7 Practical Ways to Save Money on Pencils for Sketching

Daisie Team -

Contents

  1. Buy in bulk
  2. Look for sales and discounts
  3. Choose multi-purpose pencils
  4. Reconsider expensive brands
  5. Take care of your pencils
  6. Reuse and recycle
  7. Shop online

If you're someone who loves to sketch, you'll know that pencils can often be the unsung heroes of your art. And, like any hero, they can sometimes run out of steam - or in this case, lead - faster than we'd like. As a fellow sketching enthusiast, I know how quickly the costs can add up. So, how can you save money on pencils for sketching? I've got you covered. Here are 7 practical ways to stretch your pencil budget without compromising on quality.

Buy in Bulk

Picture this: you're in the middle of sketching a beautiful landscape when suddenly, your favorite pencil runs out of lead. You reach for a new one, but alas, you've run out. Now imagine if you had a whole pack of those pencils waiting in the wings. Not only would it save you the heartbreak of a halted sketch session, but it could also save you some serious cash. Here's how:

  • Lower cost per pencil: When you buy pencils in bulk, you're essentially buying at wholesale prices. This means the cost per pencil can be significantly less than if you were to buy them individually. For example, a single Derwent Graphic Pencil might cost you around $1.50, but if you were to buy a set of 12, it could cost you less than $1.20 per pencil.
  • Less trips to the store: The more pencils you have, the less often you'll need to go out and buy more. This saves you not only money but also precious time that you could be using to sketch.
  • Future-proofing: Sketching trends and techniques can change, but the need for good-quality pencils never does. Buying in bulk means you're well-prepared for any sketching adventure that comes your way.

So, next time you're wondering how to save money on pencils for sketching, consider buying in bulk. You'll keep your wallet happy — and your sketches even happier.

Look for Sales and Discounts

Who doesn't love a good sale? When it comes to saving money on pencils for sketching, timing is everything. Sales and discounts can be a great way to snag high-quality pencils without breaking the bank.

  • Stay Alert: Keep an eye on your favorite art supply stores. Many of them hold sales throughout the year. Even a 10% to 20% discount can make a big difference, especially if you're buying in bulk. Remember the Derwent Graphic Pencils we discussed earlier? Imagine getting those at a discounted rate!
  • Holiday Sales: Holidays are often a great time to find deals. Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Boxing Day, and even back-to-school periods can offer significant savings. A pack of Faber-Castell pencils at half price? Now that's a steal!
  • Loyalty Programs: Many stores offer loyalty programs that reward you with points for every purchase. These points can then be redeemed for discounts on future purchases. It's a win-win!

So, the next time you're wondering how to save money on pencils for sketching, keep your eyes peeled for sales and discounts. You might be surprised at just how much you can save!

Choose Multi-Purpose Pencils

Not all pencils are created equal. Some are made specifically for sketching, while others are designed for a variety of uses. When it comes to saving money, multi-purpose pencils can be your best friend.

  • Versatility: Multi-purpose pencils, like the Staedtler Mars Lumograph, can be used for sketching, shading, and even writing. This means you won't need to buy different sets of pencils for different tasks, saving you money in the long run.
  • Quality: Despite their versatility, multi-purpose pencils do not compromise on quality. They provide a wide range of hardness levels, from soft for sketching to hard for technical drawing. So, even if you're working on a detailed sketch, a multi-purpose pencil can handle it with ease.
  • Ease: Using multi-purpose pencils can simplify your art supplies. You won't need to switch between different types of pencils, making your sketching process smoother and more enjoyable.

So, when thinking about how to save money on pencils for sketching, consider giving multi-purpose pencils a try. They might just become your new favorite sketching tool!

Reconsider Expensive Brands

Let's face it—brand names can be alluring. They promise quality, consistency, and that certain 'wow' factor. But when your goal is to figure out how to save money on pencils for sketching, it's worthwhile to reconsider expensive brands.

  • Quality Vs Price: Higher price doesn't always mean superior quality. Many affordable brands, like Prismacolor and Faber-Castell, offer excellent sketching pencils that rival more expensive options.
  • Needs over Fame: Consider your needs rather than the brand's fame. For instance, if you sketch occasionally or are just starting out, an affordable brand might serve you just as well as a pricier one.
  • Experiment: Don't be afraid to experiment with different brands. You might discover that a less well-known, more affordable brand suits your sketching style perfectly.

Remember, the best pencil for you is the one that meets your specific needs and fits your budget. So, don't let brand names dictate your choice. When it comes to saving money on sketching pencils, it's about the value, not the price tag.

Take Care of Your Pencils

Ever heard the old adage, "Take care of your pennies, and your dollars will take care of themselves?" When figuring out how to save money on pencils for sketching, the same principle applies—take good care of your pencils, and your savings will add up.

  • Store Properly: Store your pencils in a pencil case or holder to prevent them from breaking or getting lost. A simple tip, but it goes a long way in prolonging the life of your pencils.
  • Sharpen Carefully: Sharpen your pencils with a good quality sharpener, and do it gently. Over-sharpening wastes precious graphite and shortens the life of your pencil.
  • Use Completely: Don’t discard pencils when they become short. They can still serve you well. Consider getting a pencil extender, which allows you to use the pencil right down to the stump.

Remember, treating your sketching pencils with a little respect can significantly extend their lifespan. This means you'll need to replace them less often, leading to more money in your pocket. It's a win-win!

Reuse and Recycle

Have you ever considered the potential treasures hiding in your trash? When you're thinking about how to save money on pencils for sketching, don't overlook the possibility of reusing and recycling. This approach not only saves you money but also contributes to a more sustainable world. How's that for an added bonus?

  • Reuse Old Pencils: Those half-used pencils you've found at the bottom of your bag? They're still perfectly good for sketching. Don't be too quick to throw them out!
  • Recycle: If you have any old pencils that are no longer usable, you can recycle them or even upcycle them into new items. There are many creative ways to give old pencils new life, from making pencil holders to creating art pieces.
  • Return to the Store: Some art stores offer recycling programs for used pencils. They can give you a discount or credit towards your next purchase. Why not give it a try?

With a little creativity and effort, you can extend the life of your pencils and make every penny count. So, next time you're about to throw away a used-up pencil, think twice. Could it be repurposed, recycled, or returned for a discount? If the answer is yes, you'll be taking another step towards saving money on your sketching supplies.

Shop Online

As we wind down our list of ways to save money on pencils for sketching, let's visit the digital marketplace. Shopping online has become a convenient and often cheaper alternative to physical stores, especially for art supplies.

  • Compare Prices: One of the biggest advantages of online shopping is the ability to compare prices from different vendors at a click. This allows you to find the best deals for your sketching pencils without leaving your home.
  • Online Sales: Keep an eye out for sales and discounts on e-commerce platforms. They frequently offer deals that can significantly reduce the cost of your art supplies. Remember to set a reminder for big sale events like Black Friday or Cyber Monday.
  • Budget-Friendly Brands: Not all great sketching pencils come from high-end brands. Many affordable brands offer quality pencils that won't break the bank. Use online reviews and ratings to help you make an informed decision.

So, before you make a trip to the nearest art store, why not check out what online shopping has to offer? With a little research and patience, you might find exactly what you need at a price that makes your wallet smile. Now, isn't that a practical answer to how to save money on pencils for sketching?

If you're interested in making the most out of your sketching materials, we recommend checking out the workshop 'Top Tips For Sketchbook Studies' by Rachelle Meyer. This workshop will not only help you save money on pencils but also provide valuable insights and techniques to improve your sketchbook practices. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your sketching skills!