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Sharpening a pencil properly is crucial, especially for artists or those seeking smooth handwriting. It's a skill that can be elevated to an art form. There are various methods to achieve the perfect pencil point.
Procedures
Utilizing a Pencil Sharpener
Opt for a compact, manual sharpener. These typically feature dual holes in a small plastic casing—one for standard pencils and the other for larger ones. Manual sharpeners offer affordability and portability. However, exercise caution to avoid irregular pencil points. Insert the pencil into the appropriate hole and rotate it several times until a sharp point is formed. Perform sharpening over a waste bin, unless the sharpener incorporates a containment feature for shavings.
Consider an electric pencil sharpener for convenience. Electric sharpeners yield neatly sharpened pencils with ease. Insert the pencil into the sharpener's orifice, and listen for the whirring sound indicating the sharpening process.
Precision Pencil Sharpening with a Knife
Adopt the correct pencil-holding technique. Grip the pencil near its tip, approximately 1 ½ inches from the end, to provide stability. Hold the pencil in your non-dominant hand and the knife in your dominant hand.
Refine the graphite. Once the graphite is exposed by about 3/8th of an inch, carefully carve away the excess wood while maintaining a low angle with the blade.
Sharpening a Carpenter Pencil
Perfecting the Pencil Tip
Opt for your preferred point style. When sharpening your pencil, select from four different styles. The standard point, resembling a cone, is the most commonly used. Alternatively, you can opt for a chisel point, ideal for creating varied line thicknesses. Artists often prefer this point for its versatility. The needle point, though delicate, is excellent for intricate detailing. Lastly, the bullet point, carved into a bullet shape, offers diverse line-making capabilities.
Utilize sandpaper for pencil maintenance. Keep your pencil sharp with a touch of sandpaper when the graphite wears down slightly. This method allows for quick sharpening without the need for a full sharpening session each time. Many artists keep sandpaper handy near their drawing boards for this purpose. Alternatively, consider charcoal pencils with paper wrapping, where pulling the string reveals fresh graphite.
Helpful Hints
- If your pencil frequently breaks, you may be sharpening it excessively or dealing with broken graphite. Adjust your pressure on the paper accordingly. Consider using pencil sharpeners with built-in shaving containers for convenience, eliminating the need for frequent trips to the garbage can. Additionally, explore mechanical sharpeners with cranks for effortless sharpening.
Cautionary Notes
- When using a knife for sharpening, always direct it away from your body to avoid injury. Be mindful not to insert the eraser end into the sharpener, as it may cause clogging or damage to the eraser and pencil. Avoid sharpening already sharp pencils to prevent lead breakage or jamming in the sharpener. Refrain from inserting fingers into the sharpener and exercise caution when using knives, especially in school or without adult supervision.
