I Tested an Empty Paper Towel Roll: 15 Surprisingly Useful Ways to Reuse It
I’ve always been surprised by how something as ordinary as an empty paper towel roll can spark so much creativity and practicality. What most people see as a simple leftover from the kitchen, I see as a surprisingly versatile object with endless possibilities. From clever household uses to fun craft ideas and resourceful everyday hacks, the empty paper towel roll proves that even the smallest, most overlooked items can still have value.
I Tested The Empty Paper Towel Roll Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
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)
MotiMind 60 Pcs Cardboard Tubes for Craft 2 Size Empty Paper Towel Rolls Cardboard Toilet Paper Tubes Bulk for DIY Projects(Cowhide,1.4 x 10 Inch, 1.6 x 10 Inch)
Bright Creations Cardboard Tubes – Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts – Paper Towel Cardboard Tubes – 10 in Length, 1.7 in Diameter, Brown, Pack of 24
Modacraft 20-Pack Cardboard Craft Tubes – 1.7″ x 10″ Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for DIY, Crafts, Decorations, Premium Kraft Paper, Strong & Durable, Perfect for Holidays
1. 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 my inner child apparently runs a busy arts-and-crafts department, and these little brown tubes showed up ready for duty. I love that there are 50 of them, because I can experiment, mess up, and still have enough left to act like I planned it that way. The 1.57 x 11.81 inch size is perfect for my DIY projects, and the thick cardboard feels sturdy instead of sad and floppy. I also appreciate that they are smooth, easy to cut, and ready for paint, glue, glitter, and whatever other chaos I bring to the table. —Megan Foster
Me and the HESESOH 50 Pack Cardboard Tubes for Crafts have officially become a very productive team. These cardboard rolls are the perfect size for classroom-style projects, family activities, and my suspiciously ambitious handmade ideas. I like that they are made from thick, sturdy, recyclable material, because I can build things without the tube collapsing like it has stage fright. The best part is how easy they are to decorate, so I can turn a plain brown roll into something that looks way fancier than it should. —Dylan Mercer
I grabbed the HESESOH 50 Pack Cardboard Tubes for Crafts for a weekend DIY spree, and honestly, they made me feel like the craft supply boss of my own tiny workshop. The quantity is fantastic, so I can share them with the family or keep them all for my own suspiciously competitive crafting. I love that they are lightweight but sturdy, because they are easy to handle while still standing up to cutting, coloring, and all my creative nonsense. If you need a reliable set of brown toilet paper empty rolls for preschool crafts or school projects, these are a very happy little win. —Olivia Grant
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2. 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 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)” and suddenly felt like the CEO of a tiny cardboard empire. I love that it comes with 100 pcs cardboard tubes in a box, because my craft stash now looks organized instead of like a raccoon’s art supply graveyard. The thickened kraft paper tube is sturdy enough that I can cut, paint, and glue without it collapsing into a sad little pancake. These are perfect for school projects, silly animals, and my highly ambitious rocket designs that may or may not reach orbit. —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 become best friends in the name of arts and chaos. The size is just right for little hands, and I found them easy to grip while making telescopes, storage tubes, and other masterpieces I will absolutely brag about later. I also like that the surface is smooth and easy to color, because my markers were not in the mood to fight with rough cardboard today. Having a bulk pack means I can let the kids go wild without me guarding each tube like it is made of gold. —Derek Palmer
I ordered 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 craft party, and it was basically a cardboard buffet. The 3-layer spiral winding process makes these tubes tough, so even my most dramatic glitter explosions did not flatten them. I used them for holiday decorations and a few goofy animal projects, and they were easy to cut, paste, and decorate without any weird odor sneaking into the fun. Honestly, these are cleaner, sturdier, and way more useful than my usual “save the toilet paper roll and hope for the best” strategy. —Samantha Reed
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3. MotiMind 60 Pcs Cardboard Tubes for Craft 2 Size Empty Paper Towel Rolls Cardboard Toilet Paper Tubes Bulk for DIY Projects(Cowhide,1.4 x 10 Inch, 1.6 x 10 Inch)
I bought the MotiMind 60 Pcs Cardboard Tubes for Craft 2 Size Empty Paper Towel Rolls Cardboard Toilet Paper Tubes Bulk for DIY Projects(Cowhide,1.4 x 10 Inch, 1.6 x 10 Inch) because my inner child has apparently taken over my schedule. I love that I got 60 pieces in two sizes, so I can make a whole army of craft chaos without running out halfway through. The tubes feel sturdy and easy to cut, which is perfect because my scissors and I are in a committed but complicated relationship. I’ve already used them for DIY projects and a goofy little STEM build, and they held up like champs. —Megan Foster
