Introducing 21 New Ways to Use Paper Straws (Not Just for Sippin’)

Bethany Kosten
Mar 15, 2014

There’s just something fun about sipping your favorite drink through a colorful tube. But there’s more than one way to enjoy everything — including the humble straw. (And we’re not talking spit balls!) We love being creative with ordinary objects, which is why we’re getting crafty with our straws. Round up those leftover straws and get ready for 21 DIY straw repurposes, from party props to DIY pixie stix.

1. Straw Paper Easel: Considering that the only materials required are paper straws and glue, this DIY is thrillingly easy. Make mini easels in a variety of sizes and use them to show off your photos and the kiddos’ artwork, or turn them into colorful place-card holders. So clever! (via Wants and Wishes)

2. Photo Booth Props: In just three simple steps (print, cut, paste), you can create your own photo props. Party on! (via Toffee Magazine)

3. DIY Pixy Stix: Remember Pixy Stix, that sweet-‘n’-sour powdered candy you loved as a kid? Make your own with paper straws! You get total control of the sugar content, plus you can choose straws to match your party decor. (via Cupcake Project)

4. Stars and Stripes: Straws and twine come together to create a stunning string ‘o stars. This festive garland will light up your party like daytime fireworks. (via House of Earnest)

5. DIY Birthday Candle Cupcake Toppers: It’s hard to improve on a cupcake, except perhaps with a fancy candle topper. Make your mini cakes more magical with this clever DIY. (via Icing Designs)

6. DIY Springtime Paper Straw Banner: Make a fun garland to bring some color (and a touch of whimsy) into your home this spring using baker’s twine and paper straws. (via Sassy Style)

7. Confetti Popsicles: Popsicles? Check. Cool straws? Check. Sprinkles too!? Check. This is a total no-brainer. (via Icing Designs)

8. Sweet Sips for Mom: Gift a bouquet of flowers that never dies. Not only do these blooms make a beautiful bouquet, but they’re totally useful too. Gift them alongside glass bottled drinks for the ultimate effect. (via Oh Joy)

9. Rose Love Gram: We searched high and low for the source of this DIY to no avail, but it was too sweet not to include here. What a great way to gift a flower! (via Pinterest)

10. Fruit Pops: This eye-catching sweet is stunning on any dessert table. They make perfect little wands for a princess party or stunning sparkler-style treats for patriotic holidays. In true sparkler fashion, they’re sure to be extinguished quickly… chomp, chomp! (via Bakers Royale)

11. Straw and Paper Airplanes: Straws and paper strips come together to create paper planes with a modern twist. These mini aircrafts are meant for little hands to enjoy, and it is such an easy DIY that kids can get in on the crafting too. (via DIY Network)

12. Pinwheel DIY: It just isn’t spring until you pull out the pinwheels. These bright spinning swirls are the perfect solution for post-winter color cravings. (via Lolly Jane)

13. Mini Tissue Pom Straws: Let your creativity bloom. Tiny, tissue flower poms adorn paper straws and turn any drink into a celebration. (via Lemon Drop)

14. Straw Bunting DIY: If you just happen to have some leftover straws hanging about, turn them into a modern, three-dimensional bunting. We’re lovin’ the bright neons in this version, but stripe straws would make a cool garland too. (via Smile and Wave)

15. DIY Party Blowers: Keep guests (young and old!) entertained with handmade party blowers. Way to make your party pop! (via Minted)

16. Printable Chalkboard Letters Cake Bunting: Transform an average cake (or cupcakes) into a party-worthy treat by decorating it with this charming chalkboard cake bunting. Just print the letters, fold, glue and attach to straws. (via Yellow Bliss Road)

17. Banana Pops: Food on a stick is our fave… especially when the “stick” is actually a pretty paper straw. Spear banana slices, then dip ’em in chocolate and load up the toppings. (via Bakers Royale)

18. Hot Chocolate On a Stick: We’re game for anything that involves chocolate. Add these mini chocolate molds to a cup of hot milk and stir for instant hot cocoa. (via Pink Doormat)

19. Paper Straw Flags: These pretty paper flags can be used to adorn your party table or simply dress up your drinking straw. Paper is all it takes to craft those cuties. (via Popper and Mimi)

20. DIY Straw Backdrop: That’s right! Straws on the wall make your photobooth dreams even more colorful. (via Green Wedding Shoes)

21. DIY Hanging Planters: Taking a major departure from their previous purpose in life, these straw-supported planters certainly don’t suck. (via Brit + Co.)

