How to Make a Vase Using a Towel: A Creative DIY Project

Upcycling everyday items into something new and beautiful is not only a fun and rewarding process, but it also gives a second life to objects that would otherwise be discarded. One such object that you might not think of as a potential craft material is a towel. But with a little imagination, a towel can be transformed into a unique and stylish vase.

This eco-friendly DIY vase project not only reduces waste but also adds a personalized touch to your home decor. Whether you want to create a vase for fresh flowers, dried arrangements, or simply as an eye-catching display piece, learning how to make a vase using a towel is an easy, budget-friendly, and creative way to elevate your space.

Turn something simple into something extraordinary with a bit of creativity and a towel.

Materials You Will Need

Before you get started on creating your towel vase, gather these materials:

• Old towel (preferably a thick one for sturdiness)
• Scissors or fabric cutter
• Needle and thread (or a glue gun for quicker results)
• Hot glue gun (optional)
• Duct tape or masking tape (optional, for shaping)
• Decorative elements (beads, ribbons, buttons, fabric paint, etc.)
• Vase insert (plastic bottle, glass jar, or any container to keep the vase structure intact)
• PVA glue (optional, for added sturdiness)
• Rubber bands or string (optional, for securing the fabric while you work)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Vase Using a Towel

Step 1: Preparing the Towel

Start by selecting a towel that you no longer use, preferably one that is still in decent condition. You will want a towel that is thick enough to maintain the shape of the vase once it’s made.

Cut the Towel:

• Lay the towel flat on a clean surface.
• Measure the size of the vase you want to create (for example, 12 inches tall and 6 inches in diameter).
• Cut the towel into a long rectangle or strip that will wrap around your chosen vase form.

Tip: If you’re unsure about the size, it’s better to cut a piece larger than you need. You can always trim it down later.

Step 2: Creating the Vase Form

Next, you need a solid structure to mold the towel around. This could be a plastic bottle, a glass jar, or any container that you have on hand. This insert will provide support and help maintain the shape of your towel vase.

Wrap the Towel:

• Take your cut towel and wrap it around the container, securing it in place.
• Use duct tape or masking tape to keep the towel in position. Alternatively, you can use rubber bands to hold the fabric while you shape the vase.

Shape the Vase:

• Gently mold the towel around the container, creating the shape of your vase. If you want a more defined or tapered look, make sure to tuck and adjust the fabric to achieve the desired form.
• For a more intricate design, fold the towel in different patterns to create texture and dimension.

Step 3: Securing the Towel Shape

Once the towel is wrapped around the container and shaped to your liking, it’s time to secure it permanently.

Sewing the Towel:

• Needle and Thread: Using a needle and thread, sew the ends of the towel together, ensuring that the fabric stays snug around the container. Use a simple stitch or a whip stitch for a cleaner finish.

Alternative Method - Hot Glue:

• If you prefer a quicker method, you can use a hot glue gun to attach the edges of the towel together. Simply run a bead of glue along the edges, press the fabric together, and hold until the glue cools and secures the shape.

Note: If you're using a hot glue gun, be careful not to burn yourself with the glue or the fabric. Work in small sections to allow for better control.

Step 4: Decorating the Vase

Now that you have the basic structure, you can go ahead and personalize your towel vase with decorative elements.

Add Texture and Color:

• Fabric Paint: Use fabric paint to add colors or designs to your vase. You can paint stripes, floral patterns, or even holiday themes to match the season.
• Embellishments: Glue on beads, buttons, or ribbons to add a more detailed, decorative touch to the surface of your vase.
• Stencils: Use stencils to create intricate patterns or logos on your towel vase for a personalized look.

Finishing Touches:

• Wrap a ribbon or twine around the neck of the vase for an added rustic or vintage feel.
• If you want the vase to look even more sophisticated, you can add a fabric flower or a scented sachet around the base or top.

Step 5: Inserting the Vase Form

If you used a plastic bottle or jar as your insert, simply remove the bottle or jar from inside the towel, leaving the towel vase intact. You can then place this vase on your shelf, table, or anywhere you want to display your flowers.