Penco PLA Clips: Tiny Tools with Big Personality
- Artzo India
- Aug 2
- 2 min read
If you’re even mildly obsessed with stationery (or just someone who likes their desk to look cute and functional), then you’ve probably come across Penco’s PLA Clips. Made by Japanese stationery brand Hightide, these unassuming little clips are the kind of everyday object that spark unexpected joy — like finding the perfect pen on a Monday morning or discovering a coffee shop that spells your name right. But what makes these humble clips so special? Let's clip in.
What Exactly Are PLA Clips?
PLA Clips are binder-style clips made from polylactic acid (PLA) — a plant-based biodegradable resin typically derived from corn starch. That means they're not just pretty; they’re eco-friendly, too. These aren’t your average metal bulldog clips — they’re lightweight, colorful, and have a soft matte finish that feels just right between your fingers.
Penco offers these in mini and medium sizes, and they come in a rainbow of muted, retro-inspired colors — think mustard yellow, olive green, and dusty pink. The aesthetic? Mid-century Japanese design meets modern sustainability.
Why People Love Them
Eco-Conscious Vibe: With sustainability top of mind, PLA clips are a refreshing alternative to plastic or metal clips. They're biodegradable and made from renewable resources. So yes, you can be stylish and environmentally responsible.
Perfect for Paper Nerds: Whether you’re organizing receipts, planning a zine, or just want to clip together a set of notes, PLA clips are just the right amount of grip. They hold firm without tearing up your paper — a small but vital detail for stationery lovers.
Aesthetic Goals: Let's be honest; part of the charm is the look. If you’re curating a dreamy flat lay, shooting a productivity reel, or just want your workspace to feel put-together, Penco clips do the job — quietly but confidently.
Surprisingly Strong: Despite being made of plant-based plastic, they’re sturdy. You won’t be clamping 300-page manuscripts with them, but for daily desk tasks, they’re more than capable.
How to Use Them (Beyond the Obvious)
Bookmarks in your planner or notebook
Cable organizers for small cords and wires
Photo or art displays on corkboards or strings
Snack bag clips (yes, really — they’re food-safe!)
Mini paper sculpture tools for crafters and journaling fans
Their versatility makes them a low-key MVP in any home or studio setup.
Final Thoughts: Worth the Hype?
If you're into thoughtful design, environmentally conscious materials, and the small joys of everyday objects, Penco PLA Clips are 100% worth it. They’re the kind of product that turns a routine moment — like sorting paperwork — into something a little more satisfying. Sure, you can get binder clips anywhere. But these? These are binder clips with soul.
Where to Get Them? You’ll find Penco PLA Clips at select stationery stores, design-forward boutiques, and online shops that stock Japanese office supplies. They're not always easy to find — which only adds to their cult status. Shop Penco PLA Clips here. Shop all Penco products here.
TL;DR?
Penco PLA Clips are sustainable, stylish, and surprisingly useful. They’re the stationery equivalent of a favorite hoodie: comforting, practical, and way more chic than they have any right to be.
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