DIY Paper Towel Dispenser: A Stylish and Sustainable Solution

In our pursuit of a more sustainable lifestyle, we often find ourselves making conscious choices to reduce waste. For me, eliminating the excessive use of paper towels has been a significant goal, extending to almost every aspect of my daily routine. However, there are certain situations, particularly when tackling messy projects involving oil-based stains or epoxy spills, where paper towels seem indispensable. If you have a better alternative for these tough cleanups, please share your wisdom!

Since paper towels are occasionally necessary, I decided to create a functional and visually appealing dispenser. This DIY paper towel dispenser is not only practical but also adds a touch of style to your workspace. By using reclaimed wood from my scrap bin, the project was essentially free, but it can easily be built for under $12, making it a budget-friendly and eco-conscious choice.

A stylish and functional paper towel dispenser adds organization to your workspace.

Materials You’ll Need to Build Your Own Paper Towel Dispenser

Here’s a comprehensive list of the materials and tools you’ll need to embark on this rewarding DIY project:

• 1/2″ Plywood: A 2’x4′ sheet provides ample material for the entire project.
• 3/16″ Hardboard: A 6″x14″ piece will serve as the backing for the dispenser.
• 1″ Dowel: A dowel at least 27″ in length, cut into two pieces, will hold the paper towel roll.
• Wood Glue: A reliable wood glue is essential for strong and durable joints.
• Bar Clamps: Several bar clamps are needed to secure the pieces while the glue dries.
• 3/4″ Screws: Approximately 8 screws will provide additional reinforcement.
• 1″ Spade Bit: Used to create the holes for the dowel supports.
• Jigsaw or Bandsaw: For cutting the curved shapes of the dowel brackets.
• Electric Drill: To drill pilot holes for the screws.
• Sandpaper or Electric Sander: For smoothing the edges and surfaces of the wood.
• Table Saw or Circular Saw (Optional): For precise cuts of the plywood pieces.
• Dado Blade or Router and 1/2″ Straight Bit (Optional): For creating rabbets and dados, adding a professional touch.
• Stain or Paint (Optional): To customize the look of your dispenser.
• Finishing Supplies (Optional): Varnish or sealant to protect the wood.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Building Your Paper Towel Dispenser

Follow these detailed instructions to construct your own stylish and functional paper towel dispenser:

1. Cutting the Plywood

   Begin by cutting the plywood into the following dimensions. Remember to save any excess material, as it can be used to create dividers within the dispenser, if desired. I initially used a scrap piece of white oak, a choice that surprised me, as oak doesn’t typically align with my preferences, and I couldn’t recall how it ended up in my wood storage.

   • 6″ x 22″ (x2) – These will be the sides of the dispenser.
   • 4 1/2″ x 6″ (x4) – These will serve as the dowel brackets.
   • 1/2″ x 14″ (x2) – These will be the front pieces of the dispenser.


The cut pieces, ready for assembly into a functional paper towel dispenser.

2. Optional Steps for Enhanced Design

   These steps are optional but can significantly enhance the aesthetics and functionality of your paper towel dispenser:

   A. Creating Rabbets for a Seamless Front: If you have the necessary tools and skills, create a 1/2″ rabbet, 1/4″ deep, on the short sides of the front pieces (the 1/2″ x 14″ pieces). This will allow the front pieces to sit flush with the sides, creating a cleaner, more professional look. If you plan to add divider shelves, cut a 1/2″ dado at equal intervals to create joints for the dividers (mine were positioned 5″ and 4″ from the ends).

   

   Adding drawers or shelves can customize your dispenser to suit your storage needs.

   B. Recessing the Hardboard Back: To create a recessed back panel, cut a 3/16″ groove (using two passes with a table saw, or a pass and a half-kerf pass) 3 1/2″ down on the back of all the front pieces. You’ll then need to adjust the size of the hardboard to 6″ x 13 1/2″ to compensate for the groove.

3. Crafting the Dowel Brackets

   To create the dowel brackets, drill a 1″ hole with its center positioned 1 1/4″ from the top of each bracket. Mark cut lines from the outside edge of the hole to the top edge of the bracket. Use a jigsaw, bandsaw, or even a handsaw to carefully cut along these lines, creating the curved shape of the brackets.

   

   Precision is key when drilling the holes for the dowel brackets.

4. Assembling the Dispenser

   Now it’s time to assemble the paper towel dispenser. Glue the four dowel brackets to the inside of the long side pieces, referring to the provided photo for placement. Secure them with two 3/4″ screws per bracket. Attach the hardboard shelf 3 1/2″ from the top edge of the side pieces. Glue on the front pieces, ensuring they are flush with the sides (if you created rabbets in step 2). If you’re adding dividers, insert them now. Apply clamps to all joints and allow the glue to dry completely, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

5. Preparing the Dowel

   Cut the 1″ dowel into two 13″ lengths. These will serve as the holders for the paper towel roll.

6. Sanding and Finishing

   Once the glue is dry, sand all edges and surfaces of the dispenser to a smooth finish using fine-grit sandpaper. You can choose to stain or paint the dispenser to match your decor. Be sure to stain or paint the dowels as well. Consider applying a clear coat of varnish or sealant to protect the wood and enhance its durability.

7. Adding the Paper Towels

   Insert the paper towel roll onto the dowels and place them into the brackets. Now you can fill the top caddy with various items, such as cleaning supplies or small tools.

8. Mounting the Dispenser

   To hang the paper towel dispenser on the wall, you can use heavy-duty picture hangers or a cleat system for easy portability. Choose a mounting method that suits your wall type and weight requirements.

By following these steps, you’ll create a beautiful and functional paper towel dispenser that not only helps you reduce waste but also adds a touch of style to your workspace.

**Note: This project was inspired by a similar design built by a friend several years ago, based on plans from a magazine. Unfortunately, the original source information is no longer available. If anyone recognizes this design and can provide a reference, please let me know so I can properly cite it. Thank you!