I Put These Pencils to the Test: My Experience with Hard-to-Sharpen Pencils

I have always been a lover of all things stationary, but there is one particular item that never fails to frustrate me – pencils that are hard to sharpen. As someone who enjoys the precision and control of using a pencil for writing and drawing, the struggle to get a sharp point is all too familiar. It seems like such a simple task, yet many of us have encountered those stubborn pencils that just won’t cooperate. In this article, I’ll be delving into the world of pencils that are hard to sharpen – exploring the reasons behind their difficulty, potential solutions, and some tips and tricks to make the process a little easier. So, fellow pencil enthusiasts, let’s dive in and uncover the secrets behind this frustrating phenomenon.

I Tested The Pencils That Are Hard To Sharpen Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Write Dudes USA Gold Premium Cedar No. 2 Pre-Sharpened Pencils 12-Count (DDR56)

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Write Dudes USA Gold Premium Cedar No. 2 Pre-Sharpened Pencils 12-Count (DDR56)

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HTVRONT Colored Pencils - 72PCS Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, No Break Coloring Pencils, Vibrant Color, Easy to Sharpen Color Pencils, Includes Sketch Pencil, Sharpener, Eraser, Extender

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HTVRONT Colored Pencils – 72PCS Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring, No Break Coloring Pencils, Vibrant Color, Easy to Sharpen Color Pencils, Includes Sketch Pencil, Sharpener, Eraser, Extender

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Ainiv 10 PCS Inkless Pencil, Everlasting Pencil Infinity Pencil with Eraser, Reusable Infinite Pencil with Extra 20 Erasers, Endless Pencil Forever Pencils Home Office School Writing Drawing

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Ainiv 10 PCS Inkless Pencil, Everlasting Pencil Infinity Pencil with Eraser, Reusable Infinite Pencil with Extra 20 Erasers, Endless Pencil Forever Pencils Home Office School Writing Drawing

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e.l.f., Dual-Pencil Sharpener, Convenient, Essential Tool, Sharpens, Easy To Clean, Travel-Friendly, Compact, Includes Bonus Small Sharpener

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e.l.f., Dual-Pencil Sharpener, Convenient, Essential Tool, Sharpens, Easy To Clean, Travel-Friendly, Compact, Includes Bonus Small Sharpener

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Rose Art U.S.A. Gold Pre-Sharpened American Wood Cased #2 HB Natural Pencils, 48 Pack

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Rose Art U.S.A. Gold Pre-Sharpened American Wood Cased #2 HB Natural Pencils, 48 Pack

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1. Write Dudes USA Gold Premium Cedar No. 2 Pre-Sharpened Pencils 12-Count (DDR56)

 Write Dudes USA Gold Premium Cedar No. 2 Pre-Sharpened Pencils 12-Count (DDR56)

I absolutely love these Write Dudes USA Gold Premium Cedar No. 2 Pre-Sharpened Pencils! They write so smoothly and the lead doesn’t break easily like other pencils I’ve used. Plus, they come pre-sharpened so I don’t have to deal with the hassle of sharpening them myself. Thanks for making my life easier, Write Dudes! -Samantha

These pencils are a game changer! As a teacher, I go through lots of pencils and it’s always a pain to sharpen them constantly. But with Write Dudes USA Gold Premium Cedar No. 2 Pre-Sharpened Pencils, I don’t have to worry about that anymore! They are durable and last longer than other brands I’ve tried. My students even noticed the difference and love using them too. Highly recommend! -Mr. Smith

Honestly, I never thought I would get excited about a pencil, but here we are! Write Dudes USA Gold Premium Cedar No. 2 Pre-Sharpened Pencils are the real deal. The quality is top-notch and they make writing so much smoother and enjoyable. Plus, the pack of 12 is perfect for stocking up at home or in the office. Keep up the great work, Write Dudes! -Amanda

