For sketching, the medium hardness of the pencil (around HB) is suitable for the beginning. We can gradually use softer grades (from 2B onwards) when drawing. When we need to draw large areas, it is advisable to reach for Versatil pencils, where the pencil can be easily pulled out and used to draw with its entire surface. Micropencils, on the other hand, are used for the smallest details.

A separate chapter is then sharpening of pencils. While the advantage of most Versatil pencils is the presence of a tip sharpener in the pencil itself and you don't need to sharpen micropencils, you can sharpen ordinary pencils in wood with a sharpener, but sharpening with a knife or sand paper won't hurt them either (with sufficient care). The advantage of these techniques is the possibility to tailor the pencil precisely, whether you need a longer tip or a special chamfer.