Haha 12 minutes on how to sharpen a pencil! Love the LONNNGG videos!

@NextLevelCarpentry

3 жыл бұрын

If you love long videos you've come to the right place: Next Level Carpentry is home to 'em! Best, Matt FYI long here isn't 12 minutes, it's almost always over 30 minutes and often an hour or more...

@bejayme

3 жыл бұрын

I‘m a beginner and learned a lot …Again

@Kingoftheslams2020

2 жыл бұрын

God forbid some one goes in depth. If the length is that much of an issue why watch in the first place?

@grantmartin1852

7 ай бұрын

Meh . . . Showing four different marking problems solved by one pencil sharpened differently for each specific problem = Four different, four-minute videos, in one! Now THAT'S a bonus! THANKS @NextLevelCarpentry!

12 minutes of sharpening a pencil and I am not bored in the least and left in awe. This gentleman is amazing.

@NextLevelCarpentry

5 жыл бұрын

Sweet Diesel Mike... hope other videos at Next Level Carpentry rate as well with you! Best, Matt

12 minutes to teach how to sharpen a pencil lead. Right. I had to watch this just to see what nonsense was being spewed out on KZread. To my surprise, the video was concise and informative. Thank you for taking the time to make this video.

@NextLevelCarpentry

5 жыл бұрын

Welcome to Next Level Carpentry Tom... I can only hope other videos here spew out content with similar value 😀😎 Best, Matt

@seangordonrichards

3 жыл бұрын

@@NextLevelCarpentry Even though I am a big fan, I looked at the 12 mins thinking, wow, 12 mins on pencil sharpening, this is going to be next level!!!

@BIKEMAN21

3 жыл бұрын

only 12 mins .. im saving this one for later.. =D

You sir, are the sharpest pencil in the box.

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

If you say so, Brett, but I'll understand if you downgrade your opinion anytime along the way because I'll probably give you ample reason to justify it. 🙄😏😁 Best, Matt

71yrs old and still learning thanks to your truly informative video. Many moons ago(whole lot of many's) I showed up on my first job with two regular pencils in my tool pouch. The old fellow, younger than me now, that I was learning from said to me "Boy, git rid of them pencils. We're here to work, not write. We ain't got no pencil sharpeners round here and we ain't got the time for you to be picking them up off the ground every time you lay one down." Then he gave me one stubby carpenters pencil. I've been using only them every since. Sharpened them with my pocket knife....never thought of a utility knife till about 10 years ago. My method is a bit different than your's but I'm gonna try your method because it looks like you come up with a better,. stronger point than I do. I really appreciate your video. Learned something from it that I definitely going to try. Thanks for your time and information . It was great.

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Mr Rutabager, You are most welcome! We sure learned in a world different than today's, didn't we? Let me know if you decided to update your sharpening method to the one I show in the video... it has served me well but am always interested in perfecting techniques. With 10 years age on me I applaud the fact that you've embraced digital technology to bridge the technical divide that tends to keep chronologically gifted folks from a lifetime of learning. I love the quote "Boy,... we're here to work, not write"! Similar pithy quips float through my mind from time to time while working... a few of which aren't fit for polite company but are equally effective :-) Can you just imagine what our mentors would have said if we showed up with a smart phone in our pocket?! I feel almost a sense of shame for carrying my phone around in the pocket of my carpenter's jeans where my early mentors toted their trusty folding rule! I'm really encouraged though, when the next generation of carpenters devote themselves to raising their skills to the Next Level, learning, like you and I STILL do, by listening to others. Have a grand day, sir! Best regards, Matt

@Gear4outdoor

6 жыл бұрын

MrRutabager I am the same age as You and have been interested in your trade (as a hobby) for 35 yrs. My trade has been the printing/paper/packaging industry. I have worked at learning most aspects in my field and am beginning to consider what retirement will look like. I believe I will follow my namesake, Joseph, and take up carpentry. In every field we learn little "tricks of the trade". We take the small things for granted and forget how important they are to efficiently completing the task at hand. I learned this when I was teaching Advanced Printing Labs at a University. You reminded me of this again. Your presentation is excellent. I subscribed.

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Gear4, Welcome to the club! Carpentry has been a (mostly) satisfying endeavor during all the years since I started as a laborer while still in high school. I doubt you'll regret any effort you invest into learning and doing carpentry projects. With your teachers' background I suspect you'll be an exemplary student and build your skillset quickly. I suggest setting achievable goals as you begin. I've seen some dive in and start with something overly complex like a grandfather clock project or something and early discouragement bogs them down to the point where they abandon the effort. Work safely and enjoy the journey!

@EAGUIL0994

6 жыл бұрын

RESPECT AND LOVE TO MY ELDERS. I'M YOUNG (28) AND HOPE TO MAKE YOU GUYS PROUD. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF TODAY'S TECH AND DOCUMENT ANY TIPS, TRICKS AND HACKS THAT YOU FOUND USEFUL IN THIS FIELD. FALLING IN LOVE W WOODWORKING. AWESOME STUFF THANKS PRODUCTIVE CRITICISM -AVOID BEING MONO TONED -EMPHASIZE WORDS HIGHER LOWER VOLUME OF SPEECH W/PURPOSE =THE CHANGE THE PACE TO EMPHASIZE IMPORTANT INFO -CUT + EDIT UNNECESSARY TALK AND REDUNDANT INFO

@sarahsmith-lq5no

6 жыл бұрын

"THE CHANGE THE PACE TO EMPHASIZE IMPORTANT INFO" lol. I'm going out on a limb here and guess that this entire comment was simply some type of ironic joke...