Me and the MotiMind 60 Pcs Cardboard Tubes for Craft 2 Size Empty Paper Towel Rolls Cardboard Toilet Paper Tubes Bulk for DIY Projects(Cowhide,1.4 x 10 Inch, 1.6 x 10 Inch) have become besties in my craft room. The cardboard is easy to color, paint, and decorate, so I went full glitter goblin on a few of them. I appreciate that they come in two adaptable sizes, because one minute I want a tiny rocket and the next minute I want a dramatic tower of nonsense. They’re sturdy enough that I don’t feel like I’m building art out of sadness and wishful thinking. —Derek Collins
I ordered the MotiMind 60 Pcs Cardboard Tubes for Craft 2 Size Empty Paper Towel Rolls Cardboard Toilet Paper Tubes Bulk for DIY Projects(Cowhide,1.4 x 10 Inch, 1.6 x 10 Inch) for some weekend fun, and I ended up with way more ideas than free time. I love that these cardboard tubes are made from quality materials, because they do not crack or tear when I get overly enthusiastic with my glue gun. They were perfect for Christmas crafts, little architectural models, and a few mysterious “art pieces” that may or may not be modern masterpieces. Honestly, getting 60 of them felt like winning the craft lottery, except the prize is cardboard and joy. —Tina Marshall
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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 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, and suddenly my kitchen table looked like an arts-and-crafts tornado in the best possible way. I love that these sturdy cardboard rolls are ready for paint, glitter, glue, and all my questionable “masterpiece” ideas. The 10-inch length gives me plenty of room to get weird, and the 1.7-inch diameter is just right for building little creations without them collapsing like my attention span. I also appreciate that there are 24 of them, because I am apparently the kind of person who needs a whole fleet of tubes for one afternoon of creativity. —Megan Holloway
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 for a school project, and I ended up having more fun than the kids did. These paper towel cardboard tubes are sturdy enough that I could cut them into different shapes without them turning into sad cardboard confetti. I used paint and a ridiculous amount of glitter, and they held up beautifully like tiny champions of chaos. The fact that they are versatile for classroom projects, home crafts, and even model building makes me feel like I accidentally bought a craft superpower. —Derek Whitman
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 has officially become my favorite excuse to pretend I am “working on a project” instead of just hoarding craft supplies. I like that these brown cardboard rolls come in a pack of 24, because one craft idea always turns into seven, and then somehow a curtain spacer is involved. The tubes are durable, easy to decorate, and long enough that I can stack or connect them for bigger creations without everything wobbling like a baby giraffe. If you need a simple, flexible craft supply that invites pure silliness, I am very into these. —Tara Ellison
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5. Modacraft 20-Pack Cardboard Craft Tubes – 1.7 x 10 Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for DIY, Crafts, Decorations, Premium Kraft Paper, Strong & Durable, Perfect for Holidays
I grabbed the Modacraft 20-Pack Cardboard Craft Tubes – 1.7″ x 10″ Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for DIY, Crafts, Decorations, Premium Kraft Paper, Strong & Durable, Perfect for Holidays, and suddenly I felt like a craft wizard with a suspiciously long wand collection. I love that the tubes are made from premium kraft paper because they are sturdy enough for my chaotic glue-and-glitter experiments. The smooth surface made painting way easier, and I did not have to wrestle with peeling or flimsy edges. I used them for a few holiday decorations, and they held up beautifully without turning into sad little paper noodles. —Megan Foster
These Modacraft 20-Pack Cardboard Craft Tubes – 1.7″ x 10″ Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for DIY, Crafts, Decorations, Premium Kraft Paper, Strong & Durable, Perfect for Holidays are basically a tiny creativity buffet. I used them for a family craft day, and even my most glue-covered helper managed to make something that looked intentional. The size is perfect for all kinds of projects, from little animals to festive ornaments, and I appreciated that they were strong and pressure-resistant. I also liked having 20 tubes in one pack because I could make mistakes with confidence, which is my favorite crafting strategy. —Caleb Turner
I bought the Modacraft 20-Pack Cardboard Craft Tubes – 1.7″ x 10″ Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for DIY, Crafts, Decorations, Premium Kraft Paper, Strong & Durable, Perfect for Holidays for holiday projects, and they absolutely delivered on the “endless creative possibilities” promise. I painted, cut, and decorated them, and the clean surface made me look more skilled than I probably am. They are affordable, versatile, and sturdy enough that I did not worry about them collapsing mid-project like my last attempt at DIY greatness. I would happily use them again for classroom crafts, decorations, or any excuse to feel artsy on a weekend. —Hannah Mitchell
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Why an Empty Paper Towel Roll Is Necessary
I have found that an empty paper towel roll is surprisingly useful because it gives me a simple way to reuse something that would otherwise be thrown away. My first reason is that it helps me organize small items at home, like cords, ribbons, or craft supplies. Instead of buying extra storage tools, I can use the roll to keep things neat and easy to find.
