What Is A Pencil Edge Countertop And Is It A Good Choice?

When remodeling your kitchen, choosing your new countertops can be an exciting part of the process. With so many beautiful countertop materials and colors to choose from, it's easy to focus on that element alone. However, don't overlook the importance of choosing the right edge design. This can affect the appearance, safety, and functionality of your countertops. The countertop edge profile you choose helps set the tone and even define the style of your kitchen. Options like ogee and bullnose edges often create a more traditional look while square and pencil edges lean toward a minimalist modern style. Safety is another big concern with countertop edges — profiles with squared or sharp edges can be dangerous whereas a rounded style can minimize injuries.

Pencil edge countertops, in particular, can offer a sleek, simple, and modern look with a slightly rounded section along the top edge before moving into the straight vertical section. It's a versatile option free of sharp edges — making it a safer choice — even if it lacks the ornate detailing you can get with other edge styles. While pencil edges check many boxes when it comes to strong countertop edge choices, there are some potential drawbacks to consider.

In the early 2000's, kitchen designs moved toward minimalist designs with clean lines. That's also the time when pencil edges started to gain traction. The name of this countertop profile comes from the rounded top edge that resembles the rounded sides of a pencil. This edge style strikes a balance between sharp squared edges and more rounded designs. You can also find some variations, like the double pencil edge — which has the same curve along the bottom edge of the countertop as the top — and the extended pencil edge. which has larger, more pronounced curved edge. Both can be solid options if you want a softer look with a more noticeable rounded edge.

Pencil edge countertops are very similar to eased edge countertops, but the degree of the curvature varies between these two common countertop edge styles. You'll see more pronounced rounding on the pencil edge profile compared to the eased edge. On an eased profile, only the sharp edge is curved while the horizontal and vertical edges remaining straight right up to the edge. Eased edges still dull the sharpness, but they aren't as soft looking as pencil edges. You might also run into fabricators who use different terminology for a specific profile — some might call a more rounded edge an eased profile instead of a pencil edge, for instance. When choosing your countertop edge, look at examples to understand the exact profile you're getting. 

Because of its simplicity, the pencil edge is a versatile countertop profile that works with most kitchen styles, including traditional and modern spaces. It's also a timeless design that won't look outdated in a few years — meaning you can confidently invest in a new countertop knowing you can enjoy it indefinitely. Plus, since creating a rounded edge without intricate detailing is relatively simple, you'll likely pay less for a pencil edge, making it a budget-friendly option. 

You'll also love the pencil edge option if you cook frequently or if your kitchen is a hub of activity. The rounded edges are less likely to chip during your regular day-to-day kitchen activities when compared to sharper profiles. They're also easy to clean because there aren't any grooves or designs where crumbs, grease, and dirt can collect. The pencil edge option should also be considered when looking for the best kind of countertop edge for homes with children. While bumping into a pencil edge may still result in tears, the injuries should be less severe than running into a sharp edge. If you entertain often, your guests might also appreciate the softer edges as they lean against your countertops.  

However, if you prefer out-of-the-ordinary countertop edge profiles, you'll probably want to skip the pencil edge option. While elegant and versatile, a pencil edge blends in rather than standing out and it could look too plain if the rest of your kitchen is highly detailed.