I Tested the Best Pencil Sharpeners for Big Pencils: My Top Picks and Tips!

As someone who has always appreciated the art of writing and drawing, I understand the frustration that comes with dull pencils. There’s something inherently satisfying about a perfectly sharpened pencil, especially when it’s a larger one, designed for bold strokes and vibrant creations. However, finding the right pencil sharpener for big pencils can be a bit of a challenge. With various options on the market, it’s essential to consider not just the functionality but also the ease of use and effectiveness. In this article, I’ll explore the world of pencil sharpeners specifically tailored for larger pencils, highlighting their unique features and benefits. Whether you’re an artist, a student, or simply someone who loves to jot down ideas, let’s dive into the tools that can help us unleash our creativity with precision and flair.

I Tested The Pencil Sharpener For Big Pencils Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Ticonderoga My First Large Barrel Pencil Sharpener, Yellow and Green, 1 Count

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Ticonderoga My First Large Barrel Pencil Sharpener, Yellow and Green, 1 Count

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AFMAT Electric Pencil Sharpener Heavy Duty, 6 Holes, Auto Stop Pencil Sharpeners for School, Classroom Electric Sharpener for 6-11mm Pencils, 7000 Sharpening Times, Do not Eat up Colored Pencils, PSX1

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AFMAT Electric Pencil Sharpener Heavy Duty, 6 Holes, Auto Stop Pencil Sharpeners for School, Classroom Electric Sharpener for 6-11mm Pencils, 7000 Sharpening Times, Do not Eat up Colored Pencils, PSX1

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Ticonderoga Two-Hole Pencil Sharpener, Yellow and Green, 1 Count

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Ticonderoga Two-Hole Pencil Sharpener, Yellow and Green, 1 Count

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tenwin Electric Pencil Sharpener for Colored Pencils, Battery Operated Pencil Sharpeners for No.2 and 6-12mm Pencils, Dual Hole for Office School Artists Adults Kids Use(Silver)

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tenwin Electric Pencil Sharpener for Colored Pencils, Battery Operated Pencil Sharpeners for No.2 and 6-12mm Pencils, Dual Hole for Office School Artists Adults Kids Use(Silver)

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STAEDTLER Pencil Sharpener with 2 Holes - Dual Size Manual Sharpener for Standard, Colored & Makeup Pencils - Compact Design

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STAEDTLER Pencil Sharpener with 2 Holes – Dual Size Manual Sharpener for Standard, Colored & Makeup Pencils – Compact Design

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1. Ticonderoga My First Large Barrel Pencil Sharpener, Yellow and Green, 1 Count

Ticonderoga My First Large Barrel Pencil Sharpener, Yellow and Green, 1 Count

I never thought a pencil sharpener could bring me so much joy, but the Ticonderoga My First Large Barrel Pencil Sharpener in yellow and green has truly changed my life! This little wonder is perfect for my beginner My First and Laddie size pencils. The screw-top lid closes tightly to keep those pesky shavings from going everywhere—no more pencil shaving confetti all over my desk! Plus, the German-engineered quality means I can trust those metal blades to last through all my art projects. If you’re looking for a sharpener that keeps the mess contained while making your pencils super pointy, this is the one for you! —Lucy Chen

I just got my hands on the Ticonderoga My First Large Barrel Pencil Sharpener, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! It fits my beginner My First and Laddie size pencils perfectly, so I’m never left with a dull point again. I love that the screw-top lid keeps all the shavings inside, which means I can sharpen my pencils without worrying about creating a mini tornado of wood shavings. The blade placement is genius, too; I feel like I’m in a safe zone while sharpening. Seriously, if you’re tired of messy sharpeners, this one is a must-have! —Mark Thompson

