When it comes to pencils, not all graphite is created equal. The kind of work you're planning to do — whether it's precise technical drawing or free-flowing journalling — can be hugely influenced by the grade of graphite you choose. Blackwing pencils are renowned for offering four distinct graphite grades, each engineered for a different kind of creative work. In this guide, we'll walk you through every core Blackwing pencil, what makes each one unique, and how to choose the right one for you. And if you're looking for something a little more special, we'll cover the Blackwing Volumes limited edition range too.
Blackwing Natural Pencil - Extra-Firm
The Blackwing Natural is the firmest pencil in the core range, and it shows in all the right ways. Its exposed incense-cedar barrel gives it a beautiful, raw aesthetic — and its extra-firm graphite core holds a sharp point longer than any other Blackwing. If you work in a disciplined, detail-focused way and hate the interruption of constant sharpening, this is the one for you. It produces a lighter, crisper line that's ideal for anything that demands precision.
What's it best for?
- Technical drawing and architectural sketching
- Precise, detailed work
- Crossword puzzles, notation, and fine lettering
- Those who dislike frequent sharpening
Blackwing 602 Pencil - Firm
The Blackwing 602 is arguably the most iconic pencil in the range — and with good reason. Its slogan, "half the pressure, twice the speed," neatly sums up its firm-but-smooth graphite core that glides across the page without sacrificing point retention. It's a favourite of writers in particular, and has a long list of famous admirers from Steinbeck to Stephen Sondheim. If you want one Blackwing pencil that does everything well, this is it.
What's it best for?
- Everyday writing and journalling
- Sketching with definition and detail
- Those who want the classic Blackwing experience
- Writers who spend long hours at the page
Blackwing Pearl Pencil - Balanced Graphite
The Blackwing Pearl sits neatly in the middle of the graphite spectrum — not as firm as the 602, not as soft as the Matte — making it the most versatile Blackwing pencil of the four. Its balanced graphite core handles writing and sketching with equal ease, and the elegant white barrel with gold ferrule makes it one of the best-looking pencils in the range too. If you move between writing and drawing in the same session, the Pearl is your ideal companion.
What's it best for?
- Mixed use — writing and sketching in the same session
- Bullet journalling and planning
- Those new to Blackwing who want a great all-rounder
- Creative professionals who do a bit of everything
Blackwing Matte Pencil - Soft
The Blackwing Matte is the darkest, softest pencil in the core range. Its deep matte black finish is striking on the desk, and its soft graphite core responds beautifully to pressure — press gently for delicate shading, lean in for bold, expressive lines. It's the most expressive of the four Blackwing pencils, and the one most artists and illustrators reach for when they want maximum visual impact on the page. Worth noting: being the softest, it will need sharpening more frequently than the others.
What's it best for?
- Artistic sketching and illustration
- Shading, tonal work, and expressive mark-making
- Creating bold, dark lines with minimal effort
- Artists who want the most dramatic graphite experience
Blackwing Volumes — Limited Edition Pencils
If the core range isn't enough, Blackwing Volumes takes things to another level entirely. Four times a year, Blackwing releases a limited edition pencil that pays tribute to a cultural icon, historical moment, or creative movement — and once they're gone, they're gone for good. Past editions have celebrated everyone from Jerry Garcia to Frank Lloyd Wright, with each pencil featuring a unique design and a carefully chosen graphite grade that fits the subject matter. We stock a curated selection of current and recent Volumes at The Journal Shop, including the stunning Vol. 574 tribute to Native American art and the Vol. 710 Jerry Garcia edition. If you're a collector, or just want something a little more special on your desk, the Volumes range is well worth exploring.
Selecting a Blackwing pencil doesn't have to be a daunting task. Think about what you need — precision, versatility, expressiveness, or a touch of collector's magic — and there's a Blackwing graphite grade perfectly tailored for that need. Happy writing and sketching!
