Cardboard tubes are thrown away but they can be a versatile crafting material that can be turned into many useful and creative things. Whether you have tubes from paper towels, toilet paper or mailing tubes, these tubes can be repurposed in many ways. Here are some fun and innovative ideas for what to make with cardboard tubes
DIY Bird Feeder
A simple and fun project is to make a bird feeder. All you need is a cardboard tube, some peanut butter, birdseed and a piece of string. Spread peanut butter on the outside of the tube, roll it in birdseed and then hang it from a tree branch using the string. You’ll attract birds to your garden and recycle at the same time. Watching birds visit your handmade feeder can be such a joy, bringing nature to your doorstep. Plus it’s a great project to involve kids in, teaching them about wildlife and recycling.
Desk Organisers
You can also turn cardboard tubes into desk organisers to keep your workspace neat. Cut the tubes into different heights, decorate with paint or wrapping paper and glue them onto a base. Use them to store pens, pencils, scissors and other office supplies. This will declutter your desk and add some creativity. To make the organisers even more useful, label each tube with what’s inside. Then you can find what you need in a snap without digging through a pile of supplies.
Kids' Crafts and Toys
Cardboard tubes are great for kids’ crafts and toys. From telescopes and binoculars to DIY kazoos and musical instruments, the options are endless. Let kids decorate their creations with markers, stickers and paint for a fun and educational craft session. Plus crafting together is a great way to spend quality time as a family and make memories that last.
Candle Holders
Make unique candle holders with cardboard tubes. Cut the tubes to the desired height, paint or decorate them and insert small candles. Just make sure to use LED candles to avoid fire hazards. These candle holders add a rustic touch to any room. You can experiment with different decorations like wrapping the tubes in twine, adding beads or using stencils to create intricate designs. These handmade candle holders can also make great gifts for friends and family.
Gift Wrapping
Put small items like jewellery, socks or other trinkets inside the tube, then wrap it in decorative paper. Add ribbons, bows or personal messages to make it stand out. This eco-friendly wrapping is a winner. You can also customise the tubes with themes or colours to match the occasion like birthdays, holidays or anniversaries. This will make your gift more special and show you put thought into the presentation.
Pet Toys
Make simple and fun toys for your pets with cardboard tubes. For cats, cut small holes in the tube, put treats or toys inside and let them have fun getting the goodies out. For dogs you can make a treat dispenser by sealing one end of the tube, filling it with treats and letting them figure out how to get the treats out. These DIY toys provide mental stimulation and physical exercise for your pets and keep them healthy and happy. Plus using recycled materials for pet toys is a cost effective and eco friendly alternative to buying from the store.
Musical Instruments
Cardboard mailing tubes can be turned into many musical instruments, fun for kids and adults alike. Make a simple rain stick by sealing one end of a long tube, filling it with rice or beans and sealing the other end. Decorate the outside with paint or stickers and tilt the tube back and forth to mimic the sound of rain falling. Or make a drum by stretching a balloon or fabric over one end of a tube and securing it with a rubber band. These DIY instruments are great for family music sessions or as an addition to your homemade band.
Home Storage Solutions
Cardboard tubes can also be used for home storage. Use longer tubes to store wrapping paper rolls so they don’t get wrinkled or damaged. Smaller tubes can be cut into sections and used to organise cables and cords so they don’t get tangled. You can also make a custom drawer organiser by cutting tubes to the height of your drawer and arranging them in rows to create compartments for small items like jewellery or makeup. These storage solutions keep your home tidy and repurpose materials that would otherwise go to waste.
Holiday Decorations
Get into the holiday spirit by making holiday decorations from cardboard tubes. Make Christmas ornaments by cutting the tubes into rings, decorating with glitter, paint or fabric and threading a ribbon through the top to hang. Make spooky Halloween decorations by turning tubes into mini ghosts, bats or pumpkins. For Easter make tubes into egg holders or bunny figures. These handmade decorations are a personal touch to your holiday and can be reused year after year.
In Conclusion...
Cardboard mailing tubes are for more than just posting or waste; they are a craft treasure trove. From practical uses like desk organisers and pet toys to creative projects like holiday decorations and kids toys the possibilities are endless. Next time you have an empty cardboard tube think of one of these projects and give it a new life. Not only will you be reducing waste but you’ll be creating something beautiful and functional. By embracing the versatility of cardboard mailing tubes you can live more sustainably and have fun transforming simple materials into art and solutions.