Which pencils for sketching?

[Euan]

Could someone give me some advice on which pencils to use for sketches?

Here (http://www.conceptart.org/forums/showthread.php?t=23027) is my sketchbook. Currently I just use a mechanical pencil using 2B leads and a standard 2B lead pencil.

I was wondering what I should use for shaping out the sketch first? And then refining it?

[Elwell]

Currently I just use a mechanical pencil using 2B leads and a standard 2B lead pencil.

I was wondering what I should use for shaping out the sketch first? And then refining it?
In other words...
2B or not 2B, that is the question.

[SeraphSword]

These days I'm just using a Bic ballpoint for sketching. When sketching with pencil, I like mechanical pencil with H lead. They are dark enough to see but leave very clean lines. If you are building up a picture, something even harder might work for basic shapes (just don't press down too hard). Really it all comes down to personal preference. Experiment, try a bunch of different things and find what fits you.

[jetpack42]

its all personal preference man. you just try stuff, and find what works for you.

[The Crazy Dude SRD]

I find that you can also get some interesting sketches with a Micron brush pen. I however prefer to use pencil and sometimes will turn to color pencil to execute a decent sketch. When in doubt, you can always try to draw with a stick in the mud... (just kidding... or maybe I'm not... I dont know anymore)

Try to use whatever you're most comfortable with and then try to expand from it.

[AngryScientist]

Try anything really.. I use a B mechanical pencil, a HB mechanical with very thick leads and normal pencils ranging from HB (tho they are about as hard as a few H) to 8B. Just depends what you want to render. Remember, when you wish to render something smooth,for example a face, use a hard pencil, when it's something more rough, like cloth or leather, use something softer. I don't really follow that advice but it's always good to keep in mind :)

[Storyboard Dave]

Hell, they're sketches! It's not finished art yet. Go with whatever you feel comfortable using, whether it's a 2H, F or 5B pencil. Don't fret the details of trying to make it gorgeous art just yet. This is just the first stage of the process in picture making.

Use whatever you feel comfortable using. Experiment. Experiment! Experiment!! Sooner or later you'll find what works for you.

[theos]

Euan
ive been drawing for a long time ive tried variouse pencils and found that the HB used to sketch the initial lines or overall shape. then i use 2B or 4B
but it really comes down to what you feel comfortable with just dont stress :confident
hope this helps

may the art be with you

[Costau D]

Black col-erase pencils are the best...

[Elwell]

In other words...
2B or not 2B, that is the question.
I can't believe I actually posted that.
I should be banned. :nohope:

[Zimzibar]

*laughs at the above* dear me :)

As for me, i use a HB mechanical pencil and love the lack of sharpening required :P i used to prefer really soft pencils but i find i can't stand the smudging and lack of detail i get with those. So, good old mech it is :)

[tomwaits4noman]

I use a 5h or 4h when sketching you can start off real light the press heavy when you need to, with a h 2h or hb or b you have less room to change things or make mistakes then I darken the lines using a 2h.

It can take a bit of practise getting use to as I find hard leads don't have the same fluidity as b's but in time i've adjusted.