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

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!

IKEA'S Color Of The Year Is Electric Blue — 12 Ways To Use This "Happy" Hue

I've always loved a pop of blue, red, or yellow in an otherwise neutral space. And while I admire anyone who can masterfully combine all three, blue has always been my clear favorite. Now, IKEA has officially crowned 'Electric Blue' as their 2025 Color of the Year. Inspired by the seas and skies, Electric Blue is a hue that IKEA describes as “contemplative and calm, yet versatile enough for modern and traditional spaces.”

Whether you’re looking to refresh a bedroom, energize a living room, or add a cool pop to your kitchen, this happy, bold shade delivers in the form of wall art, plush throws, or statement-making furniture. The best part? It plays well with others. Pair it with sunny yellows, vibrant oranges, soft lavenders, or even a daring hot pink. Will you be embracing this blue wave in 2025? From rugs and pillows to accessories and more, here are our top picks to embrace the new year with a splash of blue.

Wayfair

Iryanna Upholstered Armchair

This playful elephant trunk design calls for a color that doesn't take itself too seriously, creating a look that's minimalist and modern yet anything but boring.

IKEA

IKEA KLIPPOXEL Throw

This yarn-dyed throw feels just like mohair and it's made from recycled materials. It's a great way to commit to this bright color while on a budget.

West Elm

WE Checkered Shag Washable Rug

This 100% wool rug is actually washable and adds a bit of play and pop of blue to any space.

IKEA

IKEA KYRRE Stool

These stacking stools are so versatile and can be added to the corner of any room for extra seating or tables.

Urban Outfitters

UO Lola Nightstand

This cylindrical side table is perfect for holding your best reads, phone, other bedside essentials.

Amazon

Knot Pillow

Go blue on this iconic pillow for a whimsical and cozy addition to any room.

IKEA

IKEA SLATTUM Upholstered Bed Frame

This affordable bed frame will brighten up your bedroom and day.

Amazon

AllBlue Modern Eclectic Wall Art, Set of 12

For just $10, you can channel your own Blue Period with this striking and eclectic gallery wall.

Etsy

Twist Candles By Lex Pott

Designer Lex Pott combined both base and candle so you don't need a candle holder. Brilliant idea and color!

IKEA

IKEA KRYLBO Chair

Pull up a chair in Electric Blue with this upholstered piece that works in dining rooms, kitchens, and offices.

All Modern

Gemmell Hand Tufted Wool Rug

This 100% hand-tufted New Zealand wool rug makes a bold statement with simple geometric shapes.

IKEA

IKEA PRUNKHALLON Mirror

This wavy mirror in Electric Blue pairs perfectly with the IKEA BLÅSVERK Table Lamp in the same color.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Unpopular Opinion: Logan Huntzberger Deserved Rory More Than Dean or Jess

Truth be told, no greater controversy plagues Gilmore Girls fans than the battle of the boyfriends, but we’re finally ending the great boyfriend debate once and for all. Sorry, Team Jess and Team Dean (Is anyone Team Dean?), we’re ruling in favor of Logan Huntzberger — and we’ve got the receipts to back it up.

Before we even begin to look into Rory Gilmore's BFs, though, we must take a look at Rory herself. Although she has her flaws (like stealing yachts when she encounters a shred of criticism, for one), she actually isn’t a terrible girlfriend. “Rory has a secure attachment style,” couples therapist Kayla Sammons, LMFT at Millennial Life Counseling, tells Elite Daily. “She is comfortable being with her partner and apart from him. That’s a good start to building a lasting relationship.”

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rory & logan (48)

OK — so we know Rory’s a decent person to date. But what about her boyfriends? As all Gilmore Girls fans know, there are the big three; the rather possessive Dean Forester, the moody and literary Jess Mariano, and (our favorite) the wealthy and cheeky Logan Huntzberger. If you’ve watched the show, there’s a good chance you’re adamantly on one of their sides. Let us show you why Logan is the guy you need to get behind.

In speaking with Elite Daily, Sammons agrees that Logan is Rory’s best boyfriend — and apparently it’s not just because he calls her Ace. “Logan and Rory both show signs of high self-esteem, which helps them feel secure in themselves and their relationship,” she says. “Rory feels safe and excited by Logan and his unpredictability, while also knowing she’s safe with him.”

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rory & logan (7)

As all Gilmore Girls fans can recall, they started off as an FWBs before developing an IRL long-term commitment. Sammons says this as a good sign because it shows their ability to grow together. “Rory is able to self-reflect and communicate her need for more from a partner,” she says. “Then, they both take a chance on one another not knowing if it [will] work, and that risk is what relationships are all about.”

Before Rory, Logan was an avid bachelor with a lengthy roster of women. Rory knew this, and never tried to change him when they started seeing each other loosely. Eventually, though, Rory tells tell Logan that she can't see him anymore, because ultimately casual relationships aren't for her. She never once asks him to choose her, which is just what Logan needed to realize how much he wanted (and needed) Rory.

Within seconds, Logan tells Rory that he doesn't want to stop seeing her. He'll trade in his long-term bachelor lifestyle for her. She is officially his one and only. His decision is exactly why their relationship was so strong. It was his choice. He wanted Rory, and Rory wanted him, so he (very) willingly dropped everything for her.

