We actually used all the pencils in the bag, no matter what condition, so some were stumpy and chewed up, some are broken, etc. so we fit them in that way, but we also cut them to fit with pruning shears. Using pencils in various lengths and conditions make the pattern more random and more interesting. Hope that helps!

It never occurred to me that you might have to cut some of them to make them fit. I was thinking it was like a zig saw puzzle - it just all fit together! Thanks so much!!!

One other thing, we laid them out so that the pencil caps (or eraser end) and point end alternated. So for example - every other row we alternated starting with the caps or the points. Once we started, we realized there would be other ways to lay them out too, so it might be fun to play with the layout. Good luck!!

Thanks! I saved this to my Ideabooks as soon as I saw it! This would make a great gift for a teacher OR to use at home to keep track of the children's activities. I'm going to get started saving those pencils!