Start saving your toilet paper tubes. Here are 7+ crafts you can make with your kids

It's likely the word "toilet" will elicit giggles from any young child, but fun is the name of the game when it comes to these crafts made from empty toilet paper rolls. Some steps in the projects require adult supervision or should be done by an adult, such as hot gluing and cutting (depending on the child's age).
Many of these crafts work well as projects kids can do during a birthday party or family reunion. Activity directors at nursing homes also could modify some of these projects for older crafters.
Advertisement
Owl
Add some forest creatures to a child's dresser top or bookshelf with this owl. Make a couple of extra ones and place them in a forest diorama. Despite the detail, artistic talent isn't necessary for this craft. Using different-colored construction paper results in either a realistic-looking owl or a brightly colored fantasy owl. Get the full tutorial here.
Unicorn
Any child living in a room decorated with unicorns, fairies and butterflies will love turning a cardboard tube into a colorful one-horned friend. Set the unicorn on a bedside table or desk in the child's room. White shelf liner or contact paper is the secret to making this craft a breeze and keeps little fingers from getting too messy. Get the full tutorial here.
Penguin
It's time to head for the open seas with this penguin made from a toilet paper roll. Like with the owl, different construction paper glued to the roll results in a different look; in this case, it can be a different species. Get the full tutorial here.
Tree
These trees are hypoallergenic and won't take up as much space as a Christmas tree. When holiday season approaches, use red and green paper to create a Christmas scene,or use different colors for interfaith families. Get the full tutorial here.
Butterfly
This butterfly craft goes perfectly with the unicorn, and kids will enjoy deciding which colors to make the wings. When planning a kid's birthday party, consider this project as one the guests can do while attending. Have some things done ahead of time, such as the antennae and wing shapes. Get the full tutorial here.
Pencil
Cardboard pencils make a nice addition to a child's desk. It's also something a kid could make for his or her teacher to show appreciation or mark the end of the school year. Get the full tutorial here.
Cactus
No green thumb? That's OK. This project will populate a home with cacti in no time – with no need to worry about sunlight, temperature or water conditions. Get the full tutorial here.
Advertisement
DIY Everywhere
Resources