If the only purpose of a kneaded eraser was to erase, I wouldn’t be so picky about what I use. When I was in art college, I used my left hand with the eraser in it as much as I used my right hand. Eventually, I became as proficient with my left hand as with my right.
Think about that… That may not be something to brag about, especially when an art teacher told me to stay in photography because I was a better photographer than an artist. Lucky for me, I did not listen. Persistence seems to be more important than talent.
The Purpose of Kneaded Erasers
Some artists believe that the only purpose of a kneaded eraser is to erase. Therefore, they do not pay much attention to the brand or quality of the eraser they use. However, this is not entirely true. A kneaded eraser can be used as a tool, just like a brush or a pencil. It can help you create different effects and textures in your artwork.
Importance of Choosing the Right Kneaded Eraser
My favorite kneaded eraser is made by Prismacolor. I can use this eraser like a tool, touch lightly and remove very little, or touch firmer and remove more. I can vary the thickness of my marks and the weight.
Other companies’ kneaded erasers are too soft and sticky and can remove more graphite or charcoal from my surface than I desire. I spent all this time developing a touch and understanding about drawing principles, and a poor eraser nullifies and removes my developed touch.
Now, sometimes I do buy Faber Castell erasers - which I dislike with a passion :( … (not Prismacolor). I use the plastic box they come in to keep my Prismacolor clean and allow me to transport it without ruining. Then, I throw out the Faber Castell eraser. Dick Blick and Faber Castell seem to be identical. (Maybe they are made by the same company?). Both go into the trash.
Look for other types of erasers I use later.