Reddit mentions: The best standard pencil erasers
We found 99 Reddit comments discussing the best standard pencil erasers. We ran sentiment analysis on each of these comments to determine how redditors feel about different products. We found 38 products and ranked them based on the amount of positive reactions they received. Here are the top 20.
1. STAEDTLER Mars Plastic, Premium Quality Vinyl Eraser, White, Latex-free, Age-resistant, Minimal Crumbling (526 50 BK) (single pack)
- Premium quality white vinyl eraser for first-class erasing performance!
- Erasers individually packaged with protective cellophane wrapper and sliding sleeve for convenient handling
- Best erasing performance with minimal crumbling and no discoloration of eraser on paper
- Phthalate and latex free eraser, Made in Germany
- Sharp corners are perfect for cleaning up small areas with little wear!
- Item is a single pack of 4 erasers
Features:
Specs:
Color | Blue |
Height | 0.05 inches |
Length | 2.88 inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | January 2011 |
Size | 4 Count (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 1.25 Pounds |
Width | 7.13 inches |
2. Prismacolor Premier Kneaded Rubber Eraser, Large, 1 Pack
Designed to both highlight and cleanly erase chalks, charcoal, pastels and colored pencilsPremium rubber eraser molds easily into the size and space of what you’re erasingClean the eraser by gently kneading it in your handLarge eraser measures 1-3/4-inch x 1-1/4-inch
Specs:
Color | Multicolor |
Height | 0.2 Inches |
Length | 1.3 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | January 1996 |
Size | Large (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 0.42 Pounds |
Width | 1.1 Inches |
3. Staedtler Mars Latex-Free Eraser, White, 1 Pack (STD52650)
- Latex-free plastic eraser
- Formula offers significantly less crumbling
- Eraser comes in a handy slide sleeve for convenient handling.
Features:
Specs:
Color | Multicolor |
Height | 1 Inches |
Length | 2.7 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | August 2019 |
Size | 1 Piece |
Weight | 0.03 Pounds |
Width | 1 Inches |
4. Sakura Arch Evolutional Foam Erasers, 5-Pack, White (Japan Imported)
Specs:
Number of items | 0 |
5. Magic Rub 1954 Block Eraser
SAN73201Sanford, L.P.Sanford Magic-Rub Eraser
Specs:
Height | 0 Inches |
Length | 0 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Weight | 0.05 Pounds |
Width | 0 Inches |
6. Design Kneaded Rubber Eraser Extra Large (SAN70532)- Sold Individually
- 70532
Features:
Specs:
Color | Gray |
Height | 4.3 Inches |
Length | 2.5 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 1 Count (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 0.06 Pounds |
Width | 2.3 Inches |
7. Paper Mate White Pearl Erasers, Large, 12 Count
100 latex free and smudge resistant eraser to keep your pages freshClean finish is perfect for exams, essays and everyday writing a trusted choice for standardized testsSharp corners and flat face help you erase both details and large areasClassic design is ideal for everyone from students to seriou...
Specs:
Color | White |
Height | 1.8 Inches |
Length | 3.2 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 12 Count (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 0.64 Pounds |
Width | 2.7 Inches |
8. NPW Unicorn Tape Dispenser
A MAGICAL DESK ACESSORY: Unicorn-shaped tape dispenser with 2 rolls of rainbow tapeDIMENSIONS: Measures 6 x 5. 25-InchesA MAGESTIC SIGHT TO BEHOLD: Stands proudly on your desk with his golden horn and glorious multi-colored tail and maneFOR BIG AND LITTLE KIDS: Suitable for ages 8 and upSOMETHI...
Specs:
Color | Rainbow Tape Dispenser |
Height | 5.24 Inches |
Length | 5.91 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | September 2016 |
Size | 72 |
Weight | 0.01763698096 Pounds |
Width | 1.81 Inches |
9. Paper Mate Black Pearl Premium Erasers
- This classic premium eraser easily removes pencil marks.
- 100% latex free compound is easy to maneuver and does not tear paper.
- For everyone from students to serious artists.
- Eraser is self-cleaning and smudge resistant, so your paper stays clean.
Features:
Specs:
Color | Black |
Height | 5 Inches |
Length | 0.55 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | February 2019 |
Size | 1-Pack |
Weight | 0.32 Pounds |
Width | 3.38 Inches |
10. PRISMACOLOR Design Eraser, 1224 Kneaded Rubber Eraser, Grey (70531) (3 Pack)
- Kneaded Rubber Art Eraser.
- Approx size 1-3/4" x 1-1/4" x 1/4"
- 3 count
Features:
Specs:
Color | Grey |
Height | 1 Inches |
Length | 4 Inches |
Number of items | 3 |
Size | Large (Pack of 3) |
Weight | 0.1 pounds |
Width | 1.54 Inches |
11. Prismacolor Premier Kneaded, ArtGum and Plastic Erasers, 3 Pack
Three premium erasers to help you tackle any erasing task: a kneaded rubber, an ArtGum and latex-free-plastic eraserKneaded rubber eraser molds easily into the size and space of what you’re erasingArtGum eraser is designed to clean up dry media and absorb graphitePlastic eraser is latex-free and e...
Specs:
Color | Original Version |
Height | 6.5 Inches |
Length | 0.563 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | October 2020 |
Size | 3 Pack |
Weight | 0.13 Pounds |
Width | 3.5 Inches |
12. Prismacolor Peel-Off Magic Rub Eraser
Artwork Eraser - 1 Each - Beige
Specs:
Height | 0.8 Inches |
Length | 7 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Weight | 0.03 Pounds |
Width | 2.4 Inches |
13. 2 X PRISMACOLOR DESIGN Eraser, 1224 Kneaded Rubber Eraser Large, Grey (70531)
Kneaded rubber molds into any shape.Leaves surfaces smooth and bright.Perfect for pencil, charcoal and chalk.Also for shading and blending.
