic-looking shadows.
Art erasers are used to erase pencil marks, just like regular erasers. Many quality art erasers are made from gentler materials than normal erasers to erase marks without damaging the paper.
Many artists prefer not to use pencils to draw. Charcoal and ink are common alternatives. Pen and ink sets are sold at art and craft stores. Ink nibs come with different point sizes for broader or finer lines. Charcoal comes in different types and colors. Vine charcoal makes soft, easily erasable lines, while standard charcoal makes darker, harder-to-erase marks.