Derwent Art Supplies

Derwent is a historic and highly respected brand in the art world, specializing in high-quality pencils and other stationery tools. The brand's history traces back to 1832 when it began as the Cumberland Pencil Company in Keswick, England. This location was strategically chosen due to the local discovery of graphite in the Borrowdale valley, which fueled the development of the pencil industry in the region.

Today, Derwent remains dedicated to its heritage, with a significant portion of its manufacturing still taking place in the United Kingdom at its factory in Lilleshall, Cumbria. The brand is known for its innovation in artist media, ranging from traditional graphite pencils to specialized watercolor pencils and charcoal products used by professionals and hobbyists worldwide.

Regarding ownership, Derwent is currently a brand under the umbrella of ACCO Brands, an American multinational corporation. ACCO Brands acquired the business in 2005, integrating it into a diverse portfolio of office and consumer product brands. Despite the American ownership, Derwent maintains its distinct British identity and manufacturing roots in the Lake District.