14. Kikkerland Scented Erasers, Milk Cartons (ER05)
- Five lightly scented erasers in fun "milk cartons" packaging
- Scents include fruit juice, strawberry, grape, chocolate, and milk
- Bring these fun erasers to school or workplace
- Fun and useful
- Measures 1 by 1 by 2-inches
Features:
Specs:
Color | Assorted |
Height | 1 Inches |
Length | 1 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Weight | 0.1322773572 Pounds |
Width | 2 Inches |
15. Faber-Castell Kneaded Eraser with Case, Grey
Quality – ergonomically shaped quality eraser for soft corrections, which is smudge and PVC-freeKNEADABLE – This eraser is extremely kneadable and absorbent. It can be used for cleaning slides, and final drawing touch-ups.Ideal – This eraser is ideal for graphite and coloured pencils. It is th...
Specs:
Color | Grey |
Height | 0.5905511805 Inches |
Length | 1.9291338563 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | One Size |
Weight | 0.0661386786 Pounds |
Width | 1.9291338563 Inches |
16. Staedtler Mars Plastic Eraser Refillable Holder, Includes Eraser (52850BK),Blue
Keep it clean, people! Our refillable eraser holder + stick eraser is ready for smooth, smudge-free correction, no smearing or tearingHome? School? Office? Artist? Yes to them all -- this retractable eraser is up to any of those jobs and moreRefillable for economical, infinite uses, the handy clip o...
Specs:
Color | Blue |
Height | 0.5 Inches |
Length | 7.8 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | May 2020 |
Size | 1 Count (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 0.02 Pounds |
Width | 0.9 Inches |
17. General Pencil CO. GPBM2-BP Factis Pen Style Eraser Carded
It remains our goal to earn your trust through the traditional way we do businessDarice has always been committed to offering customers the lowest prices on its extensive selection of productsManufactured in SpainPackage dimensions : 0.51 inches (H) x 8.21 inches (L) x 2.61 inches (W)
Specs:
Color | White |
Height | 0.5 Inches |
Length | 8.2 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Weight | 0.04 Pounds |
Width | 2.6 Inches |
18. Pentel Hi-Polymer Block Eraser, Black, 3 Pack (ZEAH06BP3)
Trendy, black, and latex-freeLifts graphite lead particles off paper easily and completelySoft, non-abrasive block eraser won't scuff, smear or tear writing surfaceLeaves a clean surface with virtually no eraser "crumbs"
Specs:
Color | Black |
Height | 2.375 Inches |
Length | 0.75 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 3 Pack |
Width | 7.375 Inches |
19. Electric Erasers, Electric Eraser with 140 Refills, Battery Operated Eraser, Electric Eraser Kit for Artists, Art Pencils, Drawing, Painting, Sketching, Drafting, Detailer Tool for Crafting-White
【Newest Design with 2 Eraser Sizes】Our electric eraser includes 2 eraser holders to hold both φ2.3mm and φ5mm erasers. Use the bigger one to create thick highlights and the smaller one to erase tiny parts like hair. Ideal for artists and professionals.【Eletric Eraser Kit】 The electric eras...
Specs:
Color | White |
Number of items | 140 |
Size | 140 Refills |
20. Tombow Mono Dust Catch Eraser
Catch eraser dust as you erase with this tacky polymer eraserEraser residue sticks to the eraser preventing small eraser bits being left behindPrevents damage illustrations, designs or technical drawingsProtective paper sleeve with rounded corner edges keeps sleeve from tearing during use
Specs:
Color | White |
Height | 0.43 Inches |
Length | 2.17 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Weight | 0.02 Pounds |
Width | 0.91 Inches |
🎓 Reddit experts on standard pencil erasers
The comments and opinions expressed on this page are written exclusively by redditors. To provide you with the most relevant data, we sourced opinions from the most knowledgeable Reddit users based the total number of upvotes and downvotes received across comments on subreddits where standard pencil erasers are discussed. For your reference and for the sake of transparency, here are the specialists whose opinions mattered the most in our ranking.
If you're looking at learning drawing, I recommend starting with learning perspective. Start with 1-point perspective and you can advance from there up to 3-point or whatever you think is necessary, but they are all basically the same.
This is a fundamental that you will use with almost all your drawing. There are numerous free tutorials online for you to learn from but it is pretty basic so once you understand the concepts the most important thing is practice.
Once you understand perspective you can draw things like buildings, building interiors, landscapes, cities, etc.
When you want to learn to draw people, one of the best things you can do is get books by masters. Andrew Loomis, Burne Hogarth (Dynamic Figure Drawing, Dynamic Anatomy), George Bridgman (complete guide to drawing from life), each of these guys have several books that are very popular and for good reason, I've listed a few but check out all their books if you get the chance. Use these books to understand proportion of the human body, and learn basic anatomy. Draw the pictures in the book as studies and this will help you understand.
Now for materials what I recommend is a sketch book with decent paper (I'll talk a little more about this in a second) like this one here.
Get a pencil set with different hardnesses like this one (hardness range from 8+h on the hard side to HB which is mid hardness to 9+B on the soft side. The softer the graphite, the darker of a mark it's going to leave. You can generally stick to HB and softer, especially for now. It's best to just use traditional pencils opposed to mechanical pencils unless you're just doing line work.
Get a soft kneaded eraser like this or any other one will work fine
Pencil sharpener any one will do.
Now when you've got your supplies and want to do shading, you want to start with your hard graphite (H) first. You want to work with the "tooth" of the paper, so you want to make sure not to apply too much pressure to the paper with the pencils and the eraser. Be gentle because if you press too hard or are too rough you will crush the tooth of the paper and your graphite will become shiny. If you crush the tooth it will also make erasing very difficult. When you want to make the shadows darker you then use the same pressure but with a softer pencil, working your way up the softness scale until you are happy with your value.
The other thing about paper tooth is that it will let you draw different textures. For example if you start with a hard graphite (H), the texture you draw will be very smooth, like a skin texture or other smooth surface like a window or a counter top. If you start with a very soft graphite (B), the texture you draw will be rough looking like the surface of a rock. I hope this makes sense.
There are lots of free tutorials online. For technique a good one I found that talks about a lot of the things I mentioned is the "5 pencil method" youtube channel. If you watch some of those videos you will understand much better. If you start with these materials and all the resources I've mentioned you will be busy for quite a while.
