Why toilet paper tube snowflakes? Well…Do you hate seeing things go to waste? Because… same.
I’ll admit, I have a little problem with holding onto things. I know, I know — there’s recycling, composting, and all that good stuff. But there’s always this tiny part of me that looks at something and thinks, “I could use that for something someday.” (Much to my husband’s dismay 😅.)
Anyway — this project? Totally born out of that urge to save and the need to actually do something with my growing stash of toilet paper tubes. And let me tell you… these toilet paper tube snowflakes turned out way prettier than I expected. They’re simple, elegant, and the perfect mix of eco-friendly and festive.
So, if you’ve got a few cardboard tubes lying around (and a little creative energy to spare), grab your glue gun — we’re making snowflakes!
Supplies for Toilet Paper Tube Snowflakes
- Toilet paper tubes (obviously) — and make sure they’re cleaned off of any leftover TP, please. 😂
- Scissors
- Hot glue gun (or glue stick if you’re feeling patient)
- Fishing line or ribbon (for hanging)
- Optional: spray paint, glitter, or a little faux snow for an extra wintery touch
How to Make Toilet Paper Tube Snowflakes
Step 1: Prep Your Toilet Paper Tubes
Start by flattening each toilet paper tube so it’s easier to cut. Then trim them into thin strips — about ¼ inch each.
It doesn’t have to be perfect (mine definitely weren’t), but keeping them roughly the same width helps your snowflakes look balanced once they’re assembled.
Step 2: Arrange Your Snowflake Shapes
Now for the fun part — design time!
You can start simple by connecting five strips into a star shape, then add one to each “V” in between to form a snowflake.
But honestly? The sky’s the limit here. Try layering pieces, twisting them slightly, or creating different shapes. Each one turns out a little unique — which makes them that much prettier when you hang them together.
Step 3: Glue It All Together
Once you’ve landed on a shape you love, it’s time to glue.
Heat up your glue gun and place a small dab wherever two pieces meet. Hold for a few seconds until the glue sets, then move to the next connection point.
Pro tip: keep a toothpick handy to clean up glue strings or excess blobs before they dry. (Because if you’re anything like me, you’ll end up with at least one spiderweb situation.)
Let them dry fully before moving on. your fabric stash).
Step 4: Paint or Decorate (Optional)
If you’re keeping things neutral, the natural cardboard actually looks beautiful as-is — especially with a Scandinavian or rustic Christmas theme.
But if you want something a little more fancy, give them a quick coat of spray paint. I love using metallic gold or matte white — they catch the light perfectly.
You could also dust them with a little glitter, faux snow, or even wrap the center with twine for a cozy, handmade look.
Step 5: Hang your Toilet Paper Tube Snowflakes and Admire
Once your snowflakes are dry, thread a piece of fishing line or ribbon through one of the openings and hang them up!
✨ Hang them individually in windows
✨ Cluster a few together above your dining table
✨ Or string several on a long ribbon (even adding some wood beads) to make a snowflake garland- perfect along a fireplace mantel!
They’re lightweight, budget-friendly, and surprisingly elegant.
Here’s more to try next!
- DIY Christmas Card Holder: Turn your Christmas cards into a beautiful display for just $5 with this tutorial!
- DIY Mini Trees: Make use of scrap fabric, magazines, or even spare twine from this holiday card display craft, with this fun mini tree tutorial!
- Scrap Fabric Wreath: Repurpose old fabric (or even old Christmas pajamas) into an adorable holiday wreath!
Share your toilet paper tube snowflake creations!
This little DIY is one of those projects that’s easy enough for a cozy afternoon, but still feels like something you’d actually want to keep year after year.
Plus, it’s the perfect way to use up something that would otherwise end up in the trash — turning it into something beautiful instead. ♻️
If you give these toilet paper tube snowflakes a try, I’d love to see how yours turn out! Tag me on Instagram @savvyswarey or send a photo to hello@savvyswarey.com — I may just share a few of my favorites in stories this season.
And if you love easy, festive DIYs like this one, sign up for my newsletter below to grab my free printable Christmas village stencils and get the latest in holiday entertaining ideas and creative upcycles delivered right to your inbox!