How to Make Binoculars from Toilet Roll Tubes

Last Updated: October 21, 2021

What better for the little birdwatcher or spy in your life than a pair of play binoculars? Whether they make these on their own (highly encouraged) or you make them yourself for playtime, these cheap and cheerful toys will amuse for hours.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:
Preparing the Cellophane Ends

1
Cut two squares of yellow cellophane. The squares need to be large enough to cover the ends of the toilet roll tubes.
2
Tape each square over one end of each toilet roll tube. Be neat and cover all of the hole.

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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:
Covering the Tubes and Cork

1
Cut the colored paper into rectangles. The paper must be long and wide enough to fit around the toilet tubes.
- Also cut a piece of paper in the same color to fit around the cork.
2
Paint the end of the cork black.
3
Paint the glue over the cork piece of paper. Roll this around the cork neatly. Let dry.
- Paint or mark black lines around this piece of paper, to represent the winder mechanism of real binoculars.
4
Paint the glue over the tube pieces of paper. Roll this paper around each tube neatly, covering up the edges of the cellophane that were taped down the sides. Let dry.
5
Stick a circle of black tape around the cellophane end of each tube. This highlights the "lens" end and makes the binoculars seem more realistic.

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Method 3

Method 3 of 3:
Assembling the Binoculars

1
Run a line of glue down one edge of one tube. Gently press this against the edge of the other tube. Align both tubes together precisely; they are now forming the body of the binoculars.
- Place a rubber band around both of the tubes to keep in place while they dry together.
2
Add the cork piece. Run a line of glue along each flattened edge of the cork. Then insert the cork in the valley join of the two toilet roll tubes, at the end opposite to the cellophane lenses. Let dry.
3
Thread the neck loop in place. Cut the string/cord or other material long enough to go around the neck and hang freely. To attach:
- Poke two holes through the side ends of the back of the binoculars.
- Thread through one end of the string or cord and tie a knot to keep it intact. Do the same for the other side, completing the loop.
4
Done! It's now time to send your little explorer outside to go and spot wild animals or spy on the insect world!

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Community Q&A

Question

How can I use aluminum foil if I can't see through it when making binoculars from toilet roll tubes?

Community Answer

You could wrap it around the base of the binoculars and then glue the foil in place.
Question

What is the purpose of this?

Community Answer

To make binoculars for a child to play with so you don't have to buy real binoculars, which are expensive.
Question

Can I use aluminum foil instead of cellophane?

Community Answer

Yes. That will work.
Question

Can these be used for stargazing?

Community Answer

Yes, although telescopes are generally preferable for stargazing because they can zoom further and provide better views.
Question

What else can I use instead of cellophane when making binoculars from toilet roll tubes?

Community Answer

You can use plastic wrap, tape, or wax paper to make the lenses of the binoculars.

Things You'll Need

Two toilet roll tubes
1 wine cork, edges cut off lengthways
Colored paper to cover the rolls (color of choice but camouflage style colors are best for intrepid explorers or jungle ramblers)
Scrap pieces of yellow cellophane
Black tape
Clear tape
Black/dark string/cord/ribbon/etc. to make the neck loop
Scissors
Glue
Black paint and paintbrush
Rubber band