Try to practice every day even if it's only for 10 minutes. Setting aside the time and putting in the effort to practice is often more difficult and important for your progress than the practice itself.
This is the best advice I can give to you so I hope it helps.
Well, here's a list of items you'll find useful if you decide it's something you might like to pursue.
Round pegbar - get one and tape it to your desk, get another and tape it to your scanner and you'll have a very easy time keeping sheets of paper aligned. Shipping on these is expensive but I couldn't find any other place that sells them. You might be able to 3d print a couple if you have 3d printer access.
Three hole punch - anything that punches holes of the right diameter (1/4 inch) reliably with the same spacing of the pegbar is fine. You probably already have one of these.
Scanner - any scanner that fits letter paper is fine. You probably already have one of these, and if you don't you might be able to use one at a library.
Paper - cheap paper is ideal. This is the cheapest that I know of at $2 for 500 sheets but copy paper isn't hard to find for a reasonable price. Get 2 reams or a big old box. You'll go through it faster than you'd think if you want to make an animation of any meaningful length.
Pencils - It'll be easiest if you have two kinds, but the most important kind is a regular old 2B or 4B pencil. Staedtler Mars Lumographs are the best but really you can use whatever pencil you find around the house, lying on the street, and so on for practice. If you really get into it and you need a lot of pencils, you should get these. The other kind you'll want is a light blue or light green colored pencil. You can use the colored pencil to lay down really rough, quick sketches for each frame and do a refined, accurate drawing for each frame with the regular old pencil. Then, when you scan the frames in color, you can remove the colored pencil marks using a technique similar to this. I'd probably use Blender for this because it's easier to remove the blue lineswith the whole image sequence. If you need help figuring out how to do this efficiently you can PM me and I'll give you a comprehensive tutorial. After the non-photo blue is removed you can take it into OpenToonz or Krita to colorize the animation if you wish.
Erasers - it's very important to have a high-quality eraser! I recommend these. They usually erase very cleanly unless you dug really hard into the paper when drawing.
Book - For animation, start with The Animator's Survival Kit. It's got lots of good information in it. Absolutely essential book. If you can't afford it, you can find illegal copies online.
For drawing instruction, visit /r/artfundamentals and do all of the exercises. It's fine to use pencils for the exercises as long as you use them like you'd use a pigment liner, that is, pressing just hard enough to get a reasonably dark line and correcting mistakes by incorporating them into your drawing, rather than with an eraser. For this reason I recommend getting and using up one pigment liner just so you can get used to how it feels to use them. Then you can do the rest of them with pencils if you want, since you know how to use a pencil like a pigment liner, or you can get an inexpensive fountain pen that will let you refill from fountain pen ink in a bottle, which can be extremely cost-effective as long as you don't get into the habit of buying lots of expensive pens and every ink color under the sun.
All in all, including the book and excluding the items that you probably already have (scanner, 3 hole punch) you're probably looking at around
I feel like I should warn you at this point before you spend any money that you'll need to either have or acquire a pathological tolerance for tedium if you want to be successful at animating and drawing. You'll definitely be going through at least a ream of drawings before you're any good. As long as you're OK with that, go for it.
For two pegbars, two reams of paper, a dozen good pencils, 4 good erasers you're looking at around $60. If you have some of this stuff around the house you might only need the pegbars, which is about $24. In any case I'd encourage you to buy the book I recommended if you can afford it. It's really helpful.
You're such a good friend! The best way to get a quality pack of colored pencils is through a coupon at Michaels. Michaels ALWAYS has a 40% off coupon on one regular priced item (I've never seen their colored pencils on sale, they're one of those companies where like half the store is always "40% off"). But anyway, go to the coupon section on their website, I believe you'll have to type in your zip code, find that coupon, and you'll be able to hold it up on your phone at checkout. Worst case scenario, ask them about this coupon at check out, or if they have any others you don't know about (I did this one time and got an additional 20% of my total purchase, sale items or not. You may also have to sign up to be a member for these additional ones, but the 40% of a regular priced item one is always there for anyone I believe)
And then you can get them a really nice set of Prismacolor pencils! If you want to get her a little basket of goodies that I think any artists would enjoy I'd suggest kneeded erasers , and then a quality pencil sharpener. If she works in colored pencils I bet she'd love a high quality sharpener, I believe Prismacolor sells some too. Or if you see a a heftier, steel looking one in that section, even if it's hand held it's nice to have.
When it comes to art materials artists can be so choosey, particularly about canvases and brushes. And I bet she'd also just love a giftcard. I love Michaels and Amazon for low to medium quality products I need, but I'm sure you have a locally owned art store that has the higher quality, more specific materials. I would die of happiness if someone gave me a giftcard to mine.
If you have any more questions dm me! Hope it goes well!
Many of my favorites have been discontinued or changed.
The Koh-i-Noor Rapidomatic was my primary pencil for my first 4 college years. I even bought a red and blue colored versions to put red and blue lead in, which was nice for graphs or occasional emphasis. Lovely pencils made in Japan. However, looking at the Amazon reviews they no longer make these, but instead something with the same name and general look, but using all new parts and process in China. You can taste the sadness in the reviews. It looks like people are happy with the Alvin Draftmatic which looks exactly like the Rapidomatic.
The Pilot Vanishing Point has been discontinued. Sad. My favorite pencil, made in Japan. See reviews on Amazon. I introduced a number of people to this, and many of them started using it as their primary pencil. My manager even questioned why I had spent $200 on pencils, when I explained I was ordering a couple of these for myself, asked around, and 10 others in the office said they wanted one or two as well (after trying mine). No drafting grip, and shorter, but really good weight, good feel, quality, and I could write well with them.
The Uni Kuru Toga is nice, but too lightweight and plastic for my taste. The price is hard to argue with. I wonder if the Roulette model would be better as it sounds like it might weigh more.
Dave's review site recommends the Staedtler 925-25. I've tried the 925-05 which is ok (my 11yo uses it) but not the 925-25.
If you have more money, the Rotring 600 and 800+ come highly recommended (lots of metal, high quality, made in Japan). I have never tried one, but I'll buy a 600 sometime soon.
