Introduction to Derwent

If you’re not already familiar, Derwent are renowned for being British manufactures of pencils based in the Lake District, Cumbria since 1832. Derwent produce a wide range of pencils, from your first colour pencil to professional artist level pencils which are best known among the art industry for quality and craftmanship.

What are Drewent Inktense Blocks & Pencils?

Welcome to the world of Inktense, richly pigmented watercolours that can be found in pencil and block forms that produce vibrant colours which intensify when activated with water. Designed for advanced performance with specially formulated active colour technology with 72 different colours in the range. Acting like ink, they deliver vibrant colours that dry permanently, not washing out which means they a brilliant for layering. 

What is Derwent Inktense for?

Inktense can be used on a wide range of surfaces from the traditional watercolour paper, to canvas, ceramic, wood and even fabric!

Benefits of using Inktense Blocks

Versatility! Inktense blocks combine the vibrant colours of the Inktense pencils with the freedom of blocks, meaning you can cover large areas really quickly and create expressive marks. The watercolour blocks can be used dry or mixed with water to create intense washes of colour, bringing your artwork to life. Another great way of using the blocks is by grating them down and mixing with water to create washes or colour. Grate, shave, scrape, spritz, crumble or shape your blocks to achieve a myriad of effects. 

Derwent Inktense blocks available at Abacus Creative resources in sets of 12, 24, 36 & 72.

Benefits of using Inktense Pencils

Firm yet smooth texture with a strong point, Inktense pencils are much more controlled. They can be held easily and most importantly can be sharpened to achieve a fine point for more intricate and detail work. 

Derwent Inktense pencils available at Abacus Creative resources in sets of 12, 24 & 72.

Things to Consider

Unlike traditional watercolours Inktense pencils & blocks are permanent when fully dry which is great for layering but means existing marks are unable to be reworked.