I prefer to sharpen my pencils with a blade rather than a pencil sharpener for many reasons. I'll compare the advantages and disadvantages of using each below.

Sharpening With a Pencil Sharpener:

Pros:

• Easiest and probably fastest method
• Safest method
• Cleanest Method

Cons:

• No control over pencil tip (always the same)
• Pencil lead tends to "fall out"
• Sharpens lead as well meaning the pencil gets used up faster

Sharpening With a Blade:

Pros:

• Pencil lasts longer since you can sharpen the wood and leave the lead alone
• More control over tip (can make it long or short, dull or sharp)
• Stronger lead

Cons:

• Must be more careful to avoid cutting yourself
• More room for error (a slip can cause you to break the pencil tip)
• Must work over trash can to avoid pencil shavings landing on the floor

Okay, so there is a basic rundown of what to expect. I have not used a pencil sharpener for my "art" pencils for a long time. I prefer to have more control over how the tip looks. With a blade, I can leave more tip exposed and leave the end dull for sketching, or I can sharpen the lead more and do fine lines.

Before you venture out and start sharpening your pencils with a blade I'll give you some tips and a picture.

Tips:

1. Use a moderate-sized blade. A small blade makes it more difficult, but will work if that's all you have .
2. You don't have to cut in a straight line. I prefer to "pull" the blade slightly to help cut cleanly.
3. I prefer to cut away from my hand to avoid cutting myself, but some people have reported more control when cutting towards their hand.
4. Try not to cut the lead. That weakens the pencil. You can cut the lead if you cut it evenly, but don't make a big gash in the sides…
5. Sharper blades make it easier.

Below is what I use to sharpen my pencils. I used to use an exacto knife, but found the small blade counterproductive. I got the Blade below at Lowe's, so you if can't find one you like at DickBlick.com, try a local hardware store and get a utility knife. Get a good one with a nice grip. It does make a difference since you will use it a lot.

From left to right: utility knife, blade-sharpened pencil, pencil sharpened with pencil sharpener.