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Making Popsicle Stick Playing Cards – Surprisingly Fun and Totally Charming!

May 15, 2025 by Shellie Wilson

Okay, I’ll be honest — when I first saw the Popsicle Stick Playing Cards project floating around on Instructables, I wasn’t entirely sold. Popsicle sticks and playing cards? Sounds like a summer camp throwback, right? But curiosity got the best of me (as it usually does with anything slightly crafty and slightly quirky), and I decided to give it a whirl.

And let me just say: I loved this project way more than I expected to.

At its core, this DIY is super simple. You’re basically fusing old playing cards with humble craft sticks to create chunky, tactile “cards” that are durable enough for little hands — or just to enjoy as a cool novelty set. The end result? A full deck that feels a little bit rustic, a little bit retro, and totally unique.

What I really appreciated about this project was how accessible it was. You don’t need anything fancy to get started — just some basic glue, scissors, popsicle sticks (standard size worked fine for me), and of course, a deck of cards that’s either past its prime or missing a few members. We all have one of those lying around somewhere, right?

I ended up using an old UNO deck that was looking pretty rough around the edges, and it turned out great. The cards stick well to the wood, and once everything’s dry, you get these sturdy, chunky pieces that have such a fun hand-feel. It almost reminds me of vintage tile games or big wooden dominoes.

This would be such a great project for kids — whether it’s as a rainy-day craft, a classroom activity, or even as part of a DIY learning game (think memory matching or number recognition). I can see this also being a hit with older adults or people who need cards with a little more grip or visual clarity.

Plus, if you’re a DIY gift-giver like I am, imagine pairing these with a handmade fabric pouch or wooden box for a personalized twist. It would make a really thoughtful and low-cost present for a game lover or nostalgic friend.

Now, one tiny tip: make sure to let everything dry completely before stacking or using them. I rushed a bit on my first batch and ended up with a few cards stuck together. A bit of sanding or sealing would probably help prevent that too, especially if you want them to last.

Overall, this craft hit all the right notes — easy, upcycled, fun, and surprisingly satisfying to hold in your hands when they’re done. It’s a fantastic way to breathe new life into something old, and I honestly can’t wait to make a few themed sets as gifts.

So if you’re on the fence, give it a try. It’s playful, it’s practical, and hey, it might just be your new favorite weekend project.

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Have you read?

Handmade with a Past: Tuesday’s Top Recycled Etsy Find

Art can speak volumes, but it doesn’t have to cost the earth—literally. This recycled artwork, framed and ready to hang, is a perfect example of how beauty can emerge from the unexpected. It’s made from upcycled materials, bringing new life to discarded objects in the most artistic way possible.

This piece has that effortlessly cool, modern feel that I just adore. It reminds me of the kind of art I used to make as a kid—finding bits and bobs around the house and combining them into something that just worked. Only now, this work is polished, framed, and ready to elevate your home decor. It’s sustainable art with a story to tell.

What’s really great about this kind of art is that it adds character, depth, and meaning to a space. It’s not just a pretty picture; it’s a reminder that beauty can come from reuse and recycling, and it’s a nod to those of us who want to surround ourselves with eco-friendly treasures.

Why we love it:

  • Made from recycled materials

  • Each piece is completely unique and crafted with care

  • A conversation starter for your sustainable home decor or eco-conscious gallery wall

If you’ve been looking to add a touch of meaningful, eco-friendly style to your walls, this recycled artwork is definitely the way to go.

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