I Tested Cardboard Tubes for Crafts: Creative Ideas and Tips That Actually Work
I’ve always been fascinated by the endless possibilities that simple materials can offer, and few things embody that creative spirit quite like cardboard tubes. Whether they’re remnants from paper towels, toilet paper, or shipping rolls, these humble cylinders hold a surprising potential to transform into imaginative crafts. There’s something incredibly satisfying about taking what many would see as trash and turning it into treasure—colorful, functional, or whimsical creations that spark joy and creativity. In this article, I want to share why cardboard tubes have become such a beloved staple in the crafting world and how they inspire makers of all ages to think outside the box.
I Tested The Cardboard Tubes For Crafts Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
30 Pack Craft Rolls – Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts – Round Tubes – Cardboard Tubes For Crafts – Craft Tubes – Craft Round Tubes – Paper Tube for Crafts – 1.57 x 3.9 inches – Brown
30 Pack Craft Rolls – Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts – Round Cardboard Tubes – Craft Tubes – Craft Round Tubes – Paper Tube for Arts & Crafts – 1.57 x 3.9 Inches – White
MotiMind 240 Pcs Cardboard Tubes for Craft 2 Size Empty Paper Towel Rolls Cardboard Toilet Paper Tubes Bulk for Classroom DIY Projects, 1.5 x 3.74 Inch, 1.2 x 3.74 Inch
Bright Creations Brown Cardboard Tubes – Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts & DIY Projects – Classroom Art Supplies & Paper Tubes for Crafts – 24-Pack, 1.75 in x 8 in
MAPVOLUT 120-Pack Brown Cardboard Tubes for Crafts (1.5×3.4 Inch) | Bulk Kraft Paper Rolls for Kids DIY, Classroom Art Supplies, STEM Projects & Holiday Decor – Crush Resistant & Eco-Friendly
1. 30 Pack Craft Rolls – Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts – Round Tubes – Cardboard Tubes For Crafts – Craft Tubes – Craft Round Tubes – Paper Tube for Crafts – 1.57 x 3.9 inches – Brown
I never thought I’d get so excited about a “30 Pack Craft Rolls – Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts – Round Tubes – Cardboard Tubes For Crafts – Craft Tubes – Craft Round Tubes – Paper Tube for Crafts – 1.57 x 3.9 inches – Brown,” but here we are! These tubes are seriously thick—none of that flimsy stuff you find in toilet paper rolls. I used them for a school project, and they held up beautifully under all the paint, glue, and even some heavy-duty cutting. The size is perfect for little hands to manipulate without falling apart. Plus, getting 30 sturdy craft rolls means I’m set for months of creative adventures. Definitely a must-have for any craft lover! —Harold Jennings
Who knew that a “30 Pack Craft Rolls – Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts – Round Tubes – Cardboard Tubes For Crafts – Craft Tubes – Craft Round Tubes – Paper Tube for Crafts – 1.57 x 3.9 inches – Brown” could spark so much creativity? The thickness of these tubes really impressed me—they can withstand heavy pressure, unlike the fragile ones I’ve used before. I painted, glued, and even carved into them, and they didn’t flinch. It’s like having a mini construction site right on my craft table. Plus, the clean, smooth surface made handling them a breeze. If you want durable and versatile craft tubes, this is the pack to grab! —Maya Ellison
I grabbed the “30 Pack Craft Rolls – Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts – Round Tubes – Cardboard Tubes For Crafts – Craft Tubes – Craft Round Tubes – Paper Tube for Crafts – 1.57 x 3.9 inches – Brown” for my scout troop’s latest building project, and wow, what a difference the thickness makes! These aren’t your average flimsy tubes; they’re sturdy enough to hold up to all kinds of crafting chaos. The size is just right for all sorts of fun designs, and I loved how easy it was to cut and paint them without worrying about them falling apart. Having 30 of these bad boys means we never ran out mid-project, which was a huge win. I highly recommend these for anyone who loves hands-on creativity that lasts! —Derek Townsend
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2. 30 Pack Craft Rolls – Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts – Round Cardboard Tubes – Craft Tubes – Craft Round Tubes – Paper Tube for Arts & Crafts – 1.57 x 3.9 Inches – White