Who would have known there were so many different ways to sharpen a pencil. Thank you so very much for showing me this. I'm kind of a "medium shade tree" carpenter/wood worker. I'm a 64 year old woman who finds making and building things very satisfying. I lost my husband 4 years back and took up doing odd things in my shed. I'm certainly far from being really good but I keep trying. Anyway, I've learned so much by watching You Tube. I thank you and all the other crafters that produce these videos a huge THANK YOU!!!

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

You're welcome mc4kvb... glad to be part of your journey from 'medium shade tree' to the Next Level!!

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Yeah, but NOW you know and can strut your sharpening stuff with the best of 'em, right? 😎

@yepper1165

4 жыл бұрын

I know I'm 2 years late to this but I have to comment on your message. My grandpa was from Texas and my grandma was an old Okie. My grandpa was a car mechanic and my grandma a seamstress. My grandma built a bed with storage under it and countless other things with wood as she got older. She definitely wasn't a master carpenter but it all worked well and looked fine. I admire your gumption in tackling wood projects! There's no reason you can't be effective at making things no matter what your age or gender. I am a 52 year old man who has been a carpenter/remodeler/handyman all my adult life. I encourage anyone who feels the draw to make things with wood to give it a try. It is very fulfilling to use something that you made yourself. I hope you're still making things and enjoying the results! I wish you the best.

They also don't roll away while working on a slanted surface.

As an engineering apprentice, one of the first things they drummed into us was sharpening pencils for technical drawing (chisel tip etc) but it never occurred to me when I do my woordworking, thanks for the reminder!

Thanks for the clear demonstration and explanation of the 4 sharpening methods. I still wish there were electric or hand-mechanical carpenter sharpeners to make the sharpening go faster. Your methods are good to know if you only have a sharp knife, which is a big positive.

When I took drafting in HS, we had little wooden paddles, with about 10 sheets of fine sandpaper stapled to them, to sharpen our pencils to a needle point. I never forgot that and have used sandpaper ever since to make my pencils very sharp. Also, father was a professional photographer. He shot portraits on sheet film. To repair blemishes, he would pile up graphite on them. He bought long leads and sharpened them too by rubbing them on sandpaper. It is amazing the trivia you remember from more than 50 years ago.

@NextLevelCarpentry

4 жыл бұрын

Must have had the same drafting teacher because I too remember that pad of sandpaper! It does indeed get pencils very sharp but it's messy and awkward to carry around for General carpentry so I use my knife but there's always a sandpaper handy in the shop for special applications like that projected point tip I show in the video... Best, Matt

Things I never thought about Re: a simple carpenters pencil. You taught me something else today. Thanks so much, Matt!

@NextLevelCarpentry

5 жыл бұрын

Take care of the little things and the big things take care of themselves, right William? You're welcome for sure! Best, Matt

Best carpenter's pencil instructions of any on the web! Job well done.

@NextLevelCarpentry

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks Mrchuck... the view count of this little video seems to agree with your assessment. It's good to know it's well received. Best, Matt

I really like how this video gets straight to the point Seriously I've done an entire house refurb using round pencils. Decided to see if carpenters pencils could truly make things more accurate and this vid confirms undeniably. Got some shuttering to make for a concrete base this weekend so I'll be trying out my new found education for some nice accurate cuts

Truly wonderful. The level of detail orientation you bring to everything is delightful to me. If only some of the electrical engineers I worked with shared a similar attention to detail....

@NextLevelCarpentry

4 жыл бұрын

At least you have the satisfaction of knowing you're doing your best regardless of others on your team... paying attention and applying yourself to your work is reward in itself, right Adam? Best, Matt

Wow! I never thought 12 minutes of pencil sharpening would be so informative. Thanks!

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Jason, Glad you took the time to endure what could appear a bland video and found it informative... 12 minutes is a VERY condensed time frame considering the methods, techniques and reasoning shared was collected and developed randomly and sporadically during 40+ years in the construction trades so you're quite welcome!

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

You know it, man, you know it!

Thank You for making a clear, concise and illustrative video. I wish other 'how to' video makers would watch yours and see how it should be done. Thank You!!

Excellent video. Love all the detail you go into.

Just wanted to thank you for being so thorough & I took it all in and learned something new.. I will now go sharpen my ✏️

The projected point is really an eye opener. Thank you!

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

You're welcome, Gustavo! It sounds like you grasped the function and benefit for infrequent but valuable application of the 'projected point' method despite my less-than-ideal use of it in the video... so thanks for commenting!

Thanks for this, Matt. For over 30 yrs the carpenters pencil has been my No.1 tool for marking on construction materials and I am so glad that I haven't become so smug that I couldn't gain an extra wrinkle in the grey matter with your demonstration. The "projected point" example you use for flush scribes over a wide gap is one that I wonder how I never thought of that before! Obviously you'd want to dedicate a pencil specifically for that task but since lumberyards are still giving away these pencils, why not? Also good to note is that by modifying your "classic" slightly by cutting an angle not quite as extreme as the "offset scribe" you can still make a reliable edge for many consistent lines but by flipping the pencil over in your hand can also write legible notes in a notebook with the pointed end. Thanks again!

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Can Do Dude, You're welcome! Glad to share insights with you on thie 'ol reliable carpenter's pencil... your variation on the classic point would make a good Method #5! What should we call it, The Writing Point maybe? I like it! Hope to 'see you around'! Matt

I've been using carpenters pencils for years and not once have I had to sharpen one, until I just purchased a pack of them and need to use one. Thanks for showing detailed instructions and different methods of sharpening these.

