Transforming everyday waste into creative masterpieces – that’s the beauty of crafting. Get paper rolls piling up before tossing them aside, consider giving them new life through these innovative paper roll crafts. With a little creativity, even the most mundane materials can become something truly special. One of the best things about crafting is its ability to be budget-friendly.
By repurposing everyday items like cardboard tubes, you can create unique and thoughtful projects without breaking the bank. In this collection, we’ve gathered 20 inspiring ideas for turning paper rolls into one-of-a-kind treasures.
Tubular Race Cars
Unleash your child’s creativity by transforming toilet paper rolls into one-of-a-kind racing cars. This project is simplicity itself, requiring just a few basic materials: scissors, craft foam for wheels, aluminum foil for rims, glue, small paper fasteners, and a hole puncher are all you need to get started. To take it to the next level, add decorative paper or acrylic paint, allowing your child’s imagination to run wild with design options.
For younger kids, this project may require minimal assistance, simply cutting out shapes or punching holes. This leaves you with plenty of ‘me’ time as they work on their high-speed prototypes. But what good are racing cars without a track to test their speed? Consider building your own DIY race track or check out an innovative play mat that doubles as toy storage – click here for more details.
Extendable Pirate Spyglass
Transforming into a swashbuckling pirate is an exhilarating pretend play experience that can be elevated by crafting an extendable spyglass. This DIY project requires minimal materials and can be completed in no time. The extendable feature is achieved by attaching a paper cup to the end of a toilet paper roll, which can typically be found in any household pantry.
If you don’t have spare rolls lying around, you can always opt for a gold paper cup to add a touch of realism to your pirate’s spyglass.
Roller Bird Feeder
To get started with this simple yet delightful project, begin by spreading a thin layer of peanut butter onto the toilet paper tubes. Next, place the tubes on a plate or tray filled with birdseed. The final step is to attach the peanut butter-coated tubes to tree branches, either by gently placing them in a fork or using a piece of twine to secure them. As you wait for your feathered friends to discover their new snack, take pleasure in watching them swoop in to enjoy their treat.
Gruffalo Character Set
The lovable characters from Julia Donaldson’s beloved book series, Gruffalo, offer endless opportunities for creative play and imagination. One simple yet effective way to bring these characters to life is by using toilet paper rolls as a fun and eco-friendly prop. The Gruffalo being an award-winning and internationally bestselling children’s picture book, it’s no wonder that kids would delight in recreating their favorite scenes and characters.
If your little ones haven’t had the pleasure of reading this charming tale yet, you can find it available in various formats, including audiobooks and paperbacks, all conveniently linked here.
Star Wars Cardboard Figures
While the mere mention of Star Wars may get kids excited, it’s often the adults who have a deeper appreciation for the franchise. This project is no exception; requiring minimal effort and using free printables, you can bring the iconic series to your bathroom with ease. Simply cut out the characters, attach them to cardboard, and transform your toilet paper roll into a galactic adventure waiting to happen.
For those looking for more creative ways to stretch their budget, explore our collection of Dollar Tree crafts perfect for families on a shoestring.
Cardboard Easter Resurrection Scene
Building upon our character set exploration, why not give recreating an Easter resurrection scene a try? You’re free to draw the characters yourself or utilize the provided resurrection printables. While Easter may have recently passed, this concept can be easily adapted for other celebrations, such as crafting scary characters for Halloween or depicting the nativity scene during Christmas. The possibilities are endless.
Cardboard Bunny
To help kids recover from the Easter bunny excitement, channel their excess energy into crafting activities. One fun way is to create cardboard bunnies with them. Take it to the next level by adding some personality to your hopping toilet paper rolls using wiggly eyes in various shapes, sizes, and colors available here.
Cardboard Pencil Holder
Elevate your workspace or your child’s learning environment with this affordable and versatile solution. While the accompanying image may evoke thoughts of Easter morning, the possibilities for customization are truly boundless.
Animal Cardboards
Why settle for a limited menagerie when you can introduce your little ones to an entire zoo of possibilities? The perfect way to do this is through interactive animal books, designed specifically for kids aged 3-8. These books not only provide endless hours of creative fun with cardboard animal crafts but also serve as a valuable learning tool, teaching children about the unique characteristics, behaviors, and habitats of their favorite animals.
And don’t worry if you’re missing some craft supplies at home – we’ve got you covered! With just a few clicks, you can have all the necessary materials delivered right to your doorstep.
Elsa’s Bracelet
The Disney Frozen phenomenon shows no signs of thawing. The release of Frozen 2 in 2 Written by:Anna and Elsa sparked a new wave of enthusiasm for the beloved royal sisters, with their iconic faces plastered on merchandise from coast to coast. As parents, it’s only natural you’d want to join in on the fun and create unique accessories that will delight your little princesses.
