How to Extend the Lifespan of Colored Pencils with the Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener

Proper Pencil Insertion Technique

The Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener is a fantastic tool for sharpening colored pencils, ensuring they stay sharp and ready for use. To get the best results and extend the lifespan of your colored pencils, it is essential to insert them correctly into the sharpener, ensuring they are secure and properly aligned. Follow these simple steps for proper pencil insertion:

• Hold the Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener in one hand, with the sharpener hole facing up.
• Take your colored pencil and examine the tip. Ensure that it is not broken or splintered. If it is, it's best to trim it with a knife or a pair of scissors to create a clean and even tip.
• Gently place the colored pencil into the sharpener hole, making sure it is straight and centered.
• Apply slight pressure and twist the pencil clockwise while keeping it steady. The Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener features a twistable top that locks the pencil in place, providing stability during the sharpening process.
• Continue twisting until you reach the desired sharpness. The sharpener is designed to deliver a perfect point every time, allowing you to adjust the sharpness level to suit your specific needs.
• Once you are satisfied with the sharpening, gently pull the pencil out of the sharpener, making sure to hold it by the body and not the tip.
• Inspect the newly sharpened tip of your colored pencil. It should be smooth, even, and ready for use.

The proper pencil insertion technique ensures that your colored pencils are securely held in place during the sharpening process, minimizing the risk of breakage or damage. By using the Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener correctly, you can prolong the lifespan of your colored pencils, enjoying vibrant and precise coloring for a longer time.

Adjusting the Sharpening Angle

When it comes to colored pencils, finding the right sharpening angle can greatly impact the lifespan of your pencils. With the Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener, you have the flexibility to adjust the sharpening angle to suit the specific needs of your colored pencils. This allows you to achieve the perfect sharpening angle, ensuring that your colored pencils stay sharp and last longer. To adjust the sharpening angle of the Bostitch Pencil Sharpener, follow these steps:

• Inspect the sharpener: Before making any adjustments, take a moment to inspect the sharpener and familiarize yourself with its different components. This will help you understand how to adjust the sharpening angle effectively.
• Locate the sharpening angle adjustment feature: On the Bostitch Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener, the sharpening angle can be adjusted by twisting the dial located on the side of the sharpener. Look for a dial or indicator that allows you to change the angle.
• Test different angles: Start by using a colored pencil that you want to sharpen. Begin with the default angle and sharpen the pencil. Take note of how it performs. Then, gently twist the sharpener's dial to adjust the angle slightly. Sharpen the pencil again and observe any changes in the sharpening quality.
• Experiment and find the optimal angle: Continue adjusting the sharpening angle until you find the setting that produces the best results for your colored pencils. Keep in mind that different colored pencils may require different angles for optimal sharpening. It may take some trial and error to find the perfect setting.

By adjusting the sharpening angle of the Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener, you can extend the lifespan of your colored pencils and achieve a sharp point that is tailored to your specific preferences. Remember to experiment with different angles and take note of the results to find the perfect angle for your colored pencils.

Choosing the Right Pencil Size

When using the Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener, it is important to select the appropriate pencil size for optimal performance and longevity. Here are some tips on how to determine the right pencil size:

• Consider the diameter: The Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener is designed to accommodate various pencil sizes. Check the diameter of your colored pencils to ensure they fit properly into the sharpener. A pencil with a diameter between 8-11 millimeters should work well with this sharpener.
• Look for the "sweet spot": Different colored pencils may have slightly different diameters. Before sharpening, insert the pencil into the sharpener and twist gently. Pay attention to how the pencil fits and turns – you'll notice a point when the pencil has the right fit, neither too loose nor too tight. This "sweet spot" indicates the correct pencil size for optimal sharpening.
• Check the pencil type: The Bostitch Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener is specifically designed for colored pencils. Ensure that you are using colored pencils with this sharpener for the best results. Using other types of pencils, such as graphite or mechanical pencils, may not yield the same performance.
• Experiment with different sizes: If you have a set of colored pencils with varying diameters, try sharpening pencils of different sizes to see which gives you the desired results. It can be helpful to have a range of pencil sizes to accommodate different shading and coloring techniques.

