There are a few different types of Erasers that artists can use. Gum erasers, pink/rubber erasers, vinyl, electric, kneaded erasers, and more.
Each one has its own use.
But which ones are actually the best for artists? Let’s now go over the best erasers for pencil and graphic drawing, I’m giving you an option for each type to choose from!
Be sure to keep reading to know the best eraser for your needs.
Rubber Eraser: Prismacolor Magic Rub Eraser
The classic rubber erasers such as the Prismacolor Magic Rub Eraser are very reliable for everyday use! These are one of the classic drawing tools that artists use, and it’s a very common type of eraser.
They are highly effective at removing pencil marks and other light media. Not only that, but they last a moderate amount of time.
And best of all, they don’t tend to leave much residue behind or damage your paper.
Rubber erasers are also very comfortable to use (except when they get very tiny!), giving a nice ergonomic way of holding them.
If you’re looking for a general everyday use eraser to erase pencil or graphite, the classic rubber eraser is what you need!
Vinyl Eraser: Staedtler Mars Plastic Eraser
For a super sturdy eraser that will last you a long time, be sure to choose a Vinyl Eraser such as the Staedtler Mars Plastic Eraser.
They can be very precise with their sharp corners and do NOT tend to wear down quickly. Maintaining their shape and effectiveness over a very long period of time.
You can use these very well for erasing graphite without crumbling or tearing your paper.
These plastic erasers, also called polymer erasers, also allow you to use minimal strength to erase! A light touch of pressure from the artist and you can gently erase whichever parts of the drawing you’d like.
They require less effort to erase, which is also a great way to prevent hand and wrist pain.
You can also use these to erase other dry mediums, such as charcoal and colored pencils! So, for a durable and strong eraser, be sure to get a Plastic Eraser (also called a Vinyl Eraser).
Kneaded Eraser: Faber-Castell Kneaded Eraser
If you’re looking for a flexible and versatile eraser, the Faber-Castell Kneaded Eraser is your best choice.
Kneaded erasers are very moldable erasers that lift graphite, charcoal, and other dry media very easily!
You can use them not only to erase but also to lighten or lift off colored pencils and pastels. Kneadable erasers are some of the best erasers for drawing.
Not only that, but they tend to last a LONG time since they are very easily cleanable. You can simply twist and stretch (and Knead) the eraser to get it ready to erase again cleanly!
This is a great eraser for graphite that you should consider.
So, if you’re looking for moldability, precision erasing and easy to clean, be sure to go with the Kneaded Eraser! (these are my favorites)
Gum Eraser: Sanford Artgum Gum Erasers
If you need a gentle eraser that leaves no scratches or smudges, go with the Prismacolor Sanford Artgum Eraser!
These quality erasers are perfect for use with graphite and charcoal, and they won’t damage your paper surface.
And once again, these also work very well with minimal pressure, allowing you to effortlessly keep the artwork intact, while saving your hand and wrist some pain.
This gum eraser also lets you shape it slightly to create highlights or subtle details. Not only that, but they can last a LONG time.
So if you’re looking for a delicate but precise eraser that will last you a long time, be sure to go with a Gum Eraser.
Electric Eraser: AFMAT Electric Eraser For Artists
The electric erasers are a game changer for artists, especially the AFMAT Electric Eraser.
Despite the look, they are actually very lightweight and easy to hold. It has a pretty quiet motor, and you can use this eraser with different media, such as graphite and colored pencils.
These are some of the best drawing erasers you can get.
The best thing about electric erasers is that they tend to last VERY long (especially the package I linked above, with 140 refills), and not only that, but they are rechargeable through USB.
If you’re looking for time-saving efficiency for precise erasing, get one of these electric erasers!
Related Questions
Let’s now go over some information you might be asking about the different types of erasers for artists.
What’s The Best Eraser For Colored Pencils?
The best eraser for colored pencils is a high-quality kneaded eraser. These erasers are very flexible and allow you to lift and remove the pigment without creating marks or smears.
Not only that, but these erasers also don’t leave any residue on your artwork. This eraser is ideal to clear all colored pencil marks.
Another option is to opt for an electric eraser such as the AFMAT Electric Eraser or the Tombow Mono Zero Eraser.
These have become very popular for artists because they provide a quick and efficient method of erasing without damaging your surface.
Its best use of this different eraser is to work on small details, though, so I wouldn’t recommend it if you need to erase a very large area.
You can also read a more in-depth guide to erase colored pencils completely here!
How Can I Maintain And Clean My Eraser For A Long Time?
The best way to maintain an eraser for a long time is to regularly remove any leftover debris or graphite on the eraser by rubbing it against a clean cloth or similar surface!
This will prevent you from accidentally smudging your art.
I also recommend you keep your eraser stored in a dry place (not too warm either!) so it doesn’t degrade as quickly with time. You can also gently wash your eraser with mild soap and water if you need to.
When your eraser gets way too dirty or too small, be sure to replace it, though!
Erasers, in general, are very cheap, so I recommend you get a new one instead of trying to save the last inch of your last one.
With that said, I’ve covered how you can make your own Kneaded Eraser here.
The other option is to get a battery-powered electric eraser, as I mentioned before! It lasts a very long time.
What Erasers Work Well With Watercolor Or Ink Drawings?
When working with watercolor, I recommend using a kneaded eraser since it’s very soft and allows you to absorb the pigment without tearing or damaging the surface.
For ink drawings, though, the best bet is to use an electrical eraser since it allows you to use precision and speed without putting too much pressure on the paper!
They are both excellent for correcting small details on your artwork without smudging or tearing.
What Should I Look For When Shopping For The Best Eraser?
When shopping for the best eraser for you, there are a few points you should take into consideration:
- Quality and durability: Choose a good quality brand so your eraser won’t crumble easily and it will last you a long time.
- Comfort: Be sure that the eraser you’re getting is easy to hold and ergonomic. You don’t want to cause yourself some pain by getting a difficult-to-handle eraser!
- Your Drawing Mediums: Depending on your drawing mediums, you’ll want to get different types of erasers, as I’ve mentioned above. Be sure to select one that is compatible with what art supplies you’re using!
And that’s basically everything you should look for in an eraser.
If you choose one of the ones I recommend in this article, you’ll cover all those points!
I especially like the Faber-Castell Kneaded Eraser, though, but feel free to check the other ones out as well.