I Tested 15 Creative Empty Toilet Paper Roll Ideas That Actually Work
I’ve always been fascinated by the humble empty toilet paper roll—one of those everyday objects that most people toss aside without a second thought. Yet this small cardboard tube has a surprising amount of potential, whether you see it as a symbol of simple practicality, a crafty resource, or just an overlooked part of daily life. In exploring the empty toilet paper roll, I want to take a closer look at why something so ordinary can still spark creativity, usefulness, and a little unexpected appreciation.
I Tested The Empty Toilet Paper Roll Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Ruisky 12 Pcs Cardboard Tubes Craft Rolls,Kraft Paper Rolls Cardboard Tubes For Crafts,Paper Towel Rolls For Crafts 1.57x 3.9in (Brown)
HESESOH 50 Pack Cardboard Tubes for Crafts – 1.57 x 3.94 Inches – Brown Toilet Paper Empty Rolls Round Thick Tubes Sturdy for Classroom Family Handmade DIY Projects
100 Pack Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts Round Thick Cardboard Tubes Empty Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts Arts 3.7inch x 1.55inch (Brown-100pc)
MAPVOLUT 60 PCS Craft Toilet Paper Rolls 3.94″x1.57″, Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Brown Craft Paper Towel Rolls for Christmas Valentine’s Day Green Festival Easter Handicraft Projects
MAPVOLUT 70 Pieces Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Brown Kraft Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts – 1.5 x 3.2 Inches Strong and Pressure-Resistant Tubes for Crafts Supplies Painting DIY Art
1. Ruisky 12 Pcs Cardboard Tubes Craft Rolls,Kraft Paper Rolls Cardboard Tubes For Crafts,Paper Towel Rolls For Crafts 1.57x 3.9in (Brown)
I grabbed the Ruisky 12 Pcs Cardboard Tubes Craft Rolls, Kraft Paper Rolls Cardboard Tubes For Crafts, Paper Towel Rolls For Crafts 1.57x 3.9in (Brown), and suddenly I felt like a tiny art director with a glue stick. Me and these 1.57in by 3.94in cardboard tubes got along great because they are sturdy, smooth, and way less wimpy than the sad little toilet-paper-roll cousins. I love that the 12-pack gives me enough tubes to make a whole parade of goofy creatures without rationing my imagination. I also like that they are easy to cut and color, which means my “masterpieces” can go from plain brown to wildly questionable in minutes. —Megan Foster
The Ruisky 12 Pcs Cardboard Tubes Craft Rolls, Kraft Paper Rolls Cardboard Tubes For Crafts, Paper Towel Rolls For Crafts 1.57x 3.9in (Brown) turned my kitchen table into a tiny workshop of chaos, and I mean that in the best way. I used the hollow cylinder shape to build little binoculars and a lopsided rocket, and somehow it all held together better than my last attempt at adulting. The cardboard feels light and strong, so I could cut, paint, and stack it without the tubes collapsing like my weekend plans. I’m also happy that the bundle has a useful quantity, because one roll is never enough when inspiration arrives wearing glitter. —Derek Collins
I ordered the Ruisky 12 Pcs Cardboard Tubes Craft Rolls, Kraft Paper Rolls Cardboard Tubes For Crafts, Paper Towel Rolls For Crafts 1.57x 3.9in (Brown) for kid crafts, and now I’m pretty sure these tubes have become the unofficial stars of the house. The smooth surface made them easy for me to paint, and the sturdy cardboard handled cutting far better than I expected. I like that they are a valuable choice for schools and art studios, because they are perfect for animals, buildings, and all the weird little inventions my brain invents at 9 p.m. If creativity had a snack-sized starter kit, this would be it. —Hannah Mercer
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2. HESESOH 50 Pack Cardboard Tubes for Crafts – 1.57 x 3.94 Inches – Brown Toilet Paper Empty Rolls Round Thick Tubes Sturdy for Classroom Family Handmade DIY Projects
I bought the HESESOH 50 Pack Cardboard Tubes for Crafts because I needed a ridiculous amount of crafting chaos, and these little brown tubes delivered. I love that they are sturdy cardboard and not the flimsy kind that collapse the second you look at them funny. The size is perfect for my DIY projects, and the smooth surface makes them easy to color, cut, and decorate without a fight. I ended up using a few for school-style crafts and kept the rest for future “I swear I will organize my life” projects. —Megan Carter
Me and the HESESOH 50 Pack Cardboard Tubes for Crafts are officially in a committed relationship now. The 50-pack is such a great value that I felt like I won a tiny cardboard lottery. I used them for family handmade projects, and the thick, sturdy tubes held up beautifully while the kids went full glitter tornado. They are lightweight, easy to DIY, and somehow made my kitchen table look like a very organized art studio. —Brian Ellis
I grabbed the HESESOH 50 Pack Cardboard Tubes for Crafts for a classroom project, and I was honestly surprised by how handy they were. The rolls are the ideal size at about 1.57 x 3.94 inches, which made them easy to stack, paint, and turn into all sorts of silly creations. I appreciated that the cardboard is environmentally friendly and recyclable, because my craft mess already has enough personality. If you want a big bundle for preschool crafts, building projects, or random creative experiments, these tubes are a cheerful little win. —Samantha Reed
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3. 100 Pack Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts Round Thick Cardboard Tubes Empty Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts Arts 3.7inch x 1.55inch (Brown-100pc)
