Let’s be honest, popsicle sticks kind of get a bad wrap. They’re either the leftovers from the yummiest treat of the day, or they’re the boring craft supply we all remember from when we were kids. I’ve never been all that excited about them, sorry popsicle sticks.

But then I started to notice that there were possibilities for the humble craft stick that I’d never considered. Like flying boomerangs, play tents, or even making homemade books. How did I miss all these wonderful projects? Check out some of my favorites right here.

Clothespin Airplanes
Tutorial via Passengers on a Little Spaceship

I love the look of these simple airplanes – but I bet the kids would love to paint them with all kinds of stripes and patterns too.

Popsicle Stick Tents
Tutorial via Mer Mag

This may be my favorite of the bunch – making little homes for my girls’ little animals is a big pastime around our house. This project makes it easy and cute!

Chinese Paper Fan
Tutorial via WikiHow

Keep cool with the kiddos, and yourself, using these simple fans. Just think of the endless decorating possibilities!

Popsicle Memory Game
Tutorial via Eat Drink Chic

Playing memory games has always been a family favorite of ours, what about you? This project makes the most adorable version I’ve ever seen.

Popsicle Stick Notebook
Tutorial via In My Blue Room

Do your kids love filling books with drawings and scribbles and secret codes like mine? Here’s the perfect project to make an extra special book just for them. I love using the stamps on the front too!

Pictured at the top of this post: Exploding Boomerangs, tutorial via I can Teach My Child.