Check your local general store or craft supply store for some basic options to use in your project.
Overhand knots are difficult to undo without cutting the string. Don’t tie the string tightly unless you’re willing to cut it to remove it.
To ensure the string is long enough, add at least 1–2 in (2. 5–5. 1 cm) to the string length to compensate for the knot you need to tie on the pen.
This works best with pens that have clips. Most pens have clips or at least caps with clips that you can fit over the back end of the pen. If your pen doesn’t have a clip, tie the knot very tightly. Consider making a few knots. The pen may slip out over time as the string loosens, so be ready for it.
You can use plenty of other material to make the loop. Try using an elastic band, a scrap of leather, or another piece of fabric, for example.
The half-folded size works well for the binder clips used in most loops. It will usually be a little bigger than you need, but you can always trim it down to the proper size later.
Binder clips are available online or at most office supply stores.
If you need to shorten the loop to tighten it, cut some length off the end of the tape. Make sure the loop holds your pen securely in place before you finish attaching it to the clip.
Leave the tape a little longer than you think you need it at first. Trim it or fold it over the plastic as needed once you have the loop in place. If you’re using another material such as fabric, you can glue the loop directly to the clip. Try using a hot glue gun or super glue. [10] X Research source
Pens with clips are best for tape loops. If you’re using a pen without a clip, place the loop on the top edge of the clipboard so the pen rests horizontally against it. Make the loop as tight as possible to prevent the pen from slipping out.
Pool noodles are available at many general stores and pool supply stores. If you can’t find a pool noodle, look for foam blocks at general stores and craft supply stores, or shop online.
The pen holder can be longer if you want it to be, but keep in mind that the extra length makes it more difficult to use and store. If you’re going to keep it out on your desk, for example, the extra length might not matter besides giving you room to store more pens.
Work slowly. Craft knives are sharp, and you may end up damaging the foam or your fingers if you aren’t careful.
You can put the foam over the clip. The clip will fit inside the cut you made without harming your pen holder. If the pen holder is too wide, you may need to remove it in order to use the clip, though.
If you plan on storing your pen vertically, cut an X on the top edge of the foam. If you’re planning on laying your pen horizontally, make a small horizontal slit on the top side of the foam. Pens need to be placed vertically or horizontally in order to stay in the holder. Anything placed at a diagonal angle will eventually fall out. Pool noodles often have empty space inside. If you’re using a solid piece of foam, you may need to cut out a little more of the foam in order to get the pens to fit.
For additional storage space, hollow out the center of the foam. Most pool noodles are already hollow in the center, so you won’t have to do this yourself if you’re using one. Try storing extra pens, erasers, coloring supplies, or anything else you may need.