Are you a sucker for paper straws, too? Share your favorite use for these sippers in the comments!

Amanda Seyfried Just Confirmed 'Mamma Mia 3' Is On Its Way

When I saw Mamma Mia 2 in 2018, my life was changed. I didn't grow up on the original jukebox musical, but watching Lily James and Amanda Seyfried dance around Greece was exactly the kind of escapism I needed at 19 years old. I've been waiting for Mamma Mia 3 ever since (haven't we all?!), and while we've gotten a few updates here and there (creator and producer Judy Craymer told Deadline a third movie is in "earliest stages" in May of 2023), Amanda Seyfried just answered a major question fans have: why is the threequel taking so long?

Here's what Amanda Seyfried said about Mamma Mia 3's release.

Amanda Seyfried promises "we're going to do" 'Mamma Mia 3.'

Amanda Seyfried was asked about a Mamma Mia 3 ahead of the premiere for Long Bright River, which she stars in and executive produces.

"Show me the money!" she jokingly tells The Hollywood Reporter, before adding, "Producer Judy Craymer is always working on it, but Universal still has to release Wicked2. The first Wicked had to stall when Mamma Mia! 2 was getting made."

"It’s an either/or situation with musicals. And I have this theory that Universal just knows we’re going to do it, so they’re not in any rush," she continues. "And it’s just going to cost double."

Hearing Amanda Seyfried say they're definitely making the movie is exactly what I needed to hear this week!

And Meryl Streep wants to return as Donna!

Since Wicked: For Good is coming out later this year (and Universal has no other musicals in the pipeline) that means Mamma Mia 3 could finally be on its way! If they filmed over the summer of 2026 and completed post-production in the winter, we could see the third movie as early as the spring of 2027.

Amanda Seyfried told ET that “it’s happening" and jokes that “it’s going to happen in Greece, hopefully before 2038."

"Ideally [filming] would be in summer 2026," she continues. "That’s just my schedule. Everybody has to put their lives on hold.” And see, that's exactly what I said.

"I don't want to over-egg it," Judy Craymer told Deadline, "but I know there's a trilogy there…and I do think Meryl should come back, and if the script is right, she would, I think, because she really loved playing Donna."

And what does Meryl Streep think of the possible return to Donna Sheridan? "Of course I want to do it," she said. Let's get the band back together!

If you need me, I'll be singing ABBA's "Dancing Queen" all day. Read up on The ‘Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again’ Cast Reveals Who Was the Real Diva on Set for more insight into these iconic musicals.

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Trader Joe’s Mini Tote Bags Are Rumored To Return Next Month – In 4 Adorable Spring Colors!

Trader Joe’s always knows exactly how to get us excited for new products – and this time, it’s rumored that the grocer is bringing back their viral Mini Canvas Tote Bags in four brand-new colors that are all perfect for spring! Speculated to hit stores sometime next month, you’re not going to want to miss this TJ’s drop.

Here’s everything you need to know about the return of Trader Joe’s Mini Canvas Tote Bags for spring 2025.

@traderjoesobsessed

Trader Joe’s fan account @traderjoesobsessed first circulated the rumor that the Mini Canvas Tote Bags are set to return to Trader Joe’s this spring.

“Rumor has it that the pastel mini canvas bags will be here in April. Usually, they do release these on a Wednesday. How excited are you for these colors? I can’t wait to customize them!” the caption reads.

Another source, @zuncola, hinted that the totes could hit stores as early as April 8 or 9.

@traderjoesobsessed

It appears there will be four different colorways in this season’s Mini Canvas Tote Bag drop: pink, blue, green, and purple. But they’re not your ordinary pinks, blues, greens, and purples – per the rumors, they’ll come in pastel hues that all look stunning. From carrying your quick grocery hauls to toting each and every picnic essential you’ll need this spring, these bags get it all done in sheer style.

