How to Make a Pencil Holder from a Toilet Roll

Transforming a humble toilet roll into a stylish pencil holder might seem like a daunting task, but with a little creativity and some simple craft supplies, you can upcycle this common household item into a functional and attractive desk accessory. Not only is this project eco-friendly, but it's also a fantastic way to add a personal touch to your workspace. Let's dive into the step-by-step process of creating a unique pencil holder using a toilet roll.

Before you begin, gather your materials. You'll need an empty toilet roll, some acrylic paint, a paintbrush, a pencil, a ruler, a craft knife, a cutting mat, a hot glue gun and glue sticks, and some decorative materials like washi tape, stickers, or fabric. Once you have everything ready, let's get started!

Preparing the Toilet Roll

The first step in creating your pencil holder is to prepare the toilet roll. Start by flattening the roll using a ruler and a craft knife. Be careful while doing this, as you don't want to cut yourself. Once the roll is flat, use the craft knife to cut it into four equal sections. This will give you the base for your pencil holder.

Next, decide on the height of your pencil holder. Mark this measurement on the inside of each section using a pencil and ruler. Then, use the craft knife to cut along the marked line, creating an opening for your pencils. Be sure to leave some space at the bottom for the pencils to rest on.

Decorating the Toilet Roll

Now that your toilet roll sections are prepared, it's time to add some personality with decoration. Acrylic paint is a great option for this project, as it's easy to use and comes in a wide variety of colors. Choose a color that complements your workspace, or go for a bold hue to make a statement.

Using a paintbrush, apply a thin layer of paint to the outside of each section. Allow the paint to dry completely before applying a second coat. If you want a more distressed look, you can sand the edges of the sections lightly with fine-grit sandpaper after the paint has dried.

Adding Decorative Elements

Once your paint is dry, it's time to add some decorative elements to your pencil holder. Washi tape is a great option for this, as it comes in a variety of patterns and colors, and it's easy to apply. Simply measure and cut the tape to fit around the sections, then stick it in place.

You can also use stickers, fabric, or other embellishments to personalize your pencil holder. If you're using fabric, cut it to size and hot glue it to the outside of the sections. For stickers, simply peel and stick them in place. The possibilities are endless!

Assembling the Pencil Holder

Now that your sections are decorated, it's time to assemble your pencil holder. Start by applying a line of hot glue along the edge of one section. Then, attach another section to it, creating a cylinder shape. Hold the sections in place for a few seconds to allow the glue to set.

Continue this process until all four sections are attached, creating a tall, cylindrical pencil holder. Allow the glue to dry completely before using your new accessory. If you'd like, you can add a final touch by hot gluing a decorative element, like a button or a piece of ribbon, to the top of the pencil holder.

Using Your New Pencil Holder

Now that your toilet roll pencil holder is complete, it's time to put it to use. Place it on your desk or workspace, and start filling it with your favorite pens, pencils, and markers. Not only is this pencil holder functional, but it's also a great conversation starter. People will be amazed that you created such a stylish accessory from a simple toilet roll.

One of the best things about this project is that it's easily customizable. You can create multiple pencil holders in different colors and patterns to match your workspace or give them as gifts to friends and family. With a little creativity and some simple craft supplies, you can transform a humble toilet roll into a truly unique and functional piece of art.

So go ahead, give it a try, and watch as your toilet roll pencil holder becomes the star of your workspace. Happy crafting!