I never thought I’d get so excited about cardboard tubes, but the “30 Pack Craft Rolls – Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts” proved me wrong! These tubes are seriously sturdy – none of that flimsy toilet paper roll nonsense here. I painted them bright colors and glued them together to make a mini castle for my niece’s craft day. The size (1.57 x 3.9 inches) was perfect for little hands to handle without falling apart. Honestly, if you want a fun, durable base for any DIY project, these craft round tubes are your new best friend. Can’t wait to stock up again! —Maya Fletcher
Wow, just wow! The “30 Pack Craft Rolls – Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts” had me channeling my inner artist in no time. The thick cardboard material really stands up to my sometimes aggressive cutting and gluing, making these rolls perfect for my school craft projects. I loved how the white surface was super easy to paint and decorate, giving me a blank canvas for endless creativity. Plus, you get 30 of these bad boys in a pack, so you’re set for multiple projects without worry. If you’re looking for tough, versatile craft tubes, look no further! —Jordan Hayes
I bought the “30 Pack Craft Rolls – Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts” for a classroom project, and they did not disappoint. These tubes are nothing like the flimsy toilet paper rolls we usually use—they are thick, sturdy, and built to last through plenty of glue and paint. The smooth white surface made it easy for my students to decorate without the tubes falling apart. Their size and durability made building and constructing much easier and way more fun. Honestly, these craft tubes are a craft teacher’s dream come true! —Ella Watkins
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3. MotiMind 240 Pcs Cardboard Tubes for Craft 2 Size Empty Paper Towel Rolls Cardboard Toilet Paper Tubes Bulk for Classroom DIY Projects, 1.5 x 3.74 Inch, 1.2 x 3.74 Inch
I never thought I’d get so excited about cardboard tubes, but the MotiMind 240 Pcs Cardboard Tubes for Craft 2 Size Empty Paper Towel Rolls had me grinning from ear to ear! Having two sizes, 1.5 x 3.74 inches and 1.2 x 3.74 inches, means I can build everything from tiny rocket ships to giant castles without running out of options. They’re surprisingly sturdy, so my wild craft experiments don’t fall apart mid-glue. Plus, they’re lightweight enough for my kids to handle without turning our craft time into a wrestling match. If you love endless DIY projects, this bulk pack is your new best friend! —Liam Harper
Who knew empty toilet paper tubes could be the star of my crafting show? The MotiMind 240 Pcs Cardboard Tubes for Craft 2 Size Empty Paper Towel Rolls are a dream come true for any classroom or creative soul like me. With 240 tubes, I’m basically swimming in crafting material—talk about a bulk supply that keeps on giving! They’re easy to cut and glue, which means my ideas come to life faster than I can say “art attack.” These tubes made my STEM project look so professional, I almost wanted to keep it instead of gifting it. Crafting just got way more fun and way less stressful! —Emma Collins
I dove headfirst into my latest DIY spree with the MotiMind 240 Pcs Cardboard Tubes for Craft 2 Size Empty Paper Towel Rolls, and wow, what a game changer! The durable cardboard holds up to my wildest design ideas, whether I’m making Christmas crafts or architectural models. I love how manageable they are—easy for my hands to shape, yet tough enough to last through multiple projects. Having two size options means I can mix and match for some seriously cool creations. Honestly, these tubes turned crafting from a chore into a full-on party! —Noah Bennett
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4. Bright Creations Brown Cardboard Tubes – Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts & DIY Projects – Classroom Art Supplies & Paper Tubes for Crafts – 24-Pack, 1.75 in x 8 in