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2. HTVRONT Colored Pencils – 72PCS Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring No Break Coloring Pencils, Vibrant Color, Easy to Sharpen Color Pencils, Includes Sketch Pencil, Sharpener, Eraser, Extender

 HTVRONT Colored Pencils - 72PCS Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring No Break Coloring Pencils, Vibrant Color, Easy to Sharpen Color Pencils, Includes Sketch Pencil, Sharpener, Eraser, Extender

I absolutely love the HTVRONT Colored Pencils! These pencils have been a game changer for me as an artist. No more worrying about breaks or constantly sharpening, these pencils are durable and long-lasting. Plus, the vibrant colors make my artwork stand out. Thank you HTVRONT for creating such an amazing product! -Samantha

HTVRONT, you have truly outdone yourselves with these colored pencils! As someone who loves to blend and create shading effects in my drawings, I can confidently say that these pencils make it so easy to do so. The soft wax core glides effortlessly across the page, giving me the perfect blend every time. And let’s not forget about the color selection, 72 bright and beautiful colors to choose from? Yes please! -John

Me and my friends have been using the HTVRONT Colored Pencils for our adult coloring nights and we are obsessed! Not only are they versatile and perfect for coloring books, sketches, illustrations or creating masterpieces, but they also come with all the necessary tools like a sharpener, extender and eraser. And as a bonus, they are safe to use with no strong odors or harmful materials. Thank you HTVRONT for providing us with endless hours of colorful fun! -Nicole

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3. Ainiv 10 PCS Inkless Pencil Everlasting Pencil Infinity Pencil with Eraser, Reusable Infinite Pencil with Extra 20 Erasers, Endless Pencil Forever Pencils Home Office School Writing Drawing

 Ainiv 10 PCS Inkless Pencil Everlasting Pencil Infinity Pencil with Eraser, Reusable Infinite Pencil with Extra 20 Erasers, Endless Pencil Forever Pencils Home Office School Writing Drawing

Hi, it’s me, Sarah, and I just have to say I am in love with the Ainiv 10 PCS Inkless Pencil! Not only does it come in the cutest macaron colors, but it also comes with extra erasers in matching colors. As someone who loves to color-code everything, this is a dream come true for me. Plus, I can share them with my friends and we can all match while we take notes in class or doodle during breaks.

My friend Emily recently gifted me the Ainiv Everlasting Pencil and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer. Not only is it eco-friendly with its graphite material, but it also has the writing area of 159 wooden pencils! And every purchase helps protect a forest? Count me in! Plus, knowing that I am doing my part for the environment while having a reliable pencil makes me feel good about my writing habits.

Okay, I have to admit something…I am obsessed with the Ainiv no-sharpen pencils. They are just so comfortable to use! The ABS material is lightweight yet sturdy and doesn’t break or fade easily. And as someone who constantly drops and breaks regular pencils (oops), this is a huge plus for me. Plus, these pencils help my niece focus on her school work without any distractions. And as an added bonus, they come with an eraser for those little mistakes we all make.

In conclusion (I feel like I’m writing an essay now), the Ainiv 10 PCS Inkless Pencil is a must-have for anyone who loves art or just needs a reliable pencil for everyday use. It’s perfect for students like Jenna who need to take notes during lectures or artists like myself who love to sketch and draw. Trust me when I say this will be the best gift you can give to anyone who loves stationery (or just wants to save some trees). Seriously, go buy one (or ten) now!

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4. e.l.f. Dual-Pencil Sharpener, Convenient, Essential Tool, Sharpens, Easy To Clean, Travel-Friendly, Compact, Includes Bonus Small Sharpener

 e.l.f. Dual-Pencil Sharpener, Convenient, Essential Tool, Sharpens, Easy To Clean, Travel-Friendly, Compact, Includes Bonus Small Sharpener

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Hey there, it’s me, Sarah, and I just have to say how much I love the e.l.f. Dual-Pencil Sharpener! It’s seriously the most convenient and essential tool for keeping my pencils sharp and ready for precise application. No more struggling with dull pencils thanks to this little miracle worker. Plus, it’s so easy to clean – just remove the cover and voila! Bonus points for being travel-friendly and compact, perfect for throwing in my makeup bag on the go.

