Why I Use Matt Graphite for Deep, Realistic Blacks
Quick Summary( for Beginners & Artists )
-
Regular graphite becomes shiny and reflective in dark areas
-
Matt graphite absorbs light instead of reflecting it
-
This creates deeper, true blacks
-
Stronger contrast makes drawings look more realistic
-
It’s easier to photograph artwork without glare
-
You can combine Matt graphite with normal pencils for best results
-
Watch and Learn:
- Smooth Shading with a Stump (🎥Watch Video)
- Drawing Dots & Textures Using a Blending Stump (🎥Watch Video)
- How to Clean a Blending Stump (🎥Watch Video)
- Sneak Peek from My Drawings (🎥Watch Video)
See the Difference: Regular vs Matt Graphite
Left: Regular graphite shows shine and lighter blacks
Right: Matt graphite creates deeper, non-reflective blacks
The Problem with Regular Graphite
Most standard pencils contain shiny graphite. When light hits dark areas of a drawing, it reflects back, creating a silvery effect. This makes shadows look lighter than intended and can reduce the depth and realism of the artwork.
This effect becomes more noticeable when viewing the drawing from different angles or when trying to photograph it.
What Makes Matt Graphite Different
Matt graphite is specially designed to absorb light rather than reflect it. Because of this, dark areas stay dark even under strong lighting.
I use Faber-Castell Pitt Graphite Matt, especially the 12B and 14B, because they produce rich, deep blacks that don’t shine.
Understanding the “B” Scale
The letter B stands for blackness.
The higher the number, the darker the pencil.
Most artists stop at 8B, but Matt graphite goes beyond that, allowing much deeper tones while still keeping control and clarity.
Why Deeper Blacks Improve Realism
When shadows are truly dark, highlights appear brighter by comparison. This contrast helps shapes look more three-dimensional and gives drawings more life and depth — especially in portraits and animal fur.
Full Video: How to Use, Draw with and Clean Blending Stumps + Sneak Peek from My Drawings
Want to see blending stumps in action? Watch the complete tutorial video below to learn how to use, clean, and even draw with this versatile tool — along with real-time examples from my own drawings.
Cleaner Drawing Experience
Matt graphite feels smooth on paper and tends to stay more stable while working. This helps reduce accidental smudging and keeps details cleaner, especially in areas that require precision.
Using Matt and Regular Graphite Together
You don’t need to replace all your pencils.
A practical approach is:
-
-
use regular graphite for light and mid tones
-
use Matt graphite only for the darkest shadows
-
This combination creates depth while keeping smooth transitions.
Final Thoughts
Matt graphite is a simple change that can make a noticeable difference. It helps achieve deeper blacks, stronger contrast, cleaner results, and better photos — all without changing your drawing style.
