Popsicle stick crafts
are a wonderful standby for creative projects in a hurry. They can bring up reminiscences of youth, and have been interpreted in so many different ways that project ideas seem endless. You need little or no crafting experience to create simple projects and most require minimal craft supplies for success.
History
Popsicle stick crafts have probably been around since the invention of the Popsicle in 1905. Frank Epperson was a child living in San Francisco, when he accidentally invented the frozen drink. After leaving his drink outside in freezing weather with a stir stick in it, he discovered he could eat his drink. He began selling Epsicles 18 years later and his children eventually changed the name to Popsicles. He sold his invention in 1925 and today it is owned by Good Humor.
Features
Popsicle stick crafts can be achieved by children and adults. Projects simple enough for children are abundant, but don't let that stop you. There are many more sophisticated Popsicle stick craft projects that you can do. Popsicle stick crafts can be easily painted, stained or left natural. Glue them together using an adhesive of your choice to create any number of Popsicle stick crafts. Popsicle sticks are also known as craft sticks and can be purchased in large quantities.
Benefits
When looking for a project to make in multiples that is also easy and inexpensive, Popsicle crafts are an ideal choice. Popsicle sticks are simple to alter to shape unexpected and clever designs. Summer camp, vacation Bible school and elementary school are perfect venues for creating these Popsicle crafts. Most projects can be finished in a day or two and sent home immediately for instant gratification and praise.
Types
There are a variety of Popsicle crafts to fit any occasion or need. The most obvious are frames. Glue the corners of the Popsicle sticks together to frame a poem or picture. Christmas ornaments crafted from Popsicle sticks are light enough to hang from a Christmas tree without weighing down the branches. There are many project instructions online. Popsicle sticks can be used as an accessory to other crafts, such as shingles on houses, skis for a bear or a star on a stable.
Prevention/Solution
Popsicle crafts may require cutting the sticks to size or drilling holes to thread hangers or attachments. While cutting or drilling, splitting may occur. To prevent this from happening, wrap masking tape around the area to be cut. Cut or drill lightly with very little pressure to accomplish the task with flawless results. When complete, remove the masking tape. If jagged edges do occur, take a small bit of sandpaper or use an emery board to sand the edge smooth.
