LYRA engineers these monochrome sketching pencils with 5mm leads, substantially thicker than standard drawing pencils, to support different technical approaches. The dry chalk formulation delivers delicate, easily blended marks that erase cleanly, making it ideal for hyperrealistic rendering where subtle gradations matter. These work particularly well on black or toned paper where you're building up light values. Apply fixative to preserve finished work.

The oil-based pencils offer completely different handling characteristics. Thick, opaque marks lay down with full-body consistency, creating sharp shadows and strong contrasts that hold up on rough paper. This formulation suits rapid, gestural sketching where you're working out compositions without concern for precision. No fixative needed; the oil binder keeps pigment stable.

Both types share the same high pigmentation that LYRA builds into their professional-grade materials. Choose dry pencils when you need blendability and correction options. Reach for oil pencils when you want bold, immediate marks that stay put. The extensive range covers the complete value spectrum from deepest blacks through mid-tones to pure white, giving you complete tonal control regardless which formulation you're working with.