Core Values
What We Believe
In a time when many manufacturers are trying to make things cheaper, we are working to make our products better while keeping our prices low. Our bottom line has always been to provide quality art supplies that artists can depend on for consistency and performance to create their finished artwork.
We want to take a moment to share our quality standards, code of conduct, and our core values:
In a time when many manufacturers are trying to make things cheaper, we are working to make our products better while keeping our prices low. Our bottom line has always been to provide quality art supplies that artists can depend on for consistency and performance to create their finished artwork.
We want to take a moment to share our quality standards, code of conduct, and our core values:
We have been manufacturing pencils in the USA since 1889. We are a family owned and operated business for six generations, and we take pride in making quality school, art and craft supplies in the USA. It is our goal and value to continue to provide jobs in the USA, and to serve the communities in which we work and live.
We have been manufacturing in the State of New Jersey for over 125 years, and in California for over 40 years in compliance with state and federal laws. As a US manufacturer, General Pencil operates in compliance with all applicable laws, rules and regulations relating to labor, wages, worker health and safety, environment and all relevant laws. We stand against sweatshop and child labor.
We are continuously working to be environmentally conscious, reduce our carbon foot print, and to maintain sustainable business practices.
Our products are tested and certified for safety and quality by the Art & Creative Materials Institute (ACMI) and carry the AP seal, conforming to ASTM-D4236. "The Masters"® cleaning products contain no solvents and are environmentally friendly.
Our pencils have always been tested for safety and carry the Pencil Makers Association (PMA) seal, conforming to ASTM-D4236. These seals mean we are providing safe materials to consumers.
Our pencils are made with genuine Incense Cedar wood, a responsibly harvested renewable resource meeting stringent environmental requirements.
Our packaging is 100% recyclable.
Sleeves and kits are made with recycled paperboard. Trays and blisters are recyclable (HDPE 6) and are made from recycled materials.
We are proud supporters of Youth Art Month and provide art supplies to schools and communities in need.
General Pencil is a proud sponsor of The Wounded Artist Project
The Wounded Artist Project is a Michigan-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that is sending art kits to war wounded recovering in military hospitals. The Project's art kits will provide a welcome diversion from boredom for wounded recovering from traumatic wounds, burns, and amputations when they are in downtime from regular therapy sessions.
The Wounded Artist Project is a Michigan-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that is sending art kits to war wounded recovering in military hospitals. The Project's art kits will provide a welcome diversion from boredom for wounded recovering from traumatic wounds, burns, and amputations when they are in downtime from regular therapy sessions.
