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Obrázek autoraKOH-I-NOOR HARDTMUTH

Going back in time with versatilla


versatilky ležící na barevných papírech v retro odstínech

Versatil, also known as mechanical pencils, are more than just writing or drawing tools for many people. They are helpers that allow us to express ourselves creatively, put thoughts on paper or record memories. In this article, we'll look not only at their sustainable side, but also at the different design options. Did you know that some types of mechanical pencils also have coloured inks?





Why are mechanical pencils sustainable?


Versatils are popular not only for their practicality, but also for their sustainability. Unlike traditional wooden pencils, which wear out over time, versatillos use replaceable ink. This means that you don't have to throw away the entire pencil when the ink is used up or when the pencil breaks, you just replace the ink itself.


Sustainability benefits:


  1. Less waste: Each ink change means less waste compared to throwing away an entire wooden pencil.

  2. Longer life: thanks to its material (metal, plastic), a high-quality versatilla can last for many years (up to generations), which means less consumption of raw materials and consequently less waste.

  3. Economic savings: although the initial investment in a quality versatilla may be higher, it is more economically advantageous in the long run.




We have been spiking, spiking, spiking since 1937


Versatilla can be used similarly to a classic ordinary pencil or crayon in the case of the variant with coloured inks (but more on that below). After its invention and trademark registration in 1937, the Versatilla was popular and used mainly by architects, engineers and planners, but gradually other users took to it as well.


If you ever look for a versatilla in the shops, you can find it under another name - mechanical pencil or mechanical drop pencil, the ink just drops in. Another interesting term is "nib" or pencil sharpener. The versatilla is not cut all the way through but really just the tip of the ink gives the term "nib" meaning. You can also find the aforementioned nib right in the versatilla and can therefore sharpen or "nib" anywhere on the go. After trimming, you simply screw it back into the versatilla. 


Memories and nostalgia


Versatilky often evoke memories of school years, first drawings and many other memorable moments. Many people have their favourite mechanical pencils that they have used for many years. The mention of a Versatilla thus evokes a sense of nostalgia and memories of different stages of their lives.


What comes to mind when you hear the word "versatilla"?


  1. School years: many people have versatilles associated with their school years, when they were an integral part of their pencil cases. Versatilla is virtually indestructible and can therefore withstand the "rougher" treatment in school briefcases and pencil cases. Did you drop it on the floor? No problem, it didn't break and you can write or draw again right away. Does it need to be trimmed? No problem! The pencil sharpener is included with the pencil and you won't lose it. However, many people associate school years and the versatilla with school "fights". How many battles and mischief could be experienced with the so-called "blower/flusher". Just unscrew the versatilla and suddenly you have the perfect tube to hold torn and crumpled small papers that can be "shot" at classmates. Of course, only at recess (and then you have to clean up the mess afterwards 🙂 ).

  2. First drawings: creative individuals can recall their first drawings, which they created with versatilla. Each stroke represented a step into a world of imagination where we could safely make mistakes and learn again and again. For many of us, they became a symbol of endless possibilities and the beginning of a journey towards self-discovery through art and writing.

  3. Gifts: mechanical pencils can also be a gift that has emotional value, for example from parents or friends. Thanks to their practicality and simplicity, versatil pens have become a popular gift not only for children, but also for adults who want to remember their youth. Even today, in the age of digital technology, versatilkas can still be an ideal gift for those who appreciate classic values and handmade craftsmanship.





Variants with coloured inks


Many people do not know that versatils also exist in variants with coloured inks. These mechanical pencils allow for even more creativity and variety when writing and drawing. Colored inks can be used to highlight text, draw colorful pictures, or as a variation to add a personal touch to notes.


Advantages of coloured inks:


  1. Creativity: coloured inks allow more possibilities for artistic expression. Want to sketch in different colours? No problem!

  2. Organisation: using different colours can help you organise your notes and highlight important information. Thus, you can use colored versatilles in both school and work environments.

  3. Aesthetics: colourful writing or drawing can be more visually appealing. Colored mechanical pencils can become a great tool for a variety of activities.




Versatils are not only a practical and sustainable tool, but also a carrier of memories and creativity. Discover the world of versatilles with coloured inks and enjoy their versatile use. We hope this article has inspired you to look at versatilles in a new light and make the most of their possibilities. Or just reminisce about your school years, you'll see that versatilks are still in style!

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