Wooden pencil holders are practical and stylish additions to any workspace. This guide will show you how to make two different types of pencil holders: one with 12 holes for a graphic art pencil set and a general-purpose holder with a large hole for various office utensils.
These projects use walnut and plywood and can be completed with minimal tools.
The full how to build video by Make Something is at the end of the article.
Materials Needed:
- Walnut wood
- Plywood
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper
- Finish (optional)
- Drill and drill bits
Tools Needed:
- Saw (hand saw or table saw)
- Clamps
- Drill
- Sanding block or sander
Steps for the 12-Hole Pencil Holder:
- Cut the Wood:
- Cut the walnut wood into a rectangular block. The size can vary based on your preference, but a standard size could be 3 inches by 3 inches by 5 inches.
- Mark the Holes:
- Measure and mark 12 evenly spaced points on the top of the block where the holes will be drilled.
- Drill the Holes:
- Using an appropriately sized drill bit, drill the holes at the marked points. Ensure the holes are deep enough to hold pencils securely.
- Sand the Block:
- Sand all the surfaces of the block to remove any rough edges and ensure a smooth finish.
- Apply Finish (Optional):
- If desired, apply a finish to the wood to enhance its appearance and protect it from wear.
Steps for the General-Purpose Pencil Holder:
- Cut the Wood:
- Cut the walnut wood into a rectangular block. Again, the size can vary, but a standard size could be 3 inches by 3 inches by 5 inches.
- Drill the Large Hole:
- Measure and mark a point on the top center of the block where the large hole will be drilled.
- Using a large drill bit or a hole saw, drill the hole at the marked point. The hole should be large enough to hold multiple utensils.
- Cut and Attach the Plywood:
- Cut a piece of plywood to match the base of the walnut block.
- Attach the plywood to the bottom of the block using wood glue and clamps. This will provide additional stability to the holder.
- Sand the Block:
- Sand all the surfaces of the block to remove any rough edges and ensure a smooth finish.
- Apply Finish (Optional):
- If desired, apply a finish to the wood to enhance its appearance and protect it from wear.
Tips for Success:
- Precision: Take your time when measuring and marking the points for drilling to ensure the holes are evenly spaced and centered.
- Safety: Always use clamps to secure the wood while drilling and cutting to prevent movement and ensure safety.
- Finishing Touches: Sanding is crucial for a professional finish. Ensure all edges are smooth and surfaces are even before applying any finish.
These simple yet elegant pencil holders are perfect for organizing your workspace. Whether you’re an artist needing a dedicated space for your pencils or looking for a general-purpose holder for your office utensils, these projects are easy to complete and highly functional. Give them a try and add a touch of craftsmanship to your desk!