Ultimate DIY Guide: 10 Genius Pen Pencil Holder Ideas You Can Make Today! (2025)

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You’ll love creating your own pen pencil holder with items you already have at home.

Transform tin cans, toilet paper rolls, or plastic bottles into practical desk organizers with just scissors, glue, and decorative materials like paint or washi tape.

Simply clean your container, cut it to your desired height, and decorate to match your style.

For durability, add a weighted base using pebbles or clay.

You can design single compartments or multiple sections for different writing tools.

The ultimate DIY guide pen pencil holder project takes less than an hour but creates organization that lasts for years.

The simplest materials often make the most impressive results.

Essential Materials for DIY Pen Pencil Holders

You’ll need several basic items like recycled containers, scissors, adhesives, and decorative materials to create functional pen holders without spending much money.

From tin cans and plastic bottles to cardboard tubes and mason jars, these everyday materials can be transformed with paint, fabric, buttons, or washi tape into custom organizers for your desk.

Recycled and Upcycled Materials

You’ll find treasure in your trash when sourcing materials for eco-friendly pen holders. Transforming everyday items into functional organizers requires only creativity and basic supplies.

Consider these upcycled options that combine aesthetic appeal with durability:

• Empty tin cans from soup or coffee make sturdy, customizable containers
• Mason jars or glass containers offer elegant, see-through storage solutions
• Cardboard tubes from paper towels or toilet paper rolls create lightweight options

Plastic bottle pen holders are particularly versatile—simply cut, shape, and decorate. For cardboard pen holders, reinforce with eco-friendly adhesives for longevity. Old newspapers, fabric scraps, and even keyboard buttons can address both material sourcing and project design needs. You could also use creative appliqués from scraps to decorate your pen holders.

The best upcycling projects balance practicality with personal style while reducing waste.

Craft Supplies and Tools

Moving from repurposed materials to the right tools makes any pencil holder project smoother. For successful DIY craft projects, you’ll need several key supplies.

A hot glue gun bonds materials quickly, while sharp scissors or craft knives create precise cuts in cardboard and other recycled materials. Keep measuring tools handy for accurate dimensions.

Paintbrushes and markers add color and details to your design. Don’t forget safety equipment like finger guards when using cutting tools.

A quality tool guarantees reliable adhesive application. Organize your craft supplies in containers to keep everything accessible.

With these basic tools at your fingertips, you’ll transform simple materials into functional, personalized pencil holders that showcase your creativity.

Decorative Elements and Embellishments

Now that you have your tools ready, let’s add personality to your pencil holder.

Transform your creation with ribbon embellishments around the edges or textile flair from fabric scraps. Paint effects can bring vibrant colors, while decoupage art adds intricate details.

Repurpose buttons for geometric patterns or add washi tape for clean lines. Consider adding inspirational quotes or themed designs that match your workspace.

Adding decorative ribbon accents can elevate the design. Your pen holder design should reflect who you are—practical yet creative, functional yet stylish.

The finishing touches make all the difference, and with these elements, you can create a unique and functional piece that showcases your personality, making it a stylish addition to your workspace.

Repurposing Everyday Items for Stylish Desk Organizers

Now that you have your materials ready, let’s turn everyday items into stylish desk organizers.

Transforming household objects into functional storage solutions is both eco-conscious and budget-friendly.

Turning everyday waste into workspace wonders isn’t just good for the planet—it’s perfect for your pocket too.

With upcycled materials, you can create pen holders that reflect your personality while reducing waste:

• Tin cans: Clean soup or coffee cans become elegant organizers when wrapped in twine or decorated with paint.
• Plastic bottles: Cut, shape, and decorate empty bottles for colorful, lightweight storage.
• Cardboard tubes: Paper towel or toilet paper rolls transform into compartmentalized holders with minimal effort.

Mason jars, old books, and even unused mugs make perfect sustainable desk decor.

Your recycled materials will breathe new life into your workspace while keeping pens and pencils neatly arranged.

Step-by-Step Guide: Keyboard Button Pencil Holder

You’ll transform an old keyboard into a unique pencil holder by removing buttons and attaching them to a cardboard base.

This project uses simple materials like cardboard, white paper, and hot glue to create a stylish desk organizer that showcases your creative side.