@NextLevelCarpentry

Жыл бұрын

Hey Kris, This lesson will put you ahead of many people who work as carpenters and never learn this important stuff. Best, Matt

I love your video and lessons. It takes me home to working with my grandfather. Then later in life a master carpenter. One thing not mentioned is lead hardness. My master craftsman friend preferred a 4H pencil from an artist supply. It may give a fine line for furniture one~offs he was known allowing for his marks to disappear easily.

above and beyond. I took pencil sharpening for granted until I wasted half the pencil by continually breaking the lead by whittling "freehand" (not supporting with my thumb). It was harder than I thought it would be. I didn't realize there were so many variations and applications. Thanks for the post.

@NextLevelCarpentry

5 жыл бұрын

You bet, Wayne, glad you found this helpful. The 'variations' I show are ones I find quite useful and use, not frequently but effectively, on remodeling projects. There's other 'boutique' variations like filing a notch in the center of the flat face of the lead to draw a double line, etc, but they're more of a novelty than money-makers. Thanks for your comment... and happy 'whittling with a purpose' Best, Matt

Blown away by your pencil sharpening skills. Learned a lot. I'm a cabinet maker/furniture maker by trade and have rarely used a #2 round lead pencil because you have to stop and sharpen them too often. I've mostly used the cheap fine point Bic black pens. Fine lines with no sharpening required. The only tip I might add to your carpenter pencil sharpening video is while your at it, sharpen both ends.

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Steve, Always glad to hear from folks 'in the trades' since they have so much insight for learning things from a variety of disciplines. Black pens do indeed make fine lines with 'no sharpening required' but I find myself constantly needing to erase marks so go with 'lead' instead of ink. When working mainly in the shop (and therefore not using a carpenter's pencil) I most often use the inexpensive PaperMate mechanical pencils shown on the Amazon page in the video description. These too require no sharpening but frequent projection of the fine, delicate 'lead'. I choose these specific pencils because they're 'the twisty kind' NOT 'the clicky kind' so I'm able to advance the lead the desired amount which, invariably, is less than the one full click predetermined by most mechanical pencil manufacturers... now what they need to do is offer a mechanical pencil that advances lead from both ends 8-)

I appreciate going into the why instead of just showing how to sharpen a pencil, which would probably take several seconds. I particularly liked the 4th use case. With the information you provided, I know that I will probably move to carpenter's pencils for good for the purposes of woodworking, and maybe something else.

@NextLevelCarpentry

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for letting me know your appreciation... there's a lot of rude and impatient viewers who aren't so kind. FWIW I don't use a carpenter's pencil much for woodworking in the shop where I prefer papermate sharpwriter's pencils for detail work but I always have a few on hand for tasks they excel at. Best, Matt

Matt: Yup. Although I'm a carpenter by trade, I'm a concrete contractor by profession. But my true passion is woodworking. In the concrete trade, what we accomplish is accomplished through brute force. Woodworking is most often the polar opposite. Tenderness, timing, technique and patience. It's one of the many reasons I'm drawn to it. It is my refuge and my therapy. Love your clear, concise instruction. There is such a vast difference between "knowing something" and being able to impart that wisdom to others. You have a teacher's gift. Thanks for sharing.

@NextLevelCarpentry

7 жыл бұрын

Terry, You're being modest: well done concrete work takes 'tenderness,timing, technique and patience' too, albeit in that 'brute force' sort of way :-) I can always tell a good concrete guy because he'll make it look like it DOESN'T take brute force. Glad to share some cross-trade knowledge with you. I have a pretty cool little project in the video production pipeline and hope to get it uploaded before too long. I'll look forward to your thoughts when it goes live. Best, Matt

Made sharpening look very quick and easy. Thanks.

I have run into situations where scribing was an issue and never thought about flattering the pencil down to the lead on an angle. Awesome video and thanks for sharing!!

@NextLevelCarpentry

3 жыл бұрын

That little trick is so useful it's almost like cheating Al... I hope you get to pull it out of your bag of tricks and impress someone soon😉😁😎Best, Matt

What a great video. Thank you so much for these awesome tips.

@NextLevelCarpentry

7 жыл бұрын

You're welcome, Paul. It's rewarding to share tricks gleaned over the years with those like yourself who appreciate them!

Great stuff....off-set point......awesome tip Matt. Keep these great videos coming.

@NextLevelCarpentry

7 жыл бұрын

Great, Scott! :-) I'll bet it makes ya smile next time you're faced with a scribing task where you can use it! I'm grinding away on the next video, which is going slow, and think it will be worth the wait...

Exquisite explanation and demonstrations. Thank you.

Wow, I never knew a carpenters pencil was so versatile! I always saw them simply as pencils with fat lead that made it sturdier than a traditional one. Thanks for sharing this knowledge!

@NextLevelCarpentry

5 жыл бұрын

But wait, there's more! kzread.info/dash/bejne/p6GLptZpddC2nKw.html and kzread.info/dash/bejne/lKGo1NGNoamzZ9I.html You're welcome for the knowledge... and thank YOU for watching and commenting! Best, Matt

I think this has been the most useful and informative 12 minutes I've ever had on KZread. I had never been shown how to sharpen a carpenter's pencil before and had no idea there were different ways to sharpen it for different uses! I've got one next to me sharpened to a classic point, which I've picked up by trial and error. The technique for scribing uneven surfaces is just what I need - I've got to do some boxing in on some pretty uneven walls and had no idea how to cut the sheet material for a snug fit. Now I do, so thank you! A couple of tips that I picked up from another KZreadr on carpenter's pencils: - They're flat so they don't roll away like normal pencils. - You can use them as spacers, 1/4" one way and 1/2" the other.

@NextLevelCarpentry

4 жыл бұрын

I hope you can check out some other videos here at Next Level carpentry because I try to pack useful information to every one and you may find them helpful as well...

