If you’re looking for the best ballpoint pen, we’d recommend the Pilot BPS GP Fine. “I've tried the Kuretake Sumi brush pen and Pentel Sign pen alternatives and they are much easier to use, but have less potential.” “It does take a lot of practice because it's so delicate,” she cautions. When you want to add a feeling of weight, you can increase the pressure ever so slightly and get a bolder finish.

When you want something really precise it can also perform well, with practice. If you want to get really expressive, the individual hairs create a great texture when you really sweep it across the page. “I love the variety of lines you can get from the pen. 'I think I drew everything for the rest of my course with it, because it added character and a personal touch to every stroke. “A guy on my illustration course gave me one and I was blown away,' she recalls. Illustrator Ailish Sullivan (opens in new tab) has fond memories of receiving her first Pentel Brush Pen. You'll need to be careful transporting them though – the ink can leak or clump if the lid isn't on tight. The artists we spoke to commented that these pens are great for creating a variety of different line types – although the delicate nib does take some getting used to. The deep black pigment scans very well ideal if you want to finish your artwork digitally.

With its hardwearing synthetic bristles, sturdy, precise tip and waterproof, fade-resistant ink, the Pentel Brush Pen runs a close second for our favourite all-round pen for drawing.

Best pen for lineart clip studio paint