A core for a paint roller includes a base layer and a reinforcing layer positioned over the base layer. A method of assembling a paint roller core includes helically winding a base material around a mandrel, applying an adhesive to an exposed portion of the base material, helically winding a reinforcing material around the base material, and applying the adhesive to an exposed portion of the reinforcing material. An apparatus for forming a paint roller includes a mandrel, a first feeder for continuously winding a base material around the longitudinal axis of the mandrel, a second feeder for continuously winding a reinforcing material around the base material, a third feeder for continuously winding a fabric cover around the reinforcing material, and a belt drive arranged around the mandrel for advancing the base material, reinforcing material and fabric cover along the mandrel.