How to Sharpen Drawing Pencils

By eHow Education Editor

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Sharpening a pencil can be an art if you don't use a mechanical sharpener.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

  • Razor Knives
  • Drawing Pencils
  • Pencil Sharpeners

Electric and Hand Sharpening

Step1
Use an electric sharpener for easy sharpening and the thinnest range of points.
Step2
Insert the pencil into the appropriate sized hole, exert a minimum of pressure and check your pencil tip after five seconds.
Step3
Reinsert for that extra-sharp point.
Step4
Employ a hand sharpener for an effortless point, but be prepared to give up some control.
Step5
Insert the pencil into the appropriate sized hole, crank the handle for about 15 seconds with minimum pressure, then check the tip.
Step6
Reinsert for a sharper point.

Razor Sharpening

Step1
Choose the razor sharpening method for the most control. It's usually employed for fine drawing pencils or when mechanical means are unavailable.
Step2
Hold the pencil with the tip toward the ground.
Step3
Hold the razor at a 45-degree angle from the tip of the pencil.
Step4
Begin at the lip. Press firmly but lightly from wood's painted edge toward the graphite, shaving equally around the circumference.
Step5
Keep shaving thin slices equally around the exposed graphite.
Step6
Finish by sharpening the graphite itself, putting your choice of points on the tip.

Tips & Warnings

  • Careful! A razor's edge is so sharp that you can't always feel a cut.

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Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Practice makes perfect.

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eHow Article:  How to Sharpen Drawing Pencils

eHow Education Editor

eHow Education Editor

Category: Education

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