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rory & logan (102)

This moment clearly separates Logan from the insecure Dean and withdrawn Jess, because it shows that he’s ready to step up for Rory. Although it seems like a minuscule moment between Rory and Logan, it showcases their genuine commitment to one another. The slow build of her relationship with Logan, coupled with their compatible personalities, ultimately makes him the best fit for her.

That's not to say that their relationship wasn't without issues, though (like that time they steal a yacht, which is totally NBD). Even in these trying moments, they consistently trust and support each other. They evolve together, cementing their relationship as Rory’s healthiest, even if Rory ultimately rejects Logan’s marriage proposal at her graduation from Yale in quite possibly one of the worst plotline decisions in the history of television (clearly we’re still not over this). Even despite their dalliances in the Gilmore Girls reboot, their compatibility still earns Logan the title of Best Boyfriend.

So there you have it — a definitive summary as to why Logan is the best partner for Rory, even though she inevitably messed it up (as she has a pension for doing). BRB while we overnight a Logan of our own.

Have we convinced you to join Team Logan? Let us know @BritandCo!

Header image courtesy of Warner Bros Television.

This post has been updated.

dean forester jess mariano logan huntzberger rory gilmore relationships pop culture gilmore girls team logan evergreen best reads entertainment

5 "Weird" TikTok Food Trends That Went Way Too Far In 2024

I’ve triedtons of different food trends in my day. From dumping chili oil on ice cream to concocting my very own Sleepy Girl Mocktail, nothing I’ve eaten measures up to the sheer weirdness we saw go viral on social media this year (major side eye to Dua Lipa’s pickle Diet Coke).

These are the top 5 most ridiculous TikTok-viral food trends of 2024 that left us questioning whether they really should’ve gone viral in the first place.

@claudiaeatsgood chamoy pickles are so good😋😩❤️ @Bussin Snacks #chamoypickle #chamoy #chamoypicklekit #bussinsnacks #takis #fruitrollup #mukbang #asmr #asmrmukbang #chamoypicklemukbang #juicy #pickle #mexicancandy ♬ original sound - Claudia💕

1. Chamoy Pickles

People couldn't quit it with the chamoy pickles (AKA chickles) this year. I never would've guessed that chamoy, a condiment made from dried fruits, chilies, sugar, and lime juice, would be slathered atop the sourest pickles money can buy.

But the food trend didn't stop at just chamoy – many snackers stuffed their pickles with everything from the likes of Hot Cheetos, Takis, and Fruit Roll-Ups. What?!

This insanely sour, tangy treat kickstarted what the internet's coined as the 'Red 40 Diet', which certainly cannot be medically advised.

If you care for your GI tract, this food trend is 100% worth skipping and leaving behind in 2024.

@dualipaofficial
What do we call her?
♬ original sound - Dua Lipa

2. Pickle + Jalapeño-Infused Diet Coke

Diet Coke, pickle juice, and jalapeño juice = all the ingredients needed to concoct Dua Lipa's controversial 2024 drink. She loves it, but I on the other hand, do not.

Now, don't get me wrong: I love a good unexpected flavor combo, but gulping down a simultaneous dose of both pickle juice and jalapeño juice was not tasty to me whatsoever.

This trend even sparked a slew of Sonic diners to start ordering their soft drinks with pickles – but as divisive as this trend can be ("Don’t knock it till you try it," TikToker Mississippi Memaw told Food and Wine), it's just flat out weird.

@logagm
New cucumber recipe 🚨
♬ original sound - Logan

3. Cucumber Salad

If you bought a mandolin slicer recently, you might as well admit you're a victim of the TikTok-viral cucumber salad trend that made its rounds this year.

"Sometimes you need to eat an entire cucumber," TikTok user @logagmsounds off in the intro of every single one of his cucumber salad videos. And thus, the food trend was born.

It felt like I couldn't go a day on TikTok without seeing at least 5 recipes for a damn cucumber salad. When it comes down to it, I can appreciate the novelty (and taste) of this trend, but not the oversaturation. I'm gonna eat an entire cucumber one day, and get so tired of it the next. New innovations in 2025, please!

@kylekruegerr Would you try these?😂 #foodreview #seagrapes #food #review #tastetest #weirdfood ♬ original sound - Kyle Krueger

4. Sea Grapes

It was like people wanted to eat the weirdest, grossest things in 2024. I can't blame 'em, especially if it's for clicks and views. But this food trend in particular literally made me want to gag – and I was only watching people eat through a screen (any fellow ASMR fans out there?).

They don't look like they're supposed to be crunchy, but they are. Sea grapes grow from aquatic plants and are filled with essentially what is a "salty liquid." They burst in the mouth when you eat them (one TikToker called them 'edible Orbeez'). Yuck.

@julieta.asmr I figured it out!! Blooper at the end 🥴 #asmr #asmrcommunity #asmrtiktoks #asmrvideo #asmrsounds #asmreating #asmrfood #asmrfyp #asmrmukbang #mukbang #asmreatingsounds ♬ original sound - Julieta ASMR 🍒

5. Exploding Candies

The final (and especially weird) food trend I propose we leave behind in 2024 is these dang exploding jelly candies. They also made their rounds on ASMR TikTok, and I truly cannot stand to watch a single video featuring them.

First off, they look so annoying to consume. The fruit-shaped jellies are contained in a thin layer of plastic that's meant to burst open when you sink your teeth into it, prompting you to slurp out the sweetness inside. But what irks me the most is the fact that many people trying them can't even break the seal.

I'd rather watch someone make a simple PB&J than go to town on these microplastic-infused candies.

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