Pencils have graphite leads that can create marks on paper. Unlike pen ink, pencil marks can be erased from any surface, making them ideal for drawing, drafting and sketching. They are also the standard writing tool in most schools. Pencil leads are usually a mix of graphite and clay. Dark and colored pencils also contain pigments similar to those used in watercolors. Most pencils have small erasers attached to the end opposite the lead tip.
Wooden pencils have thick graphite cores covered with a wooden sheath. They are sharpened by shaping the tip into a fine point, using cutters or pencil sharpeners. An eraser is usually secured to the other end using metal rings.
Mechanical pencils
Mechanical pencils, also called propelling pencils, have thin leads contained in plastic or metal tubes. The lead is pushed out in short intervals using a button at the top. They create thin uniform lines measuring less than five millimeters.
Bar pencils
Bar pencils use the same technique as mechanical pencils, but they have slightly thicker leads. Their lines are about five millimeters thick, but thinner lines can be achieved by changing the angle of the pencil.
Grip. Choose a pencil that fits comfortably into your hands. If you will use it for sketching, make sure you can easily rotate it to change line thicknesses. Look for one with a rubber grip near the tip to keep it from slipping.
Darkness. Choose a medium-darkness pencil for general writing applications. For drawing, you may want to invest in a pencil set with different dark levels for more accurate shading. Avoid leads that are too slick or grainy because they can stain the paper when erased.
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