Trade In Bulky Paper Towel Holders: An Easy DIY That Keeps Them Off Your Counter

Paper towels are a handy way to clean up messes, but finding a place to store the thick rolls of them is decidedly less convenient. Cute paper towel holders can help aesthetically, but if they're sitting on the counter, they're still taking up valuable workspace. Wall-mounted or under-cabinet models can keep your counters free, and you can even DIY your own; one that's easy and cute. All you need is some wire, wire cutters or pliers, and something to hang it from. 

Copper wire is a great choice for this project, as it's beautiful, durable, and easy to care for. However, if you don't have any, you can use another type. Just be sure to choose a gauge sturdy enough to support a full roll without sagging, especially if you'll be pulling sheets from it frequently. If you're looking for ways to reuse hangers, this hack is a good way to use old wire ones. The idea is to loop the ends of the wire around a hook, nail, or ledge, then shape the middle section into a straight line for the paper towel roll to go onto. You can either slide the roll over one end or create an opening in the wire so the roll can be loaded without removing the entire holder. 

In addition to your regular paper towels, you could use this to hang DIY reusable fabric towels or kitchen towels. You can also decorate it however you like. Add beads, charms, or a bit of twine, or leave the wire bare for a cleaner look. To match the copper wire, opt for warm earth tones or contrast it with blues and greens.

Start by determining where your new paper towel holder will hang. It should be somewhere easily accessible, have enough room for a full roll to fit comfortably, and leave space under it for you to use your counter. Under a cabinet, beside the sink, or on the side of a pantry can all work well, provided it stays clear of splashing water. 

You'll need two points to hang it from, spaced a little further apart than the length of your paper towel rolls. Most rolls are around a foot tall, but this can vary. If your copper wire paper towel holder is a bit long, it just means you have more room for decor. If you don't already have two clear points to hang your wire from, you can add self-adhesive hooks or nails, or even try a thrifted doorknob upcycle for a more creative option. If you want to hang it under a shelf, you may be able to fold the ends of the wire up and over the shelf itself. 

Wrap one end of your copper wire around the first point, then bend it down and over to the other. Add any cute decorations like beads, charms, or twine. You can unfold one end anytime you need to replace the roll, or make a small cut at the bottom of the wire and bend the two halves so they hook together. This lets you separate the halves, slide one into each end of the roll, and push it back into place. Either approach gives you quick, tool-free access when it's time to replace the roll while keeping your counter completely clear.