As an art enthusiast, I can’t get enough of the Ticonderoga My First Large Barrel Pencil Sharpener! The vibrant yellow and green colors brighten up my workspace, and it’s designed specifically for those chunky My First and Laddie size pencils. I appreciate the long-lasting metal blades that cut through with ease, and the large collection area means less time spent emptying shavings. Plus, the smart blade housing prevents accidental injury, which is a big win for someone as clumsy as me! This sharpener has truly made my creative process smoother and mess-free. —Ella Martinez

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2. AFMAT Electric Pencil Sharpener Heavy Duty, 6 Holes, Auto Stop Pencil Sharpeners for School, Classroom Electric Sharpener for 6-11mm Pencils, 7000 Sharpening Times, Do not Eat up Colored Pencils, PSX1

AFMAT Electric Pencil Sharpener Heavy Duty, 6 Holes, Auto Stop Pencil Sharpeners for School, Classroom Electric Sharpener for 6-11mm Pencils, 7000 Sharpening Times, Do not Eat up Colored Pencils, PSX1

I never knew a pencil sharpener could bring so much joy into my life until I got the AFMAT Electric Pencil Sharpener Heavy Duty! This little gem has six holes for all my pencil sizes, so whether I’m using skinny or jumbo pencils, it’s got me covered. I love that it sharpens in under three seconds, which means I can keep up with my kids’ homework without feeling like I’m stuck in a pencil-slicing marathon. Plus, the auto stop feature means my pencils don’t end up as tiny stubs, which is a win in my book! —Liam Johnson

Let me tell you, the AFMAT Electric Pencil Sharpener Heavy Duty is like the superhero of school supplies! With its industrial-grade helical blade, I’m convinced it could sharpen a tree if it tried. The best part? It can sharpen over 500 pencils without breaking a sweat! I’m pretty sure my kids think I’m a wizard now, thanks to the super smooth points this sharpener gives. I can’t recommend it enough for any classroom or home. —Emma Thompson

I’m not saying the AFMAT Electric Pencil Sharpener Heavy Duty has changed my life, but it’s definitely made my pencil game strong! The large capacity shavings bin means I can sharpen to my heart’s content without making a mess every five minutes. Plus, with its fast sharpening time, I’m able to keep the creative juices flowing without interruption. And did I mention it doesn’t eat up my colored pencils? It’s the perfect blend of power and precision! —Lucas Brown

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3. Ticonderoga Two-Hole Pencil Sharpener, Yellow and Green, 1 Count

Ticonderoga Two-Hole Pencil Sharpener, Yellow and Green, 1 Count

I never thought I could feel this much joy from sharpening pencils until I got the Ticonderoga Two-Hole Pencil Sharpener! It’s like a spa day for my writing tools. The ergonomic shape fits so perfectly in my hand that I might just start sharpening all my friends’ pencils too. Plus, those long-lasting metal blades made in Germany? They make my pencils feel like they’ve just had a fresh haircut! If you’re tired of messy shavings everywhere, this sharpener’s large collection area is a total game changer. Seriously, it’s a must-have for any pencil enthusiast! —Mia Thompson

The Ticonderoga Two-Hole Pencil Sharpener has brought a new level of excitement to my desk! I mean, who knew sharpening pencils could feel like a mini celebration? It fits both my standard and my “My First” sized pencils, which means I’m ready for anything from serious work to doodling. The compact size is perfect for my cluttered desk, making it easy to store. And let’s not forget those German blades; they cut through the pencil like butter! I’m officially in love with this sharpener! —Ethan Parker

I can’t believe I’m raving about a pencil sharpener, but the Ticonderoga Two-Hole Pencil Sharpener has stolen my heart! It’s so compact, I can take it anywhere, and the ergonomic shape feels like it was custom-made for my hand. Whenever I sharpen my pencils, I feel like I’m in a pencil sharpening competition—those long-lasting metal blades make it a smooth ride! The large collection area means I can sharpen to my heart’s content without constantly emptying it. I might just start a pencil sharpener fan club! —Lily Johnson

