A DIY Stylus Pen

A DIY Stylus Pen

If you have big fingers or can't seem to type the right keys on your smart phone or tablet, a stylus pen may be the answer. In addition, a stylus will give you more accuracy using a drawing program.
You can buy an array of stylus pens at the retail store or online from $5 to $50 dollars but can make one for much less.
Being a gadget guy I looked on YouTube for some ideas on making my own. Most started with a used Bic Pen tube body and some wire or foil or conductive foam.
The principle behind a capacitive touch screen is that electrons travel from your finger to the touch screen. The stylus pen is simply made of a conductive material that simulates your finger. The tip has a soft sponge so as not to scratch the screen.
Using some ideas from YouTube, I got a Q-Tip and wrapped it with aluminum foil. The foil has to contact the cotton ends for continuous conductivity. You can then put a small piece of scotch tape on the foil ends to prevent it from unravelling. Leave the center area bare so you can contact it with your fingers. With a little spit, moisten the cotton ends for electrical conductivity.
Now try your Q-Tip Stylus. It's cheap and simple but works. Try it on the simulated screen keyboard or on a free Drawing APP. The stylus works on both a Android or IOS device.
Good luck drawing your next Picasso. Let me know how you did.

Comments always welcome .. markryan82@comcast.net