By choosing the right pencil size for sharpening in the Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener, you can ensure that your colored pencils last longer and perform optimally. Remember to keep these tips in mind to achieve the best sharpening results with this versatile sharpener!

Cleaning and Maintenance

The Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener is a fantastic tool for kids and colored pencils. To ensure its longevity and consistent sharpening, it's important to keep it clean and properly maintained. Clogging can be a common issue if the sharpener is not regularly cleaned, so here are some steps to help you clean and maintain your Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener.

Cleaning the Pencil Shavings

• Start by turning the sharpener upside down to remove any loose pencil shavings. Give it a gentle tap to shake out any stuck shavings.
• If your sharpener has a shavings tray, slide it out and empty the shavings into the trash. It's important to do this regularly to prevent buildup and keep the sharpener functioning properly.

Removing Stubborn Shavings

• If you notice any stubborn shavings that are difficult to remove, use a small brush, such as a toothbrush or a cleaning brush, to gently brush away the shavings from the blades and other crevices. This will help prevent clogging and ensure that your sharpener remains in excellent condition.
• If the shavings are still not completely removed, you can use a small amount of mild soap and warm water to lightly dampen a cloth or paper towel. Gently wipe away the shavings, ensuring that the sharpener remains dry.

Using Compressed Air for Cleaning

• If you have access to compressed air, it can be an effective tool for cleaning hard-to-reach areas of the sharpener. Use short bursts of air to blow away any remaining shavings and debris.
• Remember to follow the specific instructions provided with the compressed air product to ensure safe and effective cleaning.

Regular Sharpening

• Regularly sharpening your colored pencils will help prevent clogging and keep your sharpener operating smoothly. Make it a habit to sharpen your pencils before they become too dull to reduce the risk of any difficulties with the sharpener.
• Ensure that you're using the correct size pencil holes on the sharpener to avoid any mishaps or damage.

Storage and Protection

• When not in use, it's essential to store your Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener in a clean and dry place. This will prevent dust and debris from accumulating, which can lead to clogging and damage over time.
• Consider using a pencil case or a designated container to store your sharpener, keeping it safe from accidental spills or drops.

By following these steps for cleaning and maintenance, you can extend the lifespan of your Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener, prevent clogging, and ensure consistent sharpening for your colored pencils. Taking the time to clean and maintain your sharpener regularly will help it perform at its best and provide years of reliable use.

Avoiding Over-Sharpening

When using the Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener for your colored pencils, it's important to avoid over-sharpening. Over-sharpening can lead to unnecessary waste of pencil material and can significantly reduce the lifespan of your colored pencils. Here are some helpful tips to prevent over-sharpening and preserve the longevity of your colored pencils:

• Ensure the pencil is not already sharp enough before sharpening it. Check if the tip is still fine and firm enough for your needs. If it seems sharp and pointed, there's no need to sharpen it further.
• Use a gentle and steady hand when sharpening your colored pencils. Applying excessive pressure while twisting the pencil in the sharpener can cause the pencil to break or become overly sharpened. Take your time and rotate the pencil smoothly to avoid these issues.
• Pay attention to the sharpness of the pencil tip as you sharpen it. Stop sharpening as soon as you achieve the desired sharpness. If you notice the pencil point becoming too thin or fragile, it's a sign that you should stop sharpening to avoid over-sharpening or breakage.
• Regularly inspect the pencil sharpener blades for any buildup of colored pencil residue. Accumulated residue can affect the sharpener's performance and lead to over-sharpening. Clean the blades regularly to ensure smooth and consistent sharpening.

By following these tips, you can effectively avoid over-sharpening your colored pencils and extend their lifespan. This not only saves you money in the long run but also ensures that you have well-maintained colored pencils for your artistic endeavors.

