If you find yourself knee deep in popsicle sticks on a hot summer day, put them to good use while keeping them out of a landfill.

Instructions

• TIP: Increase the strength of the bridge by creating layers of sticks and by incorporating triangle shapes.
• Step 1: Join the superstructure sections together using angled sticks across the top and then gluing the bottom to the road deck.
• Step 2: Finish the bridge by adding structural or aesthetic touches and then test your construction skills.
• FACT: Twin popsicles were invented during the Great Depression so two children could share a popsicle for a nickel.
• Step 3: Make two vertical and symmetrical walls for the bridge – called the superstructure – using more popsicle sticks and glue.
• Step 4: Create the road deck by lining popsicle sticks perpendicular to the horizontal supports and joining the two sections together.
• Step 5: Choose a bridge design that is simple but strong by visiting your local library or searching the internet.
• Step 6: Build the main horizontal supports by overlapping popsicle sticks halfway and gluing them together.
• TIP: Use clothespins to hold the glued sections together until they have dried completely.
• Step 7: Collect enough clean popsicle sticks for your bridge with help from friends, or avoid the sticky mess and visit a craft store.