This was basically a test run so the mdf held up well enough. I intentionally cut the recess undersized at first and then snuck up on a good friction fit that let me press the pencils into the pockets.

There was enough of the end of the pencils exposed that I could pop most of them out with my finger, but occasionally had to pry one up to get it started. This was mostly due to variations in the pencils, though I was surprised how consistent $0.03 pencils for China are!

All in all it was a good demo and handout. Will be doing more I'm sure.