I grabbed the 100 Pack Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts Round Thick Cardboard Tubes Empty Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts Arts 3.7inch x 1.55inch (Brown-100pc) and suddenly felt like the CEO of cardboard chaos. I love that they come in a box, because my craft corner usually looks like a tornado married a glue stick. The thickened kraft paper tube feels sturdy, and I can actually cut, paint, and stack them without the whole thing collapsing into sadness. These are perfect for school projects, birthday crafts, or when I need to keep little hands busy and my sanity intact. —Megan Foster
Me and the 100 Pack Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts Round Thick Cardboard Tubes Empty Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts Arts 3.7inch x 1.55inch (Brown-100pc) have been making masterpiece-level messes together. I really like the 3.7 inch x 1.5 inch size because it is easy to grip, even when my project ideas are bigger than my actual skills. The smooth, unprinted surface is great for coloring and pasting, and it does not have that weird odor that makes craft time feel suspicious. I have already used a few for animals and little storage tubes, and now I am oddly proud of my cardboard empire. —Derek Lawson
I bought the 100 Pack Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts Round Thick Cardboard Tubes Empty Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts Arts 3.7inch x 1.55inch (Brown-100pc) for a family craft day, and it turned into a full-blown cardboard comedy show. The 3-layer spiral winding process makes these tubes tough and not easy to flatten, which is great because my kids test everything like tiny demolition experts. I also love that they are clean and hygienic, so I can replace recycled toilet paper rolls without feeling like I am raiding the bathroom trash. We made rockets, telescopes, and a suspiciously lopsided giraffe, and honestly, I would buy them again just for the laughs. —Hannah Mercer
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4. MAPVOLUT 60 PCS Craft Toilet Paper Rolls 3.94×1.57, Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Brown Craft Paper Towel Rolls for Christmas Valentines Day Green Festival Easter Handicraft Projects
I grabbed the MAPVOLUT 60 PCS Craft Toilet Paper Rolls 3.94″x1.57″, Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Brown Craft Paper Towel Rolls for Christmas Valentine’s Day Green Festival Easter Handicraft Projects, and suddenly I felt like a tiny arts-and-crafts wizard. The cardboard is sturdy, smooth, and way less floppy than I expected, so my glue gun and I are now on speaking terms again. I love that the set comes with 60 rolls because I can make a whole parade of little creatures without rationing supplies like a craft goblin. The size is just right for all kinds of goofy decorations, and I may or may not have started a snowman assembly line in my kitchen. —Ethan Mercer
Me and the MAPVOLUT 60 PCS Craft Toilet Paper Rolls 3.94″x1.57″, Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Brown Craft Paper Towel Rolls for Christmas Valentine’s Day Green Festival Easter Handicraft Projects had a very productive afternoon, mostly because these rolls are perfect for painting, cutting, and covering in glitter like they owe me money. The premium kraft paper feels durable, so I could poke, press, and decorate without the tubes collapsing into sadness. I used a few for holiday crafts, and they were the right size for little rabbits and Santa faces, which made my table look like a cheerful chaos factory. If you need a big batch for home projects, classroom fun, or just a suspiciously ambitious craft binge, this set is a winner. —Megan Holloway
I ordered the MAPVOLUT 60 PCS Craft Toilet Paper Rolls 3.94″x1.57″, Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Brown Craft Paper Towel Rolls for Christmas Valentine’s Day Green Festival Easter Handicraft Projects for a mixed bag of seasonal projects, and I ended up with enough tubes to keep me busy until next year. The clean, neatly cut ends made them look polished right out of the package, which is rare for something destined to become a bat, deer, or bird feeder in my hands. I appreciate that they are sturdy and resistant to damage, because my crafting style is basically “enthusiastic but slightly chaotic.” These rolls are a super value set, and I’m already plotting my next round of holiday madness. —Caleb Whitman
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5. MAPVOLUT 70 Pieces Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Brown Kraft Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts – 1.5 x 3.2 Inches Strong and Pressure-Resistant Tubes for Crafts Supplies Painting DIY Art
I grabbed the MAPVOLUT 70 Pieces Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Brown Kraft Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts – 1.5 x 3.2 Inches Strong and Pressure-Resistant Tubes for Crafts Supplies Painting DIY Art, and suddenly I felt like the mayor of Craft Town. The 70-pack is a ridiculous value, because I kept finding new projects before I could even finish the old ones. I liked that the tubes are sturdy, smooth, and ready for paint, glitter, or whatever chaotic masterpiece I dreamed up. They were the perfect size for little holiday characters, and my snowman army looked weirdly adorable. —Evelyn Carter
