Slice empty paper towel rolls into thin rings and fold them with 2 craft drawer items, and the end result is mind-blowing

 

Rustic Fall Wreath Made From Paper Towel Rolls

Turn empty paper towel rolls into a simple rustic fall wreath with just a few basic craft supplies. The cardboard rings are shaped into leaf-like pieces, layered around a simple backing, and decorated with jute twine and colorful felt balls.

It’s an inexpensive seasonal craft that’s easy to make in an afternoon and works beautifully on a front door, mantel, or wall.

 

Materials

  • 8 empty paper towel rolls
  • 1 bottle tacky craft glue, about 4 fluid ounces
  • 1 spool jute twine, 8–10 feet
  • 1 pair scissors
  • 12 mini wooden clothespins, 1 inch each
  • 6 felt balls or small pom-poms, 1 inch each
  • 1 sheet kraft paper or lightweight cardboard, at least 12 x 12 inches

 

How to Make It

  1. Flatten each paper towel roll gently.
  2. Cut the rolls crosswise into rings about ½ inch wide. You should have roughly 80–96 rings.
  3. Pinch each ring into a pointed leaf or petal shape.
  4. Cut a cardboard backing ring about 10 inches across, with a 6-inch center opening.
  5. Glue the folded rings around the backing, pointing outward and slightly overlapping them.
  6. Add a second layer between the first pieces to create a fuller wreath.
  7. Use the mini clothespins to hold pieces in place while the glue dries.
  8. Glue the felt balls or pom-poms in small clusters around the wreath.
  9. Make a hanging loop with about 12 inches of jute twine and attach it securely to the back.
  10. Let the wreath dry completely for at least 30 minutes before hanging.

 

Easy Variations

  • Paint the cardboard: Add cream, rust, mustard, or brown acrylic paint for a richer fall look.
  • Keep it neutral: Use natural cardboard, tan twine, and cream decorations for a softer farmhouse style.
  • Make it fuller: Use additional rolls and add another layer of leaf shapes.
  • Change the decorations: Replace pom-poms with buttons, wooden beads, small bows, or other lightweight fall decorations.

 

Helpful Tips

  • Reshape the cardboard rings after cutting if they become too flat.
  • The pieces don’t need to be perfectly identical; slight differences can give the wreath a more natural appearance.
  • Use clothespins to hold loose pieces while the glue sets.
  • Older children can help shape the cardboard pieces or organize the materials.

 

Final Thoughts

This rustic fall wreath is a simple way to turn cardboard rolls into seasonal décor. With inexpensive supplies and a little patience, you can create a warm handmade decoration for your door, wall, or mantel.