For erasers, I use Staedtler Mars Plastic. They last forever -- I still have one from 1985 with more than half remaining and it works fine. I only bought more so the family can each have one of their own. My tips are (1) don't get oil on them or the paper, and get it off if you do. This means don't run your finger along the eraser part. It causes smearing. (2) erase flat if you can, to save sharp edges for fine work. If you always use the edges, then you won't have a sharp edge to change φ' to φ in the middle of an equation.
Welcome to the club! Great idea to work on your hand drawing. Sooo many people get good at computer graphics, but good hand graphics set you apart from the crowd and is something employers really look for.
You can go really over board with supplies, but i dont use a ton when i draw. Basic mechanical pencil, engineering scale, circle template, large and small triangles, t-square, fine liners (i use these), eraser (i like the gummy ones) and thats about it that i use regularly. You can buy a ton more if you plan on drafting everything by hand, but while its a great skill to have, general drafting is much easier in CAD. The marker standard where i live is chartpak AD markers. Might want to consider getting a set for a christmas present as they can be pricey.
I am learning a lot from doing the /r/ArtFundamentals lessons. Wish those existed a decade ago. Looking forward to hearing what supplies others recommend.
Well, heres some tools I like to use and/or think might be a good choice for someone:
For sketching and whatnot this
pencil set is good.
Also Erasers and Blenders are useful
Charcoal pencils are cool too, but maybe not the best starting point. heres a link anyway
Oh, and drawing paper
I realize all this is getting expensive so maybe its best to get her this drawing set. The quality isn't as high in these complete sets, but it does gives her a wide variety of tools to experiment with. (including coloring pencils) The paper sucks in this set, so I would still probably get that separately.
The same folks also make a beginners set of acrylic here. Which seems pretty cool. Again though, it would probably be a good idea to get more paper. I've used this acrylic paper and it seems to be pretty good.
Also, If you want, it might be better to go for watercolor over acrylic.
If so, here is some decent stuff:
Paint or Cheaper Paint
Brushes
Paper
Well, that's all that springs to mind. Let me know if you have any questions that I might be able to answer.
There's a lot of art pencil sets like this that you can find online or at art specialty stores like Michael's or Hobby Lobby that are good for beginning. Don't worry about the big pencil sets that have every grade available--you really don't need all that right away, and probably wouldn't use most of them anyway.
For pencils, I'd start with just a 2H, an HB or F, a 2B, and maybe a 4B. This gets you a decent range of light to dark. You can add in a layout or black colored pencil for when you want to go really dark.
Find yourself a white eraser or a kneaded eraser, a good sketchbook with 60 or 70lb paper (or copy paper like a printer uses is a super cheap alternative). I'd personally recommend drawing without an eraser at the ready for a while in order to train yourself to learn from any mistakes and to be more economical and thoughtful with your lines among other things.
When you get more confident using those tools, you can add in other pencil grades, blending tools (like a tortillon, stump, or chamois), or even graduate to charcoals.
I hope that helps with getting you going! Sometimes it's easy to get caught up in what we think we need in order to draw that we forget that the most important thing is to grab whatever you have at the ready along with a piece of paper and start drawing.
(Side note: I'm not selling anything and am unaffiliated with the products linked to-- they're just examples.)
I dont do too many field-fixes anymore... Im now in startup land where everything is shiny & new, and we get what we need.
 
My things that were stupid-useful that mostly haven't been listed so far:
Klein Tools electrician scissors - Most useful cutters ever. Take-a-finger-off sharp, cuts though thick cables, the top is great for straining phone / ethernet cable. A cable puller had a set, and he sold me on them in 30 seconds when he raked the wobbly cat5 strands across them, and they were perfectly straight. Would have been worth the $$ at twice the cost.
I replaced my mismatched tools in my bag w/ a iFixit toolkit when I needed to start buying new bits for iPads and the tri-lobes for macs. Ended up being about the same cost as those bits alone, and it had them, and a bunch of other stuff that was better then my cobbled together tools. The screwdriver is far-better made then the little plastic ones I had before. They have a new-toolkit, but I haven't used it.
A roll of Velcro ties Far more useful then zips. Use the scissors above to trim as needed.
Mars-eraser. Great for cleaning toner from printers, and cleaning up corroded connectors (first pass).
Melamine Sponge (aka Magic Eraser) - They clean up things nothing else does like the weird tint that macs wrist guards get from skin oil. Also great for getting toner off of the outside of printers. Also good for cleaning up cherry-coke from a $25k piece of sound gear.
Deoxit - You can use the cheap stuff that was like $5 a can at any automotive parts store, and that will work for most things. This is for more sensitive stuff. I used this repairing contacts in audio-control-surfaces, rebuilding DSLRs, etc. Its for when more then a mars-eraser is needed.
I'd love to hear what other folks are using. Ideally, I'd like a case that can fit a total of 16-20 fountain pens, but hopefully with a smaller footprint. The 96-slot Global Art Leather Pencil Case is almost perfect... but they changed their design since I bought mine and they now have only one loop per slot instead of two. (I utilize both loops for smaller things, like pencil leads, wax stamps, etc.)
My current case contains the following items, but as you can see I'm just about out of room!
---
Side A: Pencils
---
---
Side B: Fountain Pens
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At this point, I've used each pencil on at least one full section of Logic Games. Here's the exhaustive list:
Palomino Blackwing
Palomino Blackwing 602
Palomino Blackwing Pearl
Palomino Golden Bear Blue
Palomino Golden Bear Orange Jumbo #2
Palomino Forest Choice #2
Staedtler Norica
Staedtler Wopex
Mitsubishi 9850 HB
Mitsubishi Hi Uni HB
Dixon Ticonderoga
Dixon Ticonderoga Black
Dixon Tri-Conderoga
My First Ticonderoga
Caran d'Ache Grafwood H
Faber Castell 9000 B
General's Cedar Pointe #333 - 2HB
Musgrave Pencil Co. Test Scoring 100
I went ahead and put stars next to the models that performed best. Each had strengths and weaknesses, though the Mitsubishi Hi Uni HB and Mitsubishi 9850 HB stood out as first and second place finishers respectively.
