Crafts
Popsicle-Stick Picture Frames
A classic gateway craft that builds fine motor skills and gives your child a finished thing to show off the same afternoon. Great for proud-grandparent-mail or bedroom-wall decor.
What you'll need
Supplies for this activity
Chances are most of it is already in your craft drawer or kitchen.
Popsicle / craft sticks
8–10 sticks
Washable kid paint
any colors
White glue or hot glue (grown-up)
A printed photo or drawing
4×6 works perfectly
Stickers, beads, googly eyes
optional flair
Cardboard scrap for backing
Step by step
Let's make it
- 1
Lay out the frame
Arrange 4 sticks in a square — two horizontal on top of two vertical. Let your child decide if it should be a square or a tilted diamond.
Craft Coach tip
Skip the ruler — wobbly is part of the charm.
- 2
Paint, then breathe
Let your child paint each stick. Try one solid color or a rainbow. Set them aside for 5–10 minutes to dry — perfect snack window.
Craft Coach tip
Pop a tray underneath. Future-you will be grateful.
- 3
Glue the frame together
Once dry, add a small dot of glue where each pair of sticks crosses and press for ten seconds.
Craft Coach tip
Hot glue is fastest but a grown-up job. White glue + patience works too.
- 4
Decorate the frame
Stickers, glitter, beads, googly eyes, foam shapes — go wild. Less is more is not a rule today.
- 5
Add the picture & a backing
Cut a piece of cardboard slightly smaller than the frame. Glue the photo to the cardboard, then glue the cardboard to the back of the frame.
Craft Coach tip
Add a loop of yarn between the frame and backing if you want to hang it.
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