The Mesmerizing MAKING OF AN Iconic PENCIL
The Blackwing 602. Need I say more?
Eberhard Faber Pencil Company introduced the original Blackwing 602 back in the 1930’s—nearly 100 years ago. In time the production of the 602 faded away by 1998. However, among artists, illustrators, and collectors the Black 602 was definitely NOT forgotten. Ever escalating prices on eBay for the classic 602 proved that it was still an important pencil with a devoted fan base. Some unused Blackwing pencils sold for $40 each!
To people outside the worlds of art, writing, and design, it may seem surprising that a wooden pencil has such a devoted following—but among artists, illustrators, animators, architects, musicians, and writers, the Blackwing has achieved almost legendary status. The Blackwing 602 earned that status because of its exceptionally smooth graphite, a comfortable hexagonal cedar barrel, and its distinctive flat, rectangular ferrule with replaceable barrel.
Half the pressure, twice the speed.
In 2010, California Cedar Products revived the Blackwing brand. Rather than attempting an exact recreation, they developed a modern line using premium Japanese graphite and California incense cedar while preserving the classic appearance. Today, four standard models of the Blackwing pencil are available:
People often notice these qualities in the Blackwing series:
Japanese graphite that feels unusually smooth
High-quality incense cedar, which sharpens beautifully
The signature replaceable rectangular eraser
Excellent balance in the hand
Consistent manufacturing quality
The pencils also come pre-sharpened, which many enthusiasts appreciate.
Many landscape painters use a Blackwing—particularly the 602 or the Pearl—for compositional thumbnails and value studies before moving to paint. The smooth graphite allows for expressive line work without scratching the paper, which complements a painterly approach to drawing.
I’ve got a box or two ordered! Click the links below if you would like to try them, too:
Blackwing Palomino 602 Heritage, Gray, 12 Count
Blackwing Matte Pencils, Soft Graphite for Writing & Drawing, 12 Count
Blackwing Pearl Pencils, Balanced Japanese Graphite, White, 12 Count
Blackwing Natural Pencils, Extra-Firm Lead, Natural Wood, 12 Count
All the above links are affiliate links.