No matter how well a pencil performed, I found the need to sharpen multiple times per section. All of the pencils chipped or broke at some point: some in ways that unremarkably altered performance, others hindering progress to the extent of chunks of lead flying out. I recommend avoiding this variance altogether by having at least six sharpened pencils prepared for each Logic Games section. Drawing some light squiggles before using the pencils in action can drastically lower the chances of breakage.
As mentioned earlier, I'm happy to give comprehensive reviews of each model or certain individuals if there is any significant interest. I'd like to review a few more models down the road (particularly Towbow pencils) so let me know if you have any particular requests.
I've tested a bunch of erasers as well! Far and away, the best erasers I tested were the Sakura Foam Arch, and the Uni Boxy. These imported models erase quickly and cleanly, even on LSAT-style "tissue paper."
I recommend bringing one of these to the test even if you're pursuing a no-erasing strategy; there's always a chance you mess up a LG diagram and want to start fresh. These erasers will make starting blank a breeze. I also tried cutting my erasers into rectangles that fit into the Blackwing ferrules so I can use them without putting down my pencil.
https://www.amazon.com/Sakura-Evolutional-Erasers-5-Pack-White/dp/B0174KSUVY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1499443427&sr=8-2&keywords=sakura+foam
Here's a link to the Sakura Foam Arch erasers. This pack that Amazon carries contains rather small erasers, so consider getting the larger varieties from JetPens if you intend to use these on the exam.
For pencils I recommend the Mitsubishi Uni pencils, they lay down smooth and the darks almost look like ink. They're a bit pricey, but I think they're worth it. The full set goes from 10H-10B.
Those are what I generally use for more finished pieces. For gesture drawings and more loose pieces I like to go in with a Prismacolor Ebony pencil or a 2mm lead holder. The lead holder is especially great if you have a hard time loosening up and being more gestural. It's fat lead makes it hard to go directly into small details and just lets you focus on the gesture. This is the one I use, but you can find cheaper ones in big art stores or online.
For erasers, I like using a Prismacolor Peel-Off Magic Rub. I'm not sure why they're so expensive on Amazon, but some art stores sell them for under two dollars a piece. I also like the Tombow Mono Zero eraser for small details like highlights on hair and eyes. And, of course, a kneaded eraser for effects like clouds, mist, texture, etc..
I'm still on the hunt for the perfect sketchbook. I'm more of a mixed media artist, so I need something that holds up to ink, acrylics, graphite, watercolor, marker and whatever random objects I find on the side of the road. I've tried several brands and types of paper, but nothing has given me what I want.
I'm a composer and have decided to stop using my computer program to compose and arrange. I want to handwrite anything that printed parts aren't required for.
The clarity of my scores have improved a lot from a few simple things:
-Using a ruler
-Using 4b pencil and sharpening it frequently
-Slower, more deliberate hand movements (I'm still impatient though!)
Some challenges I'm having are:
-Hand is too tight and gets tired after just 45 minutes or so
-Erasing accurately without smudging (using this )
-Consistent sizes with note heads, accidentals, and stem lengths
I have no idea if this is an appropriate post, but I love r/penmanship. I thought some of you guys might also be musicians and could offer some help. I don't consider my handwriting or notation aesthetically pleasing, but I hope that will come with time and practice. Thank you!
So, first I would like to say that I can see you are using the classics for reference - this is great! I highly recommend looking at Michelangelo. One thing to keep in mind when studying the masters (and when doing it yourself) is shading - think about how the shadows are causing the object to look 3-dimensional. So before we talk about anatomy, think about light source. If you look at your shading on this piece, I can't tell where the light is coming from. Getting your anatomy to appear 3D, even if its off, will greatly improve the overall feeling. So the areas here that appear flat to me especially are the knee, and the left arm (the figures right arm technically). A couple more practical tips- working with colored pencil is great - but its harder to erase, and you don't want to damage the paper. So, try to work light to dark in layers, and use a kneaded eraser . When erasing, do it as gently as you can (try blotting in instead of rubbing across the paper). Anyway, hope that helps. Good effort and keep going!
EDIT: Added some clarification on the kneaded eraser.
It looks like you are painting in watercolor? If so then I can give you some advice.
1: remember to have your drawing complete before you start painting, I made alot of mistakes thinking that could fix something later and when I started painting I had completely forgotten about the problem and would end up painting wonky anatomy and perspective, it seems like a basic thing to know but it's actually really hard to remember.
2: make sure you have the proper paper for painting, this is really important especially with watercolor I know people say materials don't make the artist but if you don't have the proper materials the paint won't work right moleskin watercolor is my go to sketch book you can even use things like oil and acrylic
Moleskine Art Plus Watercolor Album, A4, Black, Hard Cover (12 x 8.5) (Professional ... https://www.amazon.com/dp/8862931948/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_EbxLxb6SCGGCC
Here's another one that I use strictly for watercolor And inks
Bee Paper Super Deluxe Sketch Pad, 11-Inch by 14-Inch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0027A7AKE/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_TqxLxbXHJPFSQ
3: Draw lightly and with a moldeble eraser
Prismacolor Premier Kneaded Rubber Eraser, Large, 1 Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00006IFAJ/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_etxLxbGMBG12H
4: Remember to ALWAYS paint from light to dark, this is something I forget when I've been working in other mediums.
5: learn at least a little bit about the color wheel you'd be surprised at how far a little knowledge could take you, James Gurney has a blog with some great information for traditional media he works in watercolor, oil, and gouache.
http://gurneyjourney.blogspot.com/?m=1
7: you shouldn't be worried about what brushes you have yet however a brush I would highly recommend picking up a round number 8-10
http://www.dickblick.com/products/blick-studio-sable-brushes/
My husband and I are working on designing our next home at the moment so this would be super useful or these. The first is a really useful tool in figuring out what is and isn't going to work with spacing. The second is because I tend to make a lot of mistakes. A lot. I'm not very good at this stuff but I'm determined.
