Don’t throw those cardboard tubes away – try these toilet paper roll crafts instead! Here are 50+ easy projects you’re going to love.
I’m a “saver,” and I know that some of you completely get what I’m talking about. That’s what happens when you’re a crafter, right?
Any surface that can possibly receive a little paint and/or Mod Podge is saved from the Goodwill pile.
Because – one day – I swear I’m going to use it.
Typically I could admit this statement is a farce, and then would be honest with you and say that eventually the surfaces I save get recycled or given away. However, this isn’t the case with toilet paper rolls.
I have a big bag of cardboard tubes in my craft room right now. They’re not just mine; my mom also saves them and gives them to me (does craft hoarding run in my family??).
They’re waiting for some fun and easy toilet paper roll crafts, and I will (and do!) use them.
There are all kinds of recycled crafts with toilet paper rolls you can try, ranging from wall art to wreaths to jewelry.
Having said that, most of the projects you’ll do with the tubes are kid related. I’ve got some of both in the list down below.
Crafting with Toilet Paper Rolls
Before we dive into the ideas, let’s go through some frequently asked questions about toilet paper tube crafts! If you’re ready to dive into the projects, simply scroll down to the list below the questions!
What crafts can you make with toilet paper rolls?
I’m actually kind of excited to share everything that you can do with the cardboard tubes. For years the only thing I knew about was seed starters, and I had no idea there were other things you could make.
Turns out there’s a lot, from kids projects to wall art to holiday. You’ll see in the list.
What is the cardboard in a toilet paper roll called?
The cardboard in the center of the roll is called the “core” and that’s what you’re going to use for your projects.
Sometimes you can slide it out before the roll is done – but for the most part you have to wait until all the tissue is off to use the cardboard tube within.
Are toilet paper rolls sanitary for crafts?
I’m not a doctor, but I’d say yes. They’re in your bathroom of course, and exposed to germs. However, the rolls are covered with toilet tissue for 99.99% of the life of the roll. If you don’t feel comfortable, I’d sterilize them.
How do you sterilize toilet rolls?
You can either bake them at the lowest setting your oven has, or spray with a bleach and water mixture and let dry. If you choose to bake the rolls you need to watch them (please!) so nothing catches on fire.
When spring is in full swing, you'll want to focus on bright and colorful activities. These are perfect for celebrating warmer weather, and I encourage you to experiment with vibrant color combinations.
Use a toilet paper roll and some crepe paper to make the cutest Halloween kids craft ever: DIY mini pinatas. You’ll love finding out what’s inside this toilet paper roll mummy!
Who can resist unicorns? Especially when they have manes made of rainbow yarn? Relive your childhood with these cute cardboard tube unicorns. Your kids will love these – but you might too!
What would Batman be without his sidekick, Robin? if you make one of these toilet paper tube superheroes you're going to need to make both. The results are worth it!
If you're searching for a fun Fourth of July activity or party favor for your next celebration, these adorable toilet paper roll confetti poppers are perfect!
Empty paper rolls can be transformed into so many great things, like these beautiful toilet roll fish. Your child can get creative decorating them in whatever colors and patterns they choose.
You can hang these easy-to-make bats from the ceiling as decor, or fill them with treats for a Halloween party! One thing I can tell you for sure – you're going to want to make a bunch of them.
Scrapbook paper and hot glue is all it takes and you have inexpensive building blocks toy that your kids can use, abuse, and then pitch in the recycling bin once you’re done.
Bees are one of the most hard working bugs out there, and certainly one of the most important ones. If you’ve got a little bee lover at home, you'll have fun making this insect together.
These cardboard tube binoculars are a great rainy day craft for kids. They can use them to go bird watching, as a camp craft, or as a nature inspired project!
If your kids are a fan of the book or the movie, they're really going to enjoy making this Grinch craft! A little secret: one side of the roll is the mean one, while the other side is the friendly face from the end of the story.
I've loved Hello Kitty ever since I was little, so when I saw this idea – I'll admit, I squealed out loud! Make these cute kitties using pasta for the hair bows (genius, right?).
One of the easiest ways to repurpose a toilet paper tube is to turn it into a phone holder! This is a fun and easy way to turn your recycling into something practical.
When I was in high school I built a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle sewer system for my brothers out of moving boxes. I love the idea of making mini versions of the fab four out of toilet paper tubes. These are totally tubular!
What says summer more than the chirping birds outside your window? Bring warm weather indoors with this cute birdhouse craft that kids can make, decorate, and hang.
If you and your children are into ocean animals, this toothy shark is going to be a huge hit. Make it for Shark Week or just because you want to see what a "cute Jaws" looks like.
Toilet paper roll crafts take on a life of their own with this "fire breathing" dragon! Kids will love making these, and will also love the effect of the tissue paper flames.
