since 1889, the general pencil company has been converting wax, paint, cedar planks and graphite into useful implements for writing and drawing. over a century later, it is one of one of the last remaining pencil factories in the united states. now after thirty visits to the company’s production floor, american photographer christopher payne has documented every phase of the manufacturing process in a photo series that is overwhelmingly satisfying to see.

images courtesy of christopher payne via colossal

payne‘s photographs capture the many different steps that take place inside the factory. from the predominantly grey shades of the basement, where workers process charcoal, to the industrial scale sharpener giving each pencil its uniformed point. pastel extrusions of varying shades are laid by hand onto grooved wooden boards to dry before being placed in pencil slats. they have just left the extruding machine which handles a different color each week.

inspired by the complexity of industrial processes, payne captures the architectural grace of manufacturing. chains, conveyor belts, glue pots, metal discs and gears expose the mechanics working to create the humble pencil. heaps of charcoal cores are piled against a concrete wall, whilst already clothed pencils sit stacked in what looks like an arsenal of threateningly sharp weapons. together each step contributes to a colorful world of craft and complexity.