Making your own reusable paper towels can decrease the amount of trash you make each day, and they are so simple to make! Now, let’s turn those fabric scraps into an eco-friendly masterpiece.
Materials for DIY Reusable Paper Towels:
- Flannel fabric– 6 1/2″ x 11 1/2″ (you can adjust the size)
- Terry cloth fabric or an old towel- 6 1/2″ x 11 1/2″ (you can adjust the size)
- Coordinating thread
- Plastic snaps (optional)
- Sewing Machine
- Pins
- Iron
- Ironing board/mat
- Self-healing mat
- Rotary cutter or fabric scissors
- Acrylic ruler 6”x24
- Plastic snap pliers (optional)
*may contain affiliate links
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cut your flannel fabric and terry cloth fabric to 6 1/2″ x 11 1/2″ or the desired size, stack them right sides together, and pin them in place. Embrace the spirit of upcycling by selecting fabric scraps or old textiles for your reusable paper towels. Soft and absorbent materials like cotton or bamboo work best for this project. Not only are you reducing waste, but you’re also giving new life to forgotten fabrics!
2. Sew using a 1/4″ seam allowance, leaving an opening of 2-3″ to turn out later. Backstitch at the beginning and end.
3. Clip your corners to reduce bulk, make sure not to cut stitch lines.
4. Turn your paper towel right side out, pushing out the corners.
5. Press your paper towel, and make sure to fold in the raw edges of the opening.
6. Topstitch all the way around using a 1/4″ seam allowance. Make sure to close the opening. Backstitch at the beginning and end.
7. To attach the optional snaps: Start by orienting your towels the way you want to store them. I chose to attach them to the shorter sides, but you can do it either way.
8. Follow your package instructions for your snaps, they are all a little different. Start by poking a hole where you want to place the snaps.
9. Using the plastic snap pliers, attach the snaps to your towel. Mine had (3) different parts, check with your package to make sure you put them on the correct side.
The best part of reusable paper towels is that they don’t have to look as boring as normal ones. You can make them match the rest of your kitchen, or design them to stand out! Once you’ve used your reusable paper towels for the first time to wipe up a spill or clean your counters, simply toss them in the laundry with your regular wash. With these handmade beauties, you’ll never have to spend money on paper towels again! Keep using them over the years to save money, reduce waste, and make your kitchen uniquely you.
