How to Build Bridges with Popsicle Sticks

Step 1: Collect materials Raid your family’s junk drawers for enough popsicle sticks, glue, and other materials to build your bridge.
TIP: Stop by a local craft store to purchase additional building materials.
Step 2: Build main span Build the main support spans by layering popsicle sticks halfway over each other and gluing them together until you reach the proper thickness.
TIP: Use laundry clamps to secure your glued sections together until they dry for a tight bond.
Step 3: Create superstructure and road deck Line additional popsicle sticks perpendicular to the main span to create the road deck, then angle sticks vertically to build the superstructure.
TIP: Use a cross hatch pattern along the sides and under the road deck to build a bridge that is both strong and light.
Step 4: Add details Use toothpicks for railings or cut the points off the toothpicks and glue several of them together in a square to make tiles for sidewalks and side panels.
Step 5: Piece together cables Use flexible tubing or straws and string to piece together the cables if you are building a suspension bridge.
Step 6: Test bridge Test your bridge with a heavy book placed on the road bed and then set it up over a creek or other body of water to transport toy cars or even a pet hamster.
FACT: The most expensive suspension bridge was the $4.3 billion Akashi-Kaikyo bridge in Japan, and was completed in 1998.

Lessons in this Guide