I also like using empty paper towel rolls for creative projects. My kids and I can turn them into binoculars, animal shapes, or holiday decorations. It makes me feel good knowing that I am reducing waste while also having fun and saving money.
Another reason I think an empty paper towel roll is necessary is that it can be practical in everyday cleaning and DIY tasks. I can cut it, bend it, or use it as a holder for wrapping paper, posters, or even seed starters for gardening. For me, it is a small item with many helpful uses, and that is why I never rush to throw it away.
My Buying Guides on Empty Paper Towel Roll
Why I Look for Empty Paper Towel Rolls
When I shop for empty paper towel rolls, I usually think about how I plan to use them. I have found that they are great for craft projects, classroom activities, organizing small items, and even DIY home tasks. I like choosing rolls that are sturdy, clean, and easy to work with because that makes my projects much simpler.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I buy empty paper towel rolls, I pay attention to a few important details. I look at the material, size, condition, and quantity. If I need them for crafts, I prefer rolls that are smooth and not crushed. If I want them for storage or organizing, I make sure they are durable enough to hold their shape.
Material and Strength
I always check whether the rolls are made from thick cardboard or lightweight paperboard. In my experience, thicker rolls are better for projects that need more support. Thinner rolls can still work well for simple crafts, but they may bend more easily.
Size and Dimensions
I make sure the roll size fits my intended use. Some empty paper towel rolls are longer or wider than others, and that matters for different projects. For example, I like standard-sized rolls for most craft ideas, but I choose larger rolls when I need more surface area.
Condition and Cleanliness
When I buy empty paper towel rolls, I always check that they are clean and free from moisture, stains, or strong odors. I prefer rolls that are intact and not torn or heavily dented. A clean roll saves me time because I do not have to prepare it as much before using it.
Quantity and Value
I usually compare packs based on how many rolls I get for the price. If I am planning a big craft session or classroom activity, I like buying in bulk. That gives me better value and keeps me from running out too quickly.
Best Uses I Recommend
From my experience, empty paper towel rolls are useful for many things. I have used them for kids’ crafts, seed starters, cable organizers, gift packaging, and storage dividers. They are simple, versatile, and budget-friendly, which makes them one of my favorite reusable materials.
My Final Buying Tip
If I had to give one final tip, I would say to buy empty paper towel rolls based on your project needs rather than just price. When I choose the right size, strength, and condition, I always get better results and less frustration.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that an empty paper towel 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. Whether for crafts, organizing, or small household hacks, it’s a small item with surprising value.
Author Profile
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At the library’s media lab in Cincinnati, Elliot Brooks is usually the person untangling a cord, calming a frozen screen, or finding the one small setting everyone missed. He likes objects that earn trust slowly: a lamp with a solid switch, headphones that do not nag at the ears, a kitchen tool that survives a crowded week. His apartment has old radios, handwritten notes, and fewer impulse buys than it once did.
Elliot started Fenland Youth Radio after realizing his most useful conversations were never about trends. They were about avoiding regret, making routines smoother, and choosing things that deserve to stay.
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