Toilet Paper Roll Crafts Ideas

Toilet paper rolls are one of the most overlooked craft materials. Instead of tossing them away, why not turn them into creative and functional DIY projects? These simple cardboard tubes can be transformed into everything from fun kids’ crafts to stylish home décor. Best of all, repurposing toilet paper rolls helps reduce waste, making these projects both budget-friendly and eco-conscious.

Whether you’re looking for an easy weekend activity with kids or a unique way to upcycle household items, toilet paper roll crafts offer endless possibilities. Let’s explore some fun and practical ideas you can make with this everyday item.

Why Choose Toilet Paper Roll Crafts?

Toilet paper roll crafts offer a simple and affordable way to get creative while being mindful of the environment. These humble cardboard tubes might seem like trash, but they can be repurposed into unique and functional DIY projects. Here’s why you should consider using them for your next crafting session:

Crafting doesn’t have to be expensive. Toilet paper rolls are free and readily available in every household. Instead of spending money on costly craft supplies, you can use what you already have. You can turn these rolls into decorative or practical items with just a few basic materials like glue, paint, and scissors.

From art projects to home organization, toilet paper roll crafts prove that creativity and sustainability can go hand in hand. Whether you’re crafting for fun or function, they offer an easy, eco-friendly solution for DIY enthusiasts of all ages.

Creative Toilet Paper Roll Crafts Ideas

Toilet paper rolls can be transformed into various creative and practical crafts. With a little imagination and basic supplies, you can turn them into fun decorations, helpful organizers, or even eco-friendly gifts. Here are some of the best toilet paper roll craft ideas to inspire your next DIY project.

Toilet Paper Roll Animals

Toilet paper roll animals are a fun and easy craft for kids and adults alike. They allow for creativity while also helping improve fine motor skills. Using simple materials, you can create owls, cats, butterflies, and even jungle animals.

Materials Needed:

• Empty toilet paper rolls
• Acrylic paint or colored markers
• Construction paper or felt
• Scissors
• Glue or a glue stick
• Googly eyes
• Pipe cleaners (optional for legs, wings, or tails)
• Cotton balls (optional for furry textures)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Paint the Roll – Choose an animal and paint the toilet paper roll accordingly. For example, brown for a bear, orange for a fox, or black and white for a panda. Let it dry completely.
2. Add Facial Features – Use markers, googly eyes, or cut-out paper shapes to create eyes, noses, and mouths. Glue them onto the roll.
3. Attach Ears and Limbs – Cut out paper or felt ears, paws, wings, or tails and attach them to the roll using glue. For a butterfly, attach colorful paper wings to the back. For a cat, add triangular ears on top.
4. Enhance with Details – Use pipe cleaners for whiskers, small cotton balls for fluffy tails, or patterned paper for extra details like feathers or scales.
5. Let It Dry and Play – Allow everything to set appropriately before playing or displaying your new toilet paper roll animal.

DIY Gift Boxes

Toilet paper rolls can be repurposed into unique and eco-friendly gift boxes. These small boxes are perfect for storing jewelry, treats, or party favors. They add a personal and handmade touch to any gift.

Materials Needed:

• Empty toilet paper rolls
• Decorative wrapping paper or fabric
• Ribbon or twine
• Scissors
• Glue or double-sided tape
• Stickers or embellishments (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Flatten the Roll – Gently press the toilet paper roll flat to create a fold line on both sides. This will help shape the box.
2. Fold the Ends – Press in the top and bottom edges of the roll to form rounded flaps. This will seal the box while giving it a smooth, curved look.
3. Decorate the Box – Wrap the roll in decorative paper or fabric, securing it with glue or double-sided tape. Add stickers, washi tape, or other embellishments for extra charm.
4. Secure with Ribbon – Once the box is shaped and decorated, tie a ribbon or twine around it for a polished look. You can also add a small tag for a personalized touch.
5. Fill and Close – Place your small gift inside, fold the ends shut, and your DIY gift box is ready to use!

Napkin Rings

DIY napkin rings made from toilet paper rolls add a personalized touch to any dining table. You can customize them for different occasions, from casual family dinners to holiday gatherings. With a little creativity, you can make elegant, rustic, or even fun-themed napkin rings.

Materials Needed:

• Empty toilet paper rolls
• Scissors
• Paint or decorative paper
• Glue or double-sided tape
• Ribbon, twine, lace, or fabric scraps (optional)
• Beads, buttons, or small embellishments (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Cut the Rolls – Use scissors to cut the toilet paper roll into smaller sections, about 1 to 2 inches wide. These will form the base of your napkin rings.
2. Paint or Wrap – Paint each ring in a color that matches your table setting or wrap it in decorative paper. Let the paint dry completely before proceeding.
3. Add Texture – Wrap twine, lace, or fabric around the ring for a rustic or elegant touch. Secure with glue or double-sided tape.
4. Decorate – Attach beads, buttons, dried flowers, or small embellishments to give your napkin rings a unique look.
5. Insert Napkins – Once fully dried, slide cloth or paper napkins through the rings and place them on your table.

Mini Storage Organizers

Toilet paper rolls can be transformed into practical mini organizers for small items like pens, brushes, or office supplies. They’re an easy and budget-friendly way to keep your workspace or home tidy.

Materials Needed:

• Empty toilet paper rolls
• Shoebox or small wooden box (optional for extra stability)
• Paint, wrapping paper, or contact paper
• Scissors
• Glue or hot glue gun
• Ruler and pencil (for measuring)
• Decorative stickers or labels (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Gather and Arrange Rolls – Decide how many toilet paper rolls you need based on the size of your organizer. Arrange them inside a shoebox or glue them together for stability.
2. Paint or Cover Rolls – Decorate each roll with paint, wrapping paper, or contact paper to make them more visually appealing.
3. Secure the Rolls – If using a shoebox as a base, glue the rolls inside to keep them in place. If not using a box, glue the rolls directly to each other in a group.
4. Label the Sections – If organizing different items, use stickers or labels to mark each section (e.g., “Pens,” “Scissors,” “Brushes”).
5. Start Organizing – Once dry, place the organizer on your desk or in a drawer and fill each roll with small items.

