With the Fourth of July just two days away and our pool being one of the few in the neighborhood, I expect this summer will be full of gatherings—and I’m honestly looking forward to it.
To keep things fresh while hