How to Find My Apple Pencil: Step-by-Step Guide

As someone who uses an iPad daily—for work presentations, sketching DIY décor ideas, or even helping my kids with their homework—my Apple Pencil is absolutely essential. But let’s be honest, it’s so easy to misplace. I’ve left mine under a stack of papers, in my tote bag, and even between couch cushions! If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Where on earth did I put my Apple Pencil?”, you’re not alone.

The good news is that there are practical steps you can take to locate your Apple Pencil quickly. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to find your Apple Pencil, whether you have the 1st generation or 2nd generation model.

Apple Pencil is one of the most useful tools when it comes to taking notes or showing your creativity by drawing something.

Step 1: Know Which Apple Pencil You Have

Before we get started, confirm whether you have:

• Apple Pencil (1st Generation): Works with older iPads and charges via Lightning connector.
• Apple Pencil (2nd Generation): Attaches magnetically to the side of compatible iPads and charges wirelessly.

Why does this matter? The 2nd-gen Apple Pencil offers slightly easier tracking since it stays attached to the iPad.

Step 2: Check Your iPad’s Bluetooth Settings

Since Apple Pencil doesn’t have its own location-tracking chip (like AirTag), it can’t be located directly in Find My app. However, you can still use Bluetooth signals to help.

1. On your iPad, open Settings > Bluetooth.
2. Look under My Devices.
3. If you see “Apple Pencil” listed as Connected, your Pencil is nearby.

💡 Tip: Walk around your space with the iPad—if it disconnects, you’ll know you’ve moved away from the Pencil.

Step 3: Retrace Your Steps

This may sound simple, but it works. Think about the last places you used your Apple Pencil:

• Was it in your office for work?
• Did you hand it to your child while they were drawing?
• Is it in your bag, backpack, or a notebook sleeve?

Because the Apple Pencil is sleek and lightweight, it tends to slide into small spaces. I once found mine under the fridge after my kids “borrowed” it for drawing.

Step 4: Check Common Hiding Spots

Here are the most common places people find a misplaced Apple Pencil:

• Between couch cushions
• Inside tote bags or purses
• Pencil cases or notebooks
• Under the bed or desk
• Kitchen counters (yes, it happens!)

Take a flashlight and look in these areas carefully.

Step 5: Use Your iPad Screen

If you’re still not finding it, try opening an app where the Pencil is usually active, like Notes or Procreate. If your iPad responds when you hover or tap (for 2nd gen), you’ll know the Pencil is nearby and paired.

Step 6: Check Charging Spots

For 1st Gen Apple Pencil:

• Check around your Lightning charging area. Many people leave it charging and forget.

For 2nd Gen Apple Pencil:

• Look at the side of your iPad—it may still be magnetically attached!

Step 7: Use Accessories to Prevent Losing It Again

If you often misplace your Apple Pencil, investing in the right accessories can make life easier:

• iPad Cases with Pencil Holders: These ensure your Pencil is always attached to your device.
• Silicone Sleeves with Clips: Makes it bulkier (and easier to spot).
• Apple Pencil Grips: Not only improve comfort but also make it harder to lose.

Step 8: Consider an AirTag Hack

Although Apple Pencil doesn’t support Find My, you can get creative:

• Attach a tiny AirTag holder to your Apple Pencil case or sleeve.
• This way, you can track the case (and Pencil) via Find My app.

Step 9: If You Still Can’t Find It

Sometimes, even after retracing every step, the Pencil might just be gone.

• Check your warranty or AppleCare+ coverage.
• Replacement costs:
  • Apple Pencil (1st Gen): around $99
  • Apple Pencil (2nd Gen): around $129
• If your kids also use it, consider labeling it or setting boundaries for shared use.

Step 10: Prevention for the Future

Here are a few mom-tested tricks I’ve learned:

• Always place the Pencil back on the iPad (for 2nd Gen).
• Dedicate one drawer or case in your workspace for Apple accessories.
• Add a bright-colored sleeve so it doesn’t blend into furniture.

Final Thoughts

Losing an Apple Pencil can feel frustrating—especially if you rely on it daily for work or family tasks. While it doesn’t have built-in location tracking, using Bluetooth settings, retracing steps, and checking common spots can help you find it faster. And by investing in the right accessories or even attaching an AirTag case, you can prevent it from disappearing in the future.

As someone who has dealt with kids misplacing mine more than once, I can assure you—it’s usually hiding closer than you think!