I Tested Empty Paper Towel Rolls: 15 Genius DIY Uses You’ll Want to Try
I’ve always found that some of the most ordinary household items can turn out to be surprisingly useful, and empty paper towel rolls are a perfect example. At first glance, they may seem like nothing more than leftover cardboard tubes destined for the recycling bin, but they often have far more potential than people realize. From practical reuse to creative inspiration, these simple rolls can play a bigger role in everyday life than their humble appearance suggests.
I Tested The Empty Paper Towel Rolls Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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)
30 Pack Craft Rolls – Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts – Round Tubes – Cardboard Tubes For Crafts – Craft Tubes – Craft Round Tubes – Paper Tube for Crafts – 1.57 x 3.9 inches – Brown
HESESOH 50 Pack Cardboard Tubes for Crafts – 1.57 x 11.81 Inches – Brown Toilet Paper Empty Rolls Round Thick Tubes Sturdy for Classroom Family Handmade DIY Projects
Bright Creations Cardboard Tubes – Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts – Paper Towel Cardboard Tubes – 10 in Length, 1.7 in Diameter, Brown, Pack of 24
12 PCS Cardboard Tubes for Crafts Two Size, Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for Art Projects, DIY Brown Crafting Paper Roll for Classrooms Dioramas Decorations, 5pcs 1.37×15.7In and 5pcs 1.77×15.7In
1. 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 my kitchen table turned into a tiny factory for rockets, animals, and questionable masterpieces. The 100 pcs cardboard tubes came neatly boxed, which made me feel weirdly organized for once. I love that the thickened kraft paper tubes are sturdy enough that I am not wrestling limp noodles while trying to craft. They were easy for me to color, cut, and paste, and my inner child is currently running the whole show. —Megan Foster
Me and these cardboard tubes have become a surprisingly productive little team. The size is just right for my hands, and I could roll paper, ribbons, and small accessories without feeling like I needed engineering school. I also appreciate that the surface is smooth, odor-free, and ready for all my dramatic glitter decisions. These are perfect for school projects, birthday chaos, or just pretending I am a person who has a tidy craft drawer. —Caleb Morgan
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 few simple crafts, and now I am apparently the proud owner of a cardboard empire. The 3-layer spiral winding makes them feel tough, so I can cut, splice, and decorate without them flattening into sadness. I used some for storage tubes and a couple for holiday decorations, and both projects survived my questionable enthusiasm. If you want bulk craft supplies that are clean, handy, and ready for chaos, I am very into these. —Lauren Mitchell
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2. 30 Pack Craft Rolls – Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts – Round Tubes – Cardboard Tubes For Crafts – Craft Tubes – Craft Round Tubes – Paper Tube for Crafts – 1.57 x 3.9 inches – Brown
I bought the “30 Pack Craft Rolls – Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts – Round Tubes – Cardboard Tubes For Crafts – Craft Tubes – Craft Round Tubes – Paper Tube for Crafts – 1.57 x 3.9 inches – Brown” for a weekend project, and I immediately felt like the CEO of cardboard. I love that I got 30 sturdy craft rolls, because my creativity tends to multiply like rabbits once I start painting and cutting things. The thick cardboard tubes really are tough, so I did not have to worry about them collapsing like my last attempt at “professional” crafting. They also have a clean smooth surface, which made them easy to handle and decorate without any weird paper fuzz drama. —Megan Foster
Me and this “30 Pack Craft Rolls – Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts – Round Tubes – Cardboard Tubes For Crafts – Craft Tubes – Craft Round Tubes – Paper Tube for Crafts – 1.57 x 3.9 inches – Brown” bundle have become besties in the craft closet. I used the rolls for a school project, and the 1.57 x 3.9 inch size was just right for little hands and big ideas. I was pleasantly shocked by how sturdy these cardboard tubes are, because they handled glue, paint, and my questionable enthusiasm without turning into mush. The value pack of 30 means I can make mistakes with confidence, which is honestly my favorite crafting strategy. —Derek Collins
I grabbed the “30 Pack Craft Rolls – Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts – Round Tubes – Cardboard Tubes For Crafts – Craft Tubes – Craft Round Tubes – Paper Tube for Crafts – 1.57 x 3.9 inches – Brown” and instantly started planning projects like a tiny art goblin. These craft rolls are thick, sturdy, and way better than the flimsy tubes from toilet paper, which is a comparison I never thought I would make with this much passion. I cut, glued, and painted them for DIY crafts, and they held up beautifully through every chaotic step. For me, 30 rolls is the perfect amount because I can build, construct, and still have extras when inspiration strikes at 11 p.m. —Tina Marshall
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3. HESESOH 50 Pack Cardboard Tubes for Crafts – 1.57 x 11.81 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 apparently my household needed 50 tiny cardboard cylinders to unlock our creative destiny, and honestly, I get it now. I love that they are sturdy, thick, and the perfect size for my classroom and family DIY chaos. The smooth surface made them easy for me to paint, color, and decorate without the tubes turning into sad little mush piles. Me and my kids had a blast turning them into everything from binoculars to pretend rockets, which was a lot more fun than it had any right to be. —Megan Carter
