Compressed Charcoal vs. Charcoal Sticks: Understanding the Difference
If you are an artist who works with charcoal, you must be aware of the different types available in the market. While there are several types of charcoal products, compressed charcoal and charcoal sticks are two popular options that are commonly used by artists. Here’s what you need to know about the differences between compressed charcoal and charcoal sticks:
What is Compressed Charcoal?
Compressed charcoal, as the name suggests, is made by pressing powdered charcoal into sticks or blocks. It has a high level of carbon which contributes to its dark appearance. Compressed charcoal is versatile and can be used to create dense lines or blend them for a softer look. It is ideal for creating large areas of deep shadows and is perfect for creating finished, polished pieces of art.
What are Charcoal Sticks?
Charcoal sticks or vine charcoal, on the other hand, are made by burning wood or twigs. They are available in varying degrees of softness and are perfect for creating quick sketches or underpainting. Charcoal sticks produce light to dark tones and can be used to create both thin and thick lines. They are also great for smudging and blending, making them an excellent choice for creating a range of textures.
The Main Differences between Compressed Charcoal and Charcoal Sticks
One of the primary differences between compressed charcoal and charcoal sticks is the intensity of their color. Compressed charcoal is darker, richer, and produces a more vivid black, while charcoal sticks tend to produce lighter gray tones. Another essential factor that sets the two apart is their versatility in creating different thicknesses of lines. Compressed charcoal is excellent for creating thick lines, whereas charcoal sticks are better suited for thinner lines.
Which Should You Use?
The choice between compressed charcoal and charcoal sticks ultimately depends on the type of artwork you are creating. Compressed charcoal is great for creating detailed, finished pieces of art and achieving a rich, dark appearance. Charcoal sticks are perfect for quick sketches and underpainting and can create an array of textures. In many cases, artists use a combination of both compressed charcoal and charcoal sticks to achieve the ideal texture, tone, and effect.
