Crayola pencils are made by combining extenders, binders, pigments, and water in a large mixer to create a doughy substance, which is then rolled into flat sheets and pressed into long, cylindrical shapes.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
- Mixing: Extenders (like clay), binders (that hold the pencil together), pigments (for color), and water are added to a large mixer. The mixer gently kneads these ingredients into a consistent, dough-like material.
- Rolling: The mixture is then rolled out into flat sheets. This process ensures the material is evenly distributed before shaping.
- Shaping: Finally, a machine presses these sheets into long, solid cylinders, which form the core of the colored pencil "lead."
While the prompt only covers the core, it is important to acknowledge that the core is then encased in wood. Crayola sources wood from sustainable forests and it is cut and grooved to accept the colored core. Then it is bonded together.
- Wood casing: Two grooved halves of wood are glued around the colored core.
- Cutting and Shaping: Machines cut and shape the pencils into the familiar hexagonal shape.
- Finishing: The pencils are then painted, stamped with the Crayola logo, and sharpened before being packaged for sale.
