1. The Classic Pencil Bun
This is the go-to style for a reason: it's quick, easy, and surprisingly secure. Start by gathering your hair into a ponytail at the desired height—no elastic needed. Twist the ponytail tightly from the base all the way to the ends. The tighter you twist,
the more secure the bun will be. Coil the twisted hair around its own base, forming a neat bun. Hold the bun in place with one hand. With the other, take your pencil and push it through the top edge of the bun. Weave it down through the center, making sure to catch some of the hair against your scalp, and have it exit through the bottom of the bun. It should feel anchored to your head. For a softer look, gently pull a few strands loose around your face.
2. The Elegant French Twist
A French twist looks incredibly sophisticated, but it's remarkably simple to create with a pencil. Gather your hair into a low ponytail, but don't secure it. Start twisting the hair upwards, folding it against your head as you go. Keep twisting until all the hair is tucked into a vertical roll. Hold the twist firmly against your head. Take the pencil and insert it vertically on one side of the twist, near the top. Push the pencil through the twist, grabbing hair from the main body of your head underneath, and exit on the other side of the roll. For added security, you can insert the pencil at a slight downward angle. The final look is a timeless updo perfect for any occasion.
3. The Inverted Pencil Tuck
This method creates a secure bun with a bit of a twist. Begin by gathering your hair into a low ponytail. Place the pencil horizontally against your head, just above where you're holding the ponytail. Wrap your hair up and over the pencil once or twice, depending on your hair's length. Now, rotate the pencil upwards and towards your head, so the point is facing straight up. Continue to rotate the pencil, flipping it over so the point now faces down, brushing against your scalp as it tucks behind the newly formed bun. Push the pencil downwards through the hair to lock it in place. This technique uses tension to create a very stable updo that will last all day.
4. The Braided Bun Pin
If you have long or very slippery hair, incorporating a braid adds texture and grip, making your style extra secure. Start by creating a simple braid from a ponytail and secure the end with a small elastic. Fold or coil the braid into a bun shape against your head, tucking the end underneath. Take your pencil and insert it on one side of the braided bun. Similar to the classic bun, weave the pencil through the braid, making sure to anchor it by picking up some of the scalp hair underneath before pushing it out the other side. This is an excellent option for a style that needs to withstand a bit more activity while still looking put-together.
5. The Half-Up Twist
For a more casual, relaxed look, a pencil can be used to create a simple and pretty half-up style. Section off the top half of your hair, from your ears upward. Gather this section into a small ponytail at the back of your head. Twist this mini-ponytail into a small bun. Now, take your pencil and slide it horizontally through the base of the little bun, making sure it catches the hair underneath to anchor it. This keeps the hair away from your face while leaving the rest of your locks flowing. It’s an effortless style that takes mere seconds to achieve.