Thanks for being awesome and hosting this contest. But that's pretty normal for you ma'am.
I like 0.7 mm lead and I find that these feel the most comfortable in my hand. The most important thing for me, though, is a clean erase. I tend to have at least one of these on hand all the time.
My SO likes these. They're okay.
>Yeah I'm treating it as a project, so I will just mess around with it.
Sounds like a plan!
I've done the same (Found a dead copy of a game I'd already re-bought :P )
There's already some great advice here.
Here's some extra stuff I'd suggest:
(Feel free to skip this, Sometimes I prefer tinkering on my own too!)
I've heard using an artist's eraser, will work great, as they don't leave a film, or tiny crumbles behind.
Give it a try after those steps, if you can get the 'nintendo' logo to show property, then the contacts are good, and it can at least try to read the cart.
If after this, it still can't read the cart at all, there are more drastic options, I've heard people suggest sand paper, but I'd really say brass polish may be better.
-If after all that you still can't get it to show the logo, It's likley the game is dead. as it can't read the rom at all. As the logo is used for verification.
Issue: | Try:
---|---
Instant White Screen Crash| Reflow the mm1134 chip (maybe the rom too)
Graphical Glitches|Reflow the rom chip
Corrupted Undeleteable save (even with the battery removed)| Reflow the sram chip
Missing sprites entirely (Black boxes)| Reflow sram (Some say it could also be an MBC issue, may depend on the game.)
[GB/GBC chips diagram] (https://www.insidegadgets.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/IMG_1992.jpg)
---
^Please ^Note: ^I ^am ^by ^no ^means ^a ^professional, ^and ^I ^don't ^mean ^that ^in ^the ^fake-humble ^way. ^I've ^only ^been ^working ^on ^gameboy ^games ^and ^systems ^for ^a ^little ^over ^a ^year ^now, ^these ^are ^just ^suggestions, ^it's ^not ^meant ^to ^be ^a ^guide. ^Just ^some ^things ^that ^have ^worked ^for ^me ^in ^the ^past. ^and ^it's ^not ^a ^perfect ^setup, ^For ^example, ^a ^messed ^up ^'nintendo' ^logo ^could ^also ^be ^a ^problem ^with ^the ^rom ^chip, ^I've ^just ^seen ^it ^more ^often ^as ^dirty ^contacts.
^If ^one ^of ^the ^mods, ^or ^modders ^here ^post ^later, ^and ^make ^a ^suggestion, ^it ^may ^be ^better ^to ^try ^what ^they ^suggest ^instead.
If she's into drawing, I highly suggest a kneaded eraser or two (they actually last a really long time unless you lose them or use charcoal), but check your local art store because they're usually less than 2 dollars. A set of tortillons for blending, and maybe some oil pastels or colored pencils. They also make watercolor pencils, which are colored pencils that are water soluble. I found them kind of difficult to work with though, not my favorite medium.
If she does embroidery, you could also get a set of embroidery floss. I'd go to the store though, they're cheaper there.
If she's a knitter or crocheter, a row counter would be perfect. Stitch markers are essential for knitters and they constantly get lost. Honestly if she's a knitter, I would definitely give her some stitch counters, but the best thing is, all they are is an enclosed circle. You could make your own very easiliy, out of any number of materials.
For me though if I win, I'd like 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. It was my favorite book in elementary school, and I think my kids would get a kick out of it too.
Pencils: F pencils. I find these to be the best.
Pens: Nib Holder. Nibs. Any of the nibs will do depending on the lines you want to make. This next tool is a mix of o brush and a pen. A Kuretake fountain brush pen. Also there are pens called Micron Pens that are great for detailing and paneling.
Brush: I use Windsor Newton #4 brushes for everything i do. I use Wisps for a more organic crosshatching.
Markers: Prismacolor are the best, as they work like paint. After you color, you can color over to make a darker shade.
Paints: I use Windsor Newton gauche watercolor paints.
Ink: I use Dr Martins Black Star matte black ink.
Other: Liquid Frisket is used like painters tape except you can make any shape out of it. You let it dry then ink. After Inking you use a Kneaded Eraser to take it off. On the topic of erasers: I use a magic rub eraser.
Ill edit if I think of anything else.
I like these the best and find them the best for making the long eraser strands vs dust.
these are also nearly the same in performance and have a cool retracting holder.
Either will be a million times better than rubber.
They have a grit in them that acts as an abrasive, which makes them great if you're using really heavy drawing paper with a thick tooth & good graphite that you're not jamming into the paper, then you use it very lightly. But I agree, they still smudge and are overly aggressive.
I prefer these, they don't have any abrasives and smudge way less
http://www.amazon.com/Staedtler-Latex-Free-Eraser-White-STD52650/dp/B0006IK4BG
But a lot of people like these as well
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kneaded_eraser
These are my preferred mechanical pencils with mars plastic erasers
http://www.amazon.com/Pentel-GraphGear-Automatic-Drafting-PG525A/dp/B0006HXQXA/ref=sr_1_4?s=office-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1413523441&sr=1-4&keywords=mechanical+pencil
and use good paper
http://www.amazon.com/Canson-400014970-Arches-Sketch-10X14/dp/B008NA891G/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1413523545&sr=8-3&keywords=arches+drawing+paper
Blowing on the games doesn't really do anything. Best way I have found to clean them is to open them up and rub the contacts with a MARS plastic eraser to clean off corrosion. You can also get a replacement pin set for your NES to replace the default pin set. If you replace the pin set and clean off the contacts of all of your games, everything will work like brand new.
Faber-Castell is an excellent brand, no worries there. So they like pencils? Moleskine and Paperblanks sell nice sketchbooks. Fixative is a good idea. And erasers, like kneading erasers and pen erasers are useful.
I love these scented erasers which they also have in tea scent. And since I'm addicted to activity books, there's always the dot book which looks fun. I'm also obsessed with food and baking stuff like these amazing egg presses which I use to make rice balls or these squeeze bottles used to decorate cakes and cookies. I have more, let me comb my lists.
