How to Make a Rubber Band Pen Gun

Whether you're bored and looking to pass the time, or just looking for a use for a dried-up pen, a rubber band-powered pen gun is a simple and enjoyable craft activity. It requires minimal supplies and technical ability, and it is a fun and safe toy if used properly.

Things You'll Need

• Tape
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Remove the stopper at the top of the pen, and the ink cartridge and the narrowed tip from the bottom of the pen. If you find it difficult to remove the ends, you can use the scissors, but be careful not to cut through the ink cartridge.

2. Snip the rubber band, creating one long strip.

3. Pass the rubber band over an open end of the pen, leaving a small pocket of slack about a centimeter deep, and run the two ends of the rubber band up the length of the pen.

4. Wrap the pen with tape until the rubber band is securely held in place.

5. Remove the ink cartridge from the narrowed pen tip, and put it into the pen tube.

6. Grasp the ink cartridge and pull back with the cartridge nestled in the rubber band pocket at the end of the pen.

7. Aim the pen at your target and release.

Tips & Warnings

• Try creating targets from other items that may be around your desk, such as Post-It notes.

• Be sure to aim the projectile away from others or yourself when loaded to avoid injury.