If you’re like most people, you probably have a bunch of empty pens kicking around in drawers, pencil cups, or random boxes. Instead of tossing them, why not get a little creative? Those plastic shells can actually be transformed into practical tools, quirky decorations, and fun little projects. Reusing empty pens cuts down on waste, and hey, free craft materials are always a win.
Below you’ll find a bunch of ways to reinvent pen barrels, caps, and casings into things you might actually want to use. There’s everything from storage solutions and organizers to toys, accessories, and even some garden helpers. Most of these ideas use the pen’s original structure, so you won’t need a ton of supplies or complicated skills.
1) Empty pen refill plant hanger
Who knew old pen refills could look this cool? Snap them together into a 3D triangle frame, and suddenly you’ve got a tiny geometric stage for a plant to shine.
Hang a mini pot from thread in the center so it dangles and sways. Light, quirky, and totally unexpected, it’s a fun little planter that turns desk clutter into décor.
2) Create bead storage tubes from pen barrels
Empty pen barrels are actually great for storing small beads or other tiny craft stuff. After you’ve cleaned them out, the clear casing makes it easy to see what’s inside.
Just fill the tubes, pop on a cap (or tape up the ends if you lost the caps), and stand them upright in a little container or foam block. It’s a simple way to keep seed beads, findings, or whatever from ending up all over the floor.
3) Empty pen refill wall decor
An old CD makes the perfect glossy base for something bold. Arrange cut‑up pen refills across the surface like scattered tree branches, creating an abstract, reaching design.
Paint everything in deep black for a striking silhouette, then add small pearls as delicate petals along the “branches.” The contrast of shine and texture turns everyday scraps into elegant, modern wall art.
4) Empty pen wall hanger decor
Empty pens become bold design elements when glued side by side in bright, mixed colors. Arranged across a canvas or sturdy backing, they create a striped, textured backdrop full of personality.
Add raised letters to spell “HOME” for a statement look, then finish with soft yarn tassels along the bottom. Playful, vibrant, and totally unexpected; it’s a cheerful piece of upcycled wall décor.
5) Empty pen refill necklace
An empty pen refill can twist into something surprisingly elegant. Run it through a pencil sharpener to create a delicate spiral shape, almost like a curled ribbon.
Paint the spiral in your favorite shade and thread it onto a necklace cord. Lightweight and eye‑catching, it’s a pretty little pendant made from the most unexpected material.
6) Build a small flower vase by grouping pens
If you’re into upcycled decor, try bundling empty pens together to make a cylindrical vase. Stand several pens upright and secure them with rubber bands or glue. Pop a smaller cup or jar inside to hold water.
It’s great for single flowers or small bunches. Playing around with different pen colors and heights can actually look pretty cool.
7) Empty pen wind chime
Empty pens can sing in the breeze with a little sparkle. Decorate them with glitter or metallic accents to catch the light, turning simple tubes into shimmering strands.
Thread them at varying lengths onto a rotating plastic base so they move freely and gently tap together. Playful, colorful, and full of motion!
9) Transform pen caps into decorative stamps
Empty pen caps can be turned into custom stamps. Cut out shapes or patterns in the open end using a craft knife, press into an ink pad, and stamp away.
Foam caps are especially good for this, since you can carve deeper. It’s a neat way to make your own patterns for cards or scrapbooks – no need to buy fancy stamps.
10) Empty pen keychains
Clear pen barrels are perfect little display tubes. Filled with glitter, confetti, sequins, or tiny sparkles, they turn into mini shaker charms that catch the light with every move.
Seal them up and attach a keyring, and you’ve got a playful, eye‑catching keychain. It’s a fun way to turn empty pens into something bright and joyful.
11) Create a pen-based key holder
Don’t toss those empty pens! Turn them into a bright, crisscross wall grid! Glued into a playful lattice pattern, the colorful lines create a fun geometric backdrop.
Mounted on a fabric or threaded base, it becomes a cheerful spot to hang your keys. Add tiny hooks or let the keys dangle between the gaps.
12) Use old pen parts to make a custom phone stand
Empty pens are surprisingly sturdy, and they’re actually perfect for making a functional phone stand. Cut the barrel sections to whatever size you need, then arrange them in a tripod shape.
Glue the pieces onto a base (cardboard or wood both work fine) and make sure to leave slots angled just right to hold your phone. Those pen clips you’d normally toss? They can help grip your phone and keep it from sliding.