Disassembling The Keyboard

You’ll need five simple steps to transform an old keyboard into a stylish desk organizer. First, grab a flathead screwdriver for keycap removal—gently pry up each key.

Collect small screws in a dish as you work through the keyboard anatomy. Once keys are free, wipe them clean and sort by color or switch types.

The circuit board can be recycled or saved for other DIY projects. Organized keyboard buttons make designing your upcycled pen holder much easier.

This preparation stage is essential before moving to construct your recycled materials masterpiece.

Creating The Base Structure

Now that you’ve collected your keyboard buttons, it’s time to build the foundation for your DIY pencil holder. Start with cardboard selection—thick pieces provide better joint strength.

Cut five identical 7cm x 7cm squares from your cardboard, measured to match your button quantity. Cover each piece with white paper for a clean look. One can also create a pencil holder by repurposing an old keyboard.

1. Assemble squares with hot glue, placing white sides inward
2. Reinforce corners for maximum base stability
3. Test structure by setting it upright—no wobbling means you’re ready for decoration

Arranging and Attaching Keyboard Buttons

With your base structure complete, it’s time to focus on keyboard buttons – the star of your DIY pen holder.

First, arrange your keyboard buttons before gluing to test different pattern variations.

When you’re satisfied with your layout, use your hot glue gun with precision.

Be sure to verify the button hole counts to guarantee even spacing.

Apply a small adhesive dot to each button’s back, then press firmly onto your pencil holder.

Allow 30 seconds per button to guarantee proper adhesive strength.

The completed keyboard button design transforms your simple cardboard structure into an innovative, ergonomic pen storage DIY masterpiece.

Adding Finishing Touches

The final touches transform your keyboard button pencil holder from functional to extraordinary.

Apply paint effects around the edges or try decoupage art on visible cardboard surfaces.

Secure ribbon embellishments along the top rim using hot glue for elegant flair.

For textile flair, attach small fabric scraps to corners or add button accents where keyboard buttons couldn’t reach.

Seal your DIY pen holder with clear mod podge to protect your design and add shine.

A black strip wrapped around the top edge creates a finished look for your desk organizer DIY.

Your creative pencil holder is now ready for pen storage with style.

Transforming Tin Cans Into Chic Writing Utensil Storage

You’ll transform those empty soup and coffee cans from your recycling bin into stylish desk organizers with just a few simple materials and techniques.

These upcycled tin can pencil holders save money as well as add a unique decorative element to your workspace while keeping all your writing tools neatly organized.

Preparing and Cleaning Tin Cans

Transform your empty tin cans into stylish pencil holders by mastering proper preparation techniques. Soak cans in hot, sudsy water for ten minutes to soften labels for easy removal. For stubborn adhesive residue, prop the can on a small towel and apply a baking soda paste. Address rust spots immediately with fine sandpaper to prevent spreading and guarantee a smooth surface for decorating.

One can also achieve a shabby chic effect by using contrasting acrylic paints and sandpaper.

• Complete Label Removal: Use a scrubby sponge to polish containers after soaking, creating an even surface for your DIY pen holder.
• Interior Coating Check: Clean thoroughly inside with warm, soapy water before starting your project.
• Safe Edges Treatment: Sand sharp edges carefully to prevent injuries during crafting and daily use.
• Thorough Drying: Let cans air dry completely or use a soft cloth to prevent rust from forming.

This preparation guarantees your upcycled tin can pencil holder will be safe, clean, and ready for decoration.

Twine and Rope Embellishments

With your tin cans sanitized and ready for decorating, it’s time to give them texture with fiber embellishments. Wrap natural jute twine around your can for a rustic DIY pen holder, or select vibrant twine colors for a playful desk organization idea.

Start by securing one end with glue, then wrap consistently around the can. For nautical themes, try thicker rope with classic sailor’s knots as accents. Braided designs work well when you combine different twine colors in simple patterns.

You can find inspiration for your jute twine projects online.

Mod Podge Application Methods

Mastering Mod Podge transforms ordinary tin cans into stunning pen holders with just the right technique.

These homemade pen holder techniques create durable, professional-looking pen storage DIY projects without special equipment or advanced skills.

