Sharpeners
Here are some of our favorite sharpeners for colored pencils.
Do you have any favorite sharpeners we should add? Contact Us and let us know!
A quality sharpener is essential for maintaining your colored pencils and achieving precise, detailed work. The right sharpener can extend the life of your pencils and prevent frustrating breakage.
Types of Sharpeners
Manual Hand Sharpeners
Portable and affordable, perfect for travel. Look for dual-hole sharpeners to accommodate both standard and jumbo-sized pencils. Quality blades are crucial to prevent breakage.
Best for: Portability, budget-friendly option, precise control
Helical Sharpeners
Premium hand-crank sharpeners with spiral blades that create long, smooth points. Gentle on soft-core colored pencils and produce minimal waste.
Popular brands: Dahle, Kum, Staedtler
Electric Sharpeners
Fast and convenient for sharpening multiple pencils. Look for models with auto-stop features to prevent over-sharpening. Some can be harsh on soft-core pencils.
Best for: Large collections, frequent sharpening needs
Cosmetic/Long Point Sharpeners
Create extra-long, needle-sharp points ideal for fine details. Require more frequent sharpening but offer maximum precision.
Best for: Detail work, professional artists
What to Look For
- Sharp Blades: High-quality steel blades that stay sharp longer
- Adjustable Settings: Control the point length and sharpness
- Shaving Container: Easy to empty and prevents mess
- Compatibility: Works with your pencil sizes and core types
- Durability: Sturdy construction that will last
Sharpening Tips
- Sharpen gently and rotate the pencil, not the sharpener
- Don't over-sharpen - stop when you have a good point
- Keep your sharpener clean for best results
- Consider having multiple sharpeners for different pencil types
- For soft-core pencils, chill them in the fridge before sharpening to reduce breakage