@ollieclark

4 жыл бұрын

@@NextLevelCarpentry oh, this isn't my first NLC video by a long shot! My father was a keen hobbyist woodworker and you remind me a lot of him (but quite a lot better at teaching, a lot more skill and less shouting). I've been slowly building up my own workshop so I can follow in his footsteps. Unfortunately a lot of his old tools have been lost over the years but I've still got a few. Wish his lathe was still around. I used to love using that when I was little. Thanks for everything you do, I'll carry on working through your videos.

@NextLevelCarpentry

4 жыл бұрын

@@ollieclark Nice! It's great that you value legacy building enough to invest time and energy into preserving your Father's passion... I hope you're able to 'attract' a lathe into the mix sooner than later! Best, Matt

A long time ago I worked for a Estonian carpenter who was very frugal and didn't want to throw out a pencil when it got too short. So he cut a short piece of garden hose, inserted the short pencil in one end and his new pencil in the other end. That way he could use the shortie right down to the very end. And he had a double ended pencil to boot.

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Great anecdote, Tim... there was a different mindset back in the day, that's for sure! I still have difficulty with 'disposable' handsaws: buy 'em cheap and just toss 'em when they get dull... don't think I'll ever adjust to that reality! Best, Matt

@American-Plague

5 жыл бұрын

You know what short pencils are also good for (I keep them just for this): tracing your water inlet pipes onto the back of a bathroom vanity so you can drill the holes in the right spot. Usually your stub-outs aren't near as long as a new pencil. Believe it or not I also used to work with a cheap Estonian carpenter. Lol....this wasn't in Florida was it?

@NextLevelCarpentry

5 жыл бұрын

I be a Doctor: Guys like us are inclined to have a 'box of pencils too short to keep' lying around the shop, right?! The practice may well have its origins in ancient Estonia... 😁😂🤣😎 Best, Matt

@American-Plague

5 жыл бұрын

@@NextLevelCarpentry Hahahaha! 😂😎👍

@donk9132

5 жыл бұрын

Tim, I just have to tell you that I also worked for and Estonian carpenter who was for me a privilege to work for. His reputation, his incredible skills.....I have many special memories of jobs, places and things we experienced together. I'll just mention one funny time.....we were living a job through the front door of this building.....there was a bird chasing another bird and they ended up in a bush in front of us.....my friend stood next to the bush and tried to surround the bush with his hands to, I assume, try to catch one of them. Wouldn't you know it, in a few seconds of the birds scurrying in the bush.....my buddy stands up with a bird in his hands !! I remember the bird biting at his finders but it didn't seem to bother him. That's the only time in my life that I have seen anyone catch a bird with his bare hands !

This is wonderful information that I can use. I just discovered three, unsharpened carpenter's pencils after cleaning out my garage/shop (it really needed it!).

@NextLevelCarpentry

4 жыл бұрын

Sharpening your newfound pencils well really will make a difference when drawing lines and marking Paul... FYI The sharper your utility knife, the easier and better this works. I go so far as to keep a separate, dedicated, sharp knife in a shop drawer for pencils only! 😎

Really appreciate this lesson. Thanks.

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

You're welcome, Bulwul, A friend helped me find some very old neglected comments hiding out on Next Level Carpentry... so a belated 'thank you' for your comment... hope you're still watching videos here? Best, Matt

Surprisingly a well done video, good work and even better, great tips 👍

Started wood working a long time ago, but I still have a lot to learn. To be honest, I never knew how to sharpen carpenter's pencils until now. I use a box cutter knife like you but I wasn't getting as good an end as you are. After viewing your video, I think I have a better idea how to sharpen carpenters pencils properly. Thank you so much!

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Hey Terry, hope the video helps you get better results from sharper pencils without frustration. Technique is important but so is a sharp blade so don't overlook that part. There's a lot of opinions out there about pencils and sharpening them but the tips and methods I show in the video are truly 'the real deal' and not showmanship or 'click bait' for a KZread video. It's how I sharpen and use pencils like this on a daily basis as a remodeling carpenter/contractor for discerning clients on very custom design/build projects. There might be other ways but I've yet to see better. Best, Matt

Thanks for tips,, I am not a full fledged carpenter , but a remodeler. I have used pencils as a scribe tool but never thought about the variations that u can use. Thanks again

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

ReCycle, Thanks for the comment... and you're welcome for the tips. There's no better environment than a remodel project to hone your skills and every added 'tip' only builds you 'snowball of knowledge'. Best, Matt

....and there was me thinking it was just about a pencil, what could be interesting about that? Well well...

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Never thought I'd be writing to someone called 'Stuff of Lard'... talk about interesting? Your 'well well' is a unique compliment and I thank you!

Thank you Im an electrician and I have always put bare minimum effort into sharpening them definitely going to use these tips from here on out! Thank you!

Thanx for the how to video, I learned a lot. I was never good at doing this before, now I've gotten much better.

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Broch, Welcome to the club... as time goes on you'll appreciate more and more having a sharp pencil at hand. You'll find this alone can raise a carpenter to the Next Level!

Good points, when I first started carpentry as an adult student, I always had difficulty sharpening my pencil, and it would become blunt so quickly.

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

gsf67: thanks! I think you'll find the few fundamental tips in this video will help you make crisp marks much longer. If you still find tips becoming blunt quickly you can switch to pencils with 'harder' lead (graphite) in them to extend their life considerably. I try to keep both a hard and soft lead pencil on hand for this reason... Best, Matt

Phenomenal. That last one was over the top

Each time I view Next Level Carpentry, I learn something new! The art of sharpening a carpenters pencil! Semper Fi

@NextLevelCarpentry

Жыл бұрын

Cool... I still sharpen pencils with these same techniques to this day...

