How to Make Twig Pens
Twig pens are a fun and easy craft to make, and they can be used at work or in the home or just about anywhere writing is required. No two twig pens are exactly alike. These pens depend on mother nature for their shapes and design, although each pen can be customized with different colored inks as well as minor shape alterations.
Things You'll Need
- Several 1/2-inch-thick twigs, 7 inches long or more
- Pruning shears
- C clamp
- Nail punch
- Small hammer
- Safety glasses
- Drill with 3/32-inch drill bit
- Pocket knife
- Wood glue
- Disposable pen cartridges
Instructions
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1
Select the twig you wish to use for your first pen. It must have a straight section at least 6 inches long, since that is where the pen cartridge will reside. Hold the twig as if you were going to write with it. Use the pruning shears to remove any large bumps or any other other surfaces that interfere with your grip. When you're finished, the twig should feel like a long pen in your grasp. Be sure to check for splinters.
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2
Secure the trimmed twig on a workbench or other stable surface horizontally with the C clamp. The end of the twig to be drilled out must be positioned close to the edge of the work surface to allow access for drilling. Do not clamp too tightly or the twig may be crushed. Put on the safety glasses.
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3
Make sure the twig does not move. Use the nail punch and hammer to make a small indentation in the center of the twig's end. This is the end that will have the pen cartridge inserted. Using this indentation as a guide, slowly drill into the center of the twig to a depth of at least 5 inches. If necessary, back the drill bit in and out several times to remove excess wood chips.
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4
Once the final depth of this hole is at least 5 inches, remove the twig from the C clamp. Carefully tap out any remaining wood chips. Using the pocket knife, carefully shave or trim the end of the twig pen so it is slightly rounded, like the end of your little finger..
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5
Slowly insert the pen cartridge into the hole until it is fully seated into the 3/32 inch diameter hole. The pen cartridge should remain in place by itself. If not, remove the cartridge, add a drop of glue into the hole and reinsert the cartridge. Let it dry overnight. The twig pen is now ready for use.
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Tips & Warnings
During drilling, be sure to drill straight into the end of the twig.
Always wear safety glasses when using a drill.