Creative Popsicle Stick Pen Holder Designs

You’ll find endless design possibilities for your desk using those colorful wooden sticks sitting in your craft drawer.

These easy-to-assemble popsicle stick holders let you create everything from simple geometric patterns to multi-compartment organizers that keep your writing tools neatly arranged.

Basic Popsicle Stick Construction

While tin cans offer a recycled option, popsicle sticks provide a clean-slate approach to your storage needs.

Building a basic popsicle stick pen holder is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll need about 30-40 craft sticks, quality stick adhesives like wood glue, and basic tools.

Start by creating a holder shape—square or hexagonal designs offer geometric stability. Lay 4-6 sticks flat and parallel for the base, then apply glue to connect them. For walls, stand sticks vertically and attach them to the base edges. Hold each connection for 30 seconds to guarantee proper bonding. You can add decorative flair using simple running stitches along the edges.

Material	Practicality Focus
Standard popsicle sticks	High durability
Jumbo craft sticks	Greater capacity
Mini sticks	Desktop space-saving
Colored sticks	No painting needed
Wood glue	Strongest bond

The beauty of this easy pencil holder lies in its simplicity. Once your structure dries completely (about 2 hours), you’ll have a

Colorful Painting and Decorating Ideas

Five vibrant paint techniques can transform your popsicle stick holder from plain to extraordinary. Apply a bold base coat in turquoise or sunshine yellow before adding your personal touch.

Seal your creation with clear varnish for durability and longer-lasting colors. Use markers for fine details after painting.

Incorporating Geometric Patterns

Geometric patterns elevate simple popsicle stick holders into modern desk art.

You can create striking designs by applying basic principles of symmetry and color theory to your DIY pen holder.

1. Arrange sticks in repeating triangles or hexagons for tessellation techniques
2. Use contrasting geometric color palettes (black/white or complementary colors)
3. Build 3D geometric holders by creating pyramids or cubes
4. Layer patterned material choices like washi tape in alternating angles
5. Experiment with asymmetrical geometric designs for contemporary appeal

Apply a protective clear coat after finishing to guarantee your geometric pencil holder remains durable while showcasing your creative desk organization ideas.

Multi-compartment Organizer Variations

After mastering geometric patterns, let’s explore ways to maximize your popsicle stick creations with practical compartments.

Transform your desk space with a multicompartment organizer that sorts writing tools efficiently. Building a tiered design creates visual interest while increasing storage capacity.

These DIY desk accessories combine functionality with personalized style, keeping everything within reach.

Origami-Inspired Paper Pencil Holder Tutorials

You’ll transform simple paper into functional art with these origami-inspired pencil holder tutorials that require just folding and gluing techniques.

These projects use minimal materials while creating stable structures that keep your writing tools organized on your desk, utilizing just folding and gluing techniques to achieve this.

Simple Folding Techniques for Beginners

Paper folding basics can reveal your first origami pen holder with just a few simple steps.

Take a rectangular sheet, fold it into a pouch using basic valley and mountain techniques, and secure with paper glue.

Add stability by gluing paper strips inside, these easy pencil holders work perfectly for beginners.

They can be decorated with colorful paper or patterns for a personal touch.

Advanced Origami Designs for Pen Storage

With advanced origami techniques, you can create stunning pen storage solutions beyond basic folds.

Transform ordinary paper into:

1. Modular Origami Toolbox – Features compartments with a central divider for organizing different writing tools
2. Geometric Tessellation Pen Stand – Uses repeating patterns for a stylish desk accessory
3. Complex Hexagonal Container – Provides stable storage with artistic appeal
4. Wet-Folding Tower Design – Creates curved structures with added durability

These advanced designs combine functionality with impressive desk organization while showcasing your paper-folding expertise.

Combining Origami With Other Materials

Elevate your origami pencil holder by combining paper folding with other materials.

Pair traditional origami techniques with wood bases for stability, or wrap metal accents around paper folds for industrial charm. Add fabric scraps to soften edges or press clay embellishments onto completed folds.

Even plastic bottle sections can reinforce your design. For desk organization that stands out, try gluing origami flowers to a wooden pen holder or wrapping fabric around origami boxes.

These mixed-material creations turn basic upcycling projects into conversation starters.

