Pencil

Pencil is probably the most commonly used medium of expression. It might seem simple but it also happens to be one of the most difficult to master.

History

Pencil as a medium has overtaken our psyche so successfully that we presume that it has been around for ages. The truth is that pencil is a comparatively new phenomenon. The discovery of graphite and its remarkable marking qualities led people to believe that this quality should be used to the best possible advantage. Initially, the chunks of graphite was wrapped in cloth or hide. In the early to late 17th century, pencils were made by sawing the graphite into thin sheets, which were then encased in wood. A cheaper process was discovered in 1795. The process consisted of powdering the graphite, mixing it with clay, and then firing the mix. Further refinement in the form of wax being added to create softness, were made.

Manufacture of Pencil

Today, pencils are made industrially by mixing finely ground graphite and clay powders, adding water, forming long spaghetti-like strings, and firing them in a kiln. The resulting strings are dipped in oilor molten wax which seeps into the tiny holes of the material, resulting in smoother writing.