Easy DIY Modern Pencil Holder

This easy DIY modern pencil holder is a great beginner project. Learn how to make using plexiglass and wood with this step-by-step tutorial and video.
This easy DIY modern pencil holder is built from plexiglass and wood and I am digging the clean lines and modern look.
Ever since I made the simple plexiglass and wood frames last year, I have been thinking of using up the remaining plexiglass in a simple project.
When the Power Tools Challenge team invited me to participate and the theme was uncommon materials, I knew it was meant to be! (Also, don’t miss all the other cool projects at the bottom of the post! You will be surprised by some materials!)
I added wood as a base to make the box strong.
But I also love the fact that it gives it a modern feel!
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Materials Needed for Making the Pencil Holder
Sizes below are what I used. You can change them out for your needs and adjust the dimensions accordingly.
- Scrap 1″ x 4″ boards cut at 9″ length – total 3
- Plexiglass sheet (also called acrylic sheet)
- Strong glue. I used Clear Grip.
- Jigsaw or Bladerunner X2
- Miter saw or miter box
- Wood glue
- 1¼” finish nails and hammer or Brad Nailer
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How to Make the Acrylic and Wood Pencil Holder
Here is a video where I show you how to make this easy DIY pencil holder with plexiglass and wood. A written step-by-step tutorial follows below.
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Tutorial to Make DIY Pencil Holder
Step 1 – Cut the 1 x 4 boards to length using a miter saw. Then cut 2 of the boards diagonally using a jigsaw or Bladerunner.
Step 2 – Attach the wood boards using wood glue and finish nails. I found it easiest to do this by turning it upside down and nailing it.
Step 3 – Cut 2 pieces of the plexiglass to 3½” wide and 9″ length. To cut the plexiglass, I used the Bladerunner X2. A Jigsaw can work well too. I also cut up a few pieces for the sides and the middle dividers. Be sure to adjust the width based on the thickness of the plexiglass.
Step 4 – Carefully peel back the protective film from the plexiglass and attach each piece of plexiglass carefully to the wood using the strong glue. Start with the long sides followed by the short sides and dividers.
Be sure to follow the direction on the glue to get the strongest bond. I used Gorilla glue’s Clear Grip and it calls for 2 minutes between applying and attaching.
Tip – Pull back the protective film only from the side of the plexiglass that is being attached. That way you don’t get glue from your fingers onto the sides by accident.
That’s it! So simple and easy to make!
And it looks really cool if I may say so myself 🙂
We think you will also love DIY mason jar pencil organizer, Simple plexiglass frames and Easy scrap wood projects.
Now for a few more cool projects by some really awesome bloggers using uncommon materials!
As I said, some of the materials will totally surprise you!!
- Sweet Pea DIY Peg Game with Brass Casings
- My Repurposed Life DIY Toddler Busy Board
- The Handyman’s Daughter DIY Modern Outdoor Planter Box
- The DIY Village DIY Platform Swing Tutorial
Anika's goal is to inspire and empower beginners with woodworking, DIY, home improvement, and home decor ideas.
She wants everyone to unlock their creative potential and experience the feeling that comes with making something. Nothing feels better better than seeing something and saying "I can make that!"
What a fun design for a pencil holder! Not only is this attractive, it’s very functional. You’re going to enjoy using this on your desk. I’m glad you’ve joined the Power Tool Challenge!
Brilliant use of mixed materials. The sleekness of the acrylic with the wood is spot on!
This is so cool Anika, I love the angles and the mix of wood and plexiglass. What a great project, I bet it looks beautiful on your desk!
What a fun way to use plexiglass! It’s even sweeter when it’s from another project’s leftovers too. Loving the modern vibe of this. It would also be cool in a rustic bathroom holding cotton balls and such. Awesome tutorial!! Pinned 🙂
That is just gorgeous! I’d love to try making one, but I am definitely not good with saws and whatnot. But I am ogling yours! 🙂 Lisa
Thank you Lisa! Using a saw isn’t hard at all! Try it! You will love it!