Crafting doesn’t need fancy materials. One of the most overlooked supplies—empty toilet paper rolls—can become the foundation of practical, decorative, and fun projects. If you’ve been tossing them away, you’re missing out on a versatile tool for quick and budget-friendly creativity. Here’s how to turn those cardboard tubes into something worthwhile.
Why Use Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts?
Toilet paper rolls are sturdy, cylindrical, easy to cut, and widely available. They’re perfect for kids and adults, allowing anyone to build, paint, glue, and shape freely. Plus, repurposing them keeps waste out of landfills and supports eco-friendly crafting habits.
15 Toilet Paper Roll Crafts You’ll Want to Try
1. DIY Desk Organizer
Stack and glue multiple rolls inside a shoebox or tray. Paint or wrap in paper. Use each roll as a compartment for pens, markers, and scissors.
2. Mini Gift Boxes
Flatten a roll, press both ends inward to form a pillow box. Decorate with ribbons or stickers for a charming handmade gift wrap.
3. Napkin Rings
Cut each roll into 1.5-inch pieces. Wrap with twine, lace, or fabric for elegant table settings. Add small tags or embellishments.
4. Kids’ Binoculars
Tape or glue two rolls side-by-side. Add string for a neck strap and let children decorate them for pretend play.
5. Wall Art Installations
Slice rolls into rings. Arrange and glue into flower or geometric shapes. Paint and mount on a canvas or directly onto the wall.
6. Cable Organizers
Tuck cables into rolls to prevent tangling. Label the outside with a marker or sticker to identify each one.
7. Bird Feeder Rolls
Spread peanut butter on the outside, roll in birdseed, and hang using string. Birds love them, and they’re quick to make.
8. Seed Starters
Cut rolls in half. Fill with soil and plant seeds. Set in a tray and water gently. When ready, plant directly in the soil—the cardboard will decompose.
9. DIY Rocket Ships
Paint rolls silver or white. Add cone-shaped tops made from paper, and fins from cardboard. Perfect for space-themed crafts with kids.
10. Decorative Garland
Flatten and cut into strips. Loop and link together like a paper chain. Paint or use patterned paper for a festive look.
11. Stampers for Paint
Dip the edges of the roll into paint to create circles on paper. Bend into heart or star shapes for more variety.
12. Advent Calendar
Create 24 mini compartments by closing one end of each roll and filling with candy or messages. Stack and glue into a tree shape or mount in rows.
13. Party Poppers
Fill with candy, wrap in tissue paper with twisted ends, and tie with ribbons. Pull each end to pop open during celebrations.
14. Toy Cars
Add paper wheels with brads, and cut out windows. Use bottle caps or buttons for detailing. Paint and customize as needed.
15. Faux Candles
Cover rolls with white or cream paper. Add faux flame cutouts on top. Great for mantelpiece or window decorations.
Tips for Working with Toilet Paper Rolls
- Use strong glue: Hot glue works best for most applications.
- Paint after assembly: This avoids smudging and missed spots.
- Keep tools handy: Scissors, ruler, and pencil go a long way.
- Store creatively: Use a bin or drawer to stockpile rolls until inspiration hits.
Toilet paper rolls don’t belong in the trash. With just a few materials, they become building blocks for practical, beautiful, and imaginative creations. Whether you’re crafting solo or with kids, these simple projects offer hours of productive fun.