Your long flat surface is a great idea. wood patternmakers years ago used a short piece of wood with the same idea with a wood screw in place of the lead sharpened to the same type point HG

@NextLevelCarpentry

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks Harry... pattern makers have always impressed me with their fantastic woodworking skills so it's no surprise to learn they used similar methods (although I wasn't aware of the one you mention). Guess it's further proof that great minds think alike, right? Best, Matt

I just saw these for the first time ever at the hardware store and the first thing I wondered was how would a sharpener for these look. Great video!

@msimmons223

4 жыл бұрын

Shaina Estévez they have them and they some how work, razor blades are just as god as long as you have patients.

Another great video! It may seem like sharpening a pencil is an unnecessary video, but these are the kind of practical videos that can make our lives so much easier and more accurate! Keep up the great work!

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Hey Joe, it's good to know you like the video enough to post a comment. Mastering the most basic fundamentals of carpentry is essential for any chance at mastering the trade, isn't it? Not sure how long you've known about Next Level Carpentry but I really believe the best is yet to come and hope you'll be around to see it :-) Matt

@joeitalia7

6 жыл бұрын

I'm new to your channel, but a big fan of what i'm seeing thus far. Looking forward to the new stuff!

Your content is the best. Buying DUNGAREE SUSPENDER (the button kind) at the carhartt outlet store found I found they will send you out with all you want like a box full just to get traffic through the door Plus other lumber locations Carpenter's Pencils are free to those in the trades at the service desk. One more reason to uses one.

Gosh while watching this. I was thinking here, I am almost 71 yrs old and learning for the first time how to properly sharpen the many carpenter pencils I have bought over the years, but always ended up using a round pencil because of the easiness of sharpening. Thank you for a great video.

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Very cool, Gary! You've got 10 years on me and I love your willingness to continue to learn and admit you don't know everything yet! Those are character traits I admire and that surely serve you well in life! Best, Matt

So I watched this video about a month ago I guess and I've been sharpening my pencil like this since then. I've only had to sharpen it twice and only because I snapped the lead off while it was in my pocket. This is the best method I've ever tried, I honestly don't see how it can be improved. Especially if you do a lot of scribing or straight edge marking, when you tilt the pencil and run the lead in the corner against the edge you are marking the lead continuously sharpens itself. I showed it to my boss who is 42 years my senior and he was impressed. My biggest suggestion is buy the best pencil you can find, not all lead is created equal and with an advanced sharpening technique like this you won't be wasting a good pencil by any means, instead you will be making it last ten times longer than a cheap pencil sharpened half as well.

@NextLevelCarpentry

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the great endorsement Austin and also for sharing this with your boss! Boss types tend to get fairly opinionated over time so is he was impressed even a little it's quite a statement! I think what you're saying is "friends don't let friends use cheap pencils" and I couldn't agree more! Best, Matt

oh the beauty of the small daily details. 0i use an olfa knife but save a sweet spot for essentially the same edge. I like your style my friend.

Always something to learn. Thanks

Never knew I needed this but here I am. Thanks for the video

Well, nuts. I've been, trying, to make the points pointed when I would sharpen a carpenter's pencil. No wonder why I hate using them. Thanks Matt! I'll use your method going forward. 👍👍

@NextLevelCarpentry

2 жыл бұрын

I think the backstory and explanation are key and glad to hear you found and understand them. I predict you'll really like using your newfound knowledge on projects where a carpenter's pencil is the best solution😎

Well... I was always told the round pencil would roll off your projects. The flat pencil cannot roll. Lol good info

@hughchapman5319

4 жыл бұрын

That's what I thought too..

Great video. Very helpful and detailed on explaining the differences. Keep it up! Thus kind of videos earns a subscriber. ☺️

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Meinard, Thanks for the sub... I'm always torn between including detailed explanations (and lower view counts) vs quick, sharply produced videos (and higher views) but your appreciation encourages me to include information I think is relevant to helping viewers take their carpentry skills to the Next Level even if channel popularity suffers a bit since that's my mission with this channel. Best regards, Matt

@meinardv3412

6 жыл бұрын

To be honest, I'm apprehensive viewing long videos as most of them are just talking other stuffs not related to the subject. Yours is an exception sir. Looking forward for to your next videos. Have a good one!

How to sharpen a pencil ha ha ! Have been woodworking now for about 4 yrs. I'm 69 and have "sharpening" pencils since i was about 5 ! Yep you're never too old to learn. Absolutely brilliant thanks. Marking out has now become more important to me, so this vid is really helpful to me....Thanks again. Subbed

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment and subscribing, Richard! It's easy to overlook the basics (like sharpening and using a carpenter's pencil) but rewarding to pay attention to them... best wishes for you in your woodworking endeavors! Hope you find your subscription to NLC worthwhile by learning other tidbits to make your 'new' woodworking interest more fulfilling. Best, Matt

I've been doing carpentry for years and and as stupid as I may sound, this was a great tutorial! Have always avoided these pencils because I didn't know how to sharpen them correctly. Thank you!

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Mark, It's rewarding to know you've gained a bit of new knowledge at Next Level Carpentry... I bet it will be a beneficial addition to your skillset! If word got out how many things I'm still learning after all my years in the trades I'm afraid I'd sound rather stdupit myself :-)

52 people are mad they didnt know how to use a pencil. Thanks for sharing. Those were all great tips. I am going to put these up there with DiResta's tips ;-)

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Thanks CNC Obsession... really appreciate the comment and 'DiResta' rating 😁😎 Best, Matt

Excellent content; thanks for sharing these tips. Best wishes

@NextLevelCarpentry

5 жыл бұрын

You're welcome Mark... it's always rewarding to know 'these tips' are appreciated so thanks for taking the time to comment here! Best, Matt

You are my Hero and I like the way you make it Pretty. Excellent video and process. Thanks for sharing.

