How to Sharpen Drawing Pencils
Sharpening a pencil can be an art if you don't use a mechanical sharpener.
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Instructions
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Electric and Hand Sharpening
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1
Use an electric sharpener for easy sharpening and the thinnest range of points.
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2
Insert the pencil into the appropriate sized hole, exert a minimum of pressure and check your pencil tip after five seconds.
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3
Reinsert for that extra-sharp point.
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4
Employ a hand sharpener for an effortless point, but be prepared to give up some control.
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5
Insert the pencil into the appropriate sized hole, crank the handle for about 15 seconds with minimum pressure, then check the tip.
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6
Reinsert for a sharper point.
Razor Sharpening
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Choose the razor sharpening method for the most control. It's usually employed for fine drawing pencils or when mechanical means are unavailable.
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Hold the pencil with the tip toward the ground.
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Hold the razor at a 45-degree angle from the tip of the pencil.
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Begin at the lip. Press firmly but lightly from wood's painted edge toward the graphite, shaving equally around the circumference.
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Keep shaving thin slices equally around the exposed graphite.
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Finish by sharpening the graphite itself, putting your choice of points on the tip.
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Tips & Warnings
Careful! A razor's edge is so sharp that you can't always feel a cut.
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Comments
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billdakelski
Jan 15, 2010
Artists often use a sharp xacto or razor-knife to sharpen a pencil. It should be done in 3 strokes forming a approx .75 inch long triangle on the tip. It takes some practice, but the result will be a very sharp pencil with flat areas on the sides. This method is probably the least wasteful of lead on a soft pencil (ie conte or prizmacolor) If you do it correctly, the lead won't break off like it does in a sharpener. -
liavivas
Jul 11, 2009
Coloring pencils shouln´t be extra sharp because you actually need that flat surface on the tip to make it easier on you and on the coloring surface, and you´re pencils will last a bit longer whic is always good considering the pocket and the planet!
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Janice Edelman
Aug 05, 2008
I sharpen my pencils with a sandpaper block.
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Janice Edelman
Aug 05, 2008
I sharpen my pencils with a sandpaper block.