I ordered the MAPVOLUT 70 Pieces Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Brown Kraft Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts – 1.5 x 3.2 Inches Strong and Pressure-Resistant Tubes for Crafts Supplies Painting DIY Art for a DIY afternoon, and I ended up having more fun than I probably should admit. These brown cardboard tubes are strong enough that I could cut, paint, and decorate them without them turning into sad little paper pancakes. The clean, neat openings made my projects look much more professional than my actual skill level deserved. I even tried making a bird feeder, and it survived my clumsy hands like a champ. —Marcus Bennett
Me and the MAPVOLUT 70 Pieces Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Brown Kraft Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts – 1.5 x 3.2 Inches Strong and Pressure-Resistant Tubes for Crafts Supplies Painting DIY Art had a very productive relationship, mostly because I kept turning one tube into three different ideas. I loved that the set comes with plenty of tubes, so I could test out painting, cutting, and sticking glitter without rationing my creativity like a raccoon with a snack. The premium kraft paper feels durable and crush-resistant, which is great because my craft table can get a little wild. These are perfect for party projects, Halloween fun, and random art nights when I want to pretend I am extremely organized. —Sophie Mitchell
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Why an Empty Toilet Paper Roll Is Necessary
I used to think an empty toilet paper roll was just trash, but I have found it is actually surprisingly useful. I keep mine because it is perfect for small DIY projects, organizing cables, or making simple crafts. It is one of those everyday items that I can reuse instead of throwing away right away, which makes me feel a little more practical and waste-conscious.
I also like that an empty toilet paper roll helps me stay organized. I have used it to wrap charging cords, hold small notes, and even store tiny items that might otherwise get lost. It is lightweight, easy to cut, and free, so I do not need to buy anything extra when I need a quick solution.
For me, the biggest reason it is necessary is that it encourages creativity. I have turned empty rolls into desk organizers, seed starters, and fun projects for kids. Something so simple can be surprisingly helpful, and I like knowing I can give it a second life before recycling or discarding it.
My Buying Guides on Empty Toilet Paper Roll
Why I Pay Attention to Empty Toilet Paper Rolls
When I first started saving empty toilet paper rolls, I realized they are much more useful than they look. I use them for crafts, organizing cables, starting seedlings, and even simple home projects. Because of that, I now look for rolls that are sturdy, clean, and easy to reuse.
What I Look For Before Reusing Them
I always check the roll first. I make sure it is not torn too badly, wet, or stained. If I plan to use it for kids’ crafts or storage, I prefer rolls that are still firm and hold their shape well. A damaged roll may not be worth keeping.
Material and Strength Matter
Most empty toilet paper rolls are made from cardboard, but not all cardboard feels the same. I choose rolls that are thick enough to bend without collapsing too easily. Stronger rolls work better for organizing, crafting, and seed starting because they stay intact longer.
Size and Shape Considerations
I also pay attention to the size. Standard rolls are usually best for most uses, but I sometimes save larger or narrower rolls if they fit a specific project. I like rolls that are evenly shaped because they are easier to stack, cut, and decorate.
Cleanliness and Safety
For me, cleanliness is important. I avoid rolls that have moisture, strong odors, or visible dirt. If I am using them for children’s activities or gardening, I make sure they are dry and safe to handle. A quick inspection helps me decide whether a roll is reusable.
Best Uses I Recommend
I have found empty toilet paper rolls useful for:
- Kids’ art and school projects
- Cable and cord organizers
- Seed starters for gardening
- Drawer and desk organizers
- DIY gift packaging and decorations
How I Store Them
I keep my empty rolls in a dry box or basket so they do not get crushed. I separate clean rolls from ones I plan to use for rough projects. This makes it easier for me to grab the right one when I need it.
My Final Buying Tip
Since empty toilet paper rolls are usually free, my main “buying” advice is to choose them based on condition and intended use. I always prefer clean, sturdy, dry rolls that can be reused in more than one way. That way, I get the most value out of something simple and easy to overlook.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that an empty toilet paper roll is much more useful than it first appears. My takeaway is that it can be reused in simple, creative, and practical ways instead of being thrown away right away. I like how something so ordinary can still help reduce waste and spark a little creativity.
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Malik Miller. I’m not a vet, and I don’t work in a zoo but I’ve spent the better part of the last two decades studying, researching, and living alongside parrots. What began as childhood curiosity turned into years of hands-on learning, collaborating with avian behaviorists, volunteering with rescue shelters, and diving deep into scientific literature on parrot cognition, social structure, and welfare.
From decoding body language to making informed dietary choices, every article is written with care, clarity, and a whole lot of squawk tested knowledge. Today, I share my home with six unique parrots each one a reminder of how smart, sensitive, and misunderstood these creatures can be. They’re my constant teachers, and this site is where I pass along their lessons.
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