Graphite pencil KOH-I-NOOR 1860/5B — soft 5B writing/drawing pencil

KOH-I-NOOR graphite pencil 1860/5B is a soft 5B writing and drawing pencil intended for producing dark, blendable lines and rich tonal shading. The pencil features a soft graphite core that lays down dense, even strokes suitable for sketching, shading and detailed illustration. The product is designed for both artistic and everyday writing tasks that require a soft lead with good responsiveness to pressure and erasing.

Advantages

The soft 5B core provides deep, consistent black tones and smooth gradation for shading. The pencil’s lead responds well to varying pressure, allowing fine lines and dense fills with a single tool. Its construction ensures uniform laydown and reliable erasability for corrections and adjustments. Compact and familiar pencil form makes it easy to handle for prolonged drawing sessions or quick notes.

Suitable for

• Sketching and figure drawing
• Shading and tonal studies
• Illustration and concept art
• Hand lettering and expressive writing
• Student drawing exercises and classroom use

Key specifications

• Lead grade: 5B (soft)
• Core type: graphite
• Primary use: writing and drawing
• Line quality: dark, blendable, smooth
• Suitable surfaces: drawing paper, sketch pads, mixed-media paper
• Format: wooden pencil

How to use

Hold the pencil at different angles to vary stroke width and tonal value: a pointed tip produces fine lines while a flatter angle produces broader, softer marks. Apply light pressure for delicate shading and increase pressure for darker, saturated areas. Use a kneaded or vinyl eraser for selective lifting of graphite without damaging the paper. Sharpen with a quality sharpener to maintain a consistent tip that suits the intended technique.

Usage recommendations

For best results when shading large areas, work from light to dark and blend gradually using a blending stump or tissue. Store the pencil in a dry place and avoid dropping it to reduce the risk of core breakage. Pair the 5B pencil with harder grades (HB, 2H) for detailed line work and with softer grades (6B–9B) if even darker tones are required.