Caran d'Ache Grafcube Graphite Stick - 15mm - 9B

The Caran d'Ache Grafcube 15mm 9B is an ultra-soft graphite stick designed for deep, velvety black...

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B&QB&Q - Caran D'ache Grafcube Graphite 15mm 9B SingleNatural Graphite Stick For Artists
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Product Information

Full details

The Caran d'Ache Grafcube 15mm 9B is an essential tool for professional artists and students seeking to elevate their drawing experience with deep, velvety blacks and expressive shading. Its generous 15mm width makes it ideal for rapid coverage and large-scale, dynamic sketches; however, because of its ultra-soft 9B lead, it is prone to smudging and requires a delicate hand to maintain crisp details during intense creative sessions.

All features

Model Part Number1438582
BrandCaran d'Ache

Extended Product Information

FAQs

Is the Grafcube 9B water-soluble?

No, this is a standard high-quality graphite stick and does not contain water-soluble binders.

Can I sharpen the Grafcube?

You can use a heavy-duty sanding block or fine-grit sandpaper to create custom edges or points, though it is primarily designed for broad, freehand marks.

Is this product suitable for beginners?

Yes, it is excellent for any skill level, though beginners should practice handling soft graphite to control smudging.

Does it break easily?

While the 9B formula is soft, it is a dense block. It is durable but can chip if dropped on hard surfaces.

Can I use this for technical drawing?

It is better suited for artistic and expressive drawing; for technical work, a standard wood-cased mechanical or H-grade pencil is recommended.

Troubleshooting

Graphite smearing on unwanted areas of the paper

Use a piece of tracing paper or glassine under your hand while drawing, and ensure the drawing is finished with a fixative spray.

Tool is marking surfaces during storage

Wrap the Grafcube in a protective cloth or place it in a dedicated rigid compartment within your supply kit.

Graphite feels too soft for the current task

The 9B grade is inherently soft; consider using a lighter touch or switching to a lower-grade (e.g., 2B or 4B) graphite tool for fine-detail work.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Delivers exceptionally dark and rich tones
  • Covers large areas quickly due to the 15mm width
  • Highly responsive to pressure-sensitive techniques
  • Durable, long-lasting graphite composition

Cons

  • High risk of smudging due to the soft 9B grade
  • Can be difficult to maintain fine detail for long periods
  • Requires frequent cleaning of hands or work area

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Because the Grafcube 9B is an unencased graphite block, it is best kept in a protective case to prevent accidental breakage or marking of other supplies. When working, consider using a protective sheet of glassine or an extra piece of paper under your hand to prevent accidental smearing. To maintain the tool, store it in a cool, dry place. If the block collects debris, it can be lightly wiped with a clean, dry cloth. When finished with a session, spray your work with a high-quality fixative to ensure the soft graphite remains stable on the page.

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