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Paper Towel Holder

Design and Build Without a Plan

This paper towel holder is no advanced woodworking project.  No mind blowing joinery on display.  But it is a great exercise in designing and building a project without a plan.  In this video, yes I build a paper towel holder, but the real takeaway is how I design on the fly and let the board I have available dictate the build and dimensions.  Not to mention the size of the paper towel roll.

Use this Simple Project to Try Out a New Skill

The simplicity of this design leaves a lot of room for embellishment.  The minimal stock and time requirements to build this paper towel holder lend themselves well to try out a new skill.  Maybe you have always wanted to try sliding dovetails.  Substitute them instead of the dados.  Maybe you want to veneer the top of the shelf with some cool figured wood you resawed yourself.  Fretwork?  Marquetry?  Cloud lifts?  You name it, you can incorporate that element or skill into your own towel holder and truly make it your own.  If you do, I'd love to see it.  Tag me on Instagram or Facebook or use the hashtag #RWWPaperTowels 

What You need

Artisan Paper Towel Holder


  • 1 board around 1/2" thick, 6" wide, 48" long
  • Paper Towel Roll
  • 1" dowel about 15" long
  • Or make your own rod from 1x1x15 hardwood

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