Looking for a simple and patriotic craft to celebrate the 4th of July with your kids? This DIY Popsicle Stick Flag Craft is the perfect activity! It’s easy enough for preschoolers and fun for older kids too. Using just a few basic supplies, your little ones can create their own American flag to wave proudly or display at your Independence Day celebration. Whether you’re crafting at home, in a classroom, or at a summer BBQ, this red, white, and blue project is a great way to keep kids entertained while teaching them a little about our country’s history.

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How to Make DIY Popsicle Stick Flags

Ready to make a fun and festive craft with your kids? These DIY popsicle stick flags are simple, colorful, and perfect for celebrating patriotic holidays. With just a few supplies and easy steps, you’ll have a cute flag to wave, display, or gift in no time!

Supplies You’ll Need:

  • 8 popsicle sticks (Jumbo Size) I think the Jumbo size works best, but either size will do.

  • Red, white, and blue paint or markers

  • Star stickers or a white paint pen or Q-tips

  • Glue (hot glue works best, but white glue is fine too)

  • Scissors (optional, if trimming sticks)

  • A piece of cardstock or extra popsicle sticks for backing (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  • Build the Flag Base
    Line up 7 popsicle sticks horizontally to create the base of your flag. These will form the classic red and white stripes. To make painting easier, you can label each stick with “red” or “white” before you begin.

  • Paint the Stripes
    Paint every other stick red, leaving the rest white to create the stripe pattern. Be sure to leave the top left portion of the first three sticks unpainted for the blue star section. Allow the paint to dry completely before moving on.

  • Add the Blue Section
    In the top-left corner of your flag, paint a small square or rectangle in blue—this will represent the stars section of the American flag.

  • Finish with Stars
    Once the blue paint is dry, decorate it with tiny star stickers, a white paint pen, or even a Q-tip dipped in white paint to make little dots or stars. Get creative with it—it’s all about adding that final patriotic touch!

  • Glue It All Together
    Flip the flag over and glue two additional popsicle sticks vertically across the back to hold all the horizontal sticks together. You can also use a piece of cardstock or cardboard as a backing for extra support.

  • Add a Flagpole
    If you’d like to turn your craft into a waving flag, you can attach a flagpole! Simply take another popsicle stick and glue it vertically to the back of your flag, along the left side—the side with the blue star section. Make sure part of the stick extends below the bottom of the flag so it looks like a handle or pole. Let the glue dry completely before waving your flag with pride!
  • Optional Touches
    • Add a small loop of string on the back for hanging.
    • Add glitter or extra embellishments for sparkle!

What can you do with a patriotic popsicle stick flag?

A patriotic popsicle stick flag isn’t just a fun and simple craft—it’s also incredibly versatile! Once it’s finished, there are lots of ways to use and enjoy it. Whether for celebrating the 4th of July or teaching kids about American symbols, this craft can be both meaningful and decorative.

Here are a few fun ways to use your popsicle stick flag:

  • 🎆 Display it as festive 4th of July décor around your home or yard

  • 🎁 Gift it to veterans, grandparents, or neighbors as a thoughtful handmade token

  • 🧲 Add a magnet to the back and stick it on the fridge

  • 🎉 Glue a stick to the bottom and wave it as a mini flag during parades or backyard parties

  • 🏫 Use it in classrooms during patriotic holidays like Flag Day, Memorial Day, or Veterans Day

  • 🏕️ Include it as a summer camp or scout group craft activity

It’s a simple way for kids to show their creativity and patriotic spirit—plus, it’s a craft they’ll actually be proud to show off!

Make a fun Popsicle Stick Flag

This simple and patriotic craft is a fun way for kids to celebrate the 4th of July while getting creative with paint, color, and design. It’s easy to make, doesn’t require fancy supplies, and makes a great decoration for your holiday festivities. Whether you hang it up at your BBQ, display it in the window, or gift it to a grandparent, your child will feel proud of their handmade American flag. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to talk about the meaning of Independence Day in a hands-on, engaging way!