Buzz
Simple methods for creating a stylus using a pen
A pen stylus offers a convenient way to enhance precision while drawing or writing on your touchscreen device. Experiment with making your own stylus at home using basic materials. If you have a metal pen available, remove the ink tube and replace it with a cotton ball. Alternatively, fashion a stylus using aluminum and foil from any pen. These techniques are fast, easy, and compatible with any touch screen device.
Instructions
Using a Metal Pen
Detach the ink tube from a metal-bodied pen. Unscrew the pen's tip to access the ink tube. Remove both the ink tube and the spring from the pen's body, then reassemble the pen. Dispose of the ink tube immediately to prevent leaks on furniture.
- Ensure the pen has a metal body, as this allows the stylus to function by conducting the electrical charge from your hand.
Insert a small cotton ball into the pen's tip.
Trim any excess cotton ball protruding from the pen's tip. This enhances the stylus's usability and improves touch accuracy. Leave about 2 millimeters (0.079 in) of the cotton ball exposed to prevent scratching your screen with the pen's metal tip.
- If the cotton ball loosens or is pushed into the pen over time, simply insert a bit more cotton into the pen's tip.
Utilize your pen stylus like you would your finger. Apply pressure with the cotton ball on the screen to activate it. Maneuver the stylus across the screen for navigation. Keep spare cotton balls nearby to replenish your stylus as needed due to wear or storage.
Creating a Stylus with Aluminum Foil and Cotton
Disassemble the pen to extract the ink tube. This stylus requires a pen that can be disassembled. Remove the pen's spring and ink tube, then reassemble the pen.
- Keep small pen components away from children, as they could pose a choking hazard.
Cut the Q-tip in half at an angle to create a pointed end.
Insert the pointed end of the Q-tip into the pen's tip. Leave the cotton part of the Q-tip and about 5 millimeters (0.20 in) of the plastic handle protruding from the pen. If the Q-tip feels slightly loose, hold it in place for now.
Secure the Q-tip in position using tape. Wrap tape around the plastic section of the Q-tip and the pen's opening to keep it steady while using the stylus. If it feels loose, add another layer of tape.
- Both sticky tape and masking tape are suitable. Avoid using washi tape, as it may not stick as well.
Wrap aluminum foil around the Q-tip and pen neck. Cut a 9 cm (3.5 in) square of foil with scissors. Securely wrap it around the plastic part of the Q-tip and the pen's neck. The foil helps transfer electrical current from your hand to the Q-tip's tip.
- Ensure the cotton part of the Q-tip remains uncovered to prevent scratching the screen.
Dampen the Q-tip's tip with water before each use. Moisten your fingers and then lightly dampen the Q-tip. This small amount of water enhances electrical conductivity and improves the stylus's accuracy. If it loses accuracy, add a bit more water to the Q-tip's end.
- Avoid soaking the Q-tip, as it may leave water droplets on the screen.
Tips
Materials Needed
Using a Metal Pen
- Scissors
- Cotton ball
- Metal-bodied pen
Creating a Stylus with Aluminum Foil
- Scissors
- Cotton swab
- Adhesive tape
- Water
- Aluminum foil
