Kneadable Erasers

Many pencil users prefer using kneadable erasers because they pick up erasing debris and leave surfaces clean. They smell great and are non-toxic. Artists use them for highlighting, and for cleaning chalks, charcoals, pastels and soft graphite.

One can mold them into any shape because the putty-like "rubber" is soft and pliable. In fact, one Web site has directions for making entertaining pencil top erasers. See http://jas.familyfun.go.com/arts-and-crafts?page=CraftDisplay&craftid=10712.

The major component of the kneadable eraser is vulcanized vegetable oil, with mineral oil. rubber, antioxidants, pumice and colorants added.

Kneadable erasers are nicely self-cleaning. You simply pull and stretch the dirty surface to obtain a clean surface. They also pick up erasure debris and hold it. You can pat erasure debris and it will stick.

For artists: Kneadable erasers are said to be non-abrasive. If you use a loose-fiber paper, however, the desirable tackiness of kneadable erasers tends to lift some fibers from the paper. They do not abrade like a pumice-based eraser, such as the Pink Pearl, but they do abrade more than you might think. Make sure you lightly rub in one direction -- do not rub back and forth, as we tend to do with most erasers. Also note that kneadable erasers tend to reduce wetting, so bear that in mind when using water soluble graphite and aquarelle pencils.

All of the major pencil manufacturers offer kneadable erasers.

Do you have a favorite brand and/or information to share about your experience with kneadable erasers?

Comments

[Louise]

I bought one from Prang Professional and I can't mold it. It's very sticky though.