Erasers are probably one of the most important yet overlooked art tools out there. I mean, you only start looking for one when you need to erase something or make corrections, right? The ability to correct and make a piece perfect makes erasers so much more important to artists, especially getting the right ones.
So how do you pick the right eraser? We decided to do the hard work for you. To select the best erasers, we decided to look at each of the components and materials used in an eraser. Then we cross-checked which material does what best. Then we took a look into different art scenarios like sketching, blending, coloring. We made a list based on their functions and usability for the different user bases.
Based on our research, we found the Faber-Castell eraser to be the perfect choice for all-purpose generalized use. The kneaded rubber can be maneuvered and molded to get precision erasing and sharp blending. But that’s just one on our list. Keep reading to find out what makes the best eraser for drawing, what you should consider while buying one, and what are your alternative options.
Editor’s Pick: Eraser For Drawing
Types of Erasers
There are typically 5 types of erasers in the market. Each of these erasers is unique in its own way. Let’s have a more detailed look.
Gum Erasers
Gum erasers are the middle choice between hard rubber erasers and kneaded rubber erasers. They are not as stiff as hard rubber and, again, not as soft as kneaded rubber. However, they tend to leave a lot of dust after erasing. This is something that should be kept in mind while purchasing this one.
Rubber Erasers
Rubber erasers are the standard eraser that we see little children use in school. It is somewhat stiff compared to a gum eraser. However, the main selling point of the rubber eraser is the dust-less erasing and precision.
Kneaded Eraser
This is one of the best types of erasers. The kneaded rubber can be folded and molded in any way you want. It’s perfect for precision and smear-proof erasing.
Pencil Eraser
The eraser here itself is vinyl, which we will discuss in the latter part of the article. This eraser gets its name from the shape of it, or more specifically, from its holder. The pencil eraser looks exactly like a pencil. But it does the job of erasing as an eraser is fits on the head of the pencil-shaped holder.
Vinyl Eraser
This is also a very common type of eraser. When it comes to density, these are the stiffest erasers out there. It virtually doesn’t leave any dust behind and cleans with precision like kneaded erasers. However, this type of eraser is best suited for thick papers.
Top 10 Best Eraser for Drawing- Buying Guide
1. Faber-Castell Erasers
The first one on our list is from Faber-Castell. We don’t need to introduce Faber-Castell as everyone knows how big of a global stationary retailer they are. Their basic drawing eraser can be a perfect choice for people looking for budget-friendly options as well as being the best eraser for drawing on our list.
Kneaded Rubber
The erasers are made from extremely kneaded rubber. The rule of hand with drawing erasers is that the best ones are the ones that are hard kneaded. This helps to evenly erase and light out pencil marking and sketches.
Size
The eraser comes in a pack of 4 large-sized erasers. The large erasers are easy to handle and make corrections. Plus, the large size makes the erasers last a long time. That is if you don’t end up losing them first.
Storage
Each kneaded eraser comes in a handy storage box. Faber-Castell understands that drawing erasers needs to be kept clean and away from dust. The plastic storage box does an amazing job of protecting the eraser from the elements.
Specifications
- Weight: 3 ounces
- Dimension: 4.33 x 3.94 x 0.51 inches.
Pros:
- Comes in a handy storage box
- Properly kneaded eraser
- Evenly wipes marks
Cons:
- Have to buy as part of a package and not a single piece
2. Paper Mate Pink Pearl Erasers
The next one is from Paper Mate. Their pink pearl erasers are not only distinct to look at, but their functional and design elements make them stand out from other erasers in the market.
Innovative Design
Traditional erasers are either rectangular or round. There are other slab-like design choices as well. But this eraser resembles a rhombus-like design. It provides more thin edges for minor adjustments as well as wide edges to clean a larger surface.
Latex Free
The eraser comes latex-free with pure rubber. The pure rubber content means the eraser cleans without adding any extra dust. It’s also nontoxic so kids can use it without any problem.
Smudge Resistance
The eraser is branded as smudge-resistant. Smudges are a serious problem with erasers as they leave after marks of correction. But the anti-smudge technology helps to clean paper without any trace.
Specifications
- Weight: 1.6 ounce
- Dimension: 0.63 x 3.25 x 6.13 inches
Pros:
- Anti-smudge technology
- Sharp edge and flat face design for precision cleaning
- Comes in a pack of three
Cons:
- Has a single color variant of pink
3. June Gold Kneaded Rubber Erasers
The idea of kneaded rubber erasers is that they should be completely moldable. While most are slated to mold quite easily, they also crumble a lot leaving bits and pieces here and there. But that is where June gold kneaded erasers stood out for us.