• Always assess the sharpness of the pencil tip before sharpening.
• Use a gentle and steady hand while sharpening.
• Stop sharpening once you achieve the desired sharpness.
• Clean the pencil sharpener blades regularly.

Preventing Breakage

When it comes to sharpening colored pencils with the Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener, there are a few techniques you can use to prevent breakage and extend the lifespan of your pencils. By following these tips and tricks, you can avoid frustration and make the most out of your colored pencil collection:

• Hold the Pencil at the Right Angle: To prevent breakage, it is important to hold the colored pencil at the correct angle while sharpening. Make sure the pencil is aligned straight with the sharpener and keep a firm grip to ensure it doesn't wobble or tilt during the sharpening process.
• Use Gentle Pressure: Applying excessive pressure while sharpening can lead to breakage. Instead, use a light and steady hand when turning the pencil in the sharpener. This will allow the blade to remove the wood and lead gradually, reducing the risk of breakage.
• Rotate the Pencil: As you sharpen, periodically rotate the pencil in the sharpener. This helps to ensure an even sharpening and prevents one side of the pencil from becoming too thin or fragile, reducing the chances of breakage.
• Avoid Over-Sharpening: Over-sharpening can not only waste the pencil's lead but also make it more prone to breakage. Only sharpen the pencil until the desired point is achieved, and avoid turning it in the sharpener excessively.
• Inspect the Pencil Regularly: Before and after sharpening, take a moment to inspect the pencil for any signs of weakness or damage. Look for cracks, splintering, or unusually soft spots in the lead. If you notice any of these issues, it may be best to retire the pencil to prevent breakage during use.

Using the Twist-n-Sharp Feature

When it comes to extending the lifespan of your colored pencils, the Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener is an essential tool to have. This product is designed specifically for kids and colored pencils, making it the perfect choice for artists of all ages. The Twist-n-Sharp feature on this pencil sharpener is what sets it apart from other sharpeners on the market, allowing you to achieve the desired sharpness for your colored pencils. Here's how you can properly utilize this feature to ensure the longevity of your colored pencils:

• Start by inserting your colored pencil into the sharpener, making sure it is securely in place.
• Hold onto the pencil sharpener with one hand and with the other hand, twist the pencil gently in a clockwise motion.
• Continue twisting the pencil until you feel some resistance, indicating that the colored pencil is sharpened.
• Remove the pencil from the sharpener and test the sharpness by drawing a small line on a piece of paper. If the pencil is not sharp enough for your liking, you can repeat the twisting motion to achieve a finer point.

There are several benefits to using the Twist-n-Sharp feature on the Bostitch Office Pencil Sharpener:

• The twist action allows for precise control over the sharpening process, ensuring that you don't remove too much of the colored pencil's lead unnecessarily.
• By achieving the desired sharpness with minimal waste, you can extend the lifespan of your colored pencils, ultimately saving you money in the long run.
• The Twist-n-Sharp feature also helps prevent breakage, as it sharpens the colored pencil evenly without putting excessive pressure on the lead.

So, whether you're a professional artist or just enjoy coloring as a hobby, the Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener is a valuable tool that can help you make the most out of your colored pencils. Utilize the Twist-n-Sharp feature to achieve the perfect sharpness for your colored pencils and enjoy longer-lasting, precise color with each stroke.

Storing Colored Pencils

Proper storage of colored pencils is essential to extend their lifespan and keep them in usable condition. Here are some suggestions for storing colored pencils to avoid damage:

• Avoid extreme temperatures: High heat or cold can cause the wax in colored pencils to melt or become brittle. Store your colored pencils in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heaters, or air conditioning vents.
• Protect from excessive pressure: Colored pencils are delicate and can break easily if subjected to excessive pressure. To prevent this, store your colored pencils in an upright position. Avoid storing heavy objects on top of them or placing them in a tightly packed container.
• Use pencil cases or storage boxes: To keep your colored pencils organized and protected, consider using a pencil case or a storage box designed specifically for colored pencils. These containers usually have individual slots or compartments to keep each pencil secure and prevent them from rubbing against each other.
• Consider using pencil wraps or rolls: Pencil wraps or rolls are a convenient and portable storage solution for colored pencils. They typically have slots for each pencil and can be rolled up for easy transport. Pencil wraps also offer an added layer of protection for your colored pencils.
• Avoid moisture and humidity: Excessive moisture or humidity can damage colored pencils, causing them to warp or lose their color intensity. Store your colored pencils in a dry environment and avoid exposing them to water or damp conditions.

