Do Colored Pencils Break Easily When Sharpened to a Tiny Size?

When it comes to creating detailed artwork with colored pencils, achieving a fine tip is often essential. However, one common concern artists face is whether certain types or brands of colored pencils might be more prone to breaking when sharpened to very small sizes, such as less than half an inch.

The Physiology of Colored Pencils

Colored pencils consist of pencil cores that are typically encased in a cardboard or plastic casing. The core can be made from various materials, including wax, oil, or a combination of both, and sometimes they include pigments and extenders. When a pencil is sharpened, the outer layer is removed, revealing the core and allowing for a finer point.

Factors Influencing Colored Pencil Breakage

There are several factors that can affect the likelihood of a colored pencil breaking down to a very small size:

Brand Quality: High-quality colored pencils often have more robust and resistant cores, making them less likely to break. Pencil Core Composition: Cores made from a higher wax content tend to be more flexible and less prone to breaking, whereas oil-based cores can be more brittle. Sharpening Technique: Using a dull sharpener or applying pressure abruptly can cause the pencil to break. It's essential to use a sharp, high-quality sharpener and maintain a consistent, gentle pressure. Sharpening Angle: A very fine tip is achieved by maintaining an even angle as the pencil is rotated against the sharpener. If the angle is too steep or the pencil is rotated unevenly, it can lead to breakage.

Recommendations for Minimizing Breakage

To minimize the likelihood of colored pencils breaking when sharpened to a tiny size, consider the following tips:

Choose Quality Colored Pencils: High-end brands often offer cores that are more resistant to breaking. Some popular options include Faber-Castell, Prismacolor, and Caran d’Ache. Determinate the Core Composition: Read reviews or check the product specifications to determine if a pencil is wax or oil-based, which can help you understand its durability. Use a High-Quality Sharpener: A sharp clockwise rotating sharpener or a manual mechanical sharpener can help achieve a finer tip without excessive breakage. Apply Gentle Pressure: Apply consistent and gentle pressure while sharpening to avoid damaging the pencil's core. Practice Patience: Take your time when sharpening to ensure a smooth and precise tip.

Conclusion

While some colored pencils are more prone to breaking when sharpened to a very small size, the key factors influencing breakage are the quality of the pencil, its core composition, the sharpening technique, and the angle used. By choosing quality brands, using high-quality sharpeners, and employing proper sharpening techniques, artists can achieve a fine tip without risking breakage.

Additional Resources

For more information on selecting the best colored pencils and sharpeners, and tips for maintaining your tools, consider checking out the following resources:

Website: Faber-Castell USA Website: Prismacolor Website: Caran d'Ache