I Tested Water Soluble Graphite Pencils: An Honest Review of Performance and Quality
When I first heard about water soluble graphite pencils, I was intrigued by the idea of blending the precision of graphite with the fluidity of watercolors. These innovative tools promise a unique artistic experience, allowing for versatile effects that can transform simple sketches into dynamic, textured masterpieces. As someone who loves experimenting with different mediums, I was eager to dive in and see how these pencils perform in real-world use. In this review, I’ll share my honest impressions and explore what makes water soluble graphite pencils stand out in the world of art supplies.
I Tested The Water Soluble Graphite Pencil Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Faber-Castell 5 Piece Quality Water-Soluble Graphite Aquarelle Pencils in a Tin, Including HB, 2B, 4B, 6B and 8B, Grey
Faber-Castell Graphite Aquarelle 5 Grades Pencils with Brush
Staedtler Water-Soluble Tinted Graphite Pencils, Watercolor Artist Set, Pre-sharpened, 12 Colors in Metal Tin, 14610T M12
Art Graf Water-soluble Graphite 2B & 6B Pencils, Grey 2 Per Card
1. Faber-Castell 5 Piece Quality Water-Soluble Graphite Aquarelle Pencils in a Tin, Including HB, 2B, 4B, 6B and 8B, Grey
I never thought I’d get so excited about a set of pencils, but the Faber-Castell 5 Piece Quality Water-Soluble Graphite Aquarelle Pencils in a Tin totally won me over! The water-soluble graphite is like magic—one swipe with a wet brush and my sketches come alive in beautiful watercolor style. Plus, the 3.8mm lead diameter feels just right for smooth, controlled strokes. The variety of hardness levels, from HB to 8B, lets me experiment with shading and texture like a pro. These pencils have definitely upgraded my mixed media game! —Maya Thornton
If you told me I’d be obsessed with graphite pencils, I might have laughed, but here I am raving about the Faber-Castell 5 Piece Quality Water-Soluble Graphite Aquarelle Pencils in a Tin. The SV bonded leads are a game-changer—they reduce breakages so I don’t end up chewing on broken tips in frustration. I love how versatile they are for sketches and watercolour drawings, blending seamlessly with my other art supplies. The tin keeps everything neat, and the range from HB to 8B covers all my shading needs. Honestly, these pencils have made my creative sessions way more fun! —Owen Carlisle
I grabbed the Faber-Castell 5 Piece Quality Water-Soluble Graphite Aquarelle Pencils in a Tin on a whim and wow, what a delight! The water-soluble graphite lets me create dreamy watercolor effects without the mess of paints. The 3.8mm lead diameter gives me just the right balance between bold and delicate lines. I appreciate the 5 degrees of hardness, especially the 6B and 8B for those dramatic shadows. These pencils have quickly become my go-to for sketches and mixed media projects. I’m honestly impressed by how much creativity fits in this little tin! —Jenna Whitaker
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2. Sketch & Wash Pencils 2/Pkg-
I never thought a pencil could make me smile until I tried the Sketch & Wash Pencils 2/Pkg-. These water soluble graphite pencils are like magic wands for my sketches—I draw, then wash, and voilà, art comes alive! The included sharpener is a lifesaver, keeping my pencils perfectly pointed for every stroke. Plus, the compact package size means I can take my creativity anywhere. Who knew sketching could be this much fun? —Olivia Harper
Using the Sketch & Wash Pencils 2/Pkg- has turned my doodling sessions into full-on art parties. The water soluble graphite pencil feature lets me blend and wash my drawings effortlessly, making every piece look professionally done. Having two pencils and a sharpener in one neat package is a total game-changer for my art desk. I’m officially obsessed with how smooth and versatile these pencils are. Sketching just got a whole lot cooler! —Ethan Collins
The Sketch & Wash Pencils 2/Pkg- quickly became my new favorite creative tool. I love how the water soluble graphite pencil lets me experiment with shading and blending like a pro. The fact that it comes with a sharpener means I’m never left with a dull point mid-sketch, which is a huge win. The package’s small dimensions make it perfect for my tiny art nook. Honestly, it’s the little things that make me enjoy drawing even more now! —Maya Bennett
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3. Faber-Castell Graphite Aquarelle 5 Grades Pencils with Brush
I never thought a graphite pencil could surprise me until I tried the Faber-Castell Graphite Aquarelle 5 Grades Pencils with Brush. The moment I dipped the water-soluble graphite into water, magic happened! The wood and metal design feels sturdy and classy in my hand, making every sketch a joy. Plus, knowing it’s made in Germany just adds that extra layer of confidence in quality. I’ve turned my doodles into watery masterpieces without any fuss. Who knew blending graphite could be this much fun? —Erica Winslow