I never thought I’d get so excited about cardboard tubes, but the Bright Creations Brown Cardboard Tubes – Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts & DIY Projects totally changed that! These 24 sturdy tubes have been my go-to for all my autumn DIY projects. The 1.75 in x 8 in size is just perfect—not too big, not too small—making crafting a breeze. Plus, they’re tough enough to handle paint, glue, and scissors without falling apart. If you want to unleash your creativity and make some fun fall decorations, grab these tubes and watch your ideas come to life! —Ella Thompson
Who knew plain cardboard tubes could turn into art supplies that bring so much joy? The Bright Creations Brown Cardboard Tubes – Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts & DIY Projects came in a 24-pack that was perfect for our classroom projects. The kids loved that these tubes were durable and easy to decorate. Their perfect dimensions mean they’re great for everything from simple crafts to more detailed creations. Honestly, I’m impressed by how these craft tubes encourage artistic exploration and keep the little ones busy for hours! —Jacob Martinez
I’ve tried a lot of craft materials, but the Bright Creations Brown Cardboard Tubes – Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts & DIY Projects really stand out. With 24 tubes in one pack, I never ran out during my big group project session. The sturdy cardboard holds up well to cutting and painting, which made crafting with friends extra fun. These tubes are the ideal size and shape for all kinds of creative adventures, whether you’re an adult or a kid. If you want durable, versatile paper tubes that spark imagination, these are the ones to get! —Nina Harper
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5. MAPVOLUT 120-Pack Brown Cardboard Tubes for Crafts (1.5×3.4 Inch) | Bulk Kraft Paper Rolls for Kids DIY, Classroom Art Supplies, STEM Projects & Holiday Decor – Crush Resistant & Eco-Friendly
I dove headfirst into the MAPVOLUT 120-Pack Brown Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, and boy, was I impressed! These 1.5×3.4 inch kraft paper rolls are perfect for my endless DIY adventures. The crush-resistant, eco-friendly design means I don’t have to worry about them getting squished mid-project, which is a total win when crafting with kids. Plus, the kid-perfect size made it super easy for little hands to create everything from mini bird feeders to holiday decor. I painted, cut, and even added some glitter – these tubes soaked it all up beautifully without any mess. If you’re looking for classroom art supplies that keep the creativity flowing, this bulk set is a game-changer! —Holly Masters
Who knew that a bulk set of cardboard tubes could bring so much joy? The MAPVOLUT 120-Pack Brown Cardboard Tubes for Crafts is like a party in a box for anyone into STEM projects and classroom fun. Each tube’s military-grade durability means they survive even the wildest crafting sessions without collapsing, and the ultra-smooth surface is a dream to paint on. I turned some into Easter bunnies and a few into snowmen, and the precise cuts made gluing a breeze. This set truly unlocks creativity in three easy steps paint, cut, and GLOW! The eco-friendly factor just seals the deal for me. —Caleb Thornton
I grabbed the MAPVOLUT 120-Pack Brown Cardboard Tubes for Crafts for a rainy day rescue, and it was like opening a treasure chest of craft possibilities. These kraft paper tubes are the perfect size for tiny hands, and their crush-resistant nature means they survived my toddler’s enthusiastic decorating spree. They’re fantastic for holiday decor, classroom projects, or just turning screen time into skill-building magic. I love how easily they absorb paint and glue—no more messy failures here! Whether it’s Halloween countdowns or back-to-school crafts, this set has me covered with style and durability. —Jenna Carlisle
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Why Cardboard Tubes For Crafts Are Necessary
From my experience, cardboard tubes are a fantastic resource for crafting because they are incredibly versatile. Whether I’m making homemade decorations, organizing supplies, or creating kids’ art projects, these tubes provide a sturdy yet lightweight base that’s easy to cut, paint, and glue. Their shape and size make them perfect for a wide range of creative ideas, and I’ve found they help bring my imaginative concepts to life with minimal effort.
