What is the Difference Between Faber-Castell Castell 9000 and Pitt Graphite Pure Woodless Pencils?

Comparing Graphite Pencils

Graphite comes in many different forms for artists to enjoy. Simple light sketches to deep monochrome masterpieces can be achieved by knowing which graphite pencils are right for your artwork. Faber-Castell graphite pencils provide an unmatched experience for artists with attention to high-quality included in every detail of their making. The popular Castell 9000 and Pitt Graphite Pure Woodless collections are professional grade pencils with qualities that make them similar yet individually irreplaceable.

Castell 9000 Graphite Pencils

Castell 9000 Graphite Pencils carry a large selection of graphite with 16 degrees of hardness to enjoy including: extra soft and very deep black (8B, 7B, 6B), extra soft and very black (5B), very soft and very black (4B, 3B), very soft and black (2B), soft and black (B), medium soft and medium black (HB, F), hard (H), harder (2H), very hard (3H), extra hard (4H), extra extra hard (5H), and particularly extra hard (6H). Castell 9000 is also available in jumbo size with five degrees of lead hardness available including: 8B, 6B, 4B, 2B, and HB.

The extensive range of graphite available to artists through this collection allows for exciting effects and contrasts in shade. Castell 9000 graphite pencils are a staple to every great artist’s collection; writing, technical drawing and precise work, quick drafts, sketches, and realistic portraits can all be achieved with these pencils. Launched by Count Alexander von Faber-Castell in 1905, these pencils have become a firm favorite with professional artists and illustrators.

PITT Graphite Pure Woodless Pencils

There is something to be admired about the soft dark qualities that purer forms of graphite exude. These woodless pencils allow artists to create dark ink-like drawings and artwork with tonal impressions and depth. Pitt Graphite Pure Woodless is available in three degrees of graphite hardness including: extra soft and very deep black (9B, 6B) and very soft and very black (3B). Pitt Graphite Pure Pencils earn their “pure” name due to their design. Instead of being encased in wood like Castell 9000 Graphite Pencils, they are wrapped in a plastic sleeve to maintain the purity of the graphite while still protecting the hand of the artist. They are made of finely milled graphite for smooth lay down and the lead blends easily and is suitable for expressive shading of large areas. These pencils offer unparalleled possibilities for spontaneous expression creating different effects based on the pressure applied and degree of hardness chosen. As an added benefit, they can be sharpened like a wood cased pencil.

Castell 9000 Pencil Sets