{"id":6019,"date":"2026-03-03T11:57:44","date_gmt":"2026-03-03T19:57:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/?p=6019"},"modified":"2026-03-03T11:57:44","modified_gmt":"2026-03-03T19:57:44","slug":"imagination-station-workplace-wonders","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/imagination-station-workplace-wonders\/","title":{"rendered":"Imagin(AT)ion Station: Workplace Wonders"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Every workplace looks different, and so does every worker. Productivity, comfort, and focus aren\u2019t universal experiences. When pens cause strain, tablets slide across desks, or cords clutter a workspace, attention shifts away from the task at hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sometimes access begins with a small tweak. Here are a few <strong>Workplace Imagin(AT)ions <\/strong>that use everyday materials to create more supportive, personalized work environments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/ImaginATion-Station-Workplace-Wonders.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/ImaginATion-Station-Workplace-Wonders-1024x576.png\" alt=\"Two men stand together smiling and looking at the camera in a coffee shop. Besides text reads: \u201cWhere It\u2019s AT \u2013 The Ability Tools Blog.\u201d \u201cImagin(AT)ion Station: Workplace Wonders\u201d\" class=\"wp-image-6020\" srcset=\"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/ImaginATion-Station-Workplace-Wonders-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/ImaginATion-Station-Workplace-Wonders-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/ImaginATion-Station-Workplace-Wonders-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/ImaginATion-Station-Workplace-Wonders-1536x864.png 1536w, https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/ImaginATion-Station-Workplace-Wonders-460x260.png 460w, https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/ImaginATion-Station-Workplace-Wonders.png 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">#1 Writing &amp; Documentation Supports<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For desk jobs, healthcare workers, warehouse logging, retail paperwork, and anyone using tablets or styluses throughout the day, grip and endurance matter. Standard pens and narrow tools can increase strain. Simple build-ups can reduce fatigue and improve control. Some creative options include<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/DIY-AT-Hand-Grip-3.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.plastimake.com\/sites\/default\/files\/imagecache\/large\/examples\/pencil.jpg\" alt=\"Pencil with a custom grip.\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Create <strong>custom molded pen grips<\/strong> using thermoplastic materials like <a href=\"https:\/\/a.co\/d\/0iA0YweJ\">Instamorph<\/a>, as demonstrated by <a href=\"https:\/\/equip2adapt.com\/blog\/diy-adaptive-writing-aids\/\">Equip2Adapt in their guide to DIY adaptive writing aids.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"http:\/\/www.missmancy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/07\/IMG_1765-720x654.jpg\" alt=\"Hand holds a pencil and writes on paper. A rubber band is wrapped around hand and pencil as a grip aid.\" width=\"413\" height=\"375\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Try a simple <strong>rubber band pen grip<\/strong> for temporary support, similar to the approach shared by <a href=\"https:\/\/theotbutterfly.com\/pencil-grip\/developmental-motor-skills-and-activities\/\">The OT Butterfly<\/a> when introducing pencil grips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/thediytherapist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/IMG_5099-1.jpg?w=480&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"A child using the built-up foam pencil grip. The medium sided sponge is being used.\" width=\"399\" height=\"532\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/content.instructables.com\/F9Q\/H3U6\/HCJOCQ0D\/F9QH3U6HCJOCQ0D.jpg?frame=true&amp;width=600&amp;height=1024&amp;fit=bounds\" alt=\"A hand uses duct tape wrapped around a pencil as a grip.\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Build up narrow pencils using a makeup sponge<\/strong>, as shown in <a href=\"https:\/\/thediytherapist.com\/built-up-foam-pencil-grip\/\">The DIY Therapist\u2019s foam pencil grip tutorial.<\/a> You can also try <strong>wrapping a pencil in duct tape<\/strong> for quick customization, following <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instructables.com\/member\/Jessie%20Marie\/\">this Instructables guide by Jessie Marie.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/image-1.jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/niftymom.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/simple-diy-pen-clip.jpg\" alt=\"notebook with a DIY pen holder \" width=\"481\" height=\"326\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Add elastic and binder clips<\/strong> <strong>to planners or notebooks<\/strong> to create <strong>removable pen\/stylus holders<\/strong>, inspired by <a href=\"https:\/\/niftymom.com\/2017\/08\/diy-planner-notebook-pen-holder\/\">Nifty Mom\u2019s DIY notebook pen holder tutorial<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For a visual roundup of homemade grip ideas, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=m38KpwgrhZI\">The OT Guide\u2019s video on seven homemade pencil grips offers helpful demonstrations.