I have given up on the idea of trying to cut down on paper towel usage (always trying to save the environment). I just realized if I want to keep the house clean, I'm going to have to go through the paper towels like crazy. So now I pick up a pack every time I go shopping -- I'm always stocked and my counters are USUALLY clean.
My wife gets upset when I make a sandwich on a paper towel instead of a plate. It's just easier, and no dish to wash, even though we have a dishwasher. Just an old habit...