7 Fun DIY Popsicle Stick Crafts

Popsicle sticks are a playground staple in the summer, but did you know they can be used to make all sorts of fun crafts year-round? 

These humble wooden sticks are remarkably versatile materials for creative kids and crafty adults alike. Whether you’re looking for gifts to give or activities to keep little hands busy, popsicle stick crafts always stay young. 

This guide features seven easy projects that are both budget-friendly and enjoyable to make. From picture frames to pencil holders, you’re sure to find an idea here to inspire your next popsicle stick creation.

Free Red Popsicle Sticks on Black Table Stock Photo

Image source

1. Picture Frames

One of the simplest but most personalized popsicle stick crafts is a customized picture frame. To make one, first measure and mark the desired frame size on a sheet of cardboard or heavy paper. Glue popsicle sticks together side by side along the marks to form a border around the edge. Allow to dry completely before decorating. 

Afterward, choose your medium – acrylic paint is ideal for lolly sticks, but colored markers or stickers also work well. Coat the frame border with paint or adhere designs for a bright, vibrant look. Once dry, center a favorite photo inside, and you will have a one-of-a-kind display piece. 

For variety, experiment with different stick orientations like diagonal or crisscross patterns. Frames make thoughtful gifts to commemorate special memories.

2. Birdhouses

Welcome feathered friends with birdhouses crafted from popsicle sticks. Start by gluing 4-6 stacked sticks together lengthwise to form the back panel. Let dry. Then, glue 3-4 side panels at 90-degree angles to create the basic house shape. You can also add a triangular or shed-style roof. 

Paint, stain, or decorate the exterior as desired before the assembly dries. Add perches, a roof cut-out entrance hole, and hanging lines for placement in trees. Birdseed, suet, or nectar mix tucked inside provides nourishment to attract birds all season long. Easy for kids to assemble yet wildlife-friendly, these stick birdhouses spread cheer for both creators and critters.

Free Building a Box from Colorful Craft Sticks Stock Photo

Image source

3. Coasters 

Upgrade beverage table protection with DIY popsicle stick coasters. Lay out and glue anywhere from 4 to 8 sticks in a circle, square, or hexagon formation. Press lightly until the bond sets. For simple color blocking, paint the entire coaster surface after drying. Or get creative by dipping single sticks in paint before assembly to create stripes or patterns. 

Finish the coasters before adding a protective clear coat sealer. Then, display your one-of-a-kind set under cups and glasses at home or as practical, portable gifts. Coasters make stocking stuffers, party favors, or teacher thank-you presents with personality. Between uses, they fold compactly for storage with no mess.

4. Bookmarks 

Give reading a personal touch with decorative popsicle stick bookmarks. 

That siad, paint and embellish solid color sticks as desired – try polka dots, stripes, floral motifs, or inspiring words. Allow the paint to dry thoroughly. Once coated, tie a ribbon, twine, or curling strip of cardstock to the top for easy page marking. 

For added flair, glue on felt accents, pom poms, charms, or stickers. Bookmark options are endless, depending on the reader’s interests. Crafters of any age can spend an enjoyable afternoon designing custom keepsakes for book-loving friends and family. Lightweight yet durable, popsicle stick bookmarks make perfect stocking stuffers, too.

A piece of paper that has been folded in rainbow colors

Image source

5. Mini Easels 

Few crafts inspire young creativity more than an artist’s easel—craft mini versions using popsicle sticks that any child can proudly display their masterpieces on. Start with a tripod base by hot gluing popsicle sticks into a triangle shape. Once stable, attach a single stick angled out from the top for the “canvas” ledge. 

Paint the whole easel brightly before assembly dries completely. Then let your little Picasso put the finishing details, from polka-dotted sides to name stenciling, with the full creative palette. Display tiny easels brimming with budding talent on windowsills, fridge doors, or around the house for all to see. Easels will spark imagination for seasons to come.

6. Pencil Holders

Keep art supplies organized with helpful pencil holders made from popsicle sticks. Cleanly insert sticks around the outer rim of empty glass jars or clean cans. Secure in place with hot glue, making sure no rough edges remain. 

Once the bond dries, get crafty with the surface design. Apply patterned sticker sheets and acrylic paint details, or write cute reminders like “Doodle Away” in markers. Finish with a clear top coat to protect the holder long-term. Stocked with colorful pencils, crayons, and erasers, these organizers are perfect back-to-school gifts for desk supply boxes.

7. Wind Chimes 

Add musical whimsy to your yard or porch with wind chimes comprised of popsicle sticks. Cut and sand sticks to roughly 3-4 inches each before painting stripes, polka dots, or lettering in acrylics. Allow the paint to dry completely. 

Then, use a thin craft cord, metal rings, or jute twine to delicately tie or glue multiple sticks together at intervals, creating enough space between them for a light chiming effect. Attach the assembled strand securely to a wooden hoop, skewer stick, or small jump ring for hanging. Chimes bring visual interest that songbirds and summer breezes will sing along to.

a display of toothpaste and toothbrushes hanging from poles

Image source

Wrapping Up

Whether gifting or playing at home, popsicle sticks always retain their universal charm and adaptability for all ages. 

With just a bit of glue, paint, and creativity, the humble wooden sticks transform into cherished keepsakes, toys, and functional accents. By crafting any of these seven fun ideas, you’re sure to discover new ways these inexpensive materials can inspire the imagination for seasons to come.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *