Traditional Sketching & Inking Tools

These days most of my artwork is done digitally, so I often forget what a relaxing change of pace it is to work in real media. With no digital tricks or “undo” button, I’m forced to slow down and take the time to plan out my pieces. I typically start by doodling a couple of quick 5-10 minute sketches to warm up, which is especially helpful if I’m drawing the human figure. I keep my pen case organized and my studio space tidy, which sets me up for success and gets me in the right mindset for working. I primarily use brush pens for inking and alcohol-based markers for coloring. See below for a list of my recommended drawing tools, along with this convenient Amazon Product List!

Inking Tools Guide

The following is a tried-and-true product list featuring the best ink pens I’ve used. Black and red is a favorite combination of mine, so this Pentel Arts brush pen combo is my go-to when I’m warming up. I carry everything with me in this handy pen case that holds up well to everyday use, so that I always have my tools on me wherever I go!

These pens cover all my bases when it comes to both sketching and inking; I’ve been using them for so long that I don’t bother with pencils anymore. Once you’ve built a decent pen collection and experimented enough to know what works best for your style, your draftsmanship skills and confidence will shoot way up. Now get to it, and happy drawing!

best Inking Pens [Amazon List]

Pentel Pocket Brush Pen
- Calligraphy brush pen with a sturdy nylon tip and a replaceable ink cartridge. The waterproof ink can be used with markers or watercolor. This pen is a workhorse that can last for years.
Pentel Arts Brush Red XGFL-102
- Versatile brush pen filled with a super vivid red ink, it’s my jam!
Pentel Arts Brush Black XGFL-101
- Nearly identical to the one above, except with black ink.
Pentel Arts Stylo Sketch Pen JM20BPAE
- The stiff nib on this pen makes it perfect for detail work.
Tombow Fudenosuke Brush Pen (3 Set)
- 3-piece pen set: hard tip, soft tip, and dual tip (black & gray). Great for calligraphy and detail work.

Quick guide: Alcohol-Based Markers

I color my inked artwork using various brands of alcohol-based markers that I’ve amassed over the past 12 years. I was amazed to learn that quality markers can last for that long! While many artists (myself included) consider Copic Sketch Markers to be the gold standard, they cost $300+for a full set of 72 markers, so they might not be affordable to students who are just starting out. In my search for cheaper Copic alternatives, I’ve discovered several marker brands (listed below) that compare well with Copics in terms of quality, for a fraction of the price. This is fantastic news for artists on a budget!

As for why I love coloring my artwork with markers: I find that they are very intuitive to use and convenient for travel. It’s no surprise that they’re the preferred tool of architects, fashion designers, and concept artists everywhere. The immediacy and quick-drying nature of alcohol-based markers make them a joy to use no matter your skill level, so definitely give them a try!