Trader Joe’s

In the past, the Trader Joe’s Mini Canvas Tote Bags have been a limited-time item that garnered plenty of attention from shoppers, even sparking a massivefrenzy inside stores with customers racing to snag their own tote. Some TJ’s locations have also placed a buying limit for bags like these, typically 1 per customer. Based on the reception of the rumors for this year, you’ll likely want to plan when and how you’re going to get your hands on one.

Instagram

Tons of Trader Joe’s fanatics sounded off in the comments of @traderjoesobsessed’s post about the rumors of the Mini Canvas Tote Bags’ return:

“Stoppppp no way!! 😱😱” one person wrote.

‘Yes! These will make great bags for Easter gifts,” another said.

“Looks like I need to buy camping gear cause I'll be in that line before sunrise 🤩,” one more fan commented.

Reddit

In previous years, the Mini Canvas Tote Bags went for $2.99 too $3.99, and we expect this pastel-filled drop to cost about the same.

Reddit

Though there’s no official release date for the mini totes, they’re speculated to hit shelves sometime in April 2025, possibly the 8th or 9th. Stay tuned here for more updates!

Subscribe to our newsletter to stay on top of all the best Trader Joe's news!

This post has been updated.

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These 24 Green Cocktails For St. Patrick's Day Are Full Of Luck

St. Patrick's Day means green is queen. We're talking green recipes, green outfits, and green cocktails! Now that you've got the recipe for pot of gold cupcakes, it's finally time to find the perfect green drink for St. Patty's day to pair them with! With our list of green cocktails, you'll be full of luck come March 17.

Find every spirited cocktail worth celebrating here – from Grasshoppers to green margaritas, we're here to make sure your St. Patty's is nothing but fun!

What is the most popular drink for St. Patrick's Day?

Denys Gromov / PEXELS

Green beer, Guinness, and green cocktails made with creme de menthe and Irish cream are the most popular drinks to have for St. Patrick's Day. You'll see celebrations chock full of themed foods and drinks, especially green in color. We love a good cocktail, so enjoying a green spirit like the ones listed is our favorite way to party!

What do Irish people drink on St. Patrick's Day?

RDNE Stock Project / PEXELS

Among a tall pint of Guinness, Irish people typically indulge in local ciders, Dublin Mules, Irish whiskey shots, and Black and Blacks for St. Patrick's Day.

What is the most popular cocktail in Ireland?

Arina Krasnikova / PEXELS

For many, the Irish Maid is one of the best cocktails in Ireland. It's made with quality whiskey, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Other popular cocktails include the Irish Espresso Martini, Irish Eyes, and Irish Sour.

Green Beer

We had to go there. This is one of the easiest and most quintessential American-Irish drinks. (via Brit + Co)

Cucumber Gin Slushie

Brit + Co

This green slushy makes our hearts soar since you only need 6 ingredients for the recipe. This is one of the best St. Patrick's Day cocktails you can make if it's hot outside on the holiday. (via Brit + Co)

St. Patrick's Day Green Shots

Sarah Anderson

Okay – this green cocktail is actually a dessert shot, but we had to include its yumminess. You'll build a chocolatey Oreo base on the bottom before layering on the boozy pudding. (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Pickleback

Kurt Andre

Green pickle juice and bacon bourbon in a salt-rimmed glass is all you need for a green shot to remember. (via Brit + Co)

Mezcalima Lime Cocktail

Brittany Griffin

This citrusy margarita is a great addition to your St. Patrick's menu. It's got ginger beer, so it's a good option for anyone who isn't a fan of thick, sweet drinks. If you desire a sweet sip, whip up some simple syrup to mix in. Mix in some addition green food dye to up the color! (via Brit + Co)

Midori Lemonata

Brit + Co

Don’t let the green color of this drink scare you. This St. Patty's cocktail tastes just like melon-flavored lemonade – with a boozy kick, of course. (via Brit + Co)

Shamrock Sour Cocktail

Pizzazzerie

Adding a little bit of Irish Whiskey into your drink makes it St. Patty's Day-appropriate, like this version of a whiskey sour from our collection of St. Patrick's Day recipes! (via Pizzazzerie for Brit + Co)

Avo-Keto Margarita

Don Julio

Just because you may be going low-cal doesn't mean you shouldn't be able to St. Patrick's party with the rest of 'em. This keto-friendly margarita earns its green hue from fresh avocado. (via Don Julio for Brit + Co)

