Clever and imaginative solutions for paper towel holders — some built in and others improvised.
Clever and imaginative solutions for paper towel holders — some built in and others improvised.It’s a common kitchen question often asked while the paint is still drying: where the $%## do I put the paper towels? The answer may lie among these creative paper towel holders, a number of ideas I gathered while thinking through the question for myself. During the planning stages of a new or remodeled kitchen it is simple to incorporate a built-in place for paper towels. A custom island [above] features a handy niche. This space also could be configured by removing an existing drawer with similar dimensions.
On the other end of the style spectrum is this automatic dispenser. The Clean Cut holds any brand of paper towels. Two hands-free sensors control the length of towel rolled out and the self-sharpening cutter and it’s simple to refill. Available in white or black, it easily mounts beneath an upper cabinet using four screws.
This Portofino stainless steel outdoor dispenser can be built into the wall indoors for a retro look. This type of unit was common in late 50’s and early 60’s and is still sold by BBQ Guys. It may be one of those paper towel holders that can be salvaged.
Blogland is a great source to find imaginative solutions. An ordinary paper towel holder was placed in a small opening in the base of this niche which also feature linen towel hooks.
The dead corner beneath an upper cabinet was used to create a hidden paper towel niche. Now you see it, now you don’t — especially against a white back splash.
Vintage items can often be repurposed for other uses in the kitchen. What appears to be a vintage short wrapping-paper dispenser — perhaps from a grocer’s or butcher shop — was attached to a piece of wood to become an on-the-counter holder.
Another blogger simply tosses the roll into an old crock on the lower island shelf.
During my online quest for the perfect holder I discovered The Workshop of David T Smith whose redware pottery paper towel jars are one-of-a-kind. Out of sight, but within easy reach, my splattered yellow jar has an antique crack glaze finish. It is a well-made, heavy piece of art that always intrigues guests. Inventory is always changing at Smith, so it’s helpful to check back often and sign up for email notices.
One blogger refers to this pair of ice tongs as the most useful piece of junk she owns. For over thirty years it has been suspended from a beam with a piece of rope. A piece of black plastic pipe fits inside the roll and holds it in place. This truly fits the definition of repurposing.
I use this idea when painting, but found several bloggers that use it daily. Perhaps it happened by accident at first, then was just memorialized. Paint roller handles are perfect for rustic and farmhouse kitchens. The more paint splatters, the better.
For those with a sense of humor, or small children in the house, a Log ‘n Roll may be the answer. The orange squirrel and moves lower as the roll gets smaller and disappears when it’s time to replace. No matter what your taste or budget might be, there are clever solutions for your paper towel quandary.
(Sources: Clean Cut, Southern Living, BBQ Guys, Hoosier Roots, Shelayne via Gardenweb, Cherry Hill Cottage, Polohouse, Junk Market Style, Junk Camp, Qualy)
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I always love seeing your paper towel jar. Sooo pretty! I’ve seen several of these ideas before, and have always loved the paper towel niche, but I have to say it’s that last one that has me grinning from ear to ear. How adorably whimsical! Thanks for sharing.
Great ideas! I love how much better all of them look than mine does! 🙂
Thanks for sharing.
Pam
The paint roller is a clever idea.
Some neat and creative ideas! Never seen a paint roller paper towel holder before.
These are all really unique ideas. love them, esp the ice tongs.
Thank you for visiting my blog and leaving such a sweet comment. I look forward to browsing through all the great inspiration on your site!
Becky
Fun post! Everyone in my family keeps their paper towels in a vintage crock. I do like the idea of having the towels stored in a built in area just under the countertop like shown in one of your inspiration photos.
I love the jar! 😀
We use so many in a day that we couldn’t possibly hide them. Love the paint roller idea.
Love your jar, the ice tongs, and the spot hidden in the upper cabinet is great! I’ve never thought of or seen a paint roller used that way…Cool.
These certainly put my $2 bargain shop stand to shame!
Lots of very unexpected and cute ideas!
Love the paint roller…so clever! We keep our paper towels on a holder on the inside door of the cabinet under the sink…out of sight.
Hi great ideas… Thanks for sharing and dropping by my blog.
You did a great job of exploring all the places to put paper towel rolls. I have used a few of those, but some are very unique. Got a kick out of the paint roller. Thanks for stopping by my blog.
Love the idea of using the crock for a paper towel holder!
I love that paint roller! So cute:)
Where do you find the dead cabinet space hideaway paper towel holder you have pictured?? Also do you happen to know the dimensions?
Thanks
Carol,
You would use a drawer space as a paper towel holder. Cabinetmaker would measure a roll of paper towels and allow for the hanger, also space above/below so that it could unroll easily.
Thanks for stopping by Atticmag,
Allison