If you’ve ever found yourself in need of a paper towel holder, you might have considered simply purchasing one from the store. However, why not take on a creative project and make your own? This blog will guide you through the steps of fabricating a unique paper towel holder using a piece of round steel bar. Not only will you end up with a functional item, but you’ll also have the satisfaction of having crafted it yourself. Let’s dive into the process!
Tools Required for Your Paper Towel Holder
Before starting any DIY project, it's essential to gather all the necessary tools and materials. For this paper towel holder project, you will need the following:
- Blowtorch: Used for heating the metal to make it malleable.
- Hammer: A basic tool for shaping the metal.
- Anvil or Hard Surface: Provides a sturdy surface to hit against.
- Angle Grinder or Hacksaw: For cutting the metal down to size.
- Drill: A basic drill equipped with metal drilling bits.
- Vice: To hold the metal securely while working.
- Needle Nose Pliers: Useful for bending and twisting the metal.
Having these tools at your disposal will ensure a smooth and efficient crafting experience. Make sure to also have some safety gear on hand, such as gloves and goggles, to protect yourself while working with metal.
Sketching Out the Design
Once you have gathered your tools, the next step is to sketch out your design. It’s important to have a clear idea of how you want your paper towel holder to look and function. Using a soapstone pencil, you can mark out the full size on a flat surface like a table saw extension. The benefit of soapstone is that it washes off easily, allowing you to make adjustments as needed.
As you work on the piece, regularly refer back to your design to ensure that all dimensions are accurate. This will help you avoid mistakes and ensure that the final product meets your expectations.
The First Heat & Beat
With your design in place, it’s time to start shaping the metal. Instead of using a forge, you can heat the sections of the metal round bar using a blowtorch. This heating process makes the metal more pliable, allowing you to flatten it effectively on the anvil.
After heating, use your hammer to smash the metal flat. This is where the bulk of the shaping occurs, and it’s crucial to get it as flat as possible for the next steps. Once you have the desired flatness, you will be ready to drill the mounting holes.
Drilling Mounting Holes
Now that you have flattened the metal, it’s time to drill the mounting holes. Position the metal on your drill press or use a hand drill. Ensure that you have lubrication handy—tap magic is a great option for this. It helps to reduce friction and allows for smoother drilling.
As you drill, keep checking back with your design to ensure that everything aligns correctly. Accurate hole placement is crucial for a functional paper towel holder.
Marking Out and Making the Bends
After drilling the holes, it’s time to mark where the bends will be. This design only requires two bends, which will allow you to mount the paper towel holder securely. Carefully mark these spots on the metal and prepare for bending.
Heat the sections you plan to bend again with your blowtorch. This will make the metal easier to manipulate. Once heated, you can use your hands or the vice to make the bends, ensuring they are precise and aligned with your design.
Cutting It Down to Size
With the bends complete, it’s now time to cut the metal down to its final size. Use your angle grinder or hacksaw to trim the piece, leaving some extra length for the decorative twisty part that will hold the paper towel roll in place. This extra length is essential for functionality and aesthetics.
Drawing Out the End
Next, you will need to draw out the end of the metal. This means heating the end and elongating it to create a thinner and longer section. This part will eventually form the twisty design that adds a unique touch to your paper towel holder.
As you heat and draw out the end, keep checking the thickness to ensure it meets your design specifications. Once you are satisfied with the shape, you can proceed to the next step.
Creating the Twisty Bendy Artsy Thing
Now comes the fun part—creating the decorative twist at the end of your paper towel holder! Using your needle nose pliers, carefully twist the extended end of the metal. This not only adds an artistic flair but also serves a practical purpose by keeping the paper towel roll securely in place.
Aligning and Finalizing Your Design
After forming the twist, it’s time to align everything. Check each bend and twist to ensure they are symmetrical and look as intended. This step is crucial for both aesthetics and functionality, so take your time to adjust as needed.
Once everything is aligned correctly, you can flatten any parts that may have become uneven during the bending process. The goal is to have a clean, polished look that complements your home decor.
A Look Before Installation
Before you install your newly crafted paper towel holder, take a moment to admire your work. This is the time to make any final adjustments to ensure everything looks perfect. Check the alignment, the bends, and the twist to make sure they are just right.
Installation
With your paper towel holder ready, it’s time to install it. Position it in your desired location and use the drilled holes to secure it firmly in place. Ensure that it is mounted at a comfortable height for easy access. Once installed, you can add a roll of paper towels and enjoy your handiwork!
Conclusion
Creating your own paper towel holder can be a rewarding and enjoyable project. Not only do you end up with a functional item, but you also gain valuable skills in metalworking and fabrication. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a beginner, this project is a great way to express your creativity and add a personal touch to your home.
We hope this guide has inspired you to take on your own DIY projects. Remember, the joy of creating something with your own hands is unmatched. Happy crafting!