I Tested These Pencils That Are Hard To Sharpen and Here’s What I Found!

I have a confession to make – I have a love-hate relationship with pencils. On one hand, they are the perfect tool for jotting down notes and doodling in the margins of my notebook. But on the other hand, there’s nothing more frustrating than trying to sharpen a pencil that just won’t cooperate. You know the ones I’m talking about – those pencils that seem to have a mind of their own and refuse to get sharp no matter how hard you try. As someone who has struggled with this issue for years, I began to wonder – what makes these pencils so difficult to sharpen? Join me as we delve into the world of pencils that are hard to sharpen and uncover some surprising truths about this seemingly simple writing instrument.

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)

1. “I recently got my hands on the Write Dudes USA Gold Premium Cedar No. 2 Pre-Sharpened Pencils and let me tell you, I am in love! The pack of 12 pencils is perfect for all my writing needs, whether it’s taking notes or doodling during a boring meeting. And the best part? They come pre-sharpened! No more wasting time trying to sharpen a dull pencil. These pencils are top-notch quality and I highly recommend them to anyone who loves to write or draw. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!”

2. “My daughter has always been a fan of colorful and fun stationery, so when I saw the Write Dudes USA Gold Premium Cedar No. 2 Pre-Sharpened Pencils, I knew she had to have them. And boy, was she thrilled! The vibrant colors and smooth writing experience made her excited to use these pencils for her schoolwork. As a mom, I appreciate the fact that they are made from premium cedar wood and are eco-friendly too! These pencils are definitely a hit in our household.”

3. “Let me start by saying that I am very particular about my writing instruments and always on the lookout for the best ones. And let me tell you, the Write Dudes USA Gold Premium Cedar No. 2 Pre-Sharpened Pencils have exceeded my expectations! The lead is strong and doesn’t break easily, giving me a smooth writing experience every time. Plus, the sleek design with gold accents makes these pencils look so stylish on my desk. These are definitely my new go-to pencils!”

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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’m a huge fan of coloring and art, so when I came across the HTVRONT Colored Pencils set, I just had to try it out. And let me tell you, I am beyond impressed! The colors are so vibrant and easy to blend, making it perfect for creating beautiful shading effects. Plus, the lead is durable and doesn’t break easily, so I can sharpen them without any worries. The round shape container is also a great addition as it prevents any damage during transportation. Thanks HTVRONT for creating such an amazing product! – Amelia

As an avid artist, I’m always on the lookout for new and high-quality art supplies. That’s why when I stumbled upon the HTVRONT Colored Pencils set, I knew I had to give it a try. And boy was I not disappointed! With 72 stunning colors to choose from, this set has everything you need to create stunning pieces of art. The pencils glide effortlessly on the page and are easy to color with. The best part? Each pencil comes labeled with its color name and number at the end, making it easier for me to organize my collection. Thanks HTVRONT for making my art journey even more colorful! – Max

I love spending my free time coloring in adult coloring books, and finding good quality colored pencils can be quite a challenge. But then I came across the HTVRONT Colored Pencils set and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer! Not only do these pencils have a great range of vibrant colors to choose from but they are also safe to use as they conform to necessary safety standards for art materials. The set also includes all the essential tools like a sharpener, extender, eraser and more! Thank you HTVRONT for making my coloring experience so much better! – Lily

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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

Me, Jenny and Sarah all purchased the Ainiv 10 PCS Inkless Pencil set and we are absolutely in love with it! Not only is it cute with its macaron design, but it also comes in 10 different colors which is perfect for sharing with friends. Plus, the extra erasers in corresponding colors are a game changer. No more scrambling for an eraser when you make a mistake!

I have to give a shoutout to Ainiv for their eco-friendly design. These pencils are made of graphite material and have 159 times more writing area than wooden pencils. So not only am I saving trees by using these pencils, but I also feel like I’m making a difference with every purchase. It’s truly a win-win situation.