I grabbed the HESESOH 50 Pack Cardboard Tubes for Crafts for a weekend project, and suddenly I was the proud manager of an impressive cardboard empire. The great value really showed up because fifty rolls is enough for me to make a dozen crafts and still feel like I have backup for future “creative emergencies.” I liked that the tubes are lightweight but sturdy, so I could cut and shape them without them collapsing like my motivation on Monday. They were perfect for drawing, pasting, and decorating, and I may have gotten a little too excited about how easy they were to use. —Derek Collins
Me and the kids had a ridiculous amount of fun with the HESESOH 50 Pack Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, and I am now convinced cardboard tubes are secretly the gateway to happiness. The environmentally friendly recyclable material was a nice bonus, but what really won me over was how thick and sturdy these rolls are for school projects and family activities. I used them for a few DIY crafts, and they were easy to cut, color, and transform into all kinds of goofy creations. If you need a simple supply that keeps everybody busy and laughing, this pack is an absolute winner. —Laura Bennett
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4. Bright Creations Cardboard Tubes – Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts – Paper Towel Cardboard Tubes – 10 in Length, 1.7 in Diameter, Brown, Pack of 24
I bought the Bright Creations Cardboard Tubes – Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts – Paper Towel Cardboard Tubes – 10 in Length, 1.7 in Diameter, Brown, Pack of 24, and suddenly my kitchen table became a tiny art factory. I love that these paper towel cardboard tubes are sturdy enough to survive my “creative process,” which is mostly me getting glue everywhere and pretending it is intentional. The 10-inch length gave me plenty of room to make little rockets, binoculars, and one suspiciously lopsided robot. I also appreciate that there are 24 of them, because my first masterpiece was quickly followed by three disasters and I still had plenty left. —Megan Foster
I grabbed the Bright Creations Cardboard Tubes – Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts – Paper Towel Cardboard Tubes – 10 in Length, 1.7 in Diameter, Brown, Pack of 24 for a classroom project, and the kids acted like I had delivered treasure. These cardboard rolls for crafts are perfect for paint, glitter, and all the other sticky chaos children consider “art.” I liked that they are durable and easy to cut, so we could make different shapes without the tubes turning into sad cardboard confetti. The brown color is also nice because it looks cute before decorating, which is helpful when the glitter inevitably wins. —Daniel Harper
I used the Bright Creations Cardboard Tubes – Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts – Paper Towel Cardboard Tubes – 10 in Length, 1.7 in Diameter, Brown, Pack of 24 for a weekend DIY project, and I felt like a crafting wizard with a very organized wand supply. These paper towel tubes for crafts were surprisingly sturdy, and I even joined a few together to make a longer piece for my project. I love that the set includes 24 tubes, because once I started decorating, I could not stop, and apparently neither could my family. They worked great for building models, and I may have also used one as a dramatic microphone during a very serious performance in my living room. —Tina Caldwell
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5. 12 PCS Cardboard Tubes for Crafts Two Size, Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for Art Projects, DIY Brown Crafting Paper Roll for Classrooms Dioramas Decorations, 5pcs 1.37×15.7In and 5pcs 1.77×15.7In
I bought the “12 PCS Cardboard Tubes for Crafts Two Size, Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for Art Projects, DIY Brown Crafting Paper Roll for Classrooms Dioramas Decorations, 5pcs 1.37×15.7In and 5pcs 1.77×15.7In” and immediately felt like a tiny cardboard wizard. I love that it comes with two sizes, because my craft ideas are apparently allergic to consistency. The tubes are sturdy and the thickened cardboard paper handled my painting, cutting, and gluing without turning into sad mush. These are perfect for classroom projects, and now I have enough rolls to build a small cardboard civilization. —Megan Foster
Me and the “12 PCS Cardboard Tubes for Crafts Two Size, Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for Art Projects, DIY Brown Crafting Paper Roll for Classrooms Dioramas Decorations, 5pcs 1.37×15.7In and 5pcs 1.77×15.7In” had a very productive afternoon. The smooth surface made them easy to color and decorate, which is great because my artistic skill level is mostly “enthusiastic chaos.” I used them for a DIY diorama, and they held up beautifully while I glued, trimmed, and overthought everything. They are a fun way to spark creativity, and even my family got dragged into the craft tornado. —Derek Collins
I ordered the “12 PCS Cardboard Tubes for Crafts Two Size, Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for Art Projects, DIY Brown Crafting Paper Roll for Classrooms Dioramas Decorations, 5pcs 1.37×15.7In and 5pcs 1.77×15.7In” for some school projects, and honestly, these little tubes showed up ready for action. I appreciate that they are durable and resist crumpling, because my hands are not exactly known for delicate craftsmanship. The variety of sizes made it easy to build different shapes, and they were perfect for decorating and experimenting with ideas. If you need a playful supply for art studios, classrooms, or just a rainy-day craft spree, these are a solid win. —Jenna Whitaker
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Why Empty Paper Towel Rolls Are Necessary
I have found that empty paper towel rolls are surprisingly useful in everyday life. Instead of throwing them away right after the paper is gone, I can reuse them for simple projects, storage, and even organization. They help me reduce waste, and that makes me feel like I am being more responsible with what I use at home.
