The folks at Instructables have once again posted a “why didn’t I think of that” project. The idea is simple, yet really useful: cut a Bic pen in half. A Bic pen that has been halved becomes much less intrusive, and becomes a real convenience. It is really easy to carry in a pocket (especially for those of us carrying a Hipster PDA). Surprisingly, a halved Bic pen is not messy at all and it is really easy to make (it took me less than 1 minute). The only materials you need are an exacto knife (or scissors) and tape. Give it a try, I have been carrying mine around for the past two days and it has been a real convenience. I also drilled a hole in the back of the pen and added it to my key chain. Can you think of any other uses?
Mini Pen – [Instructables]
Another idea: check out the Sharpie Micro (http://www.dickblick.com/zz221/35/). Fits on your keychain and can write in fine print.
There’s also Zebra’s ballpoint F-301 Compact, roughly the size of a Fisher Space Pen. Even smaller, Zebra’s Mini Pen and Pencil. (I have no connection to Zebra except as a happy user of these beautiful writing instruments.)
I made a few of these last year. One of my friends used it and loved it. I put a small hole in the cap for a keychain ring (so the pen isn’t still attached to the ring when you are using it).
I tried selling some on eBay, but didn’t generate any interest.
You should also check out the new Fisher Trekker, but it’s a lot heavier than the mini bic. http://www.spacepen.com/Public/Products/AdventurePen/index.cfm?productID=393