Apple Pencil not holding its line

Hi! I’ve had my iPad Pro and Apple Pencil (1. gen) since 2017, and never had any issues.

Today I was trying to get some illustration work done in Procreate, and then it basically stopped working. I’d say about 50% of the time it works as it should, and the other 50% it won’t hold the line, and rather just makes small dots, if anything at all.


I cannot see anything wrong with the actual pen. I’ve updated and restarted my iPad. I’ve closed and re-opened the app, and checked for updates. I’ve also re-assigned the Pencil to the iPad.


What do I do?


Adding a screenshot from a video I did. The dot beneath my pencil and the small line a bit underneath (from the more squiggly line) is supposed to be one whole line - if that makes any sense


Apple Pencil (1st generation)

Posted on Oct 15, 2023 2:01 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Oct 15, 2023 3:31 PM

Inconsistent drawing will either be due to a problem with the Pencil itself, or its interaction with the iPad screen.


Ensure that the user-replaceable Pencil tip is snugly screwed into the body of the Apple Pencil; when fitted correctly you should see a tiny gap, of about the thickness of a sheet of paper, between the tip and pencil body. If slightly loosened, or overtightened, the Pencil may not work properly, if at all.


Be aware that if your iPad screen has ever been replaced by anyone other than Apple, the screen will not be properly calibrated; this situation is known to cause issues with the Pencil. Also, if the Pencil has been dropped onto its tip, or if the tip has been subjected to unnecessary force, the transducer element that its located beneath the replaceable plastic tip may have been damaged; a damaged Pencil cannot be repaired - only replaced.


If you need assistance, the technicians at the Genius Bar of your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) will be able to fully test and assess your iPad and Apple Pencil:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Oct 15, 2023 3:31 PM in response to tonjemarie

Inconsistent drawing will either be due to a problem with the Pencil itself, or its interaction with the iPad screen.


Ensure that the user-replaceable Pencil tip is snugly screwed into the body of the Apple Pencil; when fitted correctly you should see a tiny gap, of about the thickness of a sheet of paper, between the tip and pencil body. If slightly loosened, or overtightened, the Pencil may not work properly, if at all.


Be aware that if your iPad screen has ever been replaced by anyone other than Apple, the screen will not be properly calibrated; this situation is known to cause issues with the Pencil. Also, if the Pencil has been dropped onto its tip, or if the tip has been subjected to unnecessary force, the transducer element that its located beneath the replaceable plastic tip may have been damaged; a damaged Pencil cannot be repaired - only replaced.


If you need assistance, the technicians at the Genius Bar of your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) will be able to fully test and assess your iPad and Apple Pencil:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

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Apple Pencil not holding its line

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