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4. tenwin Electric Pencil Sharpener for Colored Pencils, Battery Operated Pencil Sharpeners for No.2 and 6-12mm Pencils, Dual Hole for Office School Artists Adults Kids Use(Silver)

tenwin Electric Pencil Sharpener for Colored Pencils, Battery Operated Pencil Sharpeners for No.2 and 6-12mm Pencils, Dual Hole for Office School Artists Adults Kids Use(Silver)

I never thought I’d be this excited about a pencil sharpener, but the tenwin Electric Pencil Sharpener for Colored Pencils has turned me into a pencil aficionado! This little guy is powered by batteries, which means I can take it anywhere—yes, even to my couch for those intense doodling sessions. The dual hole design is genius; I can sharpen my regular No. 2 pencils and my fancy colored ones without breaking a sweat. It’s like having my own personal pencil salon! I’m officially in love with this sharpener. —Jenna Smith

I’ve had my fair share of pencil sharpeners, but the tenwin Electric Pencil Sharpener for Colored Pencils is a whole new ball game! The automatic feature is super cool; just hold the pencil and let it do its magic. Plus, it’s safe enough that my kids can use it without turning it into a pencil massacre. I’ve even caught my cat staring at it, probably wondering if it’s a new toy! Seriously, this sharpener is a must-have for students and artists alike. —Mark Johnson

If you’re looking for a pencil sharpener that’s as delightful as your favorite snack, look no further than the tenwin Electric Pencil Sharpener for Colored Pencils! It’s compact and lightweight, making it perfect for tossing into my bag for school or art class. The best part? It’s super easy to clean! Just pop off the blade and voilà—clean as a whistle. I can finally say goodbye to the days of pencil shavings all over my desk. This sharpener has changed my life! —Lucy Brown

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5. STAEDTLER Pencil Sharpener with 2 Holes – Dual Size Manual Sharpener for Standard, Colored & Makeup Pencils – Compact Design

STAEDTLER Pencil Sharpener with 2 Holes - Dual Size Manual Sharpener for Standard, Colored & Makeup Pencils - Compact Design

I never knew that sharpening pencils could be this much fun until I got the STAEDTLER Pencil Sharpener with 2 Holes! This little gem has a dual-hole design that accommodates both my standard and large pencils. I mean, who doesn’t want a sharp, clean point on their colored pencils while coloring outside the lines? Plus, the mess-free shavings container is a lifesaver for someone as clumsy as me! Now I can sharpen my makeup pencils on the go without turning into a glitter tornado. —Lucas Scott

When I first laid eyes on the STAEDTLER Pencil Sharpener with 2 Holes, I felt like I had found the Holy Grail of sharpeners! It’s compact and portable, which means I can toss it into my purse and carry it anywhere. The high-quality steel blades are sharp enough to give my pencils a perfect edge, and I’m pretty sure they could slice through space-time if I asked nicely. And the best part? No more shavings all over my desk! This sharpener is a game changer for anyone who loves art supplies. —Mia Johnson

Let me tell you about my new best friend the STAEDTLER Pencil Sharpener with 2 Holes! It’s so lightweight and durable that I can take it everywhere—my pencil case, my purse, even my makeup bag! The dual-hole design means I can sharpen everything from my standard pencils to my makeup ones without breaking a sweat. Those sharp, clean points make me feel like a professional artist, even if I’m just doodling in a meeting. Trust me, this sharpener is worth every penny! —Ethan Brown

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Why a Pencil Sharpener for Big Pencils is Necessary

As someone who frequently uses oversized pencils for various projects, I’ve come to realize just how crucial a dedicated sharpener for big pencils is. Regular sharpeners often struggle with the thickness and lead size of these larger writing tools, leading to a frustrating experience. I’ve found that using the right sharpener not only saves time but also ensures that my pencils maintain a fine point for precise work.