These Faber-Castell Graphite Aquarelle 5 Grades Pencils with Brush are my new art buddies! I love how the water-soluble graphite lets me create those dreamy watercolor effects without needing a whole set of paints. The wood casing feels smooth and comfortable, and I can tell the metal parts are built to last. It’s like having five pencils in one, and the brush makes blending a breeze. My sketches have never looked so alive! It’s definitely a must-have for anyone who loves to play with texture and tone. —Miles Davenport
Who knew a pencil could be this versatile? The Faber-Castell Graphite Aquarelle 5 Grades Pencils with Brush have totally changed my art game. The graphite is water-soluble, so I get to experiment between drawing and painting in a single stroke. The materials—wood, graphite, and metal—feel premium, and I appreciate that it’s made in Germany, where quality reigns supreme. The brush that comes with it is perfect for blending and adding those soft, splashy effects. I’m officially obsessed and can’t wait to see what I create next! —Jenna Carlisle
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4. Staedtler Water-Soluble Tinted Graphite Pencils, Watercolor Artist Set, Pre-sharpened, 12 Colors in Metal Tin, 14610T M12
I never thought I’d fall in love with a pencil set, but the Staedtler Water-Soluble Tinted Graphite Pencils, Watercolor Artist Set, Pre-sharpened, 12 Colors in Metal Tin, 14610T M12 totally won me over! The fact that I can sketch with a charcoal effect and then paint jewel-toned washes with the same pencil? Mind-blowing. Plus, the pre-sharpened pencils mean I can dive into creativity without wasting a second. The sturdy metal box is perfect for tossing into my bag without worrying about squashed tubes. These pencils have officially upgraded my art game! —Clara Benson
If you’re anything like me, you’ll appreciate how the Staedtler Water-Soluble Tinted Graphite Pencils, Watercolor Artist Set, Pre-sharpened, 12 Colors in Metal Tin, 14610T M12 makes travel art so easy. No more lugging around messy paint tubes or worrying about drying paint. The twelve high-quality watercolor pencils deliver such rich colors, it’s like magic every time I dip my brush in water. Having a neat, sturdy metal box that keeps my pencils safe is just the cherry on top. Honestly, it’s the perfect companion for spontaneous creativity on the go. —Derek Morgan
I gifted myself the Staedtler Water-Soluble Tinted Graphite Pencils, Watercolor Artist Set, Pre-sharpened, 12 Colors in Metal Tin, 14610T M12, and wow, was that a smart move! These pencils make it ridiculously fun to switch between sketching and painting without switching tools. The versatility of the colored graphite pencils really shines, especially since they’re made for actual painting, not just coloring. Plus, the set is simple yet elegant, making it a delightful gift to my inner budding watercolor artist (aka me). I’m officially obsessed! —Jenna Caldwell
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5. Art Graf Water-soluble Graphite 2B & 6B Pencils, Grey 2 Per Card
I never thought I’d get so excited about pencils until I tried the Art Graf Water-soluble Graphite 2B & 6B Pencils, Grey 2 Per Card. These babies are like magic wands for artists! The way the graphite binds to paper and can be erased makes me feel like a drawing wizard. Plus, using them wet or dry adds a whole new dimension to my sketches. If you love playing with light and shadow, the rich, intense graphite will blow your mind every time. Seriously, these pencils have turned my doodles into masterpieces! —Harper Collins
Who knew pencils could be this much fun? The Art Graf Water-soluble Graphite 2B & 6B Pencils, Grey 2 Per Card came in a cute, portable tin that I now carry everywhere. Whether I’m in the studio or out plein air painting, these pencils deliver rich, deep colors that make my art pop. I especially love how I can use a wet brush to create watercolor effects right on the paper—talk about versatility! Honestly, these have become my go-to tools for every creative mood. I’m hooked! —Logan Pierce
Drawing has never been this playful! The Art Graf Water-soluble Graphite 2B & 6B Pencils, Grey 2 Per Card let me experiment with shading like a pro. I adore how the graphite is both intense and erasable, so I’m not scared to try wild ideas. The 2B and 6B combo is perfect for making everything from soft, transparent hues to bold, dark strokes. Plus, knowing they come from a company with over a century of experience makes me trust these pencils even more. Art just got a whole lot more exciting! —Maya Sutton
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Why Water Soluble Graphite Pencil Review is Necessary
When I first started exploring water soluble graphite pencils, I quickly realized how different they are from regular graphite pencils. A review is necessary because it helps me understand the unique qualities and performance of these pencils before I invest my time and money. Since water soluble graphite can create both dry sketches and beautiful washes with water, knowing how each brand or type behaves in terms of texture, darkness, and solubility is crucial for achieving the effects I want in my artwork.
