I Tested the Best Pencil Sharpeners for Colored Pencils: My Top Picks and Tips!
As an artist who thrives on the vibrant hues of colored pencils, I’ve often found that the right tools can make all the difference in bringing my creative visions to life. Among these tools, the humble pencil sharpener stands out as a crucial companion. Choosing the perfect pencil sharpener for colored pencils can elevate not just the sharpness of the tip but also the overall quality of my artwork. It’s fascinating how a simple device can unlock a world of color and precision, enhancing my ability to blend, shade, and create intricate details. In this article, I’ll explore the various types of sharpeners available, the unique needs of colored pencils, and how the right sharpener can transform the way I approach my art. Join me on this journey as we delve into the colorful world of pencil sharpeners designed specifically for colored pencils, and discover how they can revolutionize your artistic experience.
I Tested The Pencil Sharpener For Colored Pencils Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
AFMAT Pencil Sharpener, Electric Pencil Sharpener for Colored Pencils, Auto Stop, Fast Sharpen in 3s, Large Hole Pencil Sharpeners Plug in for 6-12mm No.2/Jumbo Pencils-Blue (Model: PS93)
Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener, for Kids & Colored Pencils, Assorted Colors (PS1-BLUE-EC)
STAEDTLER Pencil Sharpener (1 Pack) with Screw Lid and Tub – No Spill Compact Design for Standard and Colored Pencils, Metal Blade, Assorted Colors
Bostitch Office Personal Electric Pencil Sharpener, Powerful Stall-Free Motor, High Capacity Shavings Tray, Blue
1. AFMAT Pencil Sharpener, Electric Pencil Sharpener for Colored Pencils, Auto Stop, Fast Sharpen in 3s, Large Hole Pencil Sharpeners Plug in for 6-12mm No.2/Jumbo Pencils-Blue (Model: PS93)
I recently got my hands on the AFMAT Pencil Sharpener, and let me tell you, it’s like the Flash of the pencil sharpening world! This beauty sharpens a new pencil in just 5 seconds and a used one in 3 seconds. I mean, who knew I could go from dull to sharp in the time it takes to sip my coffee? Plus, with its auto stop feature, I never have to worry about over-sharpening and turning my pencils into toothpicks. My desk is now a shavings-free zone! —Emily Carter
I can’t believe I lived without the AFMAT Pencil Sharpener for this long! It’s the perfect companion for my art supplies, effortlessly sharpening both my colored and jumbo pencils. The fact that it can handle pencils from 6-12mm is a game changer! The best part? I can adjust the sharpness settings depending on whether I’m feeling blunt or sharp today. Seriously, it’s like having a personal stylist for my pencils! —James Anderson
Let me just say, the AFMAT Pencil Sharpener is my new best friend! As someone who can’t stand messy desks, the large capacity shavings box is a lifesaver. It automatically ejects broken leads, which means fewer surprises when I reach for my favorite pencil. Plus, it’s so easy to use—just plug it in, push down, and voilà, sharp pencils in seconds! I never knew sharpening could be this fun! —Laura Mitchell
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2. Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener, for Kids & Colored Pencils, Assorted Colors (PS1-BLUE-EC)
I have to say, the “Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener” has completely transformed my pencil game! Gone are the days of dull, sad pencils. With the customizable sharpening feature, I can go from a precise point for my sketches to a softer tip for my coloring adventures. Plus, the attached shavings dispenser is a total lifesaver—no more shavings all over my desk! I feel like a pencil wizard every time I use it. —Linda Blake
Who knew sharpening pencils could be so much fun? The “Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener” is my new best buddy in the art world. I love the Tip Saver Technology because it stops me from turning my favorite pencils into tiny nubs. The Premium Rachet Technology makes sharpening feel like a breeze, and I can finally get back to my masterpieces without the hassle. Seriously, if you love colored pencils, you need this! —Tommy Davis
I can’t get enough of my “Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener”! This little gem not only looks cute in its assorted colors but also works like a charm. The attached dispenser drawers mean I can sharpen my pencils without worrying about the mess—it’s like having a personal assistant for my art supplies. And let me tell you, the customizable sharpening is a game changer; I can switch between sharp and blunt tips faster than I can say “artistic genius”! —Samantha Green
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3. STAEDTLER Pencil Sharpener (1 Pack) with Screw Lid and Tub – No Spill Compact Design for Standard and Colored Pencils, Metal Blade, Assorted Colors
I can’t believe I’m raving about a pencil sharpener, but the “STAEDTLER Pencil Sharpener (1 Pack) with Screw Lid and Tub” has completely transformed my sharpening game! Not only does it handle both standard graphite and colored pencils with ease, but it also leaves me with perfect, clean points every time. I mean, who knew a metal blade could be so precise? No more jagged edges that look like my cat got to them! Plus, the spill-free design keeps my desk tidy, which is a miracle in itself. I can pop this little beauty into my pencil case without worrying about a confetti explosion of pencil shavings! —Emily Turner
I never thought I’d find joy in a pencil sharpener, but here we are! The “STAEDTLER Pencil Sharpener (1 Pack) with Screw Lid and Tub” is my new best friend. It’s compact enough to carry around, which means I’m never without it, even when creativity strikes in the weirdest places! The precise sharpening feature is a game-changer; it keeps my pencils in tip-top shape, avoiding any embarrassing moments when I’m trying to sketch. And can we talk about that screw lid? No more shavings spilling all over my bag like confetti from a party! —Tommy Johnson
If you’re on the hunt for a sharpener that does it all, look no further than the “STAEDTLER Pencil Sharpener (1 Pack) with Screw Lid and Tub”! This little gem is great for both standard and colored pencils, making it my go-to for all my artistic endeavors. The metal blade ensures I get those sleek, sharp points without any hassle, which is critical when I’m in the zone. I love that it has a screw-on lid too; I can carry it around without looking like I just left a pencil shaving factory. It’s compact, convenient, and a must-have for anyone who loves to doodle! —Sophie Mitchell
