Featured Image: Image of a pencil sharpener with a broken blade stuck inside
Oh no! You’ve broken the blade in your pencil sharpener and it’s stuck! Don’t panic, there are a few simple steps you can follow to get that blade out without damaging your sharpener. First, make sure the sharpener is unplugged. Then, carefully turn the sharpener upside down and shake it vigorously. Sometimes, this is enough to dislodge the broken blade. If not, you can try using a pair of pliers or tweezers to gently remove the blade. Just be careful not to damage the sharpener in the process.
If you’re still having trouble getting the blade out, you can try using a vacuum cleaner. Simply attach the vacuum cleaner hose to the sharpener’s opening and turn it on. The suction should help to pull the blade out. Once you’ve successfully removed the broken blade, you can replace it with a new one and get back to sharpening your pencils. To avoid this problem in the future, be sure to use sharp pencils and don’t force the sharpener.
There you have it! A few simple steps to help you get that broken blade out of your pencil sharpener. With a little patience and care, you’ll have your sharpener working like new in no time. So go ahead, sharpen those pencils and get back to writing, drawing, or whatever you need to do!
**Safety First: Cautions and Precautions**
Before You Begin
To ensure a safe and successful blade removal process, it is crucial to adhere to the following precautions:
| Caution | Precaution |
|---|---|
| Sharp Blades | Always handle the pencil sharpener and blades with extreme care, as they are extremely sharp. |
| Electrical Hazard | Unplug the pencil sharpener from any power source before attempting to remove the blade. |
| Protective Gear | Consider wearing gloves and safety glasses when handling the blade, as it can potentially cause cuts or puncture wounds. |
| Small Parts | Keep the blade and any other small parts away from children or pets, as they could be a choking hazard. |
| Disposal | Once the blade is removed, dispose of it properly in a designated sharp objects container. Never dispose of the blade in regular trash. |
Additional Tips
In addition to the precautions listed above, consider the following tips to enhance your safety:
- Use a flashlight or a well-lit area to ensure clear visibility when removing the blade.
- Be patient and avoid rushing the process, especially if the blade is jammed or difficult to remove.
- If you encounter any difficulties or feel uncomfortable, do not hesitate to seek assistance from a qualified professional or contact the pencil sharpener manufacturer.
- Use a strong magnet. The stronger the magnet, the easier it will be to remove the blade.
- Hold the magnet steady over the opening of the sharpener. Don’t move the magnet around too much, or you may lose the blade.
- Pull the blade out gently. Once the blade is attached to the magnet, slowly pull it out of the sharpener. Be careful not to jerk the blade, or you could break it.
- Open the tweezers wide enough to fit around the blade.
- Gently insert the tweezers into the opening of the sharpener and grasp the blade.
- Slowly pull the blade out of the sharpener. Be careful not to jerk the blade, or you could break it.
- Use a high-quality penetrating lubricant for best results.
- Be patient and allow the lubricant time to work.
- Avoid using excessive force, as this could damage the sharpener or blade.
- If the blade is badly stuck, do not attempt to extract it yourself. Consult a professional sharpener repair service.
- Unplug the pencil sharpener from the power outlet.
- Open the pencil sharpener’s lid or door.
- Locate the broken blade. It will likely be stuck in the sharpener’s cutting head.
- Grip the broken blade with the needle-nose pliers. Use a firm grip to ensure that the blade does not slip.
- Gently pull the blade out of the sharpener. Take care not to damage the sharpener’s cutting head.
- Unfold a paperclip or procure a piece of wire approximately 2-3 inches in length.
- Gently straighten the wire or paperclip to facilitate its insertion into the sharpener’s opening.
- Insert the wire or paperclip into the sharpener’s opening and cautiously probe around to locate the blade.
- Once the blade is detected, carefully hook it onto the wire or paperclip’s end.
- Gently pull the wire or paperclip outwards to retrieve the stuck blade.
- Use pliers or needle-nose pliers if additional force is necessary to extract the blade.
- Inspect the extracted blade for any damage that may have occurred during the removal process.
- Hold the sharpener upside down so that the blade is facing down.
- Tap the sharpener gently on a hard surface, such as a table or countertop.
- Tilt the sharpener from side to side while tapping it.
- Continue tapping and tilting the sharpener until the blade loosens and falls out.
- A small screwdriver
- A pair of pliers
- A cloth or paper towel
- Unplug the sharpener. This is an important safety precaution to prevent electric shock.
- Remove the screws. There are usually two or three screws that hold the sharpener together. Use the screwdriver to remove these screws.
- Open the sharpener. Once the screws are removed, you should be able to open the sharpener by lifting the top half away from the bottom half.
- Locate the blade. The blade is typically located in the center of the sharpener. It is a small, metal piece with sharp edges.
- Grip the blade with the pliers. Be careful not to cut yourself on the blade.
- Pull the blade straight out. The blade should come out easily. If it doesn’t, use a small amount of force.