Upcycled Book and Magazine Pencil Holders

You can transform your old books and magazines into functional pencil holders that add a unique touch to your desk.

These projects help reduce waste while creating storage that showcases your personal style.

Book Hollowing Methods

Transform old books into functional pencil holders with these simple book hollowing methods.

First, select a book you don’t mind repurposing and mark the desired hollow area with a pencil.

This gives your desk organization an artistic touch while preserving the book’s cover.

To create your DIY pencil holder:

1. Use a craft knife to carefully cut along your marked lines, working slowly through pages to avoid damaging the cover.
2. Apply a mixture of white glue and water to the edges of the pages to seal them and prevent fraying.
3. Attach small velcro squares to the corners of the first page in the hollow section to secure items inside.

This concealment option creates both a pen holder and conversation piece for your desk, providing a unique way to organize your workspace with a functional and creative solution.

Magazine Page Rolling Techniques

With those forgotten magazines piling up in corners, you can create functional desk organization through magazine page rolling techniques. This method turns waste into wonderful pencil holders with minimal effort.

1. Select pages with complementary colors or patterns for visual appeal.
2. Roll pages diagonally with proper tightness control to guarantee structural integrity.
3. Apply adhesive carefully at edges, letting each tube dry completely before assembly.

When arranging the rolled tubes, consider patterned rolling techniques where tubes of varying heights create visual interest. Consider also using fabric scraps, as you can find ideas for practical upcycling projects.

The finished DIY pencil holder benefits from a light coat of varnish for durability. This approach to pen holder creation delivers practical storage while reducing paper waste, making it a great example of reducing waste and promoting sustainability through creative reuse.

Incorporating Book Covers as Bases

Book covers offer excellent structural integrity for creating pencil holders. Their robust design provides the perfect foundation for functional desk accessories.

Feature	Benefit	Materials	Difficulty
Cover Durability	Withstands daily use	Hardback covers	Easy
Aesthetic Choices	Matches your style	Decorative papers	Medium
Book Preservation	Gives books new life	Old damaged books	Easy
Design Adaptations	Fits your needs	Adhesives, scissors	Medium

Begin by securing the spine with paper mache for added stability. Apply decorative elements using book pages for an integrated look. Clear varnish protects your creation while enhancing its appearance.

Consider adding dividers for better desk organization. Old books with interesting textures work best for these recycled materials projects. These craft projects transform discarded items into practical desk accessories that showcase your creativity.

Eco-Friendly Toilet Paper Roll Pencil Organizers

You can transform those empty toilet paper rolls you’d normally toss in the trash into practical and eco-friendly pencil organizers with just a few simple cuts and some basic decorations.

These cardboard tubes provide sturdy structure for keeping your writing tools organized while reducing household waste and giving you a budget-friendly storage solution.

This solution works perfectly on any desk or craft table, making it a useful and practical tool for organizing your space.

Cutting and Shaping Toilet Paper Rolls

Standing amongst your recycled materials, toilet paper rolls offer incredible potential for creating functional pen holders with simple cutting techniques.

Use sharp scissors for precise cuts and reinforce with white glue at joints. These simple cardboard tubes become practical organizers while reducing household waste.

Creating Animal-Themed Holders

Now that you’ve prepared your toilet paper rolls, let’s turn them into charming animal-themed holders. With just a few simple cuts and folds, your basic rolls transform into playful desk companions.

Animal Type	Materials Needed	Difficulty	Time Required	Kid-Friendly
Cartoon Animals	Googly eyes, felt	Easy	15 minutes	Yes
Realistic Animals	Acrylic paint, brushes	Medium	30 minutes	Yes
Mythical Creatures	Glitter, pipe cleaners	Medium	25 minutes	Yes
Animal Silhouettes	Black paint, stencils	Easy	20 minutes	Yes
Abstract Animals	Colorful paper, markers	Easy	15 minutes	Yes

Cut ear shapes from cardboard or felt and attach them with glue for instant character.

Grouping Rolls for Larger Organizers

While cute animal designs are fun, grouping toilet paper rolls creates practical storage solutions for your entire desk.

You can transform those cardboard cylinders into impressive larger organizers that maximize space.

Interlocking rolls create a honeycomb pattern that’s both functional and visually appealing.