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These DIY supports increase surface area, reduce the force required to grip, and make writing or scanning more sustainable over time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">#2 &nbsp;Stabilize Tools &amp; Equipment<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For administrative desks, reception areas, manufacturing stations, classrooms, medical carts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=qmL9wUzRFio\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/qmL9wUzRFio\/hqdefault.jpg\" alt=\"A woman smiles thumbs up on tablet placed on cardboard stand in front of decorative background, text &quot;WSJ&quot; in bottom left corner.\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Create a <strong>simple cardboard tablet stand<\/strong> using this method demonstrated by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=qmL9wUzRFio\">The Wall Street Journal\u2019s DIY iPad stand video.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/wPJ3205-scaled.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/wPJ3205-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Gear tie holds up iPad on table.\" class=\"wp-image-6039\" width=\"371\" height=\"278\" srcset=\"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/wPJ3205-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/wPJ3205-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/wPJ3205-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/wPJ3205-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/wPJ3205-2048x1536.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 371px) 100vw, 371px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Create &nbsp;a <strong>flexible tablet stand using gear ties<\/strong>, as outlined in this <a href=\"https:\/\/www.makeuseof.com\/tag\/3-easy-ways-tablet-stand\/\">MakeUseOf tablet stand tutorial.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/image-2.jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i.pinimg.com\/736x\/88\/4e\/2b\/884e2b879ce24d923815d4eb11e472f7.jpg\" alt=\"A container holds a small water bottle attached to a walker using zip ties.\" width=\"350\" height=\"467\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Repurpose a dollar store container and zip ties to build a <strong>DIY cup holder for mobility devices or workstations.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These stabilization tweaks can make a noticeable difference at reception desks, medical carts, retail counters, and warehouse stations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">#3 Workspace Organization &amp; Ergonomic Viewing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Clutter and tangled cords can slow workflow and increase frustration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/image-5.jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.edding.com\/fileadmin\/ideas\/diy-charging-station\/diy-charging-station-title.jpg\" alt=\"Shoebox with multiple holes and cables coming out of each, labeled per cable. &quot;Charge Me&quot; is written on top of the shoebox. There is a wooden dog and post it note with text &quot;Urgent&quot;\" width=\"418\" height=\"235\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cutoutandkeep.net\/projects\/diy-shoebox-charging-station\">Transform a shoebox into a labeled charging station<\/a><\/strong>, a popular DIY cable organization solution featured in multiple cord management tutorials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/image-8.jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2349\/7495\/files\/Keep_Cable_Organization_Simple_with_Binder_Clips.jpg?v=1682442395\" alt=\"Three binder clips attached to a desk, cables through each clip handle. Text label on clips reads &quot;Tablet&quot;, &quot;Laptop&quot; and &quot;Camera&quot;. Bottom right text reads &quot;Everdaydishes.com&quot;\" width=\"365\" height=\"365\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Clip binder clips to the edge of a desk to anchor charging cables<\/strong> and prevent them from slipping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/image-9.jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i.redd.it\/b3dde594bc451.jpg\" alt=\"Multiple toilet paper rolls with cables inside sit in a cardboard box.\" width=\"321\" height=\"428\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Store coiled cables inside toilet paper rolls<\/strong> for labeled, tangle-free organization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use <strong>adhesive hooks or baskets under desks for cord management<\/strong>, as shown in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=tF4NF5QdLn0\">Lowe\u2019s cable management video guide<\/a><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=tF4NF5QdLn0\"><\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/image-7.jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"240\" height=\"321\" src=\"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/image-7.jpeg\" alt=\"3 sets of cables are labeled with the device it is used for and held together with clips.