Things I Love About You, Dad! Popsicle Stick Craft

Looking for a Father’s Day craft that’s heartfelt and hands-on? This “Things I Love About You, Dad!” Popsicle Stick Scroll Craft is such a fun way for kids to share what they love most about their dad — and it rolls up into the cutest little scroll for gifting.

It’s part DIY card, part memory keeper, and part writing activity — all wrapped up in popsicle sticks and ribbon. Whether you’re working with toddlers, preschoolers, or big kids, this craft is flexible, fun, and full of meaning.

Why You’ll Love This Popsicle Stick Father’s Day Craft

• It encourages meaningful reflection. Kids get to think about and write out all the special things they love about Dad.
• It builds fine motor skills. Painting, gluing, taping, and decorating give little hands plenty to do!
• It makes a great keepsake. Rolled into a scroll, it’s a surprise Dad will love to unroll and treasure.
• It’s open-ended. Kids can get creative with colors, writing, and decorations to really make it their own.

Materials You’ll Need

• 8 large popsicle sticks or craft sticks
• Paint (optional, for plain craft sticks)
• Paintbrush
• White construction paper
• Glue stick
• Tape (masking or painter’s tape works well)
• Markers
• Pencil
• Scissors
• Ribbon (two short pieces)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Things I Love About You, Dad! Popsicle Stick Craft

1. Paint the Craft Sticks (Optional): If your craft sticks are plain, start by painting them in Dad’s favorite colors — or any colors your kids love. You can do stripes, dots, rainbow, or even metallic if you’re feeling fancy. Let them dry completely before moving on.

2. Line Up the Craft Sticks: Once dry, lay the 8 popsicle sticks side by side vertically in a straight row to create a flat “panel.” Use a piece of masking tape or painter’s tape across the front to hold them together in place — just like a little wood puzzle.

3. Flip and Add the Paper: Turn your panel over so the tape is now on the bottom/back side. Cut a square or rectangle of white construction paper slightly smaller than the craft stick panel, leaving about 1/2 inch of space on each side. Glue the paper square onto the sticks. Press firmly to make sure the paper sticks to every single craft stick.

4. Remove the Tape: Once the paper is secure and dry, carefully flip the panel back over and gently remove the tape from the back side. Now the sticks are glued to the paper and can bend/roll without falling apart — magic!

5. Time to Write!: With the popsicle stick scroll turned right side up, it’s time to add your message! At the top of the paper, help your child write: “THINGS I ❤️ ABOUT YOU, DAD!” Then list 3–5 things your child loves about their dad. These can be simple and sweet (“You read me books!” “You make pancakes!” “You give the best hugs!”) or funny and heartfelt. Let your child write their thoughts in pencil first. You can help younger children by writing their ideas for them. Then go over everything with marker to make it bold and colorful.
6. Decorate It: Now it’s time for a little creative freedom. Kids can decorate the background with drawings, doodles, stickers, glitter, or anything else they love. Encourage them to add a “Happy Father’s Day!” message at the bottom to wrap things up.
7. Add the Ribbon and Roll It Up: Flip the panel over again. Tape one end of each ribbon to the center back (on one of the middle sticks) and one near the bottom. Then roll the craft stick scroll from top to bottom until it’s all wrapped up. Tie the two ribbons around the rolled-up scroll like a little Father’s Day surprise!

Bonus Tips

• Classroom-friendly idea: This is a great Father’s Day project for preschool or early elementary classrooms. Each scroll is unique and super personal.
• For grandparents too! Swap “Dad” for “Grandpa” or “Papa” and make it a double surprise.
• Add a photo. You can glue a small photo of your child at the top or bottom for an extra-special keepsake.

The “Things I Love About You, Dad!” Popsicle Stick Craft is more than just a cute project — it’s a moment of connection.
It gives kids a chance to reflect on their relationship with their dad and express it in a fun, creative, and meaningful way.

And let’s be honest — it’s also really fun to open. The scroll style adds a little mystery and magic, which makes it all the more special on Father’s Day.

So grab your popsicle sticks and glue — and help your kids craft a gift that’s full of heart, creativity, and love. Dad’s going to love unrolling this surprise!