Pros
Vibrant and full colors
Blend smoothly
Can be activated with water for watercolor effects
Easy to layer without disturbing previous layers
Available in 72 distinct colors with potential for more
Mostly light-fast
Pencils are creamy and smooth
Color names and numbers on pencils for easy identification
Can be used on various surfaces, including watercolor paper
Suitable for both beginners and professionals
Versatile usage in art, including doll customization
Cons
Expensive
Tin box does not stay closed securely
Colors can be blotchy without water activation
Main Product Advantages
10 Blending and Vibrancy
Users found the colors of Derwent Inktense pencils to be fuller, more vibrant, and excellent at blending compared to other brands. Most reviewers praised the pencils for their ability to create vivid and smooth color transitions.
10 Water Activation
The standout feature of these pencils is their water-soluble nature. Users discovered that adding water to the drawings made with these pencils made the colors 'jump off the page,' resulting in bright, vivid art.
9 Layering and Permanency
Derwent Inktense pencils are appreciated for their ability to layer without reactivating previous layers, allowing for complex and rich artwork. Once dry, the pigment remains permanent.
9 Color Range
The product features 72 distinct colors, with some users desiring an even wider range. Additional colors are available individually, allowing artists to expand their palette over time.
8 Pencil Build Quality
The pencils have well-centered leads, sharpen easily, and retain their sharpness. Despite mixed feelings about initial impressions, many users found the quality satisfactory upon prolonged usage.
8 Durability and Lightfastness
Most reviewers mentioned that the colors are mostly lightfast and maintain their vividness over time, which is especially important for professional work.
7 Ease of Use
While initial use may seem disappointing to some, most users found the pencils easy to handle once they understood their full potential, especially with water activation.
7 Price and Value
Though the initial cost is relatively high, users found the pencils to be worth the investment for the quality and effects they offer. Buying individual pencils to complete a set is recommended for long-term cost efficiency.
6 Packaging
The pencils come in a metal tin with two trays, but the packaging is frequently mentioned as being less durable, with some users finding the lid insufficiently secure.
Derwent Coloured Pencils, Inktense Ink Pencils, Drawing, Art, Metal Tin, 72 Count (2301843) (Packaging May Vary)
Ideal for Illustrators, Designers, and Students
Derwent Inktense Pencils are perfect for illustrators, designers, and students looking for high-quality art materials. The round, 4mm soft lead core allows for a quick laydown of smooth colour, producing a vibrant finish suitable for bold and expressive drawings.
Water Soluble Pigments
The water soluble pigments in these pencils can be used to create expressive drawings or mixed with water to achieve a bright, translucent ink-like effect. The pigments dry quickly, eliminating worries about colour bleeding and making them ideal for colour layering.
Versatile Usage on Various Surfaces
The permanent nature of the colours when dried makes Derwent Inktense Pencils great for use on fabrics such as silk or cotton, in addition to being easily usable on paper. This versatility allows artists to modify their usage to fit any project.
Customizable Colour Options
You can create custom shades by mixing colours together or obtain lighter shades of the same colour by adding water. This flexibility allows for the creation of truly unique pieces of art, tailored to the artist's vision.
Heritage and Quality
With a heritage dating back to 1832, Derwent understands the needs of artists. The company's commitment to innovation and quality is evident in its range of art materials, many of which are made in their British manufacturing plant.
Conclusion
Derwent Inktense Pencils offer a versatile and high-quality option for artists of all levels. Whether you're illustrating, designing, or working on textile art, these pencils provide vibrant, easily blendable colours that dry permanently. With a rich heritage and a commitment to quality, Derwent continues to be a reliable choice for art materials.