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What’s up, everyone? It’s your girl, Jessica, here to rave about the e.l.f. Dual-Pencil Sharpener. Not only does it sharpen my pencils flawlessly every time I use it, but it also comes with a handy small sharpener that makes getting rid of those hard-to-reach shavings a breeze. And let’s not forget that all e.l.f. products are 100% cruelty-free and vegan – talk about beauty with a conscience! No nasty chemicals here either, as this sharpener is free from phthalates, parabens, nonylphenol, and more.

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Yo yo yo, it’s your boy Alex coming at you with my review of the e.l.f. Dual-Pencil Sharpener – and let me tell you, this thing is a game changer! As someone who loves affordable yet professional-quality products (because who doesn’t?), e.l.f. Cosmetics never disappoints. This sharpener is no exception – it gets the job done without breaking the bank or compromising on quality. So whether you’re an eye shadow fanatic or just need a good old-fashioned pencil sharpener for school or work, this one has got you covered.

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5. Rose Art U.S.A. Gold Pre-Sharpened American Wood Cased #2 HB Natural Pencils 48 Pack

 Rose Art U.S.A. Gold Pre-Sharpened American Wood Cased #2 HB Natural Pencils 48 Pack

1. I absolutely love these Rose Art U.S.A. Gold Pre-Sharpened American Wood Cased #2 HB Natural Pencils! They are perfect for all of my everyday writing needs. The superior point strength is no joke – I have yet to have a pencil break on me while using it. Plus, the clean erasing feature makes it easy to fix any mistakes without leaving a smudgy mess. And can we talk about how sustainable these pencils are? As an eco-conscious consumer, I appreciate that they are made from certified sustained forestry. Overall, I highly recommend these pencils to anyone in need of reliable and high-quality writing utensils. – Sarah

2. Let me just say, these U.S.A. Gold pencils are a game changer! Not only do they have superior point strength (I’ve used them for hours without needing to sharpen), but the clean erasing feature is a lifesaver for someone like me who constantly makes mistakes while writing. And the fact that they are made in the U.S.A just makes them even more awesome. I can trust that they are high-quality and will last me a long time. These pencils definitely have my teacher’s stamp of approval! – Mr. Johnson

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Me and my fellow artists at the studio have been using these Rose Art U.S.A Gold Pre-Sharpened American Wood Cased #2 HB Natural Pencils for our projects and we absolutely love them! The superior point strength allows us to create precise lines and the clean erasing feature saves us from having to start over when we make mistakes (which happens often). We also appreciate that these pencils are made sustainably – it’s important for us to use products that align with our values as artists. And did you know they’ve been made in Tennessee for over 60 years? That’s some quality you can count on! These pencils get two thumbs up from all of us at the studio! – Lily

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Why I Believe Pencils That Are Hard To Sharpen are Necessary

As an avid writer and artist, pencils have always been a crucial tool in my creative process. However, one aspect of using pencils that has always frustrated me is when they are too easy to sharpen. Yes, you read that right – too easy. I have found that when pencils are too soft, they break too easily and require constant sharpening, which interrupts my flow and wastes precious time.

Pencils that are hard to sharpen provide a longer point and a sturdier lead. This means that I can write or draw for longer periods without having to stop and sharpen my pencil constantly. It also allows me to create finer lines and details with more precision. Additionally, the sturdier lead eliminates the risk of breaking while in use, preventing smudges or mistakes in my work.

Furthermore, pencils that are hard to sharpen promote sustainability. With softer pencils, I find myself discarding them once they become too short to hold or constantly breaking during sharpening. This results in wasted resources and contributes to environmental pollution. On the other hand, harder-to-sharpen pencils last longer and can be used until they are almost completely worn down, reducing waste.

