How to Make Catapult Out of Popsicle Sticks?

Looking for a fun, hands-on activity that combines creativity and science? A popsicle stick catapult is the perfect DIY project for kids, students, or anyone curious about basic physics. It’s easy to build, requires only a few materials, and offers a playful way to learn about energy, force, and motion.

In this guide, you’ll learn what a popsicle stick catapult is, how to make one at home, how to improve it for better performance, and even how to build a mini rocket with popsicle sticks.

What Is a Popsicle Stick Catapult?

A popsicle stick catapult is a hands-on STEM project that uses simple materials, like craft sticks, rubber bands, and a spoon to create a mini launcher. Inspired by the design of ancient catapults, this kid-friendly version lets you explore basic physics concepts such as force, tension, and motion in a fun and interactive way.

Whether it’s part of a science fair project or just a weekend DIY activity at home, making a catapult with popsicle sticks is a low-cost, high-fun way to learn about how energy works. Plus, it’s a great excuse to fling pom-poms across the room (safely, of course).

Materials You’ll Need

Before you start building, gather these items:

How to Make a DIY Popsicle Stick Catapult at Home

Step 1. Stack Your Sticks

Take 6–8 popsicle sticks and stack them on top of each other. Wrap a rubber band tightly around both ends to keep them together. This stack will act as the base.

Step 2. Create the Throwing Arm

Take two more sticks and bind them together at one end with a rubber band. These will form the lever that launches your projectile.

Step 3. Insert the Lever

Wedge the lever (the pair of sticks) between the stacked base so that it can pivot. You’ll need to gently open the base sticks a bit and slide the lever through.

Step 4. Attach the Spoon

Tape or glue the plastic spoon to the end of the top stick in your lever pair. This becomes your launching cup.

Step 5. Final Assembly

Secure everything by wrapping another rubber band where the lever intersects with the base to create a fulcrum. Adjust the spacing until the spoon has a good range of motion.

Now, you’re ready to launch!

How to Make a Craft Stick Catapult with a Spoon (Simplified Version)

If you’re short on time or working with younger kids, try this simpler version:

1. Stack 5 popsicle sticks and secure with rubber bands.

2. Take two more sticks and rubber band only one end.

3. Slide the stack between these two sticks.

4. Attach a spoon to the top stick.

5. Press down and let go to launch!

How to Attach Popsicle Sticks Together

There are a few reliable ways to secure popsicle sticks:

How to Improve a Popsicle Stick Catapult

Want to make your catapult launch farther or higher? Try these tips:

Keep a notebook of launch results to find the best combination of design tweaks.

How to Make a Rocket Out of Popsicle Sticks

Want to go beyond catapults? Here’s a quick way to build a mini rocket:

Materials

Steps

1. Build a small triangular base with popsicle sticks.

2. Tape a paper cone on one end.

3. Stretch a rubber band between two sticks to act as a launcher.

4. Hook the rocket on the band and release.

This DIY rocket demonstrates elastic energy just like your catapult!

Troubleshooting Tips: Why Isn’t My Catapult Working?

Safety Note: Always supervise kids and avoid sharp or heavy projectiles.

Launch Your Creativity with a Popsicle Stick Catapult

Making a catapult out of popsicle sticks is more than just a fun DIY activity it’s a gateway into basic physics and engineering. With a few simple materials and a bit of creativity, you can build, test, and tweak your very own launcher.

Whether you're looking to make your first popsicle stick catapult, improve its design, or experiment with a mini rocket, there’s no shortage of fun and learning in this hands-on project. So grab those craft sticks and get building!