Tubular Decor

I will happily admit that I save almost every box and tube that exists in my house to use for crafting. Is there ever a specific craft or plan for them? No, but it never hurts to have it on hand. This is definitely something I honed from having a preschool teacher mom, and my own experience working with kids, then also becoming a mom. All this is to say, hoard your tubes (or ask friends for theirs) and you can create these decorations too! Don’t forget to check my crafting content on TikTok!

MCM Inspired Starburst Ornaments

via OhOhDeco.com

I found this image a couple years ago but finally made them this year, and it’s kind of satisfying to do. The image will take you to a tutorial, but I also made one (photos & video) for TikTok. It’s easy enough for kids to do, and you can pick out some fun color schemes to mix things up. Paint inside and outside of the tube (try using high contrast colors). I usually mark the cut lines with pencil so I correct if they are too big or small before cutting, and make sure I leave about a half inch in the middle. Most important is to make sure your lines don’t go straight across the tube, break it up so they’re offset!

Cut your sections, and snip them into points. Carefully fold down all the points. Poke a pin into the middle for your string, or just loop it around the entire center. Now hang these awesome stars up!

Geometric Star Ornaments

via Pinterest

This craft is a bit more tedious but still very satisfying. Cut your tubes into half inch pieces. You can do inward snips or outward snips for the points, it’s up to you, just make sure you leave space at the ends/middle where the cardboard is still connected. You can paint these, add washi tape, or tiny stickers before glueing it together, so do what feels good. Though this picture shows white glue, I would recommend hot glue or even some brads/paper fasteners (which give a nice touch) as it will dry much faster and guarantees the pieces stay aligned correctly. Loop your string through one of the points, and you’re good to go!

Holiday Crackers

via Refinery29.com

Not everyone knows about the fun of the crackers (at least in the US) so I think these are really fun to include at any big holiday meal, and being able to personalize them is the best! For those that don’t know, you rip open these crackers to receive a little treat, paper crown, and some sweets. Usually there’s a joke or riddle for everyone to share as well. The options to make these extra special are wide, so have fun with your choices!

All that’s needed is your toilet tubes, gift tissue paper, some wrapping paper scraps or origami paper, tape or glue stick, string/ribbon, and your fillings of choice.

First we wrap the tube with the tissue paper, leaving at least 2 inches on either side to secure shut. Wrap your decorative paper over the middle (just the tube part) and tape/glue on. Use your string to tie one end shut (it helps to scrunch and pinch it together instead of simply tying a knot, which could tear the paper) then fill with your chosen goodies. Tie the other end shut and you’re done!