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A Hunker report describes a DIY project that turns a pool noodle, a toilet paper tube and a small cardboard box into a vintage-inspired decorative vase. The creator’s method uses layered paper napkins and a glue mixture for a floral finish, or textured spray paint as an alternative; the source does not provide cost totals or durability testing.
A DIY tutorial highlighted by Hunker shows how to turn a pool noodle, an empty toilet paper tube and a small cardboard box into a vintage-inspired decorative vase. The project uses decoupage with patterned napkins to cover the foam structure, offering a way to reuse old pool gear and make a floral-style display for artificial stems.
The process is demonstrated in a video by YouTube creator NamrataALLINONE, according to Hunker. The materials listed include a pool noodle, glue, masking tape, a toilet paper tube and a small cardboard box. Assembly also calls for a utility knife, hot glue gun, paintbrush, ruler and scissors. Hunker says the noodle’s original color does not matter because the exterior will be covered.
To form the vase, the maker cuts wedges from both ends of the noodle and brings the ends together around the toilet paper tube, which becomes the neck. Hot glue and masking tape hold the shape. A separate length of noodle is split along its side and fitted around the exposed tube, then attached to the cardboard box to create a base.
The finish uses a mixture of two parts glue and one part water. The napkin’s patterned layer is separated from its white backing; the white pieces are applied first, followed by strips of the decorative layer. Hunker also describes painting the structure instead, with a textured spray paint as one option to help conceal the noodle. The vase should dry before it is filled with stems, and the report specifies artificial flowers rather than water-filled use.
A Low-Cost Craft for Old Pool Gear
The project gives worn or leftover pool noodles a second use as the frame for a decorative object. Hunker notes that Dollar Tree sells pool noodles for $1 each, while also saying that an existing noodle can be used. That figure is the stated price for the noodle alone, not a full estimate of project costs; the source does not calculate the cost of glue, tape, paint or napkins.
Its appeal is also practical for crafters: the basic form relies on foam, a cardboard base and a cardboard tube, while the appearance is determined largely by the chosen paper or paint. A vintage floral napkin can create the look described in the report, but the materials list leaves room for other patterns. The finished object is presented as decorative, not as a waterproof vessel for fresh flowers.
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How the Decoupage Vase Is Built
Decoupage is the method used to cover the noodle structure with paper and adhesive. In this project, the napkin is separated into its printed layer and white lining so the surface can be built in two stages: a plain base layer, then the patterned layer. The glue-and-water mixture is brushed onto the surface before the paper is pressed into place.
Hunker describes the project as fitting an 1980s-inspired floral decor look, but that is a style characterization, not a measured trend claim. It also mentions a pack of vintage floral napkins as an example of suitable materials. The tutorial’s main construction steps do not depend on that specific product, and the source says napkins can be chosen in other styles.
“The materials list for this project is small and composed largely of things you may already have around the house.”
— Hunker, reporting on the DIY
Durability and Water Use Are Unspecified
The report does not provide testing on how long the finished vase lasts, how well the paper finish holds up to handling, or whether the structure can support heavier decorations. It also gives no instructions for waterproofing the interior. Because the listed construction uses foam, cardboard and paper, the source’s suggested use is for artificial blooms; it does not establish that the vase can safely hold water or fresh-cut flowers.
Hunker does not state the video’s publication date, provide a complete materials budget or report whether the creator has updated the instructions. The $1 price is attributed to Dollar Tree pool noodles in the report, but availability and pricing may vary by store and time.
Dry the Finish Before Display
The next step in the tutorial is to let the completed surface dry before adding decorative stems. The report offers two finish routes: layered napkins with the glue mixture, or paint, including a textured spray-paint option. Readers following the project should use the selected product according to its label and allow it to dry as directed.
After drying, the vase can be styled with artificial flowers or other lightweight stems. The source does not give a drying time or a tested limit for the weight the cardboard-and-foam base can support, so those details remain dependent on the materials and construction used.
Key Questions
What materials does the pool noodle vase require?
The listed materials include a pool noodle, glue, a toilet paper tube, a small cardboard box and masking tape. Tools include a utility knife, hot glue gun, paintbrush, ruler and scissors. Decorative napkins are needed for the decoupage finish.
Can I use an old or faded pool noodle?
Yes. Hunker says the noodle’s color does not matter because the outside is covered with paper or paint. The tutorial is presented as a way to reuse a noodle that may otherwise be set aside after pool season.
Can the finished vase hold water?
The report does not describe waterproofing or water testing. It recommends filling the finished piece with artificial stems, so readers should not assume it can hold water or fresh flowers.
How is the vintage floral finish made?
Mix two parts glue with one part water, separate the napkin’s printed layer from its white backing, and apply the white paper first. Add the patterned pieces as a second layer until the surface is covered.
Is decoupage the only finish option?
No. Hunker says the vase can be painted instead. It mentions textured spray paint as an option that may help conceal the foam, though the source does not compare the durability of the two finishes.
Source: hunker.com
