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how a small jar of graphite watercolor brought me back to my creativity
29/05/2025
Graphite? You might think it only comes in pencils. But did you know that nowadays there are all kinds of other forms of graphite?
Let's start by briefly defining what graphite actually is. Graphite is a form of carbon and is often used as the core of a pencil. However, graphite pencils are never made of pure graphite. The graphite is compressed together with clay in different proportions to create pencils of varying hardness.
The ratio of graphite to clay determines the pencil's hardness:
More clay → harder pencil. Hard pencils deposit less graphite and are more difficult to erase. They are labeled H (for "hard"), ranging from H to 9H. The higher the number, the harder the pencil.
Less clay → softer pencil. Soft pencils deposit more graphite and are easier to erase. They are labeled B (for "black"), ranging from B to 9B. The higher the number, the softer the pencil.
Nowadays, there are all kinds of cool forms of graphite that allow you not only to draw but even to paint! And you know what? Some of these graphite materials are even water-soluble! Think of sticks, blocks, powders, and there's even a kneadable version.
My own journey with graphite took an unexpected turn when I came across a jar of water-soluble graphite in Lisbon. It was as if I had rediscovered my artistic passion. Since then, I have become increasingly familiar with the graphic possibilities of this product, made in Portugal. I am particularly drawn to its texture, as it adds an extra dimension of sensitivity to my visual expression.
Graphite is a very versatile medium that simply invites play and experimentation.
The water-soluble graphite products do not come in different hardnesses. These products are fairly soft, allowing for everything from the deepest blacks to the most transparent shades of gray.
You can use these products dry, or dissolve them with water to create graphite watercolor paint. You can even combine or mix them with other water-based paints.
Discover the Magic of Graphite: Tips and Tricks!
Graphite offers a world full of creative possibilities, whether you enjoy dry or wet techniques. Here are some handy tips to get the most out of your graphite adventures:
Smooth areas or subtle transitions?
Dry graphite is your best friend when you want to create a smooth, even surface or subtle transitions from light to dark gray. Easily blend it to achieve the exact effect you desire.
Drawing with water-soluble graphite:
Drawing with (water-soluble) graphite opens up a wide range of possible lines and marks. It's truly fascinating to experiment with. You can vary from fine lines to bold strokes using different techniques. Graphite pencils produce different results compared to drawing with an XL graphite stick from Viarco. Try using the edges or corners of graphite sticks or blocks for unique marks. For a softer approach, you can even use a brush with graphite paint to create delicate lines. The possibilities are truly endless…
Play with graphite paint:
Portable graphite watercolor paint can be compared to watercolor or pan watercolors. Simply wet it with a brush and you have graphite paint. Build your layers from light to dark, and preserve the lightest areas as much as possible!
Highlighting techniques:
You can lighten areas again using an eraser or kneaded eraser, or by dissolving graphite back with clean water. With a brush, you can apply paint but also lift it off (always blot your brush on a cloth in between).
Create beautiful backgrounds:
Dissolve graphite in water to create stunning backgrounds, ranging from deep black to very light gray by adjusting the amount of water. Blend areas seamlessly and experiment with different brushstrokes and water ratios to achieve the desired effect. With practice, you can learn to control the texture, grain, and special effects of graphite.
Textures and structures:
Play with different textures and structures, from grainy to fine, and discover the unique marks graphite can produce. Depending on the product and technique, you can achieve brush strokes, chalky marks, smudges, blending effects, and more.
Experiment with graphite powder:
With Art Graf graphite powder, you're ready to start right away: simply rub it directly onto your paper from the bag. Use a wet brush over your dry drawing for a lively touch. For a magical effect, sprinkle powder onto wet paper and watch the graphite spread. Mix the powder with water for homemade graphite paint: more water for lighter gray and more fluid paint, more powder for darker gray and thicker paint.
Discover kneadable graphite:
Kneadable graphite works like an artistic kneaded eraser. Form a ball and use it as a whole, or take a small piece for fine details. Suitable for both dry and wet use, so experiment on different paper surfaces. Create thick or thin marks, or use it to make prints on your sheet. If it hardens, place it in a container and add some water to soften it again.
Fix your artwork:
Since graphite can smudge, it's best to fix your drawing afterwards with a fixative (hairspray works too) to preserve your work. In my own experiments, I also discovered that a layer of transparent gesso can be effective.