Design Ebony Pencil, 2/Pkg.

I'd share a review for anyone who hasn't tried these yet and is wondering how they compare to the old Sanford brand. First, these are smoother to draw with. Even on smooth paper, the Sanfords are just slightly scratchy. It never bothered me, but when I compared with these, I could really feel the difference. I suspect these have a higher proportion of clay in the leads than the Sanfords did. Second, although these do get very dark, they have a noticeably higher reflective sheen than the Sanfords. The Sanfords look more matte when applied heavily, and these go down shinier, more like regular pencils do. That's kind of unfortunate, but it may be the tradeoff for getting a smoother lead, which I'm really liking.

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] The Ebony Pencil is always in my pencil box. I use it to start every drawing!! It is so easy and smooth. If you draw at any level, you should give it a try.

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] For the past six years a supply of Ebonys have occupied my desk. They are the best pencil for taking notes, doodling during meetings, drawing diagrams.

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] I've been using these pencils for 6 years and the quality has remained excellent every time I use them. The value range you can achieve with these pencils is unmatched!