Choosing the best pencil sharpener for pastel pencils helps keep your colors bright and tips precise. A good sharpener prevents breakage and ensures smooth drawing.
Pastel pencils have soft cores that need gentle sharpening to avoid damage. Using the right sharpener keeps your pastel pencils sharp without wasting material. Some sharpeners offer multiple hole sizes for different pencil diameters. Others include features like waste containers or protective caps to keep tips safe.
Quality sharpeners from brands like Derwent, Mobius + Ruppert, and Swordfish provide reliable performance. Whether you prefer handheld or desktop models, the right sharpener improves your art experience. This guide covers top sharpeners designed specifically for pastel and other soft-core pencils. Find a sharpener that fits your needs and protects your pencils for beautiful, detailed artwork.
Derwent Pastel Pencil Sharpener

The Derwent Pastel Pencil Sharpener is ideal for artists, students, and hobbyists who frequently use pastel pencils and require a precise, reliable sharpening tool. If you value clean and sharp pencil points to enhance your artwork’s detail and texture, this compact and efficient sharpener is designed to meet your needs. Its small size and lightweight build make it perfect for both studio use and on-the-go creativity.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design for easy portability
- Sharpens pastel pencils precisely without breaking the tips
- Durable charcoal-colored exterior for a sleek look
- Manufactured by trusted brand Derwent ensuring quality
- Easy to hold and use due to ergonomic dimensions
Cons:
- Designed specifically for pastel pencils, may not work well with other pencil types
- Small size means limited shavings capacity, requiring frequent emptying
The Derwent Pastel Pencil Sharpener features a precise blade designed specifically for the softer cores of pastel pencils, ensuring a clean and sharp point without damaging the delicate pigment. Its compact dimensions (Height: 1.18 inches, Width: 1.97 inches, Length: 1.57 inches) make it highly portable, perfect for artists who travel or work in various locations. The charcoal color gives it a professional and stylish appearance that fits well in any artist’s toolkit.
Beyond just sharpening, this sharpener enhances the creative process by maintaining pencil integrity and extending the life of your pastel pencils. Weighing just over 0.01 pounds, it is lightweight enough to carry in your art bag without adding bulk. The trusted Derwent brand ensures that this sharpener is built to last and perform consistently, making it a valuable addition for anyone serious about pastel artwork.
To buy this product, click here.
Derwent Twin Hole Pencil Sharpener

The Derwent Twin Hole Pencil Sharpener is perfect for artists, students, and professionals who require precision sharpening for different pencil sizes. If you often switch between standard and smaller pencils, this sharpener offers a convenient, compact solution tailored to your needs. Its dual hole design makes it ideal for those who value versatility and efficiency in their art or writing tools.
Pros:
- Dual holes for 11.5mm and 8.25mm pencils, accommodating various pencil sizes
- Compact and lightweight design (1.2 inches height, 3.5 inches width, 5.5 inches length, 0.06 pounds) for easy portability
- Durable black casing from trusted brand Derwent
- Reliable manufacturing by ACCO Brands ensuring quality and longevity
Cons:
- Manual sharpening might require more effort compared to electric sharpeners
- Limited to only two pencil sizes, which may not fit all specialty pencils
The Derwent Twin Hole Pencil Sharpener features two precision-engineered holes sized at 11.5mm and 8.25mm, allowing users to sharpen a wide range of pencils from standard to smaller sizes with ease. This flexibility means you don’t need multiple sharpeners cluttering your workspace, making it highly practical for on-the-go use or studio settings. Its sleek black design not only looks professional but also resists wear and tear over time.
Additionally, the compact dimensions and featherlight weight make the sharpener incredibly portable, perfect for students and artists who travel or attend classes regularly. The high-quality blades provide a clean, precise sharpening result, preserving the life of your pencils and enhancing your drawing or writing experience. Manufactured by ACCO Brands, this sharpener guarantees durability and consistent performance, making it a reliable tool for everyday use.
To buy this product, click here.
Mobius + Ruppert Brass Artists Pencil Sharpener

