What significant development in pencil-making occurred in the 1500s?

The discovery of graphite in the 1500s marked a significant development in pencil-making because it provided a new and effective material for writing and drawing. Prior to this discovery, various materials such as lead or charcoal were used but lacked the precision and smoothness that graphite offered. Graphite was initially found in Borrowdale, England, and its unique properties allowed for a softer, more controllable application on paper. This led to the development of the pencil as we know it, where the graphite core is encased in wood, allowing for easier handling and precision in writing and drawing tasks. As a result, this advancement propelled the use of pencils into commonplace practice during the Renaissance and shaped the future of writing instruments.