How to Make Pencil Holders
Before you toss your next soup or vegetable can, save it, clean it and turn it into a pencil holder. You can make pencil holders as simple or as ornate as you like. Make them to match your decor. Or decorate them to suit your own personality. Making pencil holders is a fine way to recycle containers. In addition to soup and veggie cans, you can use pasta cans or plastic frosting containers.
Things You'll Need
- Tin can with no top
- Measuring tape or string
- Duct tape
- Ruler
- Fabric scrap
- Chalk
- Scissors
- White glue
- Decorations--ribbon, beads, buttons, etc.
Instructions
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1
Wash and dry the tin can. Carefully place a strip of duct tape around the top edge of the can to cover any sharp edges.
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2
Measure the diameter of the tin can with the measuring tape or string; add about 1/4 of an inch for the overlap. Then measure the height and add three inches. Using these measurements, use the ruler to mark the fabric to fit around the can. Mark the fabric with a piece of chalk.
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3
Cut the fabric to the dimensions you need with the scissors. Apply a thin layer of glue to the entire outside of the tin can. Spread the glue evenly with your finger.
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4
Lay the fabric flat. Carefully set the can on its side on one edge of the fabric. Align the fabric against the bottom of the can so the extra three inches extends over the top. Press the fabric down to the glue. Hold the edge in place. Carefully stretch the fabric around the can pressing it in place as you go. Add a line of glue to the end of the fabric and firmly press the overlap to it.
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5
Press the fabric down again making sure it's flat to the can and there are no wrinkles. Place a thin layer of glue inside the top of the can. Fold the excess fabric over and press it into the glue. Allow the glue to dry completely.
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6
Decorate the pencil holder with ribbon, tiny flowers, buttons, markers, paint--whatever you choose.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are making pencil holders with children, help them with the duct tape so they don't cut their hands on the sharp edges of the can.
