Charcoal Art

Includes vine charcoal sticks, compressed charcoal pencils, and a kneaded eraser — everything you need to try all the core charcoal techniques in one box.

Large newsprint or drawing paper gives you room to work boldly. Look for 50-sheet pads — you'll go through paper fast when practicing blending and hatching.

Spray between layers to lock in charcoal and keep it from smearing. "Workable" fixative lets you still draw on top — great for building up complex pieces.