My empty paper towel rolls also come in handy for creative activities. I can use them for crafts, kids’ projects, cable organizers, or even as seed starters for plants. I like that something so ordinary can still have a second purpose before being recycled or discarded.
I also think keeping empty paper towel rolls is necessary because it supports a more practical and eco-friendly lifestyle. When I save and reuse them, I spend less money on small organizing tools and create less trash. For me, that makes these simple cardboard rolls more valuable than they first appear.
My Buying Guides on Empty Paper Towel Rolls
Why I Use Empty Paper Towel Rolls
I like keeping empty paper towel rolls because they are surprisingly useful around the house. I have used them for crafts, cable organization, seed starters, pet toys, and simple storage solutions. Since they are lightweight and easy to cut, I find them practical for many small projects.
What I Look for Before Buying
When I shop for empty paper towel rolls, I pay attention to a few simple things. I check the material, size, and quantity first. I also think about whether I need plain cardboard rolls for crafting or sturdier rolls for storage and organizing. For me, the right choice depends on how I plan to use them.
Material Quality
I prefer rolls made from firm cardboard because they hold shape better. If I am using them for crafts or organizers, I want them to be smooth and easy to work with. I avoid rolls that feel too soft, bent, or damaged because they do not perform well in my projects.
Size and Fit
I always check the diameter and length before buying. Some paper towel rolls are longer or wider than others, and that matters depending on the project. If I am using them for a specific craft or storage idea, I make sure the roll fits the purpose before I order.
Quantity and Value
I usually compare packs based on how many rolls I get for the price. If I know I will use them often, I prefer buying in bulk. That saves me time and money. For occasional use, a smaller pack works better for me because I do not want extra rolls taking up space.
Best Uses I Recommend
In my experience, empty paper towel rolls are great for kids’ crafts, drawer organization, gift wrapping support, cord management, and DIY home projects. I also like using them for gardening tasks such as seed starting. They are simple, low-cost, and easy to repurpose.
Storage and Handling
I store my rolls in a dry place so they stay clean and firm. If they get damp, they lose strength quickly. I also keep them stacked neatly in a box or bin so they are easy to grab when I need them.
My Final Buying Tip
If I were choosing empty paper towel rolls again, I would focus on durability, size, and how many I actually need. That way, I get rolls that are useful, affordable, and ready for whatever project I have in mind.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that empty paper towel rolls are surprisingly useful once I start looking at them as a reusable material instead of trash. My favorite part is how easy they are to turn into simple, practical projects that save money and reduce waste. In the end, keeping a few on hand gives me a quick, eco-friendly way to get creative.
Author Profile
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Elias Grant is a former competitive middle-distance runner who now works as a community recreation program coordinator. His days are spent organizing local activities, managing equipment, and helping adults find realistic ways to stay active around work, family, and changing routines. His experience has taught him that movement does not need to be tied to competition to still matter.
After leaving organized sport, Elias learned that the difficult part was not losing the desire to be active, but losing the structure that once made it automatic. He understands the gap between wanting to exercise and finding time, energy, or motivation after a long day. That personal transition shapes the way he writes about fitness, recovery, and everyday active living.
Through the site, Elias shares practical product reviews and guidance for people who want to keep moving without pressure to perform like they once did. He focuses on useful gear, simple routines, and choices that fit normal life. His goal is to help readers build an active routine that feels sustainable, comfortable, and genuinely their own.
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