They're weighty, solid, high quality, well-manufactured, and very very pretty. You'll buy a single pencil and then just buy refill graphite for the rest of your life. Honestly losing it is more of a concern than breaking it. If you want to try a step up without spending too much money, you can try a Pentel GraphGear 500 or 1000
Also, built-in erasers are often crap, so I use a standalone. I'm partial to these but there are a lot of good options. If you really need a pencil with a decent eraser built in I'm sure there are good options though.
Something that can be used at work is often a good idea for work secret santa.
Unicorn tape dispenser
Floral mug
Sites like Boots and M&S have secret santa sections on their website you could look at for ideas.
I always think it's a good idea for secret santas to include the receipt, especially if you don't know the person well. They already know roughly how much it cost and it makes exchanges easier.
That so nice that you are getting into inking !Personnally I prefer watercolor \^\^
For the materials :
sketch: a pen https://www.amazon.fr/Pilot-Couleur-crayon-mécanique-clair/dp/B00195EEH0
a eraser https://www.amazon.fr/Faber-Castell-10003496-Gomme-Pain-Gris/dp/B01EFPZHOO/
​
lineart: ink fineliner https://www.amazon.fr/Fineliner-Pigma-Micron-Sakura-POXSDK3/dp/B00GS8HO34/ref=pd_sbs_229_2/262-3373145-5858605 (I use very often the 0.4mm)
​
inking: a random india ink like this one https://www.amazon.fr/Pébéo-Peinture-Encre-Graphique-Flacon/dp/B005IW0VG8 I a have little conteners where I do my different dillutions
2 brunches https://www.geant-beaux-arts.fr/pinceau-lavis-gerstaecker-aqualon-exclusivite.html I have a little and a medium one
highlight : white gel pen https://www.amazon.fr/Uni-788711000-Stylo-dessin-pastel/dp/B001AO2T8Q
​
That it ! \^\^ Sorry for all the french references... Hope that can help you !
I fell in love with the Papermate PhD Ultra
It has a nice grip, 0.5 mm lead, and the eraser on the top can twist. A big piece of easer fits in it so its like having an easer holder with the pencil also. When the eraser runs out, you simply cut the insert of the eraser and put it in the eraser holder of the pencil. Anyways, i really like that pencil.
Well needing to erase doesn't make you stupid. Not knowing when you need to erase something and fix it does.
I also use a separate eraser too. But when I need to erase a small part of a problem without wiping out the whole thing, the built in is pretty useful.
These are good though: http://www.amazon.com/Pentel-Hi-Polymer-Block-Eraser-ZEAH06BP3/dp/B006023Z5O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1417405194&sr=8-1&keywords=black+pentel+eraser
I work in charcoal too and just recently bought this fun toy I saw in this artist's youtube video. Look at the close-up of the hair at the end of the video, it's stunning. (I only tested the eraser briefly as I just received it yesterday, but so far it works exactly like I wanted.) Just FYI in case it interests you, I had no idea these things existed!
Read the title and came here to recommend getting a mechanical pencil, and it looks like you were already thinking about it!
My rOtring 600 should be here tomorrow. Pretty psyched about it.
A good eraser is also a life changer.
I'm an artist and I've been burnt too many times by shitty white rubbers on pencils (when I've left my pencil case somewhere like an idiot) to trust them.
Buy a pencil case, a decent eraser - I like this one, but most Staedtler ones will work just fine - and decent pencils without the rubbers on, maybe a nice pen, and keep it in your bag at all times.
You'd be surprised. I'm a full time college student with depression. I'm still managing to pull off art on the side.
Initial costs are a box of pencils, erasers and a notebook.
Canson Artist Series Universal Sketch Pad, 9"X12" Side Wire https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004IXJ7CM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_mtWJzbS3BS01W
Palomino 2B Pencils Orange Set Of 12 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007P50UTE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_KuWJzb7MTP1WQ
Staedtler Mars Plastic Erasers,Pack of 4 (52650BK4) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00006IFAN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_ZvWJzb48BV8JQ
There's more affordable options but these are my favorites so far.
It's probably best to stop by a superstore and pick up whatever they have on the cheap.
Edit: Tacklebox has been drawing for four years. Think about it. You can do this. You can get the skills you want if you practice.
You're saying the blemishes are the ceramic coat that got on the trim? Ooof. Typically the only thing you can do to remove a ceramic coat is abrasion/polishing. About the only safe thing I would suggest is this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002VCV4OQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
They work perfect for getting dried wax off of trim, so I can vouch that it will be safe (and is "abrasive"), but won't scratch your trim. I've used this on the CX5's wheel arches before without issue.
If that doesn't work, I'd ask for some advice from r/AutoDetailing before doing *anything* drastic, they'll set you straight.
I, like you, enjoy unicorns so here you go! :D
Unicorn tape dispenser
Drunk Unicorn wine holder
Unicorn hoodie
Unicorn Pusheen
Personally I have found that the Staedtler Mars plastic eraser is best. You want to do it evenly across the length of the book as to not create a "clean" area. Additionally it does not require scrubbing with it, just use it like you would with a pencil mark on paper... there are also youtube videos on this:
https://youtu.be/d399AFqTzVY
STAEDTLER Mars Plastic, Premium Quality Vinyl Eraser, White, Latex-free, Age-resistant, Minimal Crumbling (526 50 BK) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00006IFAN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_oaXACbRK5R447
For all those oopsies!
This!
Write on!
Post card would be awesome! We have a lot of them, here.
You can trust me, I have erasers on my wishlist. I will use it for my GED studies and not putting eraser burns on /u/FredWampy's desk. :)
https://www.amazon.com/STAEDTLER-Plastic-Latex-free-Age-resistant-Crumbling/dp/B00006IFAN
This is what you need bro, way way better erasing than any tiny pencil eraser can do and one eraser will last you more than a year easy
I use Sakura Arch Foam Erasers for my 2B mech and it works perfectly fine.
I had been assuming "Gummy Eraser" meant kneaded eraser and I didn't understand why it didn't quite seem to be as awesome as everyone claimed. Then I came across a "Gum Eraser". Perhaps this is the magical eraser everyone is talking about?
