Coates

Coates: Finest Willow Charcoal Since 1819

Coates are one of the world’s leading producers of natural willow charcoal. Handmade in Somerset, their charcoal is known for its deep black tone, soft feel, and smooth response. It is ideal for both expressive mark-making and subtle shading.

The Coate family have been growing willow since 1819. Originally used for basketmaking, their willow crops faced a turning point in the 20th century as plastic replaced traditional baskets. In the 1960s, a new idea took root: could this same willow be turned into artist charcoal?

The breakthrough came in 1967, when Percy Coate noticed that a piece of charred willow from the fireplace left a strong black line. That simple discovery led to the development of Coates’ first willow charcoal sticks. Over time, the family refined the production process to create consistent, artist-quality charcoal that is now used around the world.

Each stick of Coates willow charcoal is made using traditional methods. The result is a soft, velvety drawing tool with a rich black tone that can be smudged, sharpened, or layered for a wide range of effects.

Whether you’re sketching, underpainting, or life drawing, Coates willow charcoal offers a classic tool trusted by generations of artists.