Another reason I rely on cardboard tubes is their affordability and eco-friendliness. Instead of buying expensive materials, I can simply repurpose tubes from paper towels or toilet paper rolls. This not only saves money but also reduces waste, which makes me feel good about crafting sustainably. Using cardboard tubes allows me to combine creativity with environmental responsibility, which is important to me.
Finally, cardboard tubes are just plain fun to work with. Their simple form encourages me to think outside the box and experiment with different textures, colors, and techniques. I’ve discovered that having these tubes on hand inspires spontaneous projects and keeps my crafting sessions fresh and exciting. Overall, cardboard tubes have become a necessary staple in my craft supplies because they offer endless possibilities in a practical, eco-friendly way.
My Buying Guides on Cardboard Tubes For Crafts
When I first started exploring craft projects, I quickly realized how versatile cardboard tubes can be. Whether it’s for kids’ crafts, home decor, or DIY organizers, these tubes offer endless possibilities. If you’re like me and want to find the best cardboard tubes for your crafting needs, here’s what I’ve learned along the way.
Types of Cardboard Tubes
There are several types of cardboard tubes available, and choosing the right one depends on your project. I usually look for:
- Toilet Paper Tubes: These are small and easy to work with, perfect for kids’ crafts or small models.
- Paper Towel Tubes: Slightly larger than toilet paper tubes, these work well for projects needing a bit more length or sturdiness.
- Shipping Tubes: These are thick, durable, and come in various diameters—great for serious crafting like building structures or making telescopes.
- Craft-Specific Tubes: Some tubes are designed specifically for craft use, often pre-cut or decorated.
Size and Diameter Considerations
One thing I pay close attention to is the size of the tube. Depending on what I’m making, the diameter and length can make a huge difference. For example, if I’m creating a kaleidoscope, I want a narrow tube, but for a homemade telescope or storage container, a wider diameter works better. Before buying, I measure or visualize the size I need to avoid wasting materials.
Material Quality and Thickness
Not all cardboard tubes are created equal. Some are flimsy and prone to bending, while others are sturdy and can support weight or repeated handling. I prefer tubes with thicker walls if my project requires durability. For delicate crafts, thinner tubes are fine. Also, some tubes have a smooth finish which makes painting or decorating easier.
Eco-Friendliness
As someone who cares about the environment, I always check if the cardboard tubes are made from recycled materials or if they are recyclable after use. Many craft tubes are eco-friendly, which is a bonus for sustainable crafting.
Quantity and Packaging
Depending on my project scale, I decide whether to buy tubes individually or in bulk. Sometimes, buying a pack of 10 or 20 is more economical, especially if I’m planning multiple craft sessions. Packaging also matters—tubes that come tightly bundled or boxed avoid damage during shipping.
Price and Budget
I’ve found that prices can vary widely depending on tube type, size, and quantity. Setting a budget helps me narrow down options. For simple kids’ crafts, inexpensive toilet paper tubes work fine. For more complex or decorative projects, investing a bit more in high-quality tubes pays off.
Tips for Using Cardboard Tubes in Crafts
- Before starting, decide if you need to cut or shape the tube; using a sharp craft knife makes clean cuts.
- Consider painting or wrapping the tubes with decorative paper to add color and texture.
- Combine tubes with other materials like fabric, buttons, or beads for creative flair.
- If you want tubes to hold weight, reinforce them by layering or gluing multiple tubes together.
Where I Buy My Cardboard Tubes
I’ve had good experiences purchasing from craft stores, online marketplaces, and even recycling clean tubes from household items. For specialized or bulk tubes, online craft suppliers often offer the best variety and prices.
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Overall, cardboard tubes are an affordable, versatile, and fun material to work with. By keeping these factors in mind, I’ve been able to choose the right tubes every time and bring my craft ideas to life. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect cardboard tubes for your next project!
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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