Simply cover with matching paper or paint for a cohesive desk organizer that looks store-bought but costs practically nothing.

Plastic Bottle Pen Holders: From Trash to Treasure

You can transform empty plastic bottles into useful and attractive pen holders with just scissors and some decorations.

These eco-friendly organizers help reduce waste while adding a practical storage solution to your desk or workspace, making them a practical and eco-friendly addition.

Cutting and Shaping Plastic Bottles

Transform plastic bottles into stylish pen holders with these simple cutting techniques.

First, thoroughly clean your bottle to remove labels and residue. Using a marker, draw your design directly on the plastic.

Consider bottle thickness when choosing your cutting method—thin bottles need gentler handling. Stabilize your upcycled pen holder material on a cutting board before carefully slicing with an X-Acto knife.

Smooth rough edges with a quick touch of a warm iron (just 2-3 seconds). For complex shapes, use a ceramic bowl as a mold guide.

Always wear protective gloves for safety when creating your desk caddy DIY.

Decorative Painting Techniques

Five simple painting techniques can transform plastic bottles into eye-catching pencil holders for your desk organization.

To start, prepare the bottle surface by sanding lightly and applying primer for better paint adhesion.

• Apply acrylic paint in thin layers using varied brush strokes to create texture effects without drips
• Mix white glue with paint to create raised patterns that add dimension to your desk accessories
• Use sponges to dab on complementary color palettes for a speckled, professional finish
• Create custom stencil designs with tape or paper for geometric patterns that match your workspace

For a professional look, seal your work with clear varnish. This prevents chipping and gives either a glossy or matte faux finish. Your creative DIY pencil holder will organize supplies while adding a personal touch to your desk.

Hanging and Wall-Mounted Designs

While your painted bottles brighten any desk, they can also elevate your walls. Wall-mounted designs free up valuable desk space while adding functional style to your workspace.

Wall-mounted organizers transform unused vertical space into functional storage, keeping your desk clear while adding style to your workspace.

Create your own vertical storage system with these simple steps:

1. Choose mounting options: Removable adhesive strips work well for lightweight holders and allow for easy relocation when needed.
2. Position strategically: Install your wall-mounted organizers at eye level for convenient access to frequently used writing tools.
3. Consider magnetic holders: Attach metal strips to bottles and mount them on magnetic boards for a modular system.
4. Try pegboard systems: Secure bottle holders to pegboards for ultimate flexibility and rearrangement options.

Repurposed hangers can also serve as the base for hanging pencil holders. By mounting bottles sideways, you’ll create space-saving storage that keeps pens and pencils within reach without cluttering your desk surface.

Customizing Your DIY Pen Pencil Holder

You can make your pencil holder truly unique by adding photos, inspirational quotes, or creating themed designs for special occasions like birthdays or holidays.

Your personal touches transform a simple organizer into a meaningful desk accessory that reflects your style while keeping your writing tools neatly arranged, making it a unique reflection of your personality.

Adding Personal Touches With Photos

Photos bring DIY pencil holders to life with personal meaning.

Wrap containers in a photo collage featuring family memories or vacation photos for an instant connection.

Secure themed photos to cardstock backing for durability, then attach to your pen holder with strong adhesive.

This simple technique transforms functional storage into personalized gifts that showcase what matters most.

Add clear protective coating to preserve your cherished images.

Incorporating Inspirational Quotes

Moving from photos to quotes, your DIY pencil holder can become a source of daily inspiration.

This simple addition turns your pen holder into a functional piece that also feeds your mind with positive thoughts whenever you reach for a writing tool.

Themed Designs for Special Occasions

Beyond inspirational quotes, your pencil holders can celebrate special moments in life.

Create Holiday Pencil Holders using snowflake patterns for winter or leaf designs for autumn Seasonal Decor.

For Birthday Themes, incorporate glitter or tiny balloon decorations with bright colors.

Graduation Gifts benefit from school color patterns with tassel details, while Teacher Appreciation holders can feature apples or books.

Valentine’s themed designs work well with heart shapes and red tones.

These themed designs transform simple DIY gifts into meaningful keepsakes for Teachers Day or any occasion where a personalized craft idea shows you care, making them a great way to give Graduation Gifts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)