- Discard the blade. Wrap the blade in a cloth or paper towel and discard it in a safe place.
- Reassemble the sharpener. Put the sharpener back together by aligning the top and bottom halves and replacing the screws.
- Clean the sharpener. It is important to clean the sharpener after you have removed the blade. This will help to prevent the accumulation of pencil shavings and other debris, which can make the sharpener less efficient.
- Use a soft brush or cloth to remove any loose debris from the sharpener.
- Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and use it to clean the inside of the sharpener, including the blade holder.
- Allow the sharpener to dry completely before using it again.
- Needle-nose pliers
- Screwdriver
- Check the blade to make sure it’s not dull or damaged.
- Clean the sharpener by removing any shavings or debris.
- Adjust the pressure knob to make sure it’s set correctly.
- If the sharpener still won’t sharpen, you may need to replace the blade.
- A soft cloth
- A small brush
- Rubbing alcohol
Inspecting the Sharpener for Obstructions
To ensure safe and efficient removal of the blade, begin by thoroughly inspecting the pencil sharpener for any obstructions or debris that may hinder the process. This can include:
Blade Cover
Examine the blade cover for any cracks, dents, or misalignment that could trap the blade. If the cover is damaged, it’s crucial to replace it with a new one before attempting to remove the blade.
Pencil Shavings
Pencil shavings can accumulate inside the sharpener and create a barrier between the blade and the exit slot. Gently shake the sharpener upside down to dislodge any loose shavings and facilitate access to the blade.
Foreign Objects
Occasionally, small foreign objects such as clips, paper clips, or eraser shavings can accidentally get lodged in the sharpener. Carefully inspect the interior for any such obstructions and remove them with tweezers or pliers if necessary.
| Obstruction | Removal Method |
|---|---|
| Damaged Blade Cover | Replace with new cover |
| Pencil Shavings | Shake sharpener upside down |
| Foreign Objects | Remove with tweezers or pliers |
Using a Magnet for Easy Retrieval
If you have a strong magnet, this method is the easiest and safest way to remove a broken blade from a pencil sharpener. Simply hold the magnet over the opening of the sharpener, and the blade will be drawn out without any fuss. This is a great option if you don’t have any other tools handy, or if you’re worried about damaging the sharpener.
Here are some tips for using a magnet to remove a broken blade:
If you don’t have a strong magnet, you can try using a pair of tweezers. However, this method is more difficult and requires more care. To remove a blade using tweezers, follow these steps:
Applying Lubricant for Smooth Extraction
Applying a lubricant to the blade can significantly enhance the chances of successful blade extraction. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using a lubricant effectively:
Materials:
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| WD-40 or similar penetrating lubricant | Small amount |
| Cotton swab or toothpick | 1 |
| Small pliers | 1 (optional) |
Steps:
1. Power off the pencil sharpener and unplug it.
2. Disassemble the sharpener housing to expose the blade.
3. Apply a small amount of lubricant to the exposed blade using a cotton swab or toothpick. Allow the lubricant to penetrate for a few minutes.
4. Gently pull the blade out of the sharpener. If the blade is still stuck, gently twist or wiggle it back and forth while pulling. If necessary, use a small pair of pliers to grasp the blade lightly and pull it out. Avoid excessive force, as this could damage the blade or sharpener.
5. Once the blade is extracted, thoroughly clean the sharpener with a damp cloth to remove any remaining lubricant.
Tips:
Using Needle-Nose Pliers for a Firm Grip
Needle-nose pliers are a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, including removing a broken blade from a pencil sharpener. Here are the steps on how to use needle-nose pliers to get a blade out of a pencil sharpener:
Additional Tips:
– If the broken blade is stuck in the sharpener’s cutting head, you may need to use a small screwdriver to pry it out.
– Once you have removed the broken blade, inspect the sharpener’s cutting head for any damage. If the cutting head is damaged, you may need to replace it.
– To prevent the blade from breaking in the future, make sure to use sharp pencils and to empty the sharpener’s shavings bin regularly.
Disassembling the Sharpener for Direct Access
1. Identify the Type of Sharpener
Determine the type of sharpener you have (manual, electric). This will influence the disassembly process.
2. Remove the Screws
Use a suitable screwdriver to remove any screws that hold the sharpener together, such as those on the bottom or sides.
3. Separate the Casing
Carefully pull apart the casing of the sharpener to access the internal components.
4. Locate the Blade Housing
Identify the housing that contains the blade. This may be a removable unit or part of the sharpener’s frame.
5. Remove the Blade Housing Screws
Once the blade housing is located, remove the screws that hold it in place. Be cautious as the blade may be sharp.
6. Removing the Blade with a Magnet
* Place a Magnet on the End of a Rod: Attach a strong magnet to the end of a thin rod or metal strip.
* Insert the Rod into the Blade Housing: Carefully insert the rod with the magnet into the blade housing.
* Retrieve the Blade: Slowly move the magnet around the housing until it attracts and adheres to the blade.