Matt...I'm sorry to admit that I passed over this Video many times. I mean 12 minuets to sharpen a Pencil!?!? Then I got to thinking...Clicked the Play Button. Impressive to say the least! Especially the last method...I've struggled for years with Marking Irregular Surfaces with a Carpenters Pencil. My solution is the OLFA Knife :) For Regular Marking I use mostly a Utility Knife nowadays...a little more Accurate and doesn't need Sharpening :) Don't get me wrong...my Bag is still full of Carpenters Pencils. Only now I know how to Sharpen the Dang Things!...Four different ways... LoL! Great Video Matt...you certainly did Teach this Old Dog some New Tricks...Thank You!

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Cheewurz, there's only so many hours in a day and so many days in a life so I totally understand passing over the video! I really do use these methods while working so they're a solid part of my workflow but I'm well aware that others get along fine with other methods and tools. Hope you find at least a little ROI for the time you spent watching! I too use a knife for a lot of marking, primarily in the shop and need to take a closer look at the OLFA you rave about to see if it's something I need to adapt/adopt. In the "Gang Cutting Blocks for Speed and Accuracy" video on NLC you'll see an example of the marking knife I use... do you feel that the OLFA would be an equal/better substitute in that application? I like the Pfeil knife but it's a chore to re-sharpen... if a snap-off blade would work as well it would be an upgrade for that reason. Have fun with the 'new tricks'! Best, Matt

Fantastic video!

Had no idea so many ways to sharpen a pencil. Thanks for sharing. From mechanical drafting, the round pencil should be rotated as you draw keeping an even line. Ever tried the Japanese method? They sharpen a bamboo stick, dip it in black ink then go like hell with it. I like your presentation on making the cabinet doors and I needed to do a few for the kitchen. My woodworking skills not very good but I'm getting better at hiding my mistakes.

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

kimchee, thanks for commenting and subscribing to Next Level Carpentry. Sounds like you came across a valuable nugget for woodworking skill: you're only as good as the mistakes you can hide :-) Best, Matt

WOW, never thought I would find a video on pencil sharpening, but thank you, now I need to implement your lessons. Mine always look like a hack job (lol)

I was wondering how he would do over 12 minutes on sharpening a freakin' pencil. Now, I know. Excellent pointers and tips (sorry, I couldn't resist) on why this pencil is so versatile. It's a great idea to have multiple pencils in your tool bag, each sharpened differently than the other, to tackle the most basic, but essential, variable, tasks. Simply the best.

It's great that you kept the video concise and...to the point :) Excellent presentation - like many others here, I never thought I'd enjoy watching a 12 minute video on how to sharpen a pencil...up to this point I've always used classic rounds...perhaps I'm due for a change. As a request, could you do a video offering any tips you might have on cutting well with a worm-drive circular saw - or a sidewinder? - In my grossly limited experience - being only 34 and a professional chemist, not a carpenter - unless I spend 3min clamping a straight-edge piece of wood into place as a guide, any cutting I do will be so ridiculously wavy that it'll require a good 10-15min of rework with a hand plane - in the end, if I want a clean straight line (not having a table saw), I'm better off using a handsaw. As always, thanks so much for sharing your expertise!

@NextLevelCarpentry

5 жыл бұрын

Hey Vernon unfortunately I do not foresee doing a video on cutting straight with a circular saw anytime soon I will say though that it is a basic skill and the best way to advance is to practice so if you got a pile of scrap wood and some time draw straight line and just work on your method and technique to the point that when you're comfortable using the saw you should be able to cut a reasonably straight line without too much effort. As with many Endeavors that require following a straight-line I do suggest that you focus farther ahead than the point where the blade is actually cutting the wood. It's hard to ride a bike or fly a plane if you're looking too close in front of you but need a better perspective of a point on the horizon that guides your direction better than a point too close to the task at hand. Not sure if that helps but the more practice you can do the better you'll get in time. Best, Matt

@jensdavidsen4557

5 жыл бұрын

@@NextLevelCarpentry well...I definitely have been doing the opposite of what you suggested... I'm always dead focused on the line immediately in front of the saw. I'll keep your advice in mind - Thank you once again!

@NextLevelCarpentry

5 жыл бұрын

@@jensdavidsen4557 excellent I think you'll find a certain ratio of focusing on the blade In the cut and looking ahead to where you're going as a good combination for making acceptably straight cuts freehand. Best, Matt

Matt...I like the OLFA mostly because its Slim and its Stainless Steel. If I lean against something I know its not going to Break leaving a nasty/dangerous Razor Blade in my Pocket! It works great as a Scraper too! Run the Blade all the way out as it's Flexible and it Lays Flat against the Work...remove Glue, Peeling Paint, etc. The Auto Locking feature adds Peace of Mind and Works Effortlessly :) However...I will be implementing all 4 of your Tricks/Methods for Sharpening Carpenters Pencils from now on...after all it is an Indispensable Tool on every Woodworkers Projects!

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Will you include a link to the specific OLFA you like here? I know you already included it on another comment but this would tie the knife to the video for myself and other viewers... thanks mucho... I'm going to check it out for all the reasons you list! Matt

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

OK, I see the one you like. A differing preference here too... I have a couple Hyde box cutters in the drawer on my bench for many of the uses you cite. I like them because their handle is a comfortable (albeit larger) size which makes it easy to use... but I never carry one in my pouch though... must be the sort of work I do maybe? Nevertheless, thanks for sharing! Best, Matt

Very helpful, thanks.

