Derwent Graphitint XL Blocks 6 Tin - WaterSoluble Graphite Tint

In this review the Derwent Graphitint XL Blocks set is assessed for artists who want a single medium that covers large areas, blends with water, and still behaves like graphite. The set of six extra-large blocks stands out because each chunky block contains a high volume of formula - equivalent to about eight pencils - so it is aimed at sketchers, illustrators and mixed media artists who need broad coverage and expressive mark making without constantly sharpening. The blocks are designed for both wet and dry use and hold up well for experiments with breaking, grating or direct application.

Key Features

• Graphite tinted with colour: Provides rich, muted shades that read like soft watercolour while keeping the smoothness of graphite for drawing and shading.
• Extra-large 60mm block: The chunky XL format gives broad coverage and comfortable grip so large areas can be filled quickly with consistent laydown.
• Water-soluble formula: Use dry for matte, consistent textures or apply water to blend and wash the pigment for translucent tints.
• High volume formula: Each block contains roughly the amount of material found in eight pencils, reducing the need for frequent replacement during big projects.
• Versatile handling: Break, grate or shave the blocks to create powder, fine textures or agile lines for mixed media effects.
• Ergonomic shape: Designed to fit comfortably in hand for greater control when making bold marks or detailed strokes.

Who It's For

The set is ideal for artists working at a larger scale, plein air sketchers, and anyone who enjoys combining drawing with wash effects; the large blocks speed up coverage and the water-soluble tint lets you shift from drawing to painterly washes easily. It's also suited to mixed media users who want a versatile medium that blends with other watercolours and pastels.

People who prefer ultra-fine, pencil-like detail or need an extremely hard, long-lasting point for technical drawing should look elsewhere; this is a soft, pastel-like block meant for expressive marks rather than fine drafting.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Rich colour quality with muted, controllable tints that blend well for washes.
• Large block size gives excellent coverage and reduces the need to replace sticks frequently.
• Flexible for wet and dry techniques, including grating into powder for texture.
• Comfortable ergonomic shape for confident, bold marks.

Cons

• Durability is mixed for some users; the soft formula can be fragile if handled roughly.
• Not suited for extremely fine, precision line work where a pencil point is required.

Specifications

Product	Derwent Graphitint XL Blocks set of 6
Block size	60mm extra-large
Format	Water-soluble graphite tinted with colour
Contents	6 XL blocks: Olive Green, Dark Prussian, Raw Umber, Burnt Umber, Port, Aubergine
Usage	Wet and dry; draw, paint, break or grate into powder
Formula volume	Each block equals approx. eight pencils worth of material

Our Verdict

The Derwent Graphitint XL Blocks are a strong choice for artists who want the freedom to work large and experiment with both drawing and washes; the generous blocks, pleasing muted colours and watersoluble behaviour offer good value for expressive work. For those seeking precise technical lines, a pencil remains better, but for coverage, texture and mixed media flexibility these blocks are well worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can these be used like watercolour?
Yes - the blocks are water-soluble so you can lay down pigment and then activate it with a brush for wash effects, or water down marks for translucent tints.

How long does a block last?
Each XL block contains a high volume of formula roughly equivalent to eight pencils, so longevity is good for large projects, though actual life depends on how much you grate or cover large areas.

Are they good for fine detail?
The blocks excel at broad marks and textures; they can produce lines but are softer than pencils, so very fine precision work is not their primary strength.