Graphite. A graphite stick, also known as a graphite block or graphite pencil, is a drawing tool used in art.
It is made of pure graphite and has a rectangular or square shape, similar to a bar of soap or a block of clay. Graphite sticks come in various grades, ranging from soft to hard, with the softness or hardness indicated by a number and letter system.
The most common grades are 2B, 4B, and 6B, with 2B being the softest and 6B being the hardest. Graphite sticks are used for creating large areas of tone, shading, and texture in drawings.
They are particularly useful for creating broad, sweeping marks and for covering large areas quickly. To use a graphite stick, the artist holds it like a piece of chalk or a pastel and applies it to the paper with light or heavy pressure, depending on the desired effect.
The stick can be sharpened to a point for more detailed work, or used on its side for broader marks. Graphite sticks can be blended with a variety of tools, such as tortillons, blending stumps, or even the artist's fingers, to create smooth transitions between tones. They can also be used in combination with other drawing media, such as graphite pencils, charcoal, and pastels, to create a range of textures and effects. Graphite sticks are popular among artists for their versatility and ability to create a wide range of tones and textures. They are often used in sketching and prelimin