It starts with noticing one bird. It could be the familiar sound of chirping from a nearby tree or the flash of vibrant feathers overhead that grabs your attention. Then you start noticing them everywhere. Birds are part of the rhythm of everyday life. Blackwing Vol. 458 is a tribute to birding :-). The Balanced or Medium graphite isn't one I usually carry, but it's actually very nice. I would not use this pencil on fabric, only paper, just like the soft graphite pencils.

Every Special Edition Volumes set of 12 pencils comes with a story. This is the story that goes with these pencils: 

Birding, or bird watching, is the observation, study, and cataloging of birds in their natural habitats. Even more than that, it's an exercise in slowing down. In a world constantly vying for our attention, birding asks us to simply be present. It reminds us there is beauty all around us, waiting to be noticed. The model number 458 represents the estimated number of migratory bird species that regularly travel through the United States and Canada.

Each balanced graphite pencil features one of four gradient finishes inspired by North American birds: the Clark's Grebe, Mallard, Green Jay, and Black Rail. The model number is stamped in black foil on each pencil, honoring the remarkable number of migratory birds.

These pencils feature the balanced (medium) graphite core, great for using on paper.

Included as a free extra from Blackwing is a new Birding Zine pamphlet, featuring 18 pages of fun facts, guides, games and more related to birding and the culture of mindfulness that it has fostered.