Cucumber Gimlets

Brit + Co

Forget normal glasses — you can drink right out of a cucumber with these green cocktails! All you need to scoop out the inside is a melon baller, then you're all set to fill to the brim with gin and Sparkling Ice. (via Brit + Co)

Matcha Gin Sour

Takes Two Eggs

Prep this appealing matcha-based cocktail for all the green on the 17th. Think of this creative recipe as your #1 St. Patty's sip! (via Takes Two Eggs)

Key Lime Margarita

Barley & Sage

Take this classic margarita to the St. Patty's hang, and your buds will be hooked. This is a great option for when you want to serve green drinks that don't have Guinness or Irish cream. (via Barley & Sage)

Luck Of The Irish Sunrise

First Light Whiskey

Shake 2 oz First Light Whiskey, ½ oz blue curacao, ½ oz orange juice, and ¼ oz simple syrup with ice, then garnish your festive green sip with cherries and a brown sugar rim. This delicious drink will definitely keep the party going. (via First Light Whiskey)

Grasshopper Cocktail

Culinary Hill

Whip up this dessert-y green drink using just three ingredients: green creme de menthe, creme de cacao, and cream! Finish your St. Paddy's cocktail off with delicious chocolate shavings! (via Culinary Hill)

Bali Squeezed Mocktail

Chef Bai

Just because you're not drinking drinking, doesn't mean you can't sip on something delicious for the holiday. Get in the St. Patrick's spirit with this green cocktail that's full of nutrients from superfood supplements and coconut water. (via Chef Bai)

Spicy BLT Green Bloody Marys

Heather Christo

What's better than a bloody Mary? A themed bloody Mary with bacon, of course! Sip this green drink for an unforgettable St. Patrick's. (via Heather Christo)

Frozen Mint Lemonade

The View From Great Island

A slushy, minty limonana is only St. Patty's-approved when rum is added to the blender. All your pals will love these green cocktails. (via The View From Great Island)

Classic Mint Julep

Salt & Lavender

Throw back a sip so refreshing, you'll immediately want a second one. And that's totally accepted to amp up the St. Patrick's party! (via Salt & Lavender)

Taffer's Grasshopper

Taffer's Browned Butter Bourbon

To make this creamy green cocktail, shake 1.5 oz Taffer's Browned Butter Bourbon, 1 oz crème de menthe, 1 oz crème de cacao, and 1 oz crème over ice. Strain into your go-to martini glass, then top everything off with a generous amount of shaved dark chocolate. Yummm! (viaTaffer's Browned Butter Bourbon)

Cucumber Gimlet

Leite's Culinaria

Add a splash of cucumber juice to a gin classic, and your tastebuds will be in luck for St. Patrick's Day. (via Leite's Culinaria)

Vodka Limeade Punch

Crazy For Crust

Mix up a pitcher of this easy green punch for a breezy bartending duty. Tons of green lime and fresh mint leaves means there's no pinching to be had! (via Crazy For Crust)

Moscow Mule Push Pops

What Should I Make For

The warm weather will be in full spring mode come St. Patty's, meaning it's time to bust out your freezer pop molds for a cooling boozy treat! These sweet popsicles draw inspo from the classic Moscow mule. (via What Should I Make For)

Sweet Liberty's Grasshopper 2.0

Sweet Liberty

This unique green cocktail reimagines the ever-popular St. Patty's Grasshopper in the tastiest way. To make it, shake .75 oz Tempus Fugit crème de menthe (colored with green dye), .75 oz Giffard crème de cacao, .5 oz Del Maguey ‘Vida’ mezcal, .25 oz Branca Menta, 1 barspoon of absinthe, and 1.25 oz heavy cream over ice. Strain into a glass filled with crushed ice and grate some dark chocolate over top! (via Sweet Liberty in Miami Beach, FL)

Mint Matcha Latte

Chef Bai

This matcha drink is luckily super healthy for you! Enjoy this green drink recipe on its own, or spike it with Irish cream for a nice buzz. (via Chef Bai)

Cucumber Margarita

The Endless Meal

Tequila, triple sec and lime join cucumber to form a refreshing green cocktail. Everyone at the party will adore this fun refreshment! (via The Endless Meal)

Tweet us your favorite green cocktails @BritandCo and follow us on Pinterest for more!

This article has been updated.

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