A proprietary blend of oils, binders, and premium pigments are used in every line of Koh-I-Noor colored pencils. The result is an ultra-smooth lead that allows for rich color and laydown without a waxy bloom or wax build up that prevents layering. We use California cedar for all of our artist-grade colored pencils. California cedar is not only a renewable resource, but is regarded as the best wood for pencils because it doesn't warp. Each core is perfectly centered in its casing for even sharpening, and glued throughout to prevent breakage. Our woodless pencils have a solid color core encased in lacquer, and offers the artist maximum color laydown. All of our pencils come pre-sharpened.