Conte crayons with their 6x6mm cross-section offer a range of 84 colours, 14 tones of which are specifically designed for sketching. The crayons are manufactured using natural pigments (iron oxide, carbon black, titanium dioxide), clay (kaolin) and a binder (cellulose ether), which are then baked after being extruded and dried. The degree of baking varies the grade (hardness:H/ softness:B) of the black and white crayons.
Conté crayons can be held in many ways, which allows for a multitude of different angles. An example is using the “flat edge” of the crayon and varying the pressure (the greater the pressure on the crayon, the denser the colour that will be obtained). By holding the crayon upright or slightly slanted, fine and accurate lines can be created.
