To sharpen colored pencils, you can use a pencil sharpener, typically holding the pencil still while turning the sharpener to reduce stress and breakage on the core.
Sharpening colored pencils effectively helps maintain a sharp point for precise drawing and coloring. While various tools can be used, a common and recommended technique involves specific handling to protect the often softer lead (core) of colored pencils.
Here's a breakdown of the process, incorporating a key technique:
- Secure Your Grip: Hold the colored pencil in one hand, ensuring a firm but not crushing grip.
- Position the Sharpener: In your other hand, hold the pencil sharpener.
- Insert the Pencil: Gently insert the tip of the colored pencil into the correct-sized hole of the sharpener.
- Turn the Sharpener: While holding the colored pencil still, turn the pencil sharpener. Do not rotate the pencil itself.
This method is particularly beneficial for colored pencils because their cores are often wax-based or oil-based and can be more prone to breaking than graphite. The idea is that if you rotate the pencil sharpener instead, it reduces the stress on the colored pencil and reduces breakage.
Tips for Sharpening Colored Pencils
Using the correct technique is essential, but selecting the right tools and maintaining them is also important.
- Choose the Right Sharpener:
- Manual Sharpeners: These are portable and offer control. Look for one with a sharp blade designed for colored pencils or adjustable settings.
- Electric Sharpeners: Can be fast, but ensure they have a good mechanism that doesn't grind the pencil aggressively, potentially damaging the core. Some have auto-stop features when the point is sharp.
- Blade Sharpeners/Knives: For advanced users, these offer ultimate control over the point length and shape but require skill and caution.
- Sharp Blades: Always use a sharp blade. Dull blades can chew the wood and core, leading to breakage and an uneven point. Replace blades or sharpeners when they become dull.
- Empty Regularly: Empty the shavings receptacle frequently to prevent jamming, which can put undue pressure on the pencil.
- Avoid Forcing: Never force a pencil into a sharpener or try to sharpen it too quickly. Gentle, steady turning is best.
By holding the pencil still and turning the sharpener, you apply less sideways force to the delicate colored core, resulting in smoother sharpening and less waste from breakage.