\" class=\"wp-image-6031\" srcset=\"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/image-7.jpeg 240w, https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/image-7-224x300.jpeg 224w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 240px) 100vw, 240px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bundle cords into task-specific kits<\/strong>, an idea highlighted in <a href=\"https:\/\/smallstuffcounts.com\/cord-organization-ideas\/\">Brilliant Cord Organization tutorials.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Create quick bin labels using packing tape methods, like those demonstrated in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=S1d7Qwdf8W4\">easy DIY sticker label hacks.<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=S1d7Qwdf8W4\"><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Add tactile tape symbols to drawers<\/strong> following guidance from the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=mWAF0nnK3hM\">Wisconsin Council of the Blind &amp; Visually Impaired\u2019s tactile labeling resources.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/image-3.jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/content.instructables.com\/FIZ\/IW03\/I2IWA79Y\/FIZIW03I2IWA79Y.jpg?frame=true&amp;width=600&amp;height=1024&amp;fit=bounds\" alt=\"Silhouettes of varying tools painted onto a peg board and hung in a garage setting.\" width=\"374\" height=\"249\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Outline tool placement on peg boards<\/strong> using the silhouette-style organization method <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instructables.com\/Silhouette-Style-DIY-Organization-Board\/\">shared on Instructables.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These organization strategies support visual clarity, reduce cognitive load, and make shared workspaces more predictable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">#4 Tool Modification for Manual &amp; Trade Work<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Workplace tweaks aren\u2019t limited to desk settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Wrap tool handles with duct tape<\/strong> <strong>for improved grip<\/strong>, as demonstrated in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=PsUVI-RhVHA\">Joe Shows How\u2019s tool grip modification tutorial.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/image-4.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/image-4.png\" alt=\"Hand pulls zip tie attached to drawer handle.\" class=\"wp-image-6041\" width=\"273\" height=\"364\" srcset=\"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/image-4.png 533w, https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/image-4-225x300.png 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 273px) 100vw, 273px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Create custom cuffs, adaptive handles, or drawer pulls using zip ties<\/strong>, inspired by <a href=\"https:\/\/equip2adapt.com\/blog\/zip-ties\/\">Equip2Adapt\u2019s zip tie DIY AT examples.<\/a> You can also take a look at this video from <a href=\"Gear%20Hacks%20\u2013%20Setting%20up%20a%20DIY%20Workspace\">Gear Hacks for Setting up a DIY WORKSPACE<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These small adjustments can reduce strain, increase safety, and support independence in physically demanding roles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Workplace access doesn\u2019t always require new equipment or formal approvals. Often, it begins with noticing what\u2019s creating extra effort and making a small, intentional adjustment. With a little imagination, everyday materials can become practical supports that improve comfort, efficiency, and independence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong>Explore these Workplace Imagin(AT)ions in person at the Ability Tools Imagin(AT)ion Station at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abilities.com\/los-angeles\">Abilities Expo on March 26.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Every workplace looks different, and so does every worker. Productivity, comfort, and focus aren\u2019t universal experiences. When pens cause strain, tablets slide across desks, or cords clutter a workspace, attention shifts away from the task at hand. Sometimes access begins with a small tweak. Here are a few Workplace Imagin(AT)ions that use everyday materials to&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":14,"featured_media":6020,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_exactmetrics_skip_tracking":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_active":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_note":"","_exactmetrics_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[158],"tags":[174,262,261],"class_list":["post-6019","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-diy-at","tag-diy-at","tag-hacks","tag-workplace"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6019","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/14"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6019"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6019\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6049,"href":"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6019\/revisions\/6049"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6020"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6019"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6019"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6019"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}