I keep one of these in the shop:
http://www.amazon.com/Magic-Rub-1954-Block-Eraser/dp/B002VCV4OQ
It erases most pencil marks on wood and paper nearly completely. Better than both pink erasers and the Mars plastic. I use all three for sketching. The Magic Rub is the nuclear option.
EDIT: don't buy it from that amazon link. I think I last bought a 3-pack for $3 at an office supply store. Not hard to find.
Kneadable Eraser
After I am done using it for art I usually make something sill out of it like a goat, dice, face and leave it till next time. Thank you for the contest. :3
I hate that! I've found that by rubbing it on some fabric first it removes that surface layer and will create a fairly non-smudgy surface.
Best by far is the "Magic Rub" That thing is frickin' magic. I've used them since college (for decades). The Magic Rub will remove pencil completely, cleanly, leaving only the impression in the paper.
Yikes!! You've probably tried different ways of cleaning that up... one suggestion I have, as a last resort and strictly in an experimental sense, is that you get one of those premium, hi-polymer white erasers (see links below) and gently rub the darkened areas with it... in a sense, trying to erase that material off, especially if it turns out to be a residue from your black microfiber cloth.
Those white erasers have been remarkably successful at removing toning, milk spots, and other stains from metallic surfaces (silver, copper, gold) when other cleaners and chemical solutions have failed... so it may work out on Alcantara too, but I don't know. Try at your own risk!
https://www.amazon.com/Staedtler-Mars-Plastic-Erasers-52650BK4/dp/B00006IFAN/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1501042975&sr=8-3&keywords=white+eraser
https://www.amazon.com/Pentel-Hi-polymer-Block-Eraser-ZEH10BP3-K6/dp/B001Q4HQVU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1501042975&sr=8-1&keywords=white+eraser
STAEDTLER premium quality vinyl eraser, Mars plastic, white, phthalate & latex free, age-resistant, minimal crumbling, blistercard of 4 erasers, 526 50 BK4 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00006IFAN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_pDMZAbCCEC8YD
I've tried a few different models:
Thoughts: Of the options above, I've most liked the black pearl, art gum, pentel hi-polymer, and RITR pencil.
I've least liked the Pentel Stic, Tombow, and White/Pink Pearls. The narrower point of the Pencel Stic and the Tombow just don't do the trick with our paper. The White/Pink Pearls seem to smudge more than erase.
The black pearl and the pentel hi-polymer are nice choices for a block eraser. The Art Gum erases great, but leaves behind a TON of eraser debris. The RITR mechanical pencil comes with a few backup erasers (and these erasers are ridiculously good), so that actually can serve a similar function as the Pentel Stic or Tombow Zoro for more precise erasing (but nowhere near the exacto-knife precision of the Tombow).
These probably aren't things every DM "should" have but they are cheap and useful:
OCD activating:
Here is my December EDC/pocket dump. Look out for a reoccurring theme/brand. Enjoy!
PRISMACOLOR Design Eraser, 1224 Kneaded Rubber Eraser, Grey (70531) (3 Pack) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FUUY4A6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_pxImDbP8K3FNA
my bad, it's called a kneaded eraser. the prismacolor ones are excellent, you should be able to find these in a lot of brick and mortar stores if you can't wait for shipping.
[This] (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00006IFAJ/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=2HTHRVKNRES31&coliid=I42W0U4X7T6T5) is something that I've been wanting since I am getting back into drawing.
https://www.amazon.com/Sakura-Evolutional-Erasers-5-Pack-White/dp/B0174KSUVY/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?keywords=arch+erasers&qid=1563747041&s=gateway&sr=8-1
$2.49
$4.47
$4.67
$4.35
$5.00
$5.82
Codename Duchess
The Palomino Blackwing 602 gets my nod. Pair it with a nice Staedler eraser and a Blackwing sharpener.
I've switched to stick erasers. My life has changed regarding mechanical pencils.
http://www.amazon.com/Staedtler-Plastic-Refillable-Includes-52850BK/dp/B005DDJT5G/ref=sr_1_1?s=office-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1396443579&sr=1-1&keywords=Staedtler+Stick+Eraser
Pencil: Pentel Graph Gear 1000 0.5mm
Eraser: Staedtler Mars Plastic Eraser
Calculator: Casio fx-115 MS
I don't think that's blue tack. It's probably a kneaded eraser based on the way its shaped and left out of the package.
Or This
$0.70 eraser!
https://www.amazon.com/Staedtler-Mars-Plastic-Erasers-52650BK4/dp/B00006IFAN
These soft erasers have been doing wonders for me.
I had the same issue, but with these putty-like erasers you can reach all those hard to reach spots.
https://www.amazon.com/Prismacolor-Premier-Kneaded-Rubber-Eraser/dp/B00006IFAJ
In my preference, the best I’ve found is Uni Kuru Toga Roulette and Staedtler Erasers
The Kuru Toga pencil automatically rotates the led so you always have a sharp tip, and Staedtler erasers are able to erase damn near anything.
I’ve tried more expensive mechanical pencils like GraphGear or Rotring and the Kuru Toga beats them out no problem. You have no idea what you are missing if you haven’t tried it, I’ve convinced 5 other peers to use the Kuru Toga by letting them use it for a couple days.
Will this do, and how many should I get him? Have no idea how long they last or anything
This: http://www.amazon.com/Sanford-SAN70531-Design-Kneaded-Eraser/dp/B00006IFAJ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1420674849&sr=8-1&keywords=kneaded+erasers
You're going after the wrong problem.
The problem isn't the pencil so much as it is the erasing.
What you want is the Stadler eraser. Do not substitute or cheap out. They're as cheap as can be and you only need one. I barely used one for three years of grad school.
https://www.amazon.com/STAEDTLER-Plastic-Latex-free-Age-resistant-Crumbling/dp/B00006IFAN/ref=mp_s_a_1_15?keywords=eraser&qid=1555958207&s=gateway&sr=8-15
Buy the four pack and give some out to nerdy paper friends and keep one or two as back up.
Also try to work on easing up on the death grip. It's not a contest to break pencils and you're going to be writing for the next 50 years or so. It's a marathon not a Sprint.