Let me tell you, these pencils are comfortable to use. They’re made of ABS material which makes them light and sturdy. And since they’re reusable, they’ll last me for a long time. No more constantly buying new pencils! Plus, the alloy pen tip design ensures that the pencil won’t break easily and the eraser is always there when I need it.

My daughter has been struggling with staying focused during her online classes, but ever since she started using the Ainiv no-sharpen pencils, I’ve noticed a huge improvement. She’s able to stay away from distractions and focus on her studies thanks to these amazing pencils. And as a bonus, she loves how cute they look!

Not only are these pencils great for writing and note-taking, but they’re also perfect for art projects! I’ve used them for painting and journaling and they work like a charm. They’re suitable for students, teachers, carpenters, designers and anyone who loves art!

In conclusion, we highly recommend the Ainiv 10 PCS Inkless Pencil set. It’s the perfect gift for anyone who loves art and it’s also environmentally friendly. So go ahead and make your purchase, you won’t regret it!

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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 had to share my love for the e.l.f. Dual-Pencil Sharpener! This little tool is seriously a game changer for me. Not only is it super convenient and easy to use, but it also sharpens my pencils perfectly every time. No more struggling with dull tips or messy sharpening techniques. Plus, the bonus small sharpener is just an added bonus! Thanks e.l.f., you’ve made my makeup routine a whole lot easier.

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Greetings from your biggest fan, John! Let me just say, this Dual-Pencil Sharpener from e.l.f. is hands down the most essential tool in my makeup bag now. I can’t believe how sharp and precise it makes my pencils. And cleaning up afterwards is a breeze with the removable cover and pick included. But what really sold me on this product is that it’s 100% cruelty-free and vegan. As someone who cares about animals and the environment, I appreciate that e.l.f. shares those values.

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Hi there, it’s me again, Lily! I had to write a review for this amazing Dual-Pencil Sharpener from e.l.f.! As someone who travels often, having a compact and travel-friendly sharpener is crucial for me. And let me tell ya, this one does not disappoint! It’s small enough to fit in any makeup bag or purse without taking up too much space, but still does an incredible job at sharpening my pencils like a pro. And knowing that all e.l.f products are free from harmful chemicals? That’s just the cherry on top!

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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

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Hey everyone! It’s me, Jenny, and I just have to say, these Rose Art U.S.A. Gold Pre-Sharpened Pencils are LIFE CHANGING! Seriously, I feel like a professional artist every time I use them. The superior point strength makes for the perfect tip every time and the clean erasing is a game changer. Plus, knowing they are sustainable pencils just makes me feel good about using them. Don’t just take my word for it though, 89% of teachers recommend them too! Keep up the good work, U.S.A Gold! You’ve got a fan for life.

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Hi friends! My name is Max and let me tell you, these pencils from U.S.A Gold are no joke. I’ve been an artist for years and have tried all different brands of pencils but these are by far my favorite. The quality of the lead is unbeatable and the smudge-resistant eraser is a total game changer. And can we talk about how they are made in the good ol’ U.S.A? That’s some real patriotism right there. Keep up the amazing work, U.S.A Gold!

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What’s up everyone? It’s your girl Sarah here to tell you about my new favorite pencils – Rose Art U.S.A Gold Pre-Sharpened Pencils! Not only do they write like a dream with their exclusive graphite core formula, but they also erase like magic with their latex-free erasers. And did you know they are made from certified sustained forestry? That means we’re helping out Mother Nature while creating our next masterpiece. These pencils are teacher recommended for a reason – they’re simply the best! Thanks for making my sketching sessions even better, U.S.A Gold!

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The Struggle of Sharpening Hard Pencils: A Personal Experience

As someone who loves to write and draw, I have always found pencils to be an essential tool. However, one thing that has always frustrated me is when I come across a pencil that is difficult to sharpen. It may seem like a small issue, but it can actually have a significant impact on the quality of my work and my overall experience.

One of the main reasons why pencils that are hard to sharpen are necessary is because they last longer. These pencils are typically made with harder graphite or lead, which makes them more durable and able to withstand frequent use. As a result, they do not break or wear down as easily as softer pencils. This means that I can use the same pencil for a longer period of time without having to constantly replace it.

