Pencil Holder Magnetic Tree Stump

Welcome to today's instructable! In this project, we will learn how to create a pencil holder using simple materials like cardboard and papier-mâché, but with a special twist: magnets! Can you imagine having a desk assistant that not only stores your pencils and pens but also helps you organize and keep desk essentials like paper clips, notes, and more? Well, you're in the right place.

In this tutorial, we will guide you step by step in creating a tree-stump-shaped pencil holder. We'll learn how to shape the cardboard, use the papier-mâché technique to give it texture and strength, and most importantly, incorporate magnets into the branches of the tree to turn it into a practical magnetic organizer.

Get ready to unleash your creativity as we dive into this fun project. You don't need to be a crafting expert to achieve it; all you need is the desire to create and a little bit of patience. So let's get started and build our magnetic pencil holder in the shape of a tree stump!

• Toilet paper
• The cardboard center of a toilet paper
• Cardboard
• White glue
• magnets
• Wire
• Masking tape
• Silicone
• Brushes
• Cutter
• Pencil
• brown paint
• Newspaper

First, we will draw the outline of the cardboard tube from the center of a toilet paper roll onto a piece of cardboard. Then, we will draw a slightly larger figure around this circle, making sure the circle remains in the center. This figure will have curves and will serve as the base of our pencil holder.

Now, we will cut out the cardboard along the drawn line. I used a cutter for this, as shown in the image. Next, we will securely attach the cut-out base to the cardboard tube from the center of a toilet paper roll using masking tape.

In this step, we will cover one of the magnets with newspaper. You can choose the largest magnet you have for this part. We will wrap some newspaper around the magnet and then we will use masking tape to attach the magnet it to the cardboard tube from the toilet paper roll.

In this step, we will use newspaper and masking tape to add details to the magnet, seamlessly integrating it as a natural element of the overall tree-like appearance.

In this step, we will create a thick branch that will be placed alongside the stump. We will start by crumpling some newspaper, which will serve as filler to give thickness to the branch. Then, we will wrap newspaper around this crumpled form and secure it with masking tape. At one end of the branch, we will attach a magnet. Lastly, we will attach the branch to the stump using masking tape.

In this step, we will crumple some newspaper as shown in the images to add texture to the stump. This crumpled newspaper will be attached to the stump, creating a more realistic and organic appearance.

In this step, we will use wire to create branch shapes that will be later glued to the stump. With the wire, we will shape the branches and adjust them according to our design and preference.

In this step, we will ensure a sturdy connection between the branches and the stump. To achieve this, we will carefully create a small hole in the newspaper where we plan to attach the branches. Through this hole, we will insert the wire and utilize hot glue to securely fasten it directly to the cardboard tube of the toilet paper roll. By opting for this method, we can achieve a stronger and more reliable attachment, surpassing the vulnerability that comes with adhering the branches solely to the newspaper.

In this step, we will use masking tape to shape and add thickness to the branches. We will carefully wrap the masking tape around the branches, molding them and providing additional strength. This technique will give the pencil holder's branches a more solid and defined appearance.

In this step, we will attach small magnets to various points on the branches using hot glue. These magnets will be useful for holding different objects in the pencil holder, such as paper clips, notes, and other metal items.

In this step, we will create a mixture using white glue, water, and brown paint. You can mix them in equal parts to achieve the desired consistency. Then, we will begin to cover the stump with toilet paper soaked in this combination of paper mache and paint.

In this step, we will allow the trunk to fully dry after applying the layers of paper mache and paint. Once dry, you can paint it to your liking, adding your personal touch.

You can use a lighter shade of brown paint to add details and highlight specific areas of the trunk. Techniques such as dry brushing or blending can enhance the texture and add depth to the design.

This unique desk accessory not only adds a touch of nature-inspired charm to your workspace but also provides practical functionality with its magnetic branches. Now you can enjoy a clutter-free and organized desk, where your pencils, pens, paper clips, and other essentials are easily accessible.

Feel free to personalize your pencil holder even further by adding additional decorations or customizing the colors to match your personal style. Let your creativity shine!

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial and found it both informative and inspiring. 😊