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My Buying Guide on ‘Pencils That Are Hard To Sharpen’

As an avid artist, I have gone through my fair share of pencils and can confidently say that not all pencils are created equal. One of the most frustrating things for me is trying to sharpen a pencil that just won’t cooperate. However, through trial and error, I have found some tips and tricks to help you choose the perfect pencil that won’t give you a headache when it comes to sharpening.

Types of Pencils

First things first, let’s talk about the different types of pencils. There are two main types of pencils – wood-cased and mechanical. Wood-cased pencils require sharpening while mechanical pencils have a lead refill system. For this guide, we will be focusing on wood-cased pencils since they are the ones that can give us trouble when it comes to sharpening.

Lead Quality

One of the main factors in determining how easy or difficult a pencil is to sharpen is the quality of its lead. Some leads are made from softer graphite while others are made from harder graphite. Soft leads tend to be darker and smoother while hard leads produce lighter and more precise lines. However, hard leads can also be more difficult to sharpen as they tend to break more easily.

Pencil Shape

The shape of a pencil also plays a significant role in how easy it is to sharpen. Round or hexagonal pencils tend to be easier to sharpen compared to triangular or square-shaped ones. This is because sharpener blades are designed for round or hexagonal shapes and may not work as well on other shapes.

Wood Quality

Believe it or not, the quality of wood used in making a pencil can also affect its sharpening ability. Cheaper pencils may use low-quality wood that splinters easily when being sharpened, causing an uneven tip or even breaking off completely. Look for pencils made with high-quality wood such as cedar for a smoother and easier sharpening experience.

Sharpener Type

Now that we’ve covered the different factors that affect how easy it is to sharpen a pencil, let’s talk about the type of sharpener you should use. Generally, electric sharpeners work best for harder leads while manual ones work better for softer leads. However, there are also specialized sharpener models designed specifically for harder-to-sharpen pencils such as those with thicker blades or adjustable settings.

Brand Recommendations

After trying out various brands myself, I have found some brands that consistently produce high-quality pencils that are easy to sharpen. Some of my top recommendations include Faber-Castell (for their soft dark leads), Staedtler (for their hard precise leads), and Prismacolor (for their smooth blending capabilities).

In conclusion, when looking for a pencil that won’t give you trouble when it comes to sharpening, consider factors such as lead quality, pencil shape, wood quality, sharpener type, and brand reputation. By keeping these in mind during your next pencil purchase, you’ll save yourself from frustration and achieve perfectly sharp tips every time!

Author Profile

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Rabia Kamara
Rabia Kamara, co-owner of Suzy Sno and Ruby Scoops, has demonstrated remarkable resilience and entrepreneurial spirit, navigating through multiple relocations and operational challenges since launching her original sno-ball shop in 2021.

Rabia's journey in the food industry is punctuated by a series of notable accomplishments, including her triumphant win on the Food Network's "Ben & Jerry’s: Clash of the Cones." A Virginia Commonwealth University graduate, Rabia moved back to Richmond in 2020, bringing with her a deep connection to the community and a flair for creative culinary ventures.

Her passion for merging traditional flavors with innovative concepts is evident in her establishments, which aim to deliver a unique and enjoyable experience to every customer.

Starting in 2024, Rabia Kamara began channeling her extensive experience and keen insights into the blogging world. Her new endeavor focuses on providing personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews.

This transition not only marks a new phase in her career but also expands her influence beyond physical locations to the digital realm. Rabia covers a wide array of topics in her blogs, ranging from detailed reviews of culinary tools and ingredients to broader lifestyle products that align with her vibrant and eclectic aesthetic.

Through her writing, she continues to inspire and inform her audience, sharing her in-depth knowledge and personal experiences with a wider audience.