You'll need multiple tubes for this cool rocket craft, but the results are worth the time it takes to paint and decorate! Kids will have hours of fun with their new space vehicle.
I wear glasses for real, but mine aren't nearly as cool as these rainbow and pineapple specs! Perfect for celebrations, photo booths, or times when your kids just need a funky pair of frames.
Are you skeptical of the ability to turn toilet paper rolls and popsicle sticks into a puppet? This post shows you how possible it is. And it's a puppy, so how can you resist?
How cute are these “realistic” paper roll bunnies? I can't believe these are from one roll each! They make a fun recycling craft idea perfect for Easter, spring, and even Earth Day.
Make some fun paper roll scribblers in this experimental process art activity for kids. This would be perfect for a rainy day and is so easy to do at a moments notice using materials most people have on hand.
Toilet paper roll birthday crowns will make your next birthday party so much fun. Put a birthday crown at each place setting, or even use them as napkin rings – a wonderful surprise for each guest!
The base of this simple holiday wreath is five-point flowers made from toilet paper rolls! I love the idea of this in a variety of winter themes with a little Sparkle Mod Podge to boot.
There are so many ways to dress up a toilet paper roll snowman! Grab a bucket of embellishments and let kids get creative. Perfect for a winter classroom activity.
Turn a toilet paper roll into a bird feeder with this step by step tutorial! All you need is peanut butter, bird seed, and a cardboard tube; great kids' craft.
Kids can wrap these silly snakes around their arms, pieces of furniture, posts, and more. Add polka dots and googly eyes to finish off these cute reptiles.
Make a happy Halloween witch using a recycled toilet paper roll! I love her vibrant orange hair with the cute curls. Make a bunch of these for your holiday decor!
Turning the simplest materials in something beautiful with little means and effort is so rewarding! You won't believe how easy these lanterns are to make, and they really light up.
With a cardboard roll, tape, and popsicle sticks you can set up a simple loom. You'll use your creation to create a knitted "snake," or tube. Make it as long or short as you’d like.
Transform a humble toilet roll into a beautiful royal princess, dressed for the ball in her full tulle netting skirt. A wonderful craft for kids to show them how they can make their very own paper roll princess.
People of all ages need to store cords! It's really easy to do with cardboard tubes – all you need to do is grab some washi tape, and these are super easy to make. You can paint them, too.
These wrist parakeets are super simple to make, require very few art supplies, and . . . are amazingly adorable, yes? They’re also tough. Thanks to their sturdy pipe cleaner tethers, they really stay attached, even on the most active ornithologist.
Don't you just love this surly band of colorful misfits? These toilet paper rolls have a bit of Beetlejuice feel to me and I have to admit – I dig it. Grab a bunch of acrylic paint and pom poms and get crafty!
Are there any paper roll crafts for kids you’d like to try? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments! I’d also love for you to check out these other posts:
How about gluing fabric over a core cut from a cardboard tube to make a collar for a favorite stuffed animal? You can even add a bone-shaped tag!
Amy
Saturday 26th of November 2022
That's a great idea! Very cute.
Cynthiat Leven
Monday 15th of November 2021
Love All your ideas. Comes in handy for Teaching a small craft on a budget.
I collect recycle cores and paper hoardering for a Community
Service Programs for children.
Great Job. I am a Graphic Advertising a
Artist by profession ,so I welcome all your ideas.
Do you have any ideas for milk cartons
I saved up 150 milk cartons for a class.
I would love to see all of your ideas in a published craft book. Art teachers can use it for early childhood art projects.
Amy
Monday 15th of November 2021
Thank you so much for the kind words! I would actually really love to do a kids' book. It would be fun. In terms of ideas, I need to do a collection myself, but here's a good roundup: https://www.familydaystriedandtested.com/milk-carton-bottle-jar-ideas/
Bryan
Thursday 17th of November 2022
How about gluing fabric over a core cut from a cardboard tube to make a collar for a favorite stuffed animal? You can even add a bone-shaped tag!
Amy
Saturday 26th of November 2022
That's a great idea! Very cute.
Cynthiat Leven
Monday 15th of November 2021
Love All your ideas. Comes in handy for Teaching a small craft on a budget. I collect recycle cores and paper hoardering for a Community Service Programs for children.
Great Job. I am a Graphic Advertising a Artist by profession ,so I welcome all your ideas.
Do you have any ideas for milk cartons I saved up 150 milk cartons for a class.
I would love to see all of your ideas in a published craft book. Art teachers can use it for early childhood art projects.
Amy
Monday 15th of November 2021
Thank you so much for the kind words! I would actually really love to do a kids' book. It would be fun. In terms of ideas, I need to do a collection myself, but here's a good roundup: https://www.familydaystriedandtested.com/milk-carton-bottle-jar-ideas/