How to Make Toilet Paper Roll Art

Last Updated: October 8, 2020

Believe it or not you can create beautiful three-dimensional artwork using empty toilet paper rolls, glue and some paint. Create this 3-D flower art work for your walls or give away as a gift--no one will be the wiser that you fashioned it from a toilet paper roll!

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:
Find Supplies

1
Collect enough toilet paper rolls to create your design. You will be cutting the roll to create oval circles that will be joined together to create a flower shape. Generally you can cut approximately six circles from one roll so determine the project size when gathering rolls.
2
Rummage around for hair pins or small clips. You will need to temporarily hold your rings together while the glue dries so procuring approximately four to six clips is a good idea.
3
Grab a pair of extremely sharp scissors. You don’t want jagged or ripped edges, so go for the super sharp pair (or sewing scissors).
4
Purchase spray paint and Tacky Glue to hold and cover your piece. The Tacky Glue will be used to glue the rolls together. Once the sculpture has dried you will spray the entire piece with spray paint so select a color that will compliment your decor.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:
Create Sculpture

1
Cut toilet paper roll into small ovals. For best results, pre-measure the toilet roll and mark where you will cut. Consider marking each roll before cutting to expedite the process.
2
Join one oval to another oval with glue and a hair pin. Hold the two ovals together with your thumb and index finger and then add a dab of Tacky Glue between the two.
- Slide a hair clip over the ovals and hold until completely dry.
3
Repeat the process where you join two ovals together, glue and pin together until the glue has dried.
4
Join the two sets of ovals together to form a flower shape. Place a dab of glue along the base of each set and pin together. Hold and allow to dry.
5
Join additional ovals to the original flower, creating more flowers and petals by using only one oval.
- Add flourish to the ends of the sculpture by cutting one oval in half. Run the side of your scissors along the inside of the roll to create a small curl. Attach the rounded edge to the sculpture and allow the curl to hang off the side.
6
Lay completed sculpture on several sheets of newspaper in a well ventilated area. Allow sculpture to dry overnight.
7
Apply spray paint to the sculpture. Coat the sides and insides of the ovals with paint and consider applying two coats.
- Allow for ample dry time before hanging sculpture. Check the paint can directions for appropriate time.
8
Finished.

Community Q&A

Question

How can I hang toilet paper rolls on the wall?

Community Answer

You can use tape or command strips to hold the rolls on the wall. You can also check craft stores or websites to find step-by-step instructions for how you can hang the toilet paper rolls on the wall.
Question

What is the best glue to adhere toilet paper rolls?

Community Answer

You should use a hot glue gun because the hot glue is strong, but if you don't have that, just try to use any liquid glue you have. Avoid glue sticks, they don't stick that well.
Question

How do I hang toilet paper roll art on the wall?

Community Answer

You can use a tacky removable adhesive suitable for posters.
Question

Can I use acrylic paint and brush it on?

Community Answer

Yes, but try not to brush too hard. It also depends how much paint you use, how thick your brush is, and how heavy the paint is.