Instructions

Build the paper towel holder

Start by making two 3/4"-thick MDF blocks measuring 2 1/2" x 4", then mark the centres 1 1/2" back from the front edge. Clamp the first block to the drillpress and drill a centred, 1 1/4"-diameter hole through the block with a Forstner bit. Repeat for the second block, but this time stop drilling before you go all the way through. A 1/2"-deep hole should be plenty.

Attach these blocks to the front of a 5" x 13 1/4" piece of hardboard (MDF or plywood would work, too) with some glue and a couple of #6 x 1 1/4" screws driven through the back into predrilled and countersunk holes. Attach the wall cleat to the back.

Finish up by sliding a piece of 1 1/4"-diameter dowel through the open block and into the opposite side. The dowel is held in place by friction.