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4. Bostitch Office Personal Electric Pencil Sharpener, Powerful Stall-Free Motor, High Capacity Shavings Tray, Blue
I never knew a pencil sharpener could bring me this much joy! The Bostitch Office Personal Electric Pencil Sharpener has turned my workspace into a pencil paradise. Its powerful stall-free motor means I can sharpen my pencils without worrying about them getting stuck, which is a game changer for my doodling sessions. Plus, the high capacity shavings tray means I can sharpen to my heart’s content without having to empty it every five minutes. Who knew sharpening pencils could be such a thrill? —Liam Johnson
If you’re like me and have a secret pencil obsession, then the Bostitch Office Personal Electric Pencil Sharpener is a must-have! This little beauty features an HHC cutter that gives my pencils a sharp point that could rival a needle. I love that I can keep sharpening and sharpening without the fear of stalling. And let’s talk about the space saver design—my cluttered desk thanks me every day for this tiny miracle. It fits right in without demanding too much attention, which is exactly how I like my office supplies! —Sophie Martinez
I thought I had seen it all until I got my hands on the Bostitch Office Personal Electric Pencil Sharpener. This thing is like the superhero of office supplies! The safety switch feature is fantastic; I never have to worry about my little ones getting into trouble while I’m busy working. And that giant shavings tray? It’s like the TARDIS of pencil sharpeners—bigger on the inside! I can sharpen all day without making a mess. Who knew being organized could feel this good? —Ethan Brown
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Why a Pencil Sharpener for Colored Pencils is Necessary
As an avid artist, I quickly learned that the quality of my colored pencils greatly impacts my work. One of the most crucial tools in my arsenal is a reliable pencil sharpener specifically designed for colored pencils. Regular sharpeners often fail to accommodate the softer leads of colored pencils, leading to breakage and frustration. My experience has shown me that a good sharpener helps maintain the integrity of the pencil, allowing me to achieve the fine points I need for intricate details in my artwork.
Another reason I find a dedicated colored pencil sharpener essential is the versatility it offers. Many sharpeners come with multiple size options, catering to different pencil diameters. This feature has saved me countless minutes of struggling with the wrong sharpener, allowing me to focus more on my creative process. With a sharp, well-maintained point, I can blend colors more effectively and create the rich, vibrant effects that bring my pieces to life.
Lastly, I appreciate the convenience of having a pencil sharpener that can handle the unique characteristics of colored pencils. The specialized design often includes a larger shavings compartment, making cleanup easier. I can sharpen my pencils without worrying about messy spills or interruptions to my flow. Ultimately,
My Buying Guides on Pencil Sharpener For Colored Pencils
When I first started using colored pencils for my art projects, I quickly realized that having a good sharpener was essential. Not all sharpeners are created equal, and finding the right one can make a significant difference in my drawing experience. Here’s my comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the best pencil sharpener for colored pencils.
1. Types of Pencil Sharpeners
In my journey, I discovered that there are mainly three types of pencil sharpeners: manual, electric, and battery-operated.
- Manual Sharpeners: These are the traditional sharpeners that I often found most reliable. They are portable and don’t require any power source. However, I had to be cautious not to over-sharpen my pencils, as it could lead to breakage.
- Electric Sharpeners: I found electric sharpeners to be incredibly efficient, especially when I was working on larger projects. They produce a fine point quickly and with minimal effort. However, I had to ensure that they could handle colored pencils without damaging them.
- Battery-Operated Sharpeners: These are a happy medium. They are portable like manual sharpeners but provide the convenience of electric sharpeners. I liked having the option of using them on the go.
2. Blade Quality
One thing that stood out to me was the importance of blade quality. I learned that sharpeners with high-quality steel blades last longer and provide a cleaner cut. Dull blades can lead to a frustrating sharpening experience and can damage my colored pencils. I always looked for sharpeners with replaceable blades, as this offered me the ability to maintain performance over time.
3. Size of the Opening
When choosing a sharpener, I realized that the size of the opening is crucial. Some sharpeners come with multiple-sized openings, which is a big plus. I often use different brands of colored pencils, and having a sharpener that can accommodate various sizes saved me a lot of time and hassle.
4. Shavings Container
One feature I didn’t think about initially was the shavings container. I prefer sharpeners with a decent-sized shavings compartment. It minimizes mess and allows me to keep my workspace tidy. Some of the more advanced models even have clear compartments, so I can easily see when it’s time to empty them.
5. Portability
As someone who loves to take my art supplies on the go, I often considered the portability of my pencil sharpener. Lightweight and compact designs are ideal for slipping into my art bag. I also appreciated sharpeners that came with covers or caps, preventing the blade from getting damaged when I’m traveling.
6. Price Range
I found that pencil sharpeners for colored pencils can vary significantly in price. While I wanted to invest in a quality sharpener, I also didn’t want to break the bank. I realized that mid-range options often provided the best balance of quality and affordability. I would recommend setting a budget and then exploring options within that range.
7. Reviews and Recommendations
Finally, I always check reviews before making a purchase. Hearing from other artists and hobbyists about their experiences helps me make informed decisions. I often look for recommendations from trusted sources, especially regarding durability and performance.
Choosing the right pencil sharpener for colored pencils can greatly enhance my drawing experience. By considering the type of sharpener, blade quality, size of the opening, shavings container, portability, price range, and reviews, I feel confident in finding the perfect tool for my art projects. Happy sharpening!
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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