Introduction
Empty cardboard rolls from paper towels and toilet paper don’t have to go straight into the recycling bin. With a little creativity, they can become useful organizers, playful crafts, decorations, and fun projects for kids and adults. They’re inexpensive, easy to find, and versatile enough to turn into all kinds of DIY creations.
Whether you’re looking for a rainy-day activity, a simple upcycling project, or a way to use leftover craft supplies, these cardboard roll ideas are easy to customize. Here are 15 things to make with cardboard rolls.
1. Cardboard Roll Pencil Holder
Turn a cardboard roll into a simple desk organizer.
Decorate with:
- Paint
- Colored paper
- Washi tape
- Stickers
- Ribbons
Attach the roll to a sturdy cardboard base to create a stable holder.
2. Mini Seed Starters
Cardboard rolls can be turned into small biodegradable seed-starting pots.
How to use them:
- Cut the roll into shorter sections
- Make small cuts at one end
- Fold the sections inward to create a base
- Fill with potting mix
- Add seeds
Place them in a tray to catch excess water.
3. DIY Napkin Rings
Cut cardboard rolls into smaller rings and decorate them for a table setting.
Try:
- Twine
- Fabric scraps
- Paint
- Dried flowers
- Decorative paper
4. Cardboard Roll Binoculars
Make playful pretend binoculars by joining two rolls together.
You’ll need:
- Two cardboard rolls
- Glue or tape
- String
- Paint or markers
They’re a fun craft for imaginative play.
5. Wall Art Organizer
Arrange several cardboard rolls inside a box or frame to create small compartments.
Use them for:
- Craft supplies
- Ribbons
- Cords
- Small stationery
- Beads
6. Butterfly Craft
Transform a cardboard roll into a colorful butterfly.
Add:
- Paper wings
- Pipe cleaners
- Googly eyes
- Paint
- Glitter
It’s a simple project for children.
7. DIY Cable Organizer
Keep charging cables and cords from becoming tangled by turning cardboard rolls into simple cord holders.
Label each roll with the name of the cable for easy organization.
8. Cardboard Roll Animals
Create a collection of cute animals using cardboard rolls as the bodies.
Ideas include:
- Owls
- Cats
- Lions
- Penguins
- Rabbits
Use paper, paint, markers, and craft foam to add details.
9. Homemade Stampers
Cut shapes into the end of a cardboard roll to create simple stamping tools.
Try shapes like:
- Hearts
- Flowers
- Stars
- Leaves
Dip the shaped end into washable paint and stamp onto paper.
10. Mini Gift Boxes
Fold and decorate cardboard rolls to create small gift containers.
Fill with:
- Candy
- Small toys
- Handmade notes
- Jewelry
- Tiny gifts
Wrap them with ribbon for a finished look.
11. Bird Feeder
Create a simple bird feeder by coating a cardboard roll with a suitable spread and rolling it in birdseed.
Hang it outdoors using string and place it where birds can safely access it.
12. Cardboard Roll Rockets
Turn cardboard rolls into colorful pretend rockets.
Decorate with:
- Colored paper
- Foil
- Markers
- Paper flames
- Stickers
They make a fun craft for imaginative play.
13. DIY Flower Decorations
Cut cardboard rolls into rings and arrange the pieces into flower shapes.
Finish with:
- Paint
- Buttons
- Beads
- Twine
Use them as wall decorations or handmade ornaments.
14. Desk Drawer Organizers
Cut cardboard rolls to fit inside a drawer and use them to separate small items.
Organize:
- Pens
- Hair accessories
- Makeup brushes
- Cables
- Small tools
15. Cardboard Roll Christmas Trees
Stack or cut cardboard rolls to create miniature holiday decorations.
Decorate with:
- Green paint
- Pom-poms
- Sequins
- Paper ornaments
- Star toppers
Create several different sizes for a small DIY holiday display.
Summary
Cardboard rolls are surprisingly versatile craft materials that can be reused in practical and creative ways. From pencil holders and cable organizers to seed starters, animals, decorations, and pretend-play projects, there are plenty of ways to give them a second life. Keep a small collection of clean cardboard rolls and basic craft supplies on hand, and you’ll always have an inexpensive material ready for your next DIY project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I make with empty cardboard rolls?
You can make organizers, decorations, toys, planters, gift boxes, stamps, animal crafts, and many other DIY projects.
Are cardboard roll crafts good for kids?
Yes. Many projects are suitable for children with age-appropriate supervision, especially decorating, painting, and creating simple animals or toys.
How should I prepare cardboard rolls for crafts?
Use clean, dry rolls and remove any loose paper. Avoid rolls that are wet, damaged, or contaminated.
Can cardboard rolls be used for plants?
Yes. They can work as temporary seed-starting containers, especially when placed in a tray and kept appropriately moist.
How can I decorate cardboard rolls?
Use paint, markers, colored paper, fabric scraps, stickers, washi tape, ribbons, or other craft materials.
Can cardboard rolls be recycled after crafting?
Depending on the materials added, some finished projects may no longer be suitable for paper recycling. Check your local recycling guidelines.
What basic supplies should I keep for cardboard crafts?
Scissors, glue, tape, markers, paint, colored paper, string, and a sturdy piece of cardboard can cover many simple projects.
Are cardboard roll crafts expensive?
No. The rolls themselves are usually leftover household materials, making them a budget-friendly base for DIY projects.
