inside the studio
Every drawing begins with trusted tools. I work primarily with Faber-Castell graphite pencils and Pitt black pencils, chosen for their depth, smoothness, and ability to create intense contrasts. Fine details come to life thanks to the X-Acto Mighty Pro Sharpener and manual sharpeners for extra precision. For the surface, I rely on Arches 300gsm hot-pressed paper, offering the perfect base for intricate textures and bold shading. Blending stumps, soft brushes, and precision erasers help sculpt each piece, ensuring that every highlight, shadow, and line carries emotional weight and technical excellence.
faber-castell
Precision and Depth for Fine Art. When it comes to creating highly detailed, expressive graphite artwork, I trust Faber-Castell pencils to bring my vision to life. Renowned for their exceptional quality and consistency, Faber-Castell’s 9000 series offers a full range of grades that allow me to capture everything from the softest shadows to the sharpest highlights with precision. For even deeper, richer darks, I turn to Faber-Castell Pitt black pencils—engineered to deliver exceptional intensity and velvety, matte blacks that add powerful contrast and emotional depth to my work. Their smooth texture, break-resistant cores, and deep pigment performance make them essential tools for professional artists who demand both subtlety and strength. Whether I’m crafting delicate details, bold contrasts, or fine lines, Faber-Castell remains a cornerstone of my creative process.
arches water colourpaper
For my graphite and mixed media drawings, I rely on Arches 300gsm hot-pressed paper. Its smooth, luxurious surface is ideal for capturing intricate pencil work and subtle tonal shifts. Handmade in France using 100% cotton, Arches paper provides unparalleled durability and archival quality, ensuring each piece can stand the test of time. The tight grain holds fine details beautifully without smudging, allowing me to layer graphite for both soft gradients and sharp, high-contrast elements. When precision matters, Arches paper is the canvas that never lets me down. That said I also make use of 300gsm Fabriano Hot Pressed Extra White Artistico Paper.
blending tools
Bringing Life to Every Stroke. Achieving smooth transitions and lifelike depth in my drawings requires more than just great pencils—it demands control over the subtleties of shading. I use a range of blending tools, including high-quality paper stumps, tortillons, and soft brushes. These allow me to soften hard edges, create rich gradients, and bring out the softness in fur, skin, and natural textures. Proper blending enhances realism and emotion in my work, and every stroke is carefully considered to maintain the integrity of the original pencil marks.
precision erasers
Drawing with Light. In graphite work, erasers aren't just for corrections—they're powerful drawing tools. I use precision erasers like the Faber-Castell Perfection and kneadable erasers to lift highlights, sharpen details, and sculpt light into the composition. Whether it’s creating the glint in an animal’s eye, the delicate edge of a petal, or dramatic contrast in a high-contrast portrait, the right eraser allows me to "draw backward," adding dynamic energy and depth to my art.
the importance of sharpness
Precision from first line to final detail. In fine art drawing, maintaining razor-sharp pencil points is crucial for achieving intricate textures and clean, deliberate lines. I rely on a combination of professional manual sharpeners with adjustable blade tension and fine-grit sanding blocks to keep my pencils in peak condition throughout every session. For heavier use and studio work, I also trust the X-Acto Mighty Pro Sharpener—its consistent, precise sharpening helps extend the life of my pencils while ensuring a perfectly honed tip. Keeping every pencil sharp guarantees that every mark, whether a delicate strand of fur or a bold shadow contour, is intentional and enhances the realism and impact of the final piece.
acrylics & oils
When it comes to my oil and acrylic supplies, I trust only the best—sourcing my paints, brushes, and mediums primarily from Deckled Edge and the Art Savers Club. These trusted suppliers offer high-quality, artist-grade materials that support both the precision and vibrancy I seek in every piece. From richly pigmented oil paints to buttery-smooth acrylics, I carefully select each tool to ensure consistency, longevity, and depth of color. Working with top-tier supplies not only elevates my creative process but ensures that every artwork I create stands the test of time