The Nitram Sharpening Bloc is a solid wood, two-sided paddle with sandpaper on both sides for sharpening charcoal and pastels. You can make a surprisingly sharp point even with wide charcoal batons, and for thinner sticks you can make pencil-like fine points. A replacement set of sandpaper pads are included with each Sharpening Bloc. Made in Canada. About Nitram: Created in France in 1968, Nitram charcoal is a unique formulation unmatched by any other fine art charcoal in the world. Nitram is neither compressed charcoal nor vine/willow charcoal, but rather something in between, made with a proprietary process that maintains the cellular structure of the wood while also making the charcoal much more consistent, smooth, and dark than willow charcoal. Unlike compressed charcoal, Nitram maintains the subtle tones and superior control of willow charcoal. But unlike willow charcoal, Nitram is strong and easy to use. It can be sharpened to a fine point and produces less dust than other charcoal. And Nitram comes in both square and round shapes, so you can make exactly the marks you want with this innovative charcoal.
