Three black and white dry-erase markers in a black holder, mounted on a gray background.

Ready, Set, Draw!

2023

Spring

A portable pen holder that keeps three essential tools always within reach

Open pencil case containing various stationery items, including pencils, pens, a highlighter, a penlight, and a plastic container.

The Idea

My pens were always buried at the bottom of my bag. I wanted a way to keep a Copic, Sharpie, and Micron clipped and ready without digging.

Close-up of various pens, markers, and a mechanical pencil on a black surface with white lines. Handwritten notes with orange circles point out features: "Copic cap too thin," "Micron caps good," "Brace/Bridge too thin, flimsy," and "Feet broke off when removed from printer, runforce."

The Creation

I sketched, modeled, and printed more than a dozen versions. Early clamps were too loose, braces snapped, and TPU either peeled or cracked. Each iteration brought me closer to the right fit.

Close-up of a 3D printer printing a rectangular object on a textured surface.

The Tools

I modeled the design in Fusion 360 and printed prototypes in TPU on a Creality Ender 3. The process focused on real-world tolerances rather than perfect CAD geometry.

The Final Product

A durable clip that survived daily use for more than a year. It attaches to any bag strap and keeps three pens ready at a moment’s notice, turning everyday sketching into something quicker and easier.

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