Softlead Pencils

I have been working with paints and ink a lot in the last year and haven't used any softlead pencil in a long time other than for sketching outlines for ink drawings.  Last night I started a drawing in my art journal that was originally going to be an outline for another painting but somehow the more I drew the more I knew she needed to be done in pencil.  The piece is coming along well and is reminding me that I can eat up an 8B pencil with grace and speed.  I require a sharp tip so I sharpen a lot. A LOT.  I think I require a trip to the art store.  I wonder where I can buy loose canvas locally.  I don't fancy to pay for shipping for something that may be creased or unsatisfactory.  I also need to find some tutorials stretching your own canvas and making your own frames.  I have a pretty good idea from looking at the ones that I buy.