Blackwing pencils built a cult following that included Grammy, Pulitzer and Oscar winners throughout the 20th century. After machinery that enabled its unique design broke in the 1990s, Blackwing pencils became a burden to a corporation focused on mass production, and a commoditized market. Fans went crazy and started paying upwards of $40 per pencil on eBay to seize unused stock. Our parent company, with nearly 100 years of experience in the pencil industry, was asked by consumers to try and claim the brand and reproduce the quality. In 2010, we did just that. And that was just the start. Blackwings loyal following of famous artists and musicians has grown in the past five years to include everyday people who simply appreciate well made goods and a chance to unplug once in a while. In 2015, we launched Blackwing Music, a venture that seeks to shine a spotlight on emerging songwriters through live performances and album production. A portion of every Blackwing product sold goes directly to the Blackwing Foundation to fund music and arts programs in public schools. Blackwing is part of the Cal Cedar family of businesses. Celebrating its centennial this year, Cal Cedar was founded in 1917 by the same family who still owns it today.