DIY Popsicle Stick Bracelets…for St. Patrick’s Day!

Get into the St. Patrick’s Day spirit this year with these popsicle stick bracelets, perfect for Leprechauns of all ages! The simple craft really only requires 3 basic materials, but can be customized with all kinds of fun flair to accommodate all tastes. Little girls and boys alike will love sporting these around school (such an easy way to ward off the unwanted pinchers), plus they are so fun to make. The versatility of the project also makes it a great classroom activity that can easily be worked into a lesson plan about the history of the holiday. These creative cuffs are sure to bring the luck of the Irish!

Materials

Need:

• Popsicle sticks
• Boiling water
• Glass cup or jar

Optional:

• Non-toxic craft paint
• Stickers
• Yarn
• Decorative tape
• Any other decorating supplies you want to add!

Instructions

1. Bring a pot of water to boil on the stove and remove from flame. Place popsicle sticks in boiling water and allow them to soak for about an hour. If your water seems to be cooling off too quickly, you can refresh with more hot water halfway through.
2. Remove popsicle sticks from the water individually and carefully massage into a curved, circular shape until the stick is able to rest in place on the inside of your glass. The sticks will be malleable but can be a bit tough so go easy as to not snap them. Also, note that the cup should be similar in circumference to the wrist it is going to fit (the littlest wrists will want to use  a smaller cup and largest wrists will want to use a wider mouth glass.)
3. Allow to set for about 24 hours until the sticks are visibly dry. You will know they are dry when they are able to easily pop out of place. If you are having issues with the sticks drying due to humidity, you can also hit them with the hair dryer for a few seconds on low heat to help force out any remaining moisture.
4. Let the kids go wild! The fun thing about these bracelets is that they are easy for all ages to decorate. They look beautiful with their natural finish, but will withstand any number of decorations you kids pile on. You can also be extra GREEN and use recycled materials and found objects from around the house. Get creative with magazine clippings, spare buttons, bottle caps, fabric scraps, and more.

TIP: If you are having trouble with fit,  you can also carefully puncture holes in each end of the stick and secure with a string or ribbon. Do this gently to prevent the wood from splitting down the middle.

And save this to your DIY board on Pinterest!

Are you making any St. Patrick’s Day crafts? Tell us about them in the comments!