Soft Texture
Unlike other kneaded erasers, the June Gold one is soft to touch. You do not need to apply excessive force to perfectly knead these erasers. There is also no oil chemical that usually assists in kneading. It only ends up creating more mess.
Easy Blend
The erasers can blend any sketch pretty well. Much of that is due to the soft kneading of the erasers. In addition to that, the erasers do an amazing job of removing and erasing any depth of sketch without smudging the paper, making it the best erasers for pencils.
Anti-Residue Material
No matter how many times you use this eraser or knead it, it will not crumble. The soft texture allows for a malleable kneading which only makes the eraser better. The more you use it, the better it gets.
Specification
- Weight: 3 ounces
- Dimension: 3.68 x 1.63 x 0.5 inches
Pros:
- Easy to knead
- Doesn’t leave any residue
- Soft texture
Cons:
- A bit too soft for rough dark patches
4. Mr. Pen Eraser Set
What’s the best type of eraser for drawing? Is it kneaded erasers, gum erasers, or pencil erasers? The answer isn’t easy. But what if you could try all of them? And that is exactly what Mr. Pen Eraser Set brings to the table.
Variety of Choice
The eraser set has three each of kneaded, gum, and pencil eraser bringing the total eraser count to 9. This way, a user gets to try each of them and see which suits their paper and drawing style best.
Value For Money
Let’s just address the obvious here. You are getting a pack of 9 erasers at a steal deal. This can be a great option for families with more kids. If your kid tends to lose erasers as we do, you’ll be thankful that you bought this set.
Standard Engineering
The three different erasers each have industry-standard engineering in them. Whether it’s the soft kneading or the latex-free plastic component or the anti-dust particles, everything here makes for a high quality eraser. This might come in a set and at a great price, but the company didn’t compromise on the quality.
Specification
- Number of pieces: 9
- Dimension: Standard small for each of the three types.
Pros:
- Great value for money
- Includes three types of erasers
- Easy to carry size
Cons:
- The kneaded eraser is not on par with the other two in terms of quality.
5. Prismacolor Premier Magic Rub Vinyl Erasers
Going beyond the usual kneaded, gum, and plastic erasers, there is another kind called vinyl erasers. Now, what’s so special about vinyl erasers, you ask? Because it is the best eraser for colored pencils. Also, sketches aren’t always done on thick art paper. Sometimes they can be on coarse or semi-transparent papers. That is where vinyl erasers come in.
Cleans Without Residue
As we were saying, the Prismacolor vinyl eraser can clean without leaving any kind of residue on the paper, regardless of its thickness. It also doesn’t smudge the paper or bruise it in any way. You will be hard-pressed to find any pencil mark after cleaning.
Cleans More Than Charcoal
Another useful feature of vinyl eraser is that it cleans more than pencil sketches, that is charcoal. Vinyl erasers are a proven item for erasing India ink. So your eraser not only cleans pencil marks but ink spots as well.
Slim Profile
These vinyl erasers aren’t designed to be chunky. Rather it has a flat slim design with sharp edges. The sharp edges help to ensure that you get a clean finish every time you use this eraser.
Specification
- Material: Vinyl
- Dimension: 0.63 x 3.25 x 6.13 inches
Pros:
- Slim and wide surface design
- Cleans India ink
- Perfect for thick and coarse paper
Cons:
- Breaks easily
6. Derwent Battery Operated Eraser
Ever thought a simple eraser could be digital? Well, you won’t have to think much as Derwent made the best electric eraser for sketching.
Extreme Precision
At the heart of this unique design, the choice is precision. The small eraser heads are designed like the small erasers found on top of pencils. Except this one is battery operated. The eraser can erase tiny details with extreme precision. Thanks to the rotating head, you don’t have to get the manual wipes right. Just hold the eraser in place.
Comes With Spare Erasers
Now you might think, what happens after you’ve used up the eraser? Throw it away? Definitely not. Derwent sells replacement erasers as well. The eraser itself comes with 8 extra sticks in the box. But you can buy 30 pack replacement erasers easily. Stock up, and you’ll never have to worry about precise erasing.
Smudge-Proof
The eraser rotation strength is calibrated in such a way that it doesn’t smudge the paper. Nor does it leave any residue. It’s a perfect easy fix for tricky parts that require correction.
