DIY Paper Towel Dispenser from Scrap Wood: A Pandemic-Born Project!

Updated at: 31/05/2025

The pandemic brought many unexpected challenges, forcing us to adapt and improvise in countless ways. One area that saw a surge in creativity was home organization, as suddenly finding and maintaining essential supplies became paramount. Among the items that gained newfound importance were humble paper towels – leading many to re-evaluate their storage solutions. This project, born from the necessity of a readily accessible and stylish paper towel dispenser, utilizes readily available scrap wood and simple tools. It’s a testament to how resourceful we can be when faced with a challenge, transforming discarded materials into something functional and beautiful.

This DIY project offers a satisfyingly simple solution to a common household need, transforming scrap lumber into a personalized and attractive paper towel dispenser. Forget flimsy plastic dispensers; we'll show you how to craft a sturdy, unique piece that adds a touch of rustic charm to your kitchen or bathroom. Ready to get started? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Scrap wood
  • Gorilla wood glue
  • Nailer (or drill)
  • Contact paper
  • Jigsaw
  • Hinges
  • Hooks
  • White chalk paint
  • Measuring tape
  • Pencil
  • Sandpaper
  • Spring from a notepad (optional)
Safety Guidelines
  • Always wear safety glasses when using power tools like saws and sanders. Wood dust and flying debris can cause serious eye injuries.
  • Ensure proper ventilation when sanding or using any finishes. Wood dust is a respiratory irritant, and fumes from finishes can be harmful.
  • Use caution when handling sharp tools like chisels or knives. Keep your fingers clear of the blade and always cut away from your body.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Wood

    • Two 11.25" x 10.5", two 11.25" x 4.5", and two 3.5" x 10.5".
    Cut the wood pieces according to the measurements: Two 11.25" x 10.5", two 11.25" x 4.5", and two 3.5" x 10.5".
    Prepare the Wood

  2. Assemble the Box

    • Glue all the wood pieces together using Gorilla wood glue. Let it dry overnight.
    • Nail the pieces together using a nailer (or drill).
    Nail the pieces together using a nailer (or drill).Nail the pieces together using a nailer (or drill).
    Assemble the Box

  3. Protect the Interior

    • Line the inside of the dispenser with contact paper to protect the paper towels from the wood.
    Line the inside of the dispenser with contact paper to protect the paper towels from the wood.
    Protect the Interior

  4. Cut the Dispensing Opening

    • Create a template for the bottom opening, making the middle section wider for easy paper towel access. Cut the opening using a jigsaw.
    Create a template for the bottom opening, making the middle section wider for easy paper towel access. Cut the opening using a jigsaw.
    Cut the Dispensing Opening

  5. Smooth the Edges

    • Sand all the edges and corners to remove any sharp edges.
    Sand all the edges and corners to remove any sharp edges.
    Smooth the Edges

  6. Add Dispensing Mechanism (Optional)

    • Insert a spring from a notepad inside the dispenser to aid paper towel dispensing.

  7. Attach the Lid

    • Attach hinges to the lid, ensuring it doesn't press against the wall when opened.
    Attach hinges to the lid, ensuring it doesn't press against the wall when opened.
    Attach the Lid

  8. Paint and Finish

    • Paint the entire dispenser white (or any desired color).
    Paint the entire dispenser white (or any desired color).
    Paint and Finish

Read more: DIY Pantry Door Spice Rack: Organize Your Spices in Minutes!

Tips

  • If using a nailer, it provides quicker and more satisfying results than a drill.
  • The spring from the notepad helps paper towels dispense more easily.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrectly Sizing the Dispenser

Reason: The opening for the paper towels is too small or too large, leading to difficulty dispensing or towels falling out.
Solution: Carefully measure your paper towel roll before cutting the wood to ensure a snug but accessible fit.

2. Using Unfinished or Unsealed Wood

Reason: Unfinished wood can splinter, absorb moisture, and become damaged, leading to a short-lived and less hygienic dispenser.
Solution: Sand the wood smooth and apply a food-safe sealant to protect it from moisture and prevent splintering.

3. Poorly Attached Dispenser Mechanism

Reason: The method used to hold the paper towel roll is weak or unstable, causing the roll to fall or become difficult to use.
Solution: Use strong adhesive, screws, or dowels to securely attach the mechanism that holds the paper towel roll to the wooden base.

FAQs

What kind of wood is best for this project?
While you can use various scrap woods, hardwoods like oak or maple offer durability and a nicer finish. Softer woods like pine are also suitable but might require more care during assembly and potentially more sanding to achieve a smooth surface. Ensure the wood is relatively dry to prevent warping after construction.