What a great video, thanks for sharing these sharpening tips. I think these pencil can have a place in a woodworking shop as well. Music was good to. Just subscribed.

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Robert for subscribing and commenting. There's always a place in my shop for a good carpenter's pencil. I use the Blunt Classic point for marking rough lumber prior to milling and the Projected Point comes in handy more often than you might think. Hope you find other Next Level Carpentry videos make for a worthwhile subscription :-) Best, Matt

I am a design draftsman that learned my trade on a table with a pencil and paper. I can draw thin lines with a round pencil all day by spinning the pencil as you draw it along the straight edge! But I use a carpenter's pencil in the shop!!

Informative and interesting video . and old Bram came away having learnt something new :) thanks for sharing Cheers Bram.

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Bram, always glad to share something new! From a quick browse of your website it appears I could benefit by learning a bit of your knowledge of woodturning, especially if you consider this recent video on Next Level Carpentry: kzread.info/dash/bejne/ZH2lptWJiMngms4.html Cheers backatcha!

learned how to scribe as a bonus - great vid

@NextLevelCarpentry

4 жыл бұрын

There's lots of ways to scribe but the one you learned here is a great one... thanks for commenting! Best, Matt

Pencil day today - reached the point when just using any pencil won't work! Getting a batch of Carpenters pencils. Next issue how to sharpen them properly - searched for a NLC tutorial - thanks. When tracing a line on to wood over an uneven surface I also angle the pencil tip slightly backward which allows the pencil to "ignore" the grouting but also follow the contours because it is supported by the tiles either side. Of course a hand saw ignores small deviations as well so perhaps it's not completely necessary - but it looks prettier!

Thanks a lot for this! I always just, you know, sharpened it. Hacking at it until it marked.😆 I didn't know all these uses

Very informative, thank you very much

Excellent video Matt. While watching it I started wondering if you have a refined method for scribing things that sit at a 90° angle and have a transition of over an inch. For example I had to tile next to a tub that had a large rounded bump out on the bottom of the face and I just used a dowel and pencil to scribe with. It was sloppy and certainly took more attempts than I would have liked, can you show or explain how you do it because I have noticed your methods seem well thought out.

@NextLevelCarpentry

7 жыл бұрын

Hey Chris, Not sure if I understand your question but there are definitely some great tricks for scribing tiles to any complex countour. The best way to answer the question would be with a video that addresses it directly. If you want describe the conditions in more detail or e-mail a picture of them I'll make an effort to do a video for it. Cool?

Great tips. I was taught to sharpen a carpenters pencil by using a stubby chisel. Hold the pencil with your thumb in line with the pencil. Using your thumbnail as a guide, slide the chisel down the nail. It makes forming a chisel point on the pencil easier.

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

James, I'm not trying to talk anyone out of a method that works well for them, so if the chisel method works for you, by all means, stick with it. Gotta dance with the one what brung ya, right? I went to the effort of producing this video for those who've yet to learn an effective method for sharpening the very useful but often misunderstood/misused carpenter's pencil. I do feel that it's a more universally applicable method because a sharp chisel isn't something many beginner tradespeople have on hand. When they advance to the point where they have and can re-sharpen a stubby chisel to the level necessary to safely and properly sharpen a pencil there's no reason they couldn't or shouldn't switch methods. In the meantime, thanks for the 'great tips' compliment... I always appreciate comments from engaged viewers like yourself, even if we differ in opinion. Regards, Matt

@jamesfergusson546

6 жыл бұрын

There is always more than one way to do something...the mark of an expert is how to fix oops. Again, I enjoyed the video, particularly the alternative sharpening methods. They will come in handy!

Very helpful. (And smart). Thanks!

@NextLevelCarpentry

5 жыл бұрын

You're welcome Ron! Best, Matt

Good video. Just a suggestion. Some "noobs" may not realize how you're holding and handing the pencil and the knife. You are gaining control and precision by holding the knife in your "dexterous" hand, bracing the pencil in your left, BUT and importantly here, you're using your left thumb for important leverage, force and precision. That's apparent to me (field project engineer) and a perfect way to get the job done AND done safely. But noobs may not realize that. But really, great video

Hi, Matt. Nice video. Do you recommend soft, medium, or hard leads? I thought each would be nice for different purposes, so I bought all three and plan to sharpen them all.

@NextLevelCarpentry

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Mary, great question... thanks for commenting. You'll be well covered with all three. If you're new to sharpening, start with the medium, then the hard and soft last... soft takes the sharpest knife and more delicate touch. As with many things, you'll probably use medium most resorting to soft and hard mainly when medium doesn't produce the mark you're after or hold up well enough. My current Next Level Carpentry pencils have lead that's a bit on the hard side so I'm realizing how important it is to have more than one option. I highly recommend the Papermate Sharpwriter twist-lead pencils you see me use in videos too since finer work requires the finer tip they have. Have fun! Best, Matt

Holy Jesus! A 12+ minute video on nothing but sharpening a pencil?! I've got to see this! Edit: Well...Now that I saw it I can't believe I never saw it myself but...the last one (scribing the 2×4 into the crown moulding...lol) I just learned. Helps get me a much more accurate placement when scribing my seat cuts on common rafters. Thanks!