The Mobius + Ruppert (M+R) Brass Artists Pencil Sharpener is ideal for professional artists, architects, and anyone who values precision in their drawing tools. Those who require a reliable, durable, and finely crafted sharpener for various pencil shapes will find this product an excellent addition to their art supplies. If you seek a high-quality sharpener that offers versatility and longevity, this item is designed for you.
Pros:
- Made from premium brass, ensuring durability and a long lifespan.
- Available in 4 different shapes to accommodate various pencil types and preferences.
- Compact dimensions (1.0 inch height, width, and length) make it highly portable.
- Manufactured in Germany, known for precise engineering and superior craftsmanship.
- Elegant gold color finish adds a touch of sophistication to your art tools.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to standard plastic sharpeners.
- Small size might be challenging to handle for users with larger hands.
- Limited to sharpening specific pencil shapes depending on chosen model.
The Mobius + Ruppert Brass Artists Pencil Sharpener stands out due to its exceptional build quality and design. Crafted from solid brass, it provides a sturdy and reliable sharpening experience that plastic sharpeners cannot match. Its compact size allows artists to carry it easily in pencil cases or pockets without adding bulk, while its elegant gold finish makes it a stylish tool on any workspace. Choosing from four available shapes ensures compatibility with a wide range of artistic pencils, catering to diverse user needs.
Beyond its physical attributes, this sharpener offers precise and consistent sharpening results, which is crucial for artists aiming to maintain fine points for detailed work. The German manufacturing heritage guarantees meticulous attention to detail and quality control, ensuring that each sharpener performs flawlessly. Overall, this sharpener combines functionality, durability, and aesthetics, making it a valuable investment for serious artists and professionals.
To buy this product, click here.
Swordfish 40100 Ikon Desktop Manual Pencil Sharpener

The Swordfish 40100 Ikon Desktop Manual Pencil Sharpener, 8 mm is ideal for students, artists, and professionals who require a reliable and efficient tool to maintain their pencils. If you need a sharpener that delivers precision and durability while being easy to use and compact enough for your desk, this product is a perfect choice.
Pros:
- Compact design with dimensions of approximately 3.74 x 3.74 x 3.94 inches, making it easy to fit on any desktop.
- Lightweight at just 0.57 pounds, allowing for easy portability.
- Manual operation ensures control over sharpening without the need for electricity.
- Durable construction by the trusted brand Swordfish guarantees long-lasting performance.
- Compatible with standard 8 mm pencils, suitable for most writing and drawing needs.
Cons:
- Manual sharpening might require more effort compared to electric sharpeners.
- Limited to pencils with an 8 mm diameter, so it may not work with larger or specialty pencils.
The Swordfish 40100 Ikon Desktop Manual Pencil Sharpener features a sturdy build with a grey finish, providing both functionality and a sleek aesthetic. Its compact size and lightweight design make it highly convenient for everyday use, whether at school, home, or the office. The manual mechanism allows precise sharpening, which helps maintain the integrity of your pencils and improves the quality of your writing or artwork.
Additionally, the sharpener’s compatibility with standard 8 mm pencils ensures versatility across various pencil types commonly used in different environments. Users will appreciate the ease of use and the control they have over the sharpening process, minimizing waste and extending the life of their pencils. Overall, this product offers an excellent balance of durability, efficiency, and portability for anyone looking to keep their pencils sharp and ready.
To buy this product, click here.
Pasler Pencils Sharpener & Point Protectors Set

The Pasler Pencils Sharpener & Point Protectors Set is perfect for artists and hobbyists who use charcoal, pastel, graphite, eyebrow pencils, and other soft core artist pencils. If you need a reliable tool to sharpen and protect your delicate pencil tips, this set is designed to meet those specific needs with precision and care. Ideal for both professionals and beginners, it ensures your artistic tools maintain their quality and longevity.
Pros:
- Compatible with a variety of soft core artist pencils including charcoal, pastel, and graphite.
- Lightweight design weighing only 0.04 pounds, making it easy to carry and use on the go.
- Includes both a sharpener and point protectors to keep pencil tips sharp and safe.
- Manufactured by Pasler, a trusted brand known for quality art supplies.
- Helps extend the life of your pencils by preventing breakage and dull tips.
Cons:
- May not be suitable for very hard or mechanical pencils.
- Small size could be misplaced easily if not stored properly.
The Pasler Pencils Sharpener is expertly crafted to provide a clean and precise sharpening experience. Its compact and lightweight design ensures artists can easily carry it in their art kits or pencil cases without adding bulk. The sharpener is tailored specifically for soft core artist pencils, which require a gentler touch to avoid damaging the delicate lead. This focus on compatibility means your charcoal, pastel, and graphite pencils are sharpened to the perfect point every time, enhancing your drawing or makeup application experience.
Additionally, the inclusion of point protectors is a thoughtful feature that safeguards your sharpened tips from breaking during transportation or storage. This not only preserves the quality of your pencils but also saves you money by reducing the need for frequent replacements. Manufactured by Pasler, a reputable brand in the art supply industry, this set assures durability and consistent performance, making it an essential tool for anyone serious about their craft.
To buy this product, click here.
Mr. Pen Handheld Pencil Sharpener

