Abstract: A propelling pencil comprising a body (1, 2), a lead follower (8) and a length of lead (7) supported between the forward end part (1) of the body and the follower. To minimize risk of lead breakages due to shock forces, the lead enters the follower through a smoothly tapering socket (12) and enters the bore (6) at the forward end of the body through a smoothly tapering recess (15).

Abstract: A set of coloring crayons comprising a number of blocks of crayon each of polygonal form with a central hole to receive a spindle on which the blocks are securely stored with the aid of releasable retaining means, such as nuts.

Abstract: A reservoir pen in which flow of ink from a reservoir to a nib is controlled by a valve which is actuated by the deflection of the nib during use.

Abstract: A porous pen nib comprising a plastics sheath and a fibrous core, preferably of textile yarn, has a writing tip formed by the rim of the mouth of the sheath and a protruding core center which both wear smoothly and equally in writing use.

Abstract: A match splint is formed from a rigid core member, which can be substantially non-porous, e.g. of glass, metal or plastic, or porous, e.g. of wood or wood substitute, with an absorbent layer of finely divided particles or fibres adhering to the core adjacent the head of the match, the absorbent layer acting as the reservoir to hold the fuel, e.g. paraffin wax, as an impregnant therein.

Abstract: A method for the manufacture of matches which comprises applying to a match splint, before the formation thereon of the match head, a surface coating of an aqueous dispersion comprising (i) a low melting point solid fuel e.g. paraffin wax, (ii) a finely divided particulate or fibrous filler and (iii) either a water-immiscible volatile solvent for the fuel or a water-soluble or water-dispersible adhesive, or a mixture of the two; and thereafter drying the coated splint to deposit thereon adjacent the end thereof, on which the head is to be formed, a surface coating comprising a mixture of said fuel and said filler, and, if present, said adhesive.