DIY organizers don’t get much easier than this one—and it looks great, too.
In just a few minutes you can create a stylish, functional hanging wall organizer for hats, bags, towels, or everyday items. This simple design uses a wooden dowel and leather straps to create a minimal rail that fits any room.
I liked this project so much I made two: one for the bedroom and another for the bathroom.
This guide explains what you need and how to assemble it step by step.
We use one of these organizers in the bedroom for hats and bags. The second hangs in the bathroom for towels and frequently used items like a dry brush or a hair dryer kept in a small bag.
Materials Needed
- 36-inch dowel rod (or any length that suits your space)
- 1-inch wide leather straps (or similar durable material)
- S-hooks for hanging accessories
- Scissors
- Leather hole punch (optional)
- Two nails and a hammer
How to Make a DIY Hanging Wall Organizer
If your dowel is too long, trim it with a saw to the desired length. I kept mine at 36 inches and didn’t cut it.
1. Cut the leather straps
If you want a decorative knotted look, cut two leather pieces at 8–10 inches each. For a neater, simpler finish, cut each strap to 4–5 inches and fold them over the dowel.
2. Wrap the leather around the dowel
For the knotted style, wrap both leather pieces around the dowel and tie them tightly. Leave extra length at the top where the strap will be secured to the wall so there’s enough material to nail through.
If you choose the folded flap method, simply fold the strap over the dowel and skip the knotting step.
3. Make holes in the leather (optional)
You can punch holes in each leather strap where the nails will go for a cleaner, reinforced finish. If you don’t have a punch, you can hammer the nails directly through the leather into the wall.
4. Attach the leather to the wall
Position the dowel at the desired height, then hammer the nails through the leather straps into the wall so the dowel is supported. Add S-hooks and hang towels, hats, bags, or other items.
If you need more hanging options, add metal hoops or corded loops to the dowel for variety in length and style.
Ideas for Using This Simple Rail
- Bedroom: hang hats, bags, scarves, belts, or lightweight jackets.
- Bathroom: use it for towels, washcloths, or small baskets holding daily items.
- Entryway: hang keys, umbrellas with loops, dog leashes, and light outerwear.
- Home office or craft room: organize tools, scissors, cords, or frequently used supplies with S-hooks or small baskets.
- Kitchen: hang mugs, utensils, pot holders, or small pans if mounted near a prep area.
More Projects Using Dowel Rods
- Budget-friendly wood curtain rods can be made with a similar approach.
- Wall peg rails are another practical dowel-based option for entryways or mudrooms.
- A blanket ladder or simple hanging display rails for artworks and textiles are easy to construct using dowels.
Hanging DIY Wall Organizer (10-Minute Project)
Equipment
- 36-inch dowel rod (or your preferred length)
- 1-inch wide leather straps
- S-hooks
- Scissors
- Leather hole punch (optional)
- Two nails and a hammer
Instructions
- If necessary, cut the dowel to the desired length using a saw. I used it at 36 inches without cutting.
- Cut leather straps. For knotted straps, cut two pieces 8–10 inches each. For a folded flap, cut two pieces 4–5 inches each.
- Wrap the leather around the dowel. For knots, wrap and tie tightly, leaving enough leather at the top to secure to the wall. If folding, simply fold the strap over the dowel.
- Punch holes in the leather (optional). Punch a hole where the nail will go, or hammer directly through the leather into the wall.
- Attach the leather to the wall. Nail the straps into place while they are holding the dowel. Add S-hooks, hoops, or loops as needed and start hanging items.
How would you use this wall organizer? What other ideas do you have for its placement or customization?