DIY Custom Pens: A Quick & Easy Tutorial
Hey friends, Allie from AllieScraps here to share a fun, budget-friendly project that adds a color to your everyday pens! Today I’m showing you how to turn ordinary pens into custom creations using scrapbook paper. These make perfect gifts, teacher treats, or just a little happy for your own desk.
What You’ll Need
Pentel RSVP pens (or any pen with a removable barrel)
Scrapbook paper or digital scrapbook paper (printed and cut into strips) - I used this Canva template to make my life easier!
Scissors
Optional: Hand sanitizer (to remove pen logos, if you’d like!
I used the Amber Glow collection for these newest pens, but I’ve used Jack & Skelly in the past -- any of Traci’s amazing kits would work well!
Check out the video below to see how I do it, or keep reading for the steps!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Take the Pen Apart
Unscrew the barrel and cap of your pen and pull out the ink refill.
Step 2: Cut Your Paper
Cut your scrapbook paper into narrow strips—slightly longer than the barrel of the pen. It’s okay if they’re a little too long; you’ll trim later.
Step 3: Roll the Paper
Using the pen refill as a guide, tightly roll your strip of paper around it. Roll diagonally at first to get a snug fit, then straighten it out. The tighter the roll, the smoother it will fit into the pen.
Step 4: Insert Into the Barrel
Slip your rolled paper into the clear barrel of the pen. Rotate it so any seam is hidden.
Step 5: Trim the Extra
If a bit of paper is sticking out, gently pull it back, trim with scissors, and slide it back in for a perfect fit.
Step 6: Reassemble the Pen
Pop the refill back in, screw the pen closed, and you’re done. You now have a one-of-a-kind pen that matches your favorite paper collection.
Extra Tips & Ideas
Want to swap papers later? Try rolling your strips around a slim straw first, then sliding that into the barrel for easy paper changes. (Check out this creator for a tutorial. This isn’t MY favorite way to do it, but you might like it better!)
Make a matching pen set from one scrapbook collection for a fun coordinating gift. Pair them with handmade cards, notepads, or tags for teachers, coworkers, or friends.
Seasonal papers = seasonal pens. Halloween, Christmas, or even back-to-school designs make this project extra versatile.
That’s it—just a few minutes to go from plain pens to colorful, custom creations!
Bring the warmth of the season to your stories with Amber Glow, a printable collection designed to capture everything we love about fall. From the first crisp breeze to the last glowing sunset, this collection wraps your memories in a palette of golden ambers, soft blues, earthy greens, and rustic oranges that feel just like home. It’s the perfect blend of cozy comfort and autumn charm.
Inside, you’ll find patterned papers, journaling cards, and illustrations that celebrate all the little joys of the season — lattes, sweaters, falling leaves, and afternoons curled up with a blanket (and maybe a furry friend). Thoughtful phrases and autumn icons make it easy to create layouts filled with warmth, gratitude, and seasonal magic.
Whether you’re documenting family gatherings, pumpkin patch visits, or simply the beauty of an ordinary fall day, Amber Glow gives you the tools to tell those stories beautifully. Cozy, versatile, and full of heart, this collection will help you preserve your autumn memories with all the glow they deserve.
To see example layouts, the unboxing, and more, check out the Amber Glow Blog Post
BUNDLE INCLUDES:
Amber Glow Digital Kit, Amber Glow Cards #1 & Amber Glow Cards #2, Amber Glow Stickers, BONUS Stickers Free Gift
BUNDLE DOES NOT INCLUDE:
Amber Glow Patterned Cards, Amber Glow TN papers, Amber Glow 6×8 Papers