Specification
- Material: Battery operated plastic eraser
- Dimension: 8 x 0.83 x 3.11 inches
Pros:
- Perfect for tricky areas
- Easily replaceable eraser heads
- Lasts a long time
Cons:
- The replacement erasers are small so you will need replacements quite often
7. Acurit Vanish Four in One Art Eraser
Up until now, we have seen different types of erasers. There’s vinyl, there’s plastic, kneaded, and gum erasers. Each of these erasers has its strengths which makes them unique in their own way. But what if an eraser can do all of these? That too in a single package? That’s the Acurit Vanish Four in One Art Eraser for you.
Works As a Blender
More often than not, erasers advertise that they can blend charcoal-like an art piece. Yet they end up smearing the paper all around. The squared rectangular design of the eraser allows for a large body. This, in turn, helps to blend charcoal unlike any other.
Dust Proof Eraser
The problem with non-kneaded erasers is that they tend to leave a lot of dust trail. Getting them out of the paper means messing up the entire table or the surrounding. But that isn’t a problem with the Acurit eraser. This eraser uses material that erases like a stroke without leaving any dust trail, making it the best eraser for canvas.
Specifications
- Material: Mix of vinyl, plastic, gum, and rubber
- Dimension: 2.67 x 0.75 x 0.75 inches
Pros:
- Perfect for every kind of paper
- Unibody design
- Dustproof
Cons:
- The large body hampers extreme precision erasing
8. Outus 11 Pieces Drawing Art Erasers Kit
Here is another all-in-one kit for drawing and sketching enthusiasts. The 11 Pieces Drawing Art Eraser Kit by Outus can be a perfect choice for people who work on multiple projects at a time.
Diverse Choice
There’s a three-piece of kneaded eraser, three-piece of gum eraser, three-piece of a rubber eraser, and 2 pieces of a pencil eraser for drawing. Each of these erasers has a distinct use case. The set allows the artist to freely switch between papers and pencil without worrying about correction, making it one of the best erasers for artists.
Easy To Carry
The erasers come in standard small sizes. The small size can be a perfect choice to carry around. Unfortunately, you’ll have to carry the erasers as part of your art supplies as the erasers don’t come with any form of carrying case.
The Color Surprise
Okay so this isn’t technically a special feature of the eraser but we thought it was a fun little thing. There are no set colors for these erasers. That is, it’s a complete surprise for the customer. You might get any color combination from ash to yellow to red. The element of surprise is quite something.
Specifications
- Material: Plastic, Rubber, Gum
- Dimension: Standard small size
Pros:
- Great value for money
- Offers choice for different art paper and pencil
- High-quality material
Cons:
- The erasers don’t come with a carrying case
9. UPlama 24Pcs Kneaded Rubber Erasers
We’re nearing the end of our list, and here we have a mega set of 24 pieces of kneaded rubber erasers. Now before you think what on earth will 24 pieces of eraser do, hear us out.
Value For Money
The first reason why anyone should buy this 24-piece set is that it offers incredible value for money. Plus, this kneaded rubber eraser has an incredibly high shelf life. So it doesn’t really matter if you use them for over a year altogether.
Easily Moldable
Yes, we know that this is a standard feature of every kneaded eraser. But the ease of molding is what determines the quality of the rubber putty. If it’s high grade, it will mold softly and easily. The more it can be kneaded, the better it will be at delivering proper use.
Made For Professional Use
This kneaded eraser is designed to be professional-grade in every way. The eraser does an excellent job of blending charcoal. As a result, it’s a perfect practice piece to get the learning going.
Specifications
- Material: Kneaded Rubber
- Dimension: 0.4×1.3×1.7 inches
Pros:
- Comes in a set of 24 pieces
- Easy to knead
- Works as a perfect blender
Cons
- There’s no separate carrying case for the eraser
10. Tombow MONO Sand Eraser
The last one on our list is the Tombow MONO Sand Eraser. Now before you ask what’s a sand eraser? It is basically a hard rubber latex-based eraser with silica grit. This hard rubber eraser has multiple usages depending on the material.
Perfect For Art Paper
It’s not just perfect for art paper, it’s perfect for any thick paper in general. In fact, it can only be used on thick paper. Why? Because the sand erasers work to remove the fibers of the paper to remove tough marks like colored pencils and inks.
Smudge-Proof Ink Eraser
It’s already clear that this eraser works best to remove ink marks. And it does so without any extra smudges or dust. This eraser virtually doesn’t make any dust at all, which is a useful thing. The anti-smudge technology also helps to ensure that it can correct the toughest of inks without leaving any trace.
Specifications
- Material: Rubber Latex
- Dimension: 2.63 x 0.69 x 0.38 inches
Pros:
- Perfect to remove ink marks from thick paper
- Can be used as a blender
- Made from recyclable components
Cons:
- Can’t be used on any type of thin paper
Buying Guide
So now you know what are some of the best erasers for drawing are. But this list shouldn’t limit your choice. If you know what to look for while buying drawing erasers, you can choose your own right product, beyond the ones we discussed above.
Material
Material plays the most crucial role when it comes to erasers. Remember each eraser and its component are designed to serve a specific purpose. There are all sorts of different materials used in an eraser. For example, we have kneaded erasers, a gum eraser, and vinyl erasers.
Kneaded erasers are perfect for blending the charcoal whereas gum and vinyl erasers do an excellent job of precision erasing without dust. It all comes down to the art style and personal choice of the artist.
Size
Size is another important factor to consider. A rule of thumb is that the smaller the eraser is, the easier it is to have precision erasing. However, small erasers become unusable easily and tend to get lost easily.
Large erasers can be a perfect choice for blending and erasing a wide area. There are erasers with sharp edges and a flat body to aid the dual need. Again, this is something that the artist needs to figure out depending on what type of erasing they’ll be doing.
Packs
This might sound like no big deal but depending on eraser needs, this might become an issue. There are erasers that come in a single pack, and then there are erasers that come in 10,15 or even 20 pieces packs.
Now, which one should you buy? We would suggest going with single item ones to try out for the first time. If it suits your style, get the multiple-pack ones as they offer a better value for money.
Mixed Eraser Sets
We understand that you’re not an eraser expert, and this article won’t make you one overnight either. It’s all about trying the erasers yourself to understand your needs.
And if you’re unsure about which one to go for first, go for the mixed eraser sets. These sets typically have 2 to 3 types of erasers specialized for different functions. You can alternatively use them to check which one works the best for you.
How Do Erasers Work?
Erasers work on the principle of friction. Specifically, because of the heat generated while rubbing the eraser on the paper surface. While it might not seem like a great deal, a scientific explanation will show you just how many things are happening at lightning speed in front of your eyes. The following points will detail how the mechanism actually works.
· When an eraser is rubbed on the paper surface, the friction produces kinetic energy which in turn produces heat.
· This heat makes the eraser rubber malleable and also creates a gap between the charcoal particle spread on the paper.
· The malleable rubber bonds with the charcoal and completely removes it from the paper surface.
· It leaves a dust residue combining the malleable rubber and charcoal behind.
But thanks to newer and improved technology, now most erasers are dustproof. That is, they clean in a single stroke and don’t leave any trail behind. It mostly depends on the properties of the rubber which generally attaches the charcoal to its surface rather than detaching it.
How To Erase Colored Pencil?
The simple answer is to use a colored pencil eraser. But it’s not as easy as it said. There are a lot of erasers out in the market that claims to be able to clean color pencil marks. But most of these are. What you need to erase colored pencil marks are rubber latex erasers. These are specially made erasers for erasing color pencils. Just follow the simple steps.
· Try out the eraser first on a small area.
· If it smears or smudges, go slowly.
· Check for any color residue.
· If the desired result is obtained on the test area, then move onto the main region.
There are other erasers that can be used to erase colored pencils from the paper. Kneaded erasers and vinyl erasers can be great choices in this regard. However, they do not erase completely like the rubber latex one. It is more like blending or lightening the color shade.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is An Art Eraser?
Answer: An art eraser is a specialized eraser used by artists. It generally refers to kneaded rubber erasers.
What Is The Best Material For An Eraser?
Answer: Each material serves a different purpose when it comes to drawing erasers. However, considering functionality and general use, the kneaded rubber is one of the best materials out there.
Can An Eraser Be a Drawing Tool?
Answer: Yes, it can be. Many artists use erasers for highlighting and blending the color and charcoal on sketches.
What Is The Use of An Eraser In Drawing?
Answer: An eraser is a correction tool. It is used to correct any mistaken strokes or designs and allows the artist to re-do do the part.
What Makes An Eraser Good?
Answer: Quality and functionality determine how good an eraser is. If it can erase without dust and smudges or smears, then it can easily be considered a good eraser.
How Do You Replace An Electric eraser?
Answer: To remove an electric eraser, all you have to do is take off the used eraser from the metal holder on the head of the electric eraser. Replace the used eraser with a spare eraser, and you’re all good to go.
Conclusion
That wraps our list of the best eraser for drawing. We tried to focus the on usability and different functionality of each type of eraser while choosing the ones for this list. You can choose any one of the erasers mentioned here, and it’s guaranteed to serve your purpose.
However, if you want to explore more, then our handy buying guide can easily help you to make informed purchases. Just make sure you have the right eraser for the right kind of drawing, and you’re good to go.