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With the advancement of vintage art accessories, pencil sharpeners are a must, whether you are a writer, illustrator, or a lover of colored pencils. Sure, you could use a knife to create that perfect point, but why not just stick a dull writing instrument into a conveniently located blade that will do the same thing – with much less effort and less risk of cutting yourself? Auto options provide speed and ease, but a manual sharpener gives you much more control over your cut and length. Ahead, find the best sharpeners—all of them ARTnews– Recommended.
ARTnews recommend
Blick x KUM Long Point Sharpener
The German company KUM is best known for its sharpeners, all of which are equipped with blades rated 65 on the Rockwell hardness scale (for comparison, this is the rating for many professional Japanese knives). In this sharpener, those hardened carbon steel edges are fitted into a metal casing inside a plastic case to catch the sawdust. Sharpener razors point to a long point – ideal if you like to use the wire side for shading. The important thing to know about this sharpener is that it requires a two-step process: one hole cuts the wood casing, and the second runs far into the core. The design prevents over-sharpening and breakage. We love that this sharpener is compatible with colored pencils, charcoal pencils, and of course, regular pencils. In addition, you can replace the blades!
We love too
Staedtler Metal Sharpener With Two Holes
Offering the most traditional one-step sharpening method, this manual sharpener is all you have to throw in your bag and go. Although it is made of plastic, it is strong and reliable. It features a dual metal slot for different sized pencils, along with a relatively roomy trough to catch shavings (the larger slot works well with crayons too). The blade does not bite the pencil but cuts it to a brittle point. There is a hinged lid with a safety lock to keep everything contained when not in use.
Another good option
KUM . sharpener
This straightforward sharpener from KUM offers the brand’s toughest blades with a design that requires no double sharpening. Sure, you’ll have to use it on a trash can (or as a toy to clean up sawdust), but it allows you to get a clear view of the sharpening process for ultimate control. The magnesium alloy shell is durable so you can put it in your tool box or pencil case without worry. Choose from a single hole model that fits standard 8mm pencils or a double hole model that can also hold 10.5mm pencils.
Teachers’ choice
Bostick Office Twist ‘n Sharp Handy Pencil Sharpener
Bostick’s Mini Sharpening Tools get pencils sharp without requiring a lot of force, making them an excellent choice for classes with youngsters or young artists just learning these magical tools. Plus, you can twist the handle to choose the point you want: choose from sharp or blunt, which is great if you’re worried about handing little kids a pointed pencil. The sharpener prevents over-sharpening, and the design is sturdy and comfortable to hold; Hinged tray empties waste in seconds. Finally, it comes in value packs of three, each one in bright, fun colors!
Another good option
Prismacolor pencil sharpener
If you mostly need to sharpen your colored pencils, or want a custom sharpener for your colored pencils, there is no better choice than this vertically oriented model from Prismacolor. High-quality blades get rid of wood without stripping the core and rusting color. The sharpener has two blades that offer two different sharpening angles so you can cut your pencils to order for shading or detail work. The shaving bowl features a lid that slips on and off, but stays secure when you need it.
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