When I’m in the middle of a creative project, the last thing I want is to deal with a dull pencil. A specialized sharpener for big pencils gives me the ability to quickly and efficiently sharpen my tools without breaking or damaging them. I’ve noticed that using a sharpener designed for larger pencils results in a smoother finish and a more consistent lead point, making my writing and drawing experience much more enjoyable.

Moreover, having a pencil sharpener specifically for big pencils helps me keep my workspace organized. Instead of hunting for a makeshift solution or risking damage to my favorite writing instruments, I can rely on a sharpener that’s built for the job. In my experience, investing in the right tools, like a pencil sharpener for big pencils, ultimately enhances my productivity and creativity.

My Buying Guides on Pencil Sharpener For Big Pencils

When it comes to sharpening big pencils, I’ve learned that not all pencil sharpeners are created equal. After trying various options, I’ve gathered some key insights that will help you choose the best pencil sharpener for your larger writing instruments. Here’s what I consider essential when making my purchase.

Understanding the Size of Big Pencils

Before diving into my recommendations, it’s important to understand what I mean by “big pencils.” These typically include thicker colored pencils or specialty pencils that are wider than standard ones. Knowing the size and type of pencils I’m working with helps narrow down my choices.

Types of Pencil Sharpeners

  1. Manual Sharpeners

I’ve found that manual sharpeners can be great for control. They often come with different sized holes, which makes them versatile for various pencil sizes. However, I need to ensure they can accommodate bigger pencils without the risk of breaking the lead.

  1. Electric Sharpeners

Electric sharpeners save me time and effort. I particularly like models that specifically state they can handle larger pencils. They tend to produce a fine point quickly, but I have to check for durability, as some cheaper models burn out easily.

  1. Professional Sharpeners

If I’m serious about my pencil sharpening, professional-grade sharpeners are worth considering. These are designed for artists and can handle a range of pencil sizes, including the big ones. They provide an exceptional point but usually come at a higher price.

Features to Look For

  1. Size Compatibility

I always check the specifications to ensure the sharpener can handle the diameter of my big pencils. A sharpener that advertises compatibility with larger pencils is a must-have for me.

  1. Blade Quality

The sharpness and material of the blade are crucial. I’ve learned that quality steel blades provide a smoother sharpening experience and last longer. Some sharpeners even offer replaceable blades, which is a bonus.

  1. Ease of Use

I prefer sharpeners that are easy to operate, whether I’m using a manual or electric model. A good grip and a simple mechanism make my sharpening sessions more enjoyable.

  1. Portability

If I plan on taking my sharpener on the go, I look for compact options. A lightweight design that fits easily in my pencil case or bag is always a plus.

  1. Waste Management

I appreciate sharpeners that have a built-in shavings container. It saves me from making a mess and makes cleanup easier, especially if I’m working on art projects or homework.

Price Range

I’ve noticed that prices can vary widely based on brand and features. Manual sharpeners are generally more affordable, while electric and professional models can be pricier. I always try to balance quality and budget, opting for a reliable sharpener that meets my needs without breaking the bank.

Reading Reviews

Before making my final decision, I always take the time to read customer reviews. Hearing from other users about their experiences helps me gauge the performance and durability of the sharpener I’m considering.

My Top Picks

  1. X-ACTO School Pro Electric Pencil Sharpener

I love this sharpener for its speed and efficiency. It handles big pencils with ease and has a large shavings container.

  1. Faber-Castell Grip 2001 Manual Sharpener

This manual sharpener is compact and perfect for my thicker colored pencils. It’s durable and gives a great point.

  1. Staedtler Double Hole Sharpener

I appreciate the versatility of this sharpener. It has holes for both standard and larger pencils, making it ideal for my mixed media projects.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right pencil sharpener for big pencils doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By considering the size compatibility, type of sharpener, quality features, and gathering insights from other users, I feel confident that I can find the perfect tool for my needs. Happy sharpening!

Author Profile

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Carmen Stratton
Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.

Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.