One creative way to do just that is by crafting upcycled treasures using rhinestone gems – a perfect way to breathe new life into old items while staying true to the Frozen spirit.
Shining Shimmering Bangles
When it comes to transforming toilet paper rolls into accessories, a simple yet effective approach is to create tin foil bangles. Start by wrapping the cardboard core in a layer of shiny tin foil. To add some visual flair and make the accessory truly unique, wrap ribbons around the tin foil for a pop of color and personality. For an even more convenient and creative solution, consider substituting glue with washi tape.
This versatile material not only adds decorative flair but also serves as a reliable adhesive. With a range of colors and patterns available, you can find the perfect match to complement your DIY project.
Cardboard Kaleidoscope Fun
Kaleidoscopes offer a unique way to engage children in hands-on learning about light, reflection, and spatial awareness, making them an excellent project for family bonding experiences. For optimal results, consider utilizing paper towel cardboards due to their longer length compared to toilet paper rolls. This DIY endeavor also provides an opportunity to repurpose leftover washi tapes and gemstones collected from previous projects, such as bracelet or bangle crafting.
To embark on this creative journey, refer to the comprehensive tutorial available on this page for step-by-step guidance.
Paper Towel Roll Rainstick
A rainstick is an instrument that mimics the soothing sound of rain by producing a gentle hissing or rattling noise when shaken. To create one from a paper towel roll, start by filling the tube with rice and wrapping aluminum foil around it in a spiral shape. Then, seal both ends to contain the materials and let your creativity shine through as you decorate the rainstick.
Cardboard Roll Sculptures
Embracing the creative spirit, this innovative project transforms everyday waste into unique masterpieces. Abandon the habit of mindlessly discarding toilet paper and paper towel rolls, and instead, gather your family to craft a stunning work of art that will proudly adorn your living space. The beauty of this endeavour lies in its freedom from rigid instructions – it’s an opportunity for each individual to unleash their creativity and put their personal stamp on the finished piece.
One helpful hint to get you started: precision-cut slits in the cardboard and a reliable adhesive, like this top-notch glue gun, will guarantee that your rolls remain steadfast and upright, allowing your artistic vision to shine through.
Cardboard Bowling Pins
Why waste money on limited bowling sessions when you can enjoy endless games from the comfort of your own home? Instead of breaking out the wallet, get creative and have some fun with the family. By playing at home, you’re already saving a pretty penny – so why not invest in a foam bowling ball to teach the kids proper handling techniques.
Space Rocket from the Toilet
Despite its simplicity, the rhyme stuck with me. The humble toilet paper roll’s cylindrical shape lends itself perfectly to creative outer space exploration with kids. On that note, have you come across an impressive planetarium projector? For families fascinated by the solar system and space travel, this gadget could be a great future gift idea.
Confetti Launcher
Transform any family milestone into a festive celebration with a DIY confetti launcher. This fun and easy project requires just three simple ingredients: a balloon, some colorful confetti, and your imagination. Start by cutting the neck of the balloon to create a small opening. Then, place the balloon over one end of a toilet paper roll, securing it in place. Add your personal touch to the roll with decorations of your choice, and fill it with an abundance of confetti.
When the moment is right to mark your milestone, simply pull back the balloon and let the confetti fall from above, adding an extra layer of excitement and joy to your celebration.
Themed Cardboard Napkin Rings
Elevate your table setting game by crafting unique napkin rings that perfectly complement each occasion. The stunning starfish design is ideal for beach-themed parties, but feel free to adapt and personalize it according to the event’s theme. As a creative canvas, use any material you prefer; just remember to start with a cut-out piece from a toilet paper roll as your foundation.
For added texture and interest, consider incorporating a sturdy jute rope into your design – find high-quality options here.
Personalized Napkin Ring Place Holder
Elevate the ambiance at your next gathering by incorporating personalized napkin rings as placeholders. For those looking to enhance their handwriting skills, a comprehensive guide to calligraphy for novices could be an excellent resource to get started.
Cardboard Roll Memento
For those who relish in the joy of tailored presents, crafting a sentimental keepsake box is an endeavor sure to bring delight. This project, while seemingly unconventional, revolves around transforming ordinary toilet paper rolls into unique storage compartments that can be filled with meaningful notes or mementos for cherished individuals.
Conclusion
As you’ve explored these creative concepts, we’re confident that they’ve provided a delightful respite from the usual routine, allowing you to recharge and connect with loved ones. Feel free to share your most cherished projects with family and friends, sparking meaningful conversations and strengthening bonds.