An Unexpected Styling Tool
The humble pencil, often relegated to scribbling notes, can be a surprising lifesaver for your hair. In a pinch, it functions just like a traditional hair stick, an accessory used for millennia in various cultures to create elegant and stable updos. This
hack is not just for emergencies; it's a style statement in itself, offering an effortlessly chic look that suggests creativity and resourcefulness. It’s perfect for the office, a study session, or any time you need to get your hair up and out of the way without a standard clip or elastic band in sight. The friction between the pencil and your hair is what holds the style together, creating a surprisingly sturdy hold.
The Classic Pencil Bun: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating a basic pencil bun is the most popular way to use this hack and it takes less than a minute. First, gather your hair into a ponytail at the desired height—a low bun for an elegant look or a higher one for a more casual feel. Instead of reaching for a tie, begin twisting the ponytail tightly into a single coiled rope. Once your hair is fully twisted, wrap the coil around its own base to form a neat bun, holding the end in place with your fingers. Now, take your pencil and push it through one side of the bun, aiming toward your scalp. Weave it through the base of the bun and out the other side, making sure you’ve caught hair from the main part of your head, not just the bun itself. This anchors the style securely.
Tips for a Perfect Hold
The success of your pencil bun depends on your hair type and the pencil you use. For those with fine or silky hair, a tighter twist before coiling the bun is essential for creating enough grip. You might also find that hair with a bit of texture, perhaps from second-day wear, holds the style better than freshly washed, slippery hair. If your hair is very long or thick, a single pencil might not feel secure enough. In that case, don't hesitate to use two pencils, inserting them in an 'X' shape through the bun for extra reinforcement. When choosing your tool, opt for a standard wooden pencil over a mechanical one, as the latter can be too flimsy or have parts that snag hair. And for safety, always use an unsharpened pencil to avoid any accidental pokes.
Beyond the Basic Bun
While the classic bun is a fantastic starting point, a pencil can be used to create other styles as well. For a different look, you can try a Faux French Twist. Gather your hair and coil it around the middle of the pencil. Then, flip the pencil vertically and push it down through the twist, securing it against your scalp. Another option is a braided bun. First, put your hair in a simple braid and tie off the end. Then, coil the braid into a bun and weave the pencil through it. This method provides extra texture and often a stronger hold. These variations show just how versatile this simple hack can be, working well for both medium and long hair.