By following these suggestions for proper storage, you can help prolong the lifespan of your colored pencils and ensure that they remain in excellent condition for your artistic endeavors.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Using the Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener for your colored pencils can greatly extend their lifespan and ensure a precise sharpening experience. However, like any tool, you may encounter some common issues while using this sharpener. Here are troubleshooting tips for two common problems you may come across:

Jamming

If you find that the Bostitch Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener is jamming while sharpening your colored pencils, there are a few actions you can take to resolve the issue:

• Check for debris: Sometimes, small pencil shavings or debris can get stuck in the sharpener's blades, causing it to jam. Carefully remove any visible debris using a clean cloth or a cotton swab.
• Apply less pressure: Applying excessive force while sharpening can also cause jamming. Try reducing the pressure and slowly twisting the pencil in the sharpener to maintain a smooth flow.
• Rotate the blade manually: In some cases, the blade may get misaligned, leading to jamming. Gently rotate the blade manually using your fingers to ensure it spins freely. Avoid using any sharp objects to prevent injury.

Dull Blades

If you notice that the Bostitch Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener is not providing a sharp point or is tearing the colored pencil lead, the blades may be dull. Here are some steps to address this issue:

• Clean the blades: Over time, debris and pencil residue can accumulate on the blades, dulling them. Wipe the blades clean with a dry cloth or use a small brush to remove any buildup.
• Replace the blades: The Bostitch Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener features replaceable blades to ensure a consistent sharpening experience. Consult the product manual or contact customer support to find the appropriate replacement blades for your sharpener.
• Sharpen on a different surface: In some cases, the surface on which you sharpen your pencils may affect the sharpness of the blades. Try sharpening your colored pencils on a different surface, such as a piece of rough paper, to see if it improves the sharpening results.

Using the Pencil Shavings Collector

The Bostitch Office Twist-n-Sharp Pencil Sharpener is equipped with a pencil shavings collector to help you keep your workspace clean and maintain the lifespan of your colored pencils. The pencil shavings collector is a convenient feature that allows you to easily dispose of pencil shavings without creating a mess. Here's how to effectively utilize and empty the pencil shavings collector:

• Insert the colored pencil: Gently insert your colored pencil into the pencil sharpener's hole and rotate it clockwise until it feels snug.
• Sharpen the pencil: Twist the pencil sharpener in a clockwise motion while applying gentle pressure to sharpen the colored pencil. Continue rotating until you achieve the desired sharpness.
• Collect the pencil shavings: As you sharpen your colored pencils, the pencil shavings will be collected inside the built-in pencil shavings collector. To access the collector, hold the sharpener upright and gently pull up on the translucent cover located on the top of the sharpener. This will reveal the pencil shavings stored inside.
• Empty the pencil shavings: To dispose of the pencil shavings, carefully hold the sharpener over a trash can or paper towel. With the shavings collector facing the desired direction, push the translucent cover back in, allowing the shavings to be released. Repeat this process until all the shavings have been emptied.

• Maintain cleanliness: After emptying the pencil shavings collector, ensure that there are no remaining shavings or debris inside the sharpener. Gently tap the sharpener on a solid surface or blow into the sharpener to remove any residual shavings.
• Prevent potential issues: Regularly emptying the pencil shavings collector will prevent overfilling, which can lead to the sharpener becoming clogged or less effective. It's important to maintain proper function by keeping the collector clean and free of any obstructions.