The 16-year-old Otago Girls' High School art and graphics pupil takes them almost everywhere - for when inspiration grabs her.
Fortunately, she had the tools with her when the idea struck to create costumes for characters in a Shakespeare play she was studying in English.
As a result, her colour sketch for a costume befitting Beatrice in Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing is one of four costume designs from pupils across the country selected for the final of the Bernina Shakespeare Globe costume design competition in Wellington next month.
A Wellington costumier is turning her design into the real thing so it can be displayed during the Sheilah Winn Festival of Shakespeare in Schools at Queen's Birthday weekend.
If her costume wins, it could be sent to London to be displayed at the Globe Theatre for six weeks.
Hannah said her costume incorporated elements of information about the character.
''There are words cut into the skirt - they're quotes from Beatrice.
''It's a very witty play with a lot of play on words.
''I feel a bit sorry for the person who has to cut the words out of the dress.''
Hannah was delighted to have reached the final, because it provided an opportunity to see her design brought to fruition.
''Having so many people from Shakespearean drama see it, means it may open doors for me in a design career.
''If it wins, it will be awesome.''
Hannah said whether or not she wins, she has been inspired to pursue a career in design, so she will continue to carry her sketch pad and pencils with her.
''You never know when inspiration will strike.
''If I don't have my pad, it's no problem. I just draw anywhere - you should see my physics book.''