* Pull Out the Rod: Withdraw the rod, bringing the blade out with it.
7. Clean and Reassemble
* Clean the Sharpener: Remove any shavings or debris from the sharpener.
* Lubricate the Blade: Apply a small amount of lubricant to the blade to prevent future jamming.
* Reassemble the Sharpener: Put the sharpener back together in reverse order of disassembly, securing all screws.
| Manual Sharpener | Electric Sharpener | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Screws | 2-4 | 4-6 |
| Blade Housing Type | Removable unit | Part of the frame |
Employing a Paperclip or Wire as a Hook
Paperclips and wires can be effectively employed to extract a stuck blade due to their malleability. Execute the following steps to utilize this method:
Caution: Wires and paperclips can be sharp, so handle them with care to avoid any potential injuries. If the blade is deeply embedded or damaged, it’s recommended to seek professional assistance from a locksmith or other qualified technician.
| Material | Suitable for |
|---|---|
| Cardboard | Paper clips, small nails, needles |
| Plastic | Paper clips, small nails, needles |
| Wood | Paper clips, nails, needles, pencils |
| Metal | Needles |
Tilting and Tapping the Sharpener for Dislodging
If the blade is stuck in the sharpener, you can try to dislodge it by tilting and tapping the sharpener. To do this:
If the blade does not come out after a few minutes of tapping and tilting, you can try using a pair of pliers to pull it out.
Tools You’ll Need
To remove a blade from a pencil sharpener, you’ll need a few basic tools:
Steps
Cleaning the Sharpener After Retrieval
To clean the sharpener, follow these steps:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Small screwdriver | To remove the screws that hold the sharpener together |
| Pair of pliers | To grip and pull out the blade |
| Cloth or paper towel | To wrap the blade before discarding it |
Opening the Sharpener
Before removing the blade, you’ll need to open the sharpener. This process varies depending on the model, but generally involves unscrewing or unclipping a portion of the casing. Locate the screws or clips and carefully remove them to expose the interior of the sharpener.
Removing the Blade
Once the sharpener is open, you can remove the blade. Wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges. Grip the blade firmly and gently pull it straight out of its housing. Avoid twisting or bending the blade, as this could damage it.
Checking for Damage
Inspect the blade for any signs of damage, such as nicks, burrs, or corrosion. If the blade is damaged, it may need to be replaced. Check the housing of the sharpener as well for any obstructions that may have caused the jam.
Cleaning the Sharpener
Use a soft brush or compressed air to remove any shavings or debris from the sharpener. Wipe down the interior with a clean cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol to remove any oils or grime. Allow the sharpener to dry completely before reassembling it.
Reassembling the Sharpener
Replace the blade in its housing, ensuring that it is properly aligned. Reattach the casing and tighten any screws or clips. Test the sharpener by inserting a pencil and turning the handle. If the sharpener works smoothly, you have successfully removed the blade.
Maintaining the Sharpener to Prevent Future Jams
To keep your sharpener running smoothly and prevent future jams, follow these maintenance tips:
10. Regularly Clean the Sharpener
Cleaning the sharpener regularly will remove shavings and debris that can accumulate and cause jams. Use a soft brush or compressed air to clean the interior of the sharpener, and wipe down the exterior with a clean cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the cleaning process:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Remove the lid or casing of the sharpener. |
| 2 | Use a soft brush or compressed air to remove shavings and debris from the interior. |
| 3 | Wipe down the interior with a clean cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol. |
| 4 | Wipe down the exterior of the sharpener with a clean cloth. |
| 5 | Reassemble the sharpener and test it. |
How To Get A Blade Out Of A Pencil Sharpener
If you’ve ever tried to sharpen a pencil and the blade got stuck, you know it can be frustrating. But don’t worry, there are a few simple steps you can follow to get the blade out safely.
**Materials:**
**Instructions:**
1. **Unplug the pencil sharpener.** This is important for safety reasons.
2. **Remove the screws that hold the lid in place.** There are usually two or three screws on the back of the sharpener.
3. **Lift off the lid.** Be careful not to lose any of the small parts inside.
4. **Use the needle-nose pliers to grasp the blade.** The blade is usually held in place by a small spring.
5. **Gently pull the blade out of the sharpener.** Be careful not to touch the sharp edge of the blade.
6. **Reassemble the pencil sharpener.** Once the blade is out, you can reassemble the sharpener by following the steps in reverse order.
People Also Ask
How do you fix a pencil sharpener that won’t sharpen?
There are a few things you can try to fix a pencil sharpener that won’t sharpen:
How do you clean a pencil sharpener?
To clean a pencil sharpener, you will need:
Instructions:
1. Unplug the pencil sharpener.
2. Remove the shavings tray and empty it.
3. Use the soft cloth to wipe down the exterior of the sharpener.
4. Use the small brush to remove any shavings or debris from the inside of the sharpener.
5. Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and use it to clean the blade.
6. Reassemble the pencil sharpener and plug it back in.
