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Spare toilet paper rolls cluttering a bathroom can feel untidy. With a few common supplies and an old plastic lid, you can make a chic, functional toilet paper holder. This easy DIY upcycle keeps rolls off the floor, adds texture to the room, and uses materials you probably already have.
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Small bathrooms benefit from clever storage. A handmade holder built from a large plastic lid solves two problems at once: it organizes spare rolls and adds a crafted accent to the space. It’s eco-friendly, budget-friendly, and simple to customize to match tiles, paint, or existing accessories.
- Prevents rolls from touching the floor.
- Uses recycled materials and basic tools.
- Customizable in color, texture, and size.
- Portable — no drilling required unless you prefer wall mounting.
Materials, measurements, and tool tips
Before you start, gather supplies and check dimensions. Toilet paper rolls vary, so choose a lid with a slightly larger diameter than your roll.
- Large plastic lid from a jar or storage container — aim for a diameter a bit wider than a roll (most rolls reach 5 inches).
- Thin wooden dowels for vertical supports (several pieces).
- A thicker dowel or a narrow cardboard tube for the center axle.
- Thick rope, twine, or chunky yarn for weaving.
- Strong adhesive like hot glue or a craft glue suited to plastic and wood.
- Optional: leather strips, ribbon, beads, fabric for trim and lid.
- Tools: marker, drill or soldering iron to make holes, scissors, sandpaper.
Safety tip: Work in a ventilated area if you melt plastic. Wear eye protection and gloves when drilling or heating.
How to build the holder: simple step-by-step guide
- Trace and mark dowel positions around the top rim of the lid. Leave a gap for a dispensing opening.
- Use a drill or heated tool to create holes at the marks. Make them snug so the dowels stand upright.
- Insert the thin dowels into the holes and secure them underneath with hot glue.
- Attach the end of your rope or twine to the base of the first dowel with glue.
- Weave the cord back and forth around each dowel, building upward row by row.
- Add edge trim: glue a ribbon, leather strip, or fabric along the top and bottom for a finished look.
- Install the center axle: a covered cardboard tube or thicker dowel keeps the roll stable while allowing it to spin.
- Optional lid: cut a cardboard circle slightly larger than the holder’s top, cover it in fabric, and add a small handle or bead.
Pro tip: Skip rigid leather if you want a softer look. Use cotton rope or wool yarn for a cozy, handmade feel.
Weaving patterns and decorative finishes
You don’t need a complicated pattern to make the holder attractive. Try these ideas:
- Simple horizontal rows of cord for a clean, modern look.
- Zigzag or basket weave for texture and visual interest.
- Add beads or small knots along the top row as accents.
- Paint or stain the dowels before inserting them for a coordinated palette.
Mix materials to match your bathroom: burlap, linen, or faux leather can change the tone quickly.
Design variations and placement ideas for small bathrooms
This project is flexible. You can adapt it for extra storage, wall mounting, or travel use.
- Stack two holders vertically for extra rolls on a shelf.
- Create a version with an open side so the roll dispenses easily.
- Make a wall-hanging model by adding small hooks to the lid rim.
- Use waterproof rope and sealed finishes for humid bathrooms.
Place the finished holder on a vanity, toilet tank, or a guest bathroom shelf. It’s small enough to tuck into corners and attractive enough to display.
