This little outdoor wine holder is one of those projects I love because it uses simple supplies and turns them into something surprisingly charming. By crocheting thick burgundy yarn around a plastic toilet paper holder tube and gluing it onto a wooden base, you get a sturdy cup-style holder that’s just right for a wine glass, canned drink, or even a bundle of napkins for a late-summer patio table.
As someone who is always trying to make our porch dinners feel a bit more special without spending much, I’m especially fond of this project. It’s beginner-friendly if you’re comfortable with basic crochet stitches, and it’s a fun afternoon make for anyone who likes practical décor with a handmade touch.
Materials
1 plastic toilet paper holder tube, about 4 inches tall and 1 3/4 inches in diameter
Instructions
1. Lightly sand the top, bottom, and edges of the wooden base until smooth, then wipe away dust with a dry cloth.
2. Measure the height and circumference of the plastic tube so you know how large to make your crocheted cover; for most holders, a snug rectangle about 4 inches tall works well.
3. Crochet a foundation chain wide enough to match the tube’s circumference, then join carefully and work in single crochet rounds until the piece reaches the same height as the tube.
4. Slip the crocheted sleeve over the plastic tube and adjust it so the stitches sit evenly; it should be snug without bulging or slipping.
5. If needed, add or remove a round so the crochet cover lines up neatly with both the top and bottom edges of the tube.
6. Run a thin line of hot glue near the top edge of the plastic tube and press the crochet fabric into place a few inches at a time.
7. Repeat with the bottom edge, gluing the crochet cover neatly so it stays smooth and secure around the tube.
8. Apply a generous ring of hot glue to the bottom of the covered tube and set it centered on the wooden base, pressing straight down for 20 to 30 seconds.
9. Let the glue cool completely, then gently test the bond by wiggling the holder; add a little extra glue around the seam if anything feels loose.
10. If you’d like, seal only the wooden base with a light coat of outdoor-safe clear sealer and let it dry fully before use.
11. Place the finished holder on a flat outdoor table and test it with a wine glass, tumbler, or can to make sure it sits securely and upright.
Variations & Tips
For beginners: If crocheting in joined rounds feels tricky, make a simple rectangle in single crochet, wrap it around the tube, and seam the sides together before gluing.
For picky color preferences: Burgundy gives this a lovely late-summer look, but mustard, olive, navy, or cream can blend beautifully with different porch or patio styles.
For better stability: Choose a heavier wooden base or a base closer to 6 inches wide if you plan to hold a stemmed wine glass outdoors where tables may wobble a bit.
For cleaner edges: I like to keep my final crochet round a touch tighter than the others so the cover hugs the tube nicely and doesn’t flare at the ends.
For outdoor use: This holder is best for dry weather and short-term outdoor entertaining; bring it inside after use since yarn can absorb moisture over time.
For family table use: If wine isn’t what you’re serving, this same holder works nicely for sparkling water cans, rolled utensils, or even a handful of paper straws at a cookout.
For a polished finish: Add clear rubber dots under the wood base to help protect your table and keep the holder from sliding around.