The use of charcoal stretches back the the very beginning of human history. Traces of charcoal can be found in some of the world’s oldest cave paintings. Over time the material was refined, becoming a popular drawing tool for artists. It was particularly popular during the Renaissance with artists like Rembrandt and Degas.

Artists charcoal was first made by peeling thin willow twigs and burning them in the absence of oxygen. This incomplete combustion transforms the twigs into the soft, crumbly sticks we recognise as willow charcoal. In the 20th century, manufacturers began producing compressed charcoal – a harder, darker alternative to natural charcoal.

Properties of Charcoal

Charcoal has a rich matte, non-reflective finish with soft and crumbly texture. Its marks are less hard and precise compared to Graphite. Charcoal is great for making anything from the richest blacks through to pale, wispy greys. Your marks will typically be very dark at the pressure point. As you ease the pressure your marks will become lighter and more powdery. These properties make it great for loose, expressive drawings. Because of charcoal’s irregular texture it can feel like it snags or scratches on paper. It’s texture is also quite dusty – so you are best using it on paper with some tooth. It makes beautifully textured marks on really rough paper.