Create an American Flag with Popsicle Sticks

School’s almost out for summer! Have the kiddos kickoff of their vacation with a super fun DIY project. And since today’s Flag Day, what better way to do so than by creating an American Flag. We’ll show you how to make one out of Popsicle sticks in a matter of minutes. Although, eating all those popsicles will take you much longer – but that’s just time well spent!

A Brief History Lesson Before We Get Started
Did you know that the idea behind the American flag started on June 14th, 1777? It’s true. While America still recognizes its independence each year on July 4th, there is yet another day set aside to honor its most patriotic symbol: Old Glory (aka the American flag).

Back in 1777, having recently declared its independence, America needed a representation of what it stood for, and the red, white and blue design featuring a star for each state was the answer. And to make the flag official, it was quoted in the Articles of Confederation that the flag of the United States be 13 stripes, alternate red and white … the union be 13 stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.”

There have been numerous flags created since with additional stars to account for new states, but the 13 red and white stripes remain in the current flag to honor the original 13 colonies. There you have it: today’s history lesson. Ready to create your own America flag?

Here’s What You Need
Wax paper
Flat table
13 Popsicle sticks
White paint
Red paint
Two brushes
Wood glue
X-Acto knife
Blue construction paper
White paint pen or white star stickers

Let’s Get Started!
Step 1
Lay out the wax paper onto a table. This keeps the paint from getting all over the place. Paint five of the popsicles red. Paint four of them white.

Step 2
Let the paint dry. Arrange the red and white sticks horizontally – starting with a red stick. Then glue along the edges, so they stick together and form a flag-shaped rectangle.

Step 3
Create a flag pole by gluing an unpainted stick to the far right of the painted sticks. Then cut two Popsicle sticks equaling the height of the rectangle. Glue those two together on the rectangle at the edge.

Step 4
Cut out a square piece of the blue construction paper. Glue it to the upper left-hand corner on top of the painted red and white sticks. Now add your stars!

Step 5
Extend your flag pole by gluing another stick about 3/4 of the way down on the current flagpole.

Step 6
Show your patriotism with a wave of the flag!