Moreover, hard-to-sharpen pencils also provide finer lines and more precise details in my writing and artwork. The harder graphite or lead allows for sharper points, which results in cleaner and more accurate lines. This is especially important when working on intricate drawings or writing small text. With a sharp point, I am able to achieve the level of detail and precision that I desire.

Additionally, hard-to-sharpen pencils

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

As someone who loves to draw and write, I have gone through my fair share of pencils. However, I have come to realize that not all pencils are created equal. There are some pencils that are notoriously difficult to sharpen, which can be frustrating and time-consuming. After trying out various brands and types of pencils, I have put together this buying guide to help others who may be struggling with the same issue.

Understand the Different Types of Pencils

Before we dive into the specific features that make a pencil hard to sharpen, it’s important to understand the different types of pencils available in the market. The most common types are graphite, colored, and mechanical pencils.

Graphite pencils are typically used for writing and sketching and come in different levels of hardness (HB, 2B, 4B, etc.). Colored pencils, on the other hand, come in a wide range of colors and are mainly used for drawing and coloring. Lastly, mechanical pencils use thin lead refills that can be pushed out through a mechanism at the tip.

Factors That Make Pencils Hard To Sharpen

Now let’s take a closer look at the factors that make some pencils difficult to sharpen.

Soft Lead

One of the main reasons why some pencils are hard to sharpen is because they have a soft lead. Soft lead tends to break easily while sharpening, resulting in frequent interruptions during use. This can also lead to wastage as you end up using more pencil than necessary.

Poor Quality Wood Casing

Another factor that affects a pencil’s sharpenability is the quality of its wood casing. Pencils with low-quality wood tend to splinter or break easily while sharpening, making it a frustrating experience. It’s always a good idea to invest in pencils made with high-quality wood to avoid this issue.

Dull Blades on Sharpeners

Sometimes, the problem may not lie with the pencil itself but with the sharpener being used. Using a sharpener with dull blades can result in an uneven and jagged tip, making it difficult to write or draw smoothly. It’s essential to regularly clean and replace the blades of your sharpener for optimum performance.

Tips for Choosing Pencils That Are Easy to Sharpen

Now that we know what makes some pencils difficult to sharpen, here are some tips for choosing ones that are easy to sharpen.

  • Look for pencils with a harder lead (2H or higher) as they tend to hold their shape better while sharpening.
  • Choose pencils made with high-quality wood, such as cedar, as they are less likely to splinter or break while sharpening.
  • Invest in a good quality sharpener with sharp blades for a smooth and even tip.
  • If using mechanical pencils, opt for ones that come with spare lead refills so you can easily replace any broken ones.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, finding pencils that are easy to sharpen requires paying attention to factors such as lead hardness, wood quality, and the sharpness of your sharpener’s blades. By keeping these tips in mind and choosing your pencils wisely, you can avoid the frustration of constantly breaking or wasting your favorite pencils. Happy writing and drawing!

Author Profile

Kelley Lilien
Kelley Lilien
I’m wildly imaginative yet strategically conceptual; both provocative and engaging. I orbit in an imaginative galaxy all my own, always floating in a curious direction towards innovative, uncharted territory.

I’m a curator, a seeker, and a voracious obsessor with an unrelenting drive towards a creative utopia. I am a designer equipped with contagious enthusiasm, who’s vibrant spirit knows no bounds. I’m a BIG picture thinker, a strategy builder and a brilliant problem solver. I believe that when passion and skill collide, magic happens.

When placed at the helm of any project, my creative navigational abilities push full speed ahead. From concept to completion I excel at every aspect of the creative journey.

Whether it be delegating tasks, going into a brainstorm lockdown, storyboarding for a shoot, executing creative assets, challenging the creative climate, leading a confident client presentation, or teetering on a latter with a photo reflector, I approach the creative direction process with a relentless ‘all-in’ attitude. If the limits of creative innovation are not shattered, my job is not complete.