Six Alternative Uses for Lead Pencils that Can Make Your Life Easier

I first have to tell you that the term "lead pencil" is a misnomer in today's world. Lead is no longer used to make the core of wooden pencils. Instead, the soft, gray inner material is powdered graphite. Still, besides writing and drawing, there are several more ways these instruments can be beneficial. Read this informative article and find out about 6 alternative uses for lead pencils that can make your life easier!

I'm not sure if my grandson skimped on doing his school work, or if his mother found a hot sale on lead pencils last fall, but he ended up with a slew of them at the end of this school year. He can use the leftovers next year. In addition to that, his parents can also use them around the house.

1. Use a Pencil as a Support for Young, Spindly Plants
Lead pencils are handy to use when you're starting plants. Just stick one in the soil next to the stalk, and attach it loosely with a twist tie, a small scrap of lightweight fabric, or a rubberband. The lead pencil will help support the young plant until it grows strong enough to stand up on its own.

Wooden pencils can also be used to help support full-grown plants that have a damaged stalk.

2. Use a Wooden Pencil to Search Through Screws, Nails and Other Sharp Fasteners
When you're searching through a container of fasteners looking for the one you need, you can save your fingers from getting poked by using a lead pencil. Simply mix the contents up with the end. Not only will it protect your fingers, it will be easier to see without having your fingers in the way.

3. Use a Pencil to Roll Out the Last Drops in a Tube
Another alternative use for lead pencils that can make your life easier is, to use them to get the last drops of any product out of a tube. With the rising costs of everything, including toothpaste, creams, ointments, decorative icings, adhesives, and other products that are packaged like this, you want to get every bit out. To do this, lay a pencil across the end. Press down on it as you roll the tube up and over the pencil. As you use the product, keep pressing the pencil down and rolling to squeeze out all of the product. Finally, slide the pencil out to reuse it, and throw the spent tube away.