12 fantastic projects to do using popsicle sticks

Popsicles are delicious and refreshing to have in summer, but have you ever thought that popsicle sticks can come in handy too? There are many creative craft projects can be done using these small wooden sticks - both simple or complex. From making photo frames to games and puppets, the list is endless.

By yourself or with your kids, using popsicles sticks for craftwork can be great fun. And if you're out of ideas, check out the 12 great ideas below:

1. Rainbows

Let's start with a very simple project: rainbows. Simply glue 7 appropriately painted sticks together and decorate them with a speech bubble character (cloud) to create a wonderful decoration for your home.

2. Fake stained glass

Another simple project is to create fake stained windows (or fake glass objects). Have fun creating the shape you prefer and then back it with colored tissue paper.

3. Picture frames

How about creating some nice picture frames in which to preserve your best memories? Shape and paint them however you want. They could also make fantastic gifts.

4. Pen holder

If you are looking for a fun and useful project, these pen holders are for you. You can make them by arranging the sticks vertically and/or overlapping them horizontally, or by gluing them around a tin can. You can also make a phone holder for your mobile. Let your imagination fly free!

5. Napkin holder

A perfect gift idea which even the kids can make, is a popsicle stick napkin holder. Beautiful, useful and fun.

6. Sailboat

How about making your own toys? Making a sailboat is super-easy with popsicle sticks; once finished, the children can race them in the bath or swimming pool.

7. Flower pots

If gardening is your passion, get the kids involved in making colorful and original pots for your plants; they'll have a lot of fun creating new color combinations and perhaps they'll learn about gardening too!

8. Magnets

How about making some decorative fridge magnets? These are perfect for hanging up your "happy snaps". Certainly, they will add a splash of color to your kitchen.

9. Coasters

Few things are as annoying as the circular marks left by cups and glasses that have been put on our tables and wood furniture. Make some nice coasters together with your children, and they will be more inclined to use them. In the same way, you can also make wonderful trivets.

10. Birdhouse

For animal-loving kids, it will be fun to make a bird house or a feeder for the garden. They can then spend hours watching the birds enjoy their creations.

11. Airplanes

How many of you loved playing with airplanes as a kid? Make your own by gluing and painting popsicle sticks and wooden pegs. Your children will be entertained by these toys for hours.

12. Bookmarks

Finally, for those who love reading, there is nothing better than a bookmark to keep track of your place. Make several, or even one for each book you've started.

Do you have any popsicle sticks laying around?