Smooth, Intense Compressed Charcoal for Bold Drawing and Fine Detail

General Pencil Compressed Charcoal offers artists a rich, velvety drawing medium ideal for bold marks and refined details alike. Crafted into square sticks measuring 3" x 1/4", this extra-smooth charcoal delivers an intense, deep black tone that’s perfect for expressive sketching, dramatic shading, and strong value contrasts. Its firmer texture makes it well-suited for precision and control, helping artists easily switch between broad applications and sharp lines.

Handcrafted in the USA and certified non-toxic, this charcoal is a safe and reliable tool for students, professionals, and hobbyists. While it doesn’t erase as easily as vine charcoal, its strong, lasting marks make it a go-to for finished drawings and value studies. With a smooth glide and excellent color payoff, General’s Compressed Charcoal offers professional performance at a great value.

Key Features

• Extra-smooth compressed charcoal in 3" x 1/4" square sticks
• Produces rich, deep black tones
• Ideal for both broad strokes and precise details
• Handcrafted in the USA and certified non-toxic
• More permanent than vine charcoal—less prone to smudging or erasing

Perfect For

• Sketching, shading, and value studies
• Creating dramatic contrast and intense darks
• Artists who prefer a dense, controlled charcoal medium
• Professional and student use in studio or classroom settings
• Adding depth and definition to charcoal compositions