Abstract: A writing kit which includes a writing implement having an elongated barrel with collets at each end and a push rod extending therebetween wherein each collet is of a different size and has an internal conical surface for cooperatively engaging and gripping a tapered portion of a writing element such as a lead which is shaped having two such portions so that one portion is exposed for writing or drawing while the other is retained within the barrel. The leads may be selectively removed from the collets by operation of the push rod and may be stored in a stand designed to retain a plurality of varying sizes of leads.