Derwent
Derwent Pencils has a long and distinguished heritage, stretching back to the discovery of graphite in the Borrowdale area in the early 1500s. Their pencils have been made in Cumbria since 1832 and generations of local craftsmen have used their unique skills to perfect the art of pencil making.
Derwent: Excellence in Pencils and Drawing Materials
Derwent has been at the heart of British pencil making for hundreds of years. They are synonymous with quality, innovation, and a deep understanding of artists’ needs.
Established in 1832 in the picturesque Lake District, Cumbria, Derwent has grown from its humble beginnings to become one of the most respected names in the art world, offering a wide range of drawing materials that inspire creativity across the globe.
Derwent’s story began with the discovery of graphite in the Borrowdale Valley in the 16th century, which led to the development of the first pencils. This history has influenced Derwent’s commitment to producing pencils that blend tradition with modern technology.
One of Derwent’s most iconic innovations was the Cumberland Pencil, renowned for its smooth application and rich, consistent color. Building on this success, Derwent expanded its range to include a variety of artist quality products, such as the popular Coloursoft, Lightfast, and Inktense ranges. Each product line is crafted to meet the specific needs of artists, whether they require soft, blendable colors, excellent lightfastness, or vibrant ink-like hues.
The Derwent Lightfast range set a new standard for lightfast pencils. These pencils are made from the finest pigments, ensuring that colors won’t fade over time. Meanwhile, the Derwent Inktense range provides versatile ink and watercolor techniques with its unique formula that delivers intense, permanent color when activated with water.
In addition to their pencils, Derwent offers a range of drawing tools and accessories like the Derwent Blender and Burnisher. The brand’s dedication to sustainability is reflected in its use of responsibly sourced materials and environmentally friendly practices in its production processes.
For artists who seek the perfect blend of tradition, quality, and innovation, Derwent remains a trusted companion on their creative journey, providing tools that help turn ideas into masterpieces.
‘I am very pleased to recommend this innovative and excellent colour pencil range, especially for artists specialising in woodland, lakes and mountain scenes. Those who work in portraiture will also find the colours useful, particularly for hair, clothing, and delicate shadows.’
Artist and teacher Tony Thompson reviews Derwent Drawing Pencils and explains why he recommends them for landscape work and portraiture.