At Steel City, we know that even a simple item like a pencil needs to reflect your brand’s quality. We select our range based on how they perform in the real world – on desks, in classrooms, and on-site – so you’re not dealing with snaps or faint branding, just a product that gets used day-in, day-out.
- Barrel shape choice: We offer a choice of barrel shapes because we know different jobs need different tools. Whether it’s full-length (185-186mm), flat carpenter (178 x 15mm), or mechanical (0.5mm/0.7mm), we’ll help you find the fit that works best for your audience. It stops them rolling off worktops and ensures they feel like the right tool for the job.
- Readable print zones: It’s really important that your logo is seen clearly. We stick to pencils with generous print areas – like 60 x 16mm and 80 x 20mm, or even larger full-wrap options (157 x 25mm) – because we know that tiny branding can get lost. We want your message to stay legible however much the pencil is used, pocketed, or shared.
- Proof-first print control: We always provide a visual proof before production – it’s a key part of our process. We want to make sure the placement and size are spot on before we hit print. This avoids any surprises with off-centre logos or colours that don’t look right, ensuring the final product matches your expectations perfectly.
- Lead times you can work to: We know lead times are a common question, especially if you’re working towards a term start, a site handover, or an event. We have options ranging from 5 to 10 working days from artwork approval, so we can usually find a solution that fits your timeline and prevents any last-minute stress.
- Flat carpenter stability: For trade environments, we’d always suggest a proper carpenter profile (178 x 15mm). It’s designed to stay put on boards and benches rather than rolling away. Plus, the long print run (up to 165 x 8mm) gives you plenty of space for your message, making it a genuinely useful tool for the recipient.
- Eco materials you can explain: Sustainability is huge at the moment, and it’s important we don’t greenwash. We offer genuine eco-friendly materials like recycled newspaper, recycled plastics (from fridges and yoghurt pots), bamboo, and responsibly sourced wood. This means you can confidently tick those sustainability boxes and explain exactly what the barrel is made from.
- Engraving that stays sharp: If you’re looking for a higher perceived value, perhaps for a gift or staff reward, we recommend engraving on metal mechanical pencils. With set positions like 40 x 5mm, the branding stays crisp and won’t rub off with daily use, leaving a lasting impression with the user.
- Benchmark-based sourcing: We use these core products as a strong baseline for quality and speed, but our expertise doesn’t stop there. If you need a specific colour match, special packaging, or a bespoke run, we can use our supplier network to source exactly what you need without compromising on quality or reliability.