Seed Starters for Gardening

Toilet paper rolls make excellent biodegradable seed starters, allowing young plants to develop before being transferred to the garden. Since the cardboard naturally decomposes, you can plant the entire roll directly into the soil without disturbing the roots. This eco-friendly method is a great way to start seedlings indoors.

Materials Needed:

• Empty toilet paper rolls
• Scissors
• Potting soil
• Seeds of your choice
• Small tray or shallow container
• Watering can or spray bottle

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Prepare the Rolls – Cut four small slits at the bottom of each toilet paper roll, about 1/2 inch long. Fold the flaps inward to create a closed base. This helps hold the soil in place.
2. Fill with Soil – Place the prepared rolls upright in a small tray or shallow container. Fill each one with potting soil, leaving a little space at the top.
3. Plant the Seeds – Make a small hole in the soil, following the depth instructions on your seed packet. Drop in one or two seeds per roll, then lightly cover them with soil.
4. Water Gently – Use a watering can or spray bottle to moisten the soil. Be careful not to overwater, as toilet paper rolls can become soggy.
5. Place in a Sunny Spot – Keep the tray in a warm area with plenty of sunlight. Monitor moisture levels and water as needed.
6. Transplant When Ready – Once the seedlings are strong enough, plant the entire roll directly into the garden or a larger pot. The cardboard will break down naturally, allowing the roots to spread.

Toilet Paper Roll Binoculars

Toilet paper roll binoculars are a fun and simple craft for kids. They encourage imaginative play and can be used for pretend adventures, nature walks, or safari-themed activities. With a few basic materials, kids can create their own pair of binoculars to explore the world around them.

Materials Needed:

• Two empty toilet paper rolls
• Glue or tape
• Hole punch (optional)
• String or yarn (optional for a neck strap)
• Paint, markers, or stickers for decoration

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Attach the Rolls – Glue or tape two toilet paper rolls together side by side. Make sure they are aligned properly to resemble real binoculars.
2. Decorate – Let kids get creative by painting or coloring the binoculars. They can add stickers, patterned tape, or even wrap them in construction paper.
3. Add a Strap (Optional) – If you want a wearable pair, punch a hole on each side and thread a piece of string or yarn through. Tie the ends securely to create a neck strap.
4. Let It Dry and Play – The binoculars are ready for adventure once everything is set. Kids can use them for birdwatching, treasure hunts, or imaginary safaris.

Wall Art and Decorative Frames

Toilet paper rolls can be transformed into beautiful wall art and decorative frames, adding a stylish and eco-friendly touch to your home. You can create floral designs, geometric patterns, or even intricate 3D artwork by cutting and arranging the rolls into different shapes.

Materials Needed:

• Empty toilet paper rolls
• Scissors
• Hot glue gun or strong craft glue
• Paint or spray paint
• Ruler and pencil (for measurements)
• Canvas, cardboard, or wooden base (optional for mounting)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Flatten and Cut the Rolls – Gently press the toilet paper rolls flat and cut them into even strips, about 1/2 inch wide. These strips will act as the petals or segments of your design.
2. Arrange the Design – Lay out your design on a flat surface before gluing. You can create flowers, mandala patterns, or abstract shapes. Experiment with different layouts until you find a design you like.
3. Glue the Pieces Together – Using a hot glue gun or strong craft glue, attach the pieces at the edges to hold the design in place. If mounting on a base like a canvas or cardboard, glue them directly onto it.
4. Paint the Artwork – Once dry, paint or spray paint the entire piece in a color that matches your home decor. Metallic colors like gold or silver give a modern look, while bold colors create a playful feel.
5. Mount and Display – If using a base, hang the artwork directly on the wall. If not, attach adhesive strips or a small hook to the back for easy mounting.

Desk Cable Organizers

Messy cables can make a workspace look cluttered, but toilet paper rolls offer a simple and effective way to keep them organized. By using these rolls as cable holders, you can prevent tangles and create a neat, accessible storage system.

Materials Needed:

• Empty toilet paper rolls
• Shoebox or small container (optional)
• Paint, wrapping paper, or fabric (for decoration)
• Scissors
• Labels or markers (optional for organizing different cables)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Decorate the Rolls (Optional) – Cover the toilet paper rolls with paint, wrapping paper, or fabric if you want a clean, organised look. This makes them more visually appealing.
2. Place Rolls in a Box – Line up multiple toilet paper rolls inside a shoebox or container to create individual compartments for cables. If you don’t want to use a box, you can use the rolls on their own.
3. Label Each Roll (Optional) – Use stickers or a marker to label each roll according to the type of cable (e.g., “Phone Charger,” “HDMI,” “Earphones”). This makes it easier to find the right cable when needed.
4. Insert and Store Cables – Roll up each cable neatly and insert it into a tube. This prevents tangling and keeps your desk clutter-free.
5. Use and Maintain – Keep the box on your desk or in a drawer, and simply pull out a cable when needed.

Conclusion

Fun, reasonably priced, and environmentally aware, toilet paper roll crafts provide a creative outlet at home. Just a few simple supplies will turn these commonplace objects into lovely decorations, useful organizers, and interesting children’s projects. Using toilet paper rolls not only stimulates your imagination but also helps you lead a more environmentally friendly way of life.

We have more fun activities to improve your kid’s creativity and art skills. Check out our origami lily project next!