Thanks for the response.

In answer to your question, if you're going to make it on a pencil, I'd try a couple of elastic bands wrapped around the pencil as stoppers to prevent it from slipping off; also, I'd try lashing the pencil to something or maybe supporting it between the uprights of a wooden chair back if you have access to one. I'd think it was like making a fishing net - very difficult to do if it's not supported at the top end.

I will try to make a narrower belt using my new para cord. If it works, I will report back with more info.

Thanks again.