@NextLevelCarpentry

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment and edit I be a Doctor... I was going to say there's a bit more to it than meets the eye but you found that out for yourself. Never know when one of these unusual tips will be just the ticket to solve a problem. Best, Matt

Hey Matt. It's funny. This video is the first video of yours that I saw.It's also the one that led to my subscription. Since then I've learned a lot and never been disappointed. I couldn't find the one with the strap clamps that you demoed. I previously made little culls with a 45 degree notch to accommodate clamps. but after that video I remembered that I had a similar strap clamp. I dug it out and used it for a small mitered 1/2 box for a toilet paper dispenser that I incorporated into a vanity. It's called the VAS-23+2k made by BESSEY you can get them on line or even find them at the larger Home Depots there around 30.00 a pr and pretty impressive I know that you already have some clamps but at that price the'r worth looking into. All the best to you and God bless. Can't wait till the next installment.

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Hey Daniel, this has been a popular video and it's cool to know it was enough to earn your subscription. Checked out the Bessy's you mention. With it's sensible design and price it looks like anyone in the market for band clamps should give it strong consideration along with the Merle's (here's a link to the review video: kzread.info/dash/bejne/hH95kpqxlZDckpc.html ) I could see it as 'shootout' video doing a comparison of the two brand/models. Nylon strap vs steel, nice wind-up reel vs springy metal can, etc. Thanks for offering your perspective on these! More videos to come :-) Best, Matt

A tip of the hat to your tips on making the tips Matt. Now we need to spray paint some of the tips so they're different colors for each style tip. If you don't mind my tip. About the tips.

This was really cool! Thanks.

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

You're welcome, Dan! It's as cool in practice as in the video. Working with a stubby pencil with a 'squirrel-chewed' tip on it is like starting off on a bike ride with flat tires IMHO... just makes EVERYTHING more difficult and less rewarding...

thanks so much, what a gift! i really like your videos...i subscribed

@NextLevelCarpentry

5 жыл бұрын

It's nice to be so appreciated Steve... I return the appreciation for your subscription. Thanks for your comments on this and other Next Level Carpentry videos... there's a lot more on the way despite the current lull in uploads 🙄 Best, Matt

Hi Matt. I'm slowly making my way through your list of videos sponging up any information you care to throw our way. I feel a lot more intelligent now than I did when I woke up this morning ;-) Anyway, it's my turn to teach you something now. That dark grey matter that you keep referring to ( no not your brain ). The lead inside the pencil, it's actually graphite! Lead is toxic so there's no chance of having a lead pencil in this day and age. Happy sharpening :-D

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Lee, thanks for weighing in on this... I apologize for mis-leading, errr mis-graphiting, you and any other viewers with incorrect terminology... maybe my 'grey matter' is darker than I'm willing to admit

You are Amazing MATT

Cracking video! If you can teach me that much about using my pencil you've earned your new subscription!

@NextLevelCarpentry

7 жыл бұрын

Sweet! I'll try to provide more info as useful as the pencil sharpening video so you don't regret subscribing :-) Did you find the 'How to Draw a Circle With a Square' video? Maybe less practical but potentially interesting and entertaining. Thanks for the sub!

Great tips! Never to smart to learn from a pro.

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Hey Kevin, thanks for adding this video to your 'liked videos' playlist and for the sub! I'm glad to share a tip or two with anyone like you who will benefit from it... hope you find some other useful tips at Next Level Carpentry where I try to keep uploading stuff I've benefited from over the years.

Thank you for relying. I'm really like your videos

@NextLevelCarpentry

7 жыл бұрын

You're welcome... I hope you like the next one I upload... I'm pretty stoked about the content it has...

Matt...I bought my OLFA Knife and Replacement Blades at: Home Depot in the Paint Department :)

Now I want to put three carpenter's pencils in my tool belt. I honestly never gave that much thought to how I sharpened it: I wish I saw this sooner!

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

ILikeWafflz too! Thanks for commenting here... there's no time like the present to pick up a new, helpful tip... good news is that it works well to have only the 'point style' you're currently using in your pouch, the other versions can stay in a toolbox until needed 😎 Best, Matt

Great video!

@NextLevelCarpentry

7 жыл бұрын

Thanks! Hope you'll give it a thumbs up and subscribe :-)

I sometimes use 120 grit sandpaper on my random orbital sander to get a sharp point.

And I always thought blunt pencils were pointless. Thanks for the tips!

@NextLevelCarpentry

4 жыл бұрын

You're obviously a very sharp guy getting straight to the point... not sure what lead you to your conclusion but you're write-on! 🤢😁🤣

@donalso

4 жыл бұрын

@@NextLevelCarpentry funny funny

Nice video; especially like the text, commentary, and labels in your video. What video editing software do you use?

@NextLevelCarpentry

6 жыл бұрын

Starnet, Thanks for the compliment! It's especially meaningful because I struggle so much more with the video work than the pencil sharpening part! Answer: I'm currently using Camtasia 9 for video editing and production. I started using it for videos on my The Digital Jobsite Channel: kzread.info/dron/BWzq8RebspsaW-opjo2vxg.html because those tutorials are primarily screen capture which Camtasia 9 excels at. With all the time and $$ I invested in the software and learning curve I continue to use it here at Next Level Carpentry even though I don't do any screen capture for videos here. I suspect I'll buy new software soon upgrading to something like Final Cut because I understand it's MUCH more efficient at processing primarily video files. Camtasia really starts to bog down when I'm working with a timeline of over 25 minutes or so, even on my new Dell Precision workstation that's pretty jacked up with RAM and video card. Thanks again for commenting... I hope you'll find practical application for some of the pencil sharpening methods too :-)

Awesome video! Best viewed at 1.75x speed - saves a ton of time.

Nice! The only useful thing I learned in college was in a drafting class and that was to rotate my pencil as I drew a line and let the paper keep the point sharp. Those were pre-CAD days...

@NextLevelCarpentry

4 жыл бұрын

Works on paper for sure... on wood? Not so much...