Colouring pencils have long been a favourite medium among hobbyists, illustrators, and professional artists. In recent years, both traditional coloured pencils and watercolour pencils have surged in popularity—each offering unique creative possibilities.
In this guide, we’ll explore how each pencil type works, what makes them distinct, and when you might prefer one over the other. By the end, you’ll understand their techniques, effects, and benefits, helping you choose the right tool for your artistic style.
What Are Watercolour Pencils?
Watercolour pencils are hybrid art tools that look and feel like traditional colouring pencils but contain a water‑soluble binder. When used dry, they behave like regular pencils—great for layering and detail. When activated with water, the pigment dissolves and transforms into a fluid, watercolour‑like wash. This versatility makes them ideal for artists who want painterly effects without a full watercolour setup.
How to Use Watercolour Pencils
Dry Technique
- Use them on dry paper like traditional pencils for detailed drawings, fine lines, and base layers.
Wet Technique
- Apply pencil first, then blend with a damp brush to soften colours, create gradients, and add depth.
Direct Activation
- Dip the pencil tip in water before drawing to create bold, intense strokes.
Wet Tip
- Brush water onto the pencil tip and use the brush to paint with the pigment for precise detailing.
Pick-Up Technique
- Lift pigment directly from the pencil tip using a wet brush to create soft washes without leaving pencil marks.
When Should You Use Watercolour Pencils?
For Specific Artistic Effects
- Choose watercolour pencils when you want to mix crisp lines with painterly blends and translucent washes.
For Different Stages of a Project
- Use them for sketching, then activate specific areas with water to build depth or enhance mixed‑media outlines.
For Convenience and Flexibility
- Perfect for travel and sketchbooks—offering watercolour effects without palettes, pans, or mess.
What’s the Difference Between Watercolour Pencils and Traditional Colouring Pencils?
Binder
Watercolour pencils use a water‑soluble binder; traditional pencils use wax or oil binders.
Activation
Watercolour pencils react to water; traditional pencils remain dry and require manual blending.
Wet & Dry Use
Watercolour pencils work both wet and dry; traditional pencils are dry‑only.
Effect
Watercolour pencils create fluid, transparent washes; traditional pencils offer strong, textured colour.
Paper Choice
Watercolour pencils perform best on watercolour or mixed‑media paper; traditional pencils work on most dry‑media papers.
The Benefits of the Different Types of Pencils
Benefits of Watercolour Pencils
Versatility
Switch easily between drawing and painting techniques.
Portability and Minimal Mess
No bulky palettes needed—great for travel journaling.
Precision with Washes
Activate only the areas you want without losing detail.
Unique Effects
Achieve gradients, soft washes, and transparent layering.
Benefits of Traditional Colouring Pencils
Precision and Control
Ideal for detailed illustrations and crisp line work.
Dry Layering and Blending
Build rich tones through layering and burnishing.
Forgiving Process
Easy to correct mistakes; no risk of warping from water.
Ease of Use
Beginner‑friendly and ready to use straight away.
Summary
Watercolour pencils offer hybrid functionality and beautiful painterly effects, making them perfect for artists who enjoy expressive washes and mixed‑media work. Traditional colouring pencils remain unmatched for precision, control, and dry‑based techniques. The right choice depends on your artistic goals, your style, and the effects you want to achieve.