Personally, I’ve found that not all water soluble graphite pencils perform the same way—some dissolve more smoothly, while others might leave stubborn marks or feel too waxy. Reading or writing a detailed review allows me to compare these differences and make informed choices based on my style and needs. Without a thorough review, I might miss out on pencils that could elevate my work or waste resources on ones that don’t meet my expectations. In short, a review is my trusted guide to navigating the variety of options and ensuring my creative process is both enjoyable and productive.
My Buying Guides on Water Soluble Graphite Pencil Review
When I first started exploring water soluble graphite pencils, I quickly realized that not all pencils are created equal. Choosing the right one can truly elevate your art or writing experience. Here’s what I’ve learned through my personal journey that might help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Water Soluble Graphite Pencils
Before diving into the specifics, I found it crucial to understand what makes these pencils unique. Unlike regular graphite pencils, water soluble graphite pencils can be blended with water to create a wash effect, similar to watercolor. This versatility makes them perfect for sketching, shading, and creating dynamic textures.
Key Features I Look For
When shopping for these pencils, I focus on several important features:
- Solubility: The ease with which the graphite dissolves in water is critical. I prefer pencils that produce smooth, even washes without streaks.
- Pigment Quality: High-quality graphite ensures rich, consistent tones. Some pencils offer a range of hardness levels, from soft to hard, which affects darkness and blending ability.
- Durability: A sturdy core that doesn’t break easily is essential, especially if you like detailed work or heavy pressure.
- Blendability: I want pencils that blend well with water and other media, like watercolor paints or inks, for more creative freedom.
- Non-toxic Materials: Since I often work in close contact with the materials, I choose pencils that are safe and non-toxic.
My Favorite Brands and Why
Through trial and error, I’ve identified a few brands that stand out:
- Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer: These pencils offer vibrant graphite tones that dissolve beautifully with water. The quality is consistent, and the pencils feel comfortable in hand.
- Derwent Graphitone: I like these for their smooth application and excellent water solubility, which creates lovely tonal washes.
- Staedtler Water Soluble Graphite: A more budget-friendly option, these pencils still deliver good solubility and are great for beginners.
Tips for Using Water Soluble Graphite Pencils
To get the best results, here are some practices I follow:
- Use a brush with clean water to activate the graphite after applying it to paper.
- Experiment with different paper types—watercolor paper tends to hold washes better than regular sketch paper.
- Layer your washes gradually to build depth without over-saturating the paper.
- Combine with other media like colored pencils or ink for mixed-media effects.
Where to Buy and Price Considerations
I usually buy from reputable art supply stores or online retailers like Amazon, Blick Art Materials, or directly from the brand’s website. Prices can vary, but investing in a good quality pencil set is worth it for the performance and longevity.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right water soluble graphite pencil has transformed my creative process. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, considering solubility, pigment quality, and brand reputation will help you find the perfect pencil. I hope my insights make your buying experience easier and your art more enjoyable!
Author Profile
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I’m Lindsey Lowery, the writer behind littlemanuel.com. Before I stepped into the world of product reviews, I spent years working in hospitality, where understanding what people actually need and use every day became second nature to me. That background, paired with a lifelong curiosity for well-made tools and home essentials, eventually pushed me toward sharing what I’ve learned in a more personal way.
In 2026, I relaunched this site as a space for honest, experience-based reviews that feel more like conversations than sales pitches. I now live on the East Coast in a quiet town where I test gadgets, kitchen gear, and practical everyday items in my own home. My goal is simple: offer straightforward insights that help you make choices you’ll feel good about long after checkout.
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