The Mr. Pen Handheld Pencil Sharpener for Colored Pencils is perfect for artists, students, and hobbyists who need a reliable and efficient tool to keep their colored pencils sharp. If you frequently use colored pencils for drawing, coloring, or crafting, this 6-pack sharpener set with multiple hole sizes is ideal to accommodate different pencil diameters. Its pastel garden barrels and large waste box make it both practical and aesthetically pleasing for everyday use.
Pros:
- Three different hole sizes to fit various pencil thicknesses
- Large waste box reduces the need for frequent emptying
- Pastel garden barrel design adds a stylish touch
- Manual operation ensures portability and no need for batteries
- Comes in a convenient 6-pack for multiple users or replacements
Cons:
- Manual sharpening may require more effort compared to electric sharpeners
- Large waste box might make the sharpener bulkier for some users
The Mr. Pen Handheld Pencil Sharpener offers versatility with its three hole sizes, making it suitable for different colored pencil diameters. This feature is especially beneficial for artists who use various brands and styles of pencils, ensuring a precise and clean sharpening experience every time. The large waste box is designed to catch shavings efficiently, minimizing mess and allowing for longer use before needing to be emptied.
Beyond functionality, the pastel garden barrels provide a visually appealing design that can brighten up your art supplies. The manual operation means you can sharpen your pencils anywhere without worrying about power sources, making it ideal for classrooms, studios, or travel. Overall, this set of six sharpeners is a practical and charming addition to any creative toolkit.
To buy this product, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes Derwent Pastel Pencil Sharpener Ideal For Pastels?
Derwent Pastel Pencil Sharpener is designed specifically for soft pastel cores. It sharpens without breaking the delicate tips. Its dual-hole design fits various pencil sizes. This sharpener ensures smooth, precise sharpening for vibrant pastel artwork.
How Does Mobius + Ruppert Brass Sharpener Benefit Artists?
Mobius + Ruppert Brass Sharpener is made in Germany with high-quality brass. It offers durability and consistent sharpening. The sharpener’s multiple shape options cater to different pencil sizes. Artists get a clean, sharp point ideal for pastel pencils.
Can Swordfish Ikon Manual Sharpener Handle Pastel Pencils?
Yes, the Swordfish Ikon Manual Sharpener is suitable for pastel pencils. It supports up to 8mm diameter pencils. Its sturdy build ensures stable, smooth sharpening. This manual sharpener provides controlled sharpening, preserving pastel pencil integrity.
Why Choose Pasler Sharpener & Point Protectors Set?
Pasler Set includes sharpeners and point protectors for soft core pencils. It works well with charcoal, pastel, and graphite pencils. The set prevents pencil tip breakage and extends pencil life. It’s perfect for artists needing versatility and protection.
What Features Does Mr. Pen Handheld Sharpener Offer?
Mr. Pen Handheld Sharpener comes in a 6-pack with three hole sizes. It includes a large waste box for easy cleaning. The sharpener is compact, portable, and ideal for pastel and colored pencils. It provides efficient, precise sharpening on-the-go.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pencil sharpener can make a big difference in your pastel drawing experience. The sharpeners listed here offer various options for different pencil sizes and preferences. Some are manual and compact, perfect for travel or small spaces. Others provide durability with quality materials, ensuring smooth, clean sharpening every time.
Using a sharpener designed for pastel pencils helps keep your tips strong and your colors vibrant. It also reduces breakage and waste, saving you money in the long run. Remember to pick one that fits your pencil size and feels comfortable to use.
With the right sharpener, your pastel work will look neater and more professional. Keep your tools in good shape, and your art will improve naturally. These sharpeners can be a helpful addition to any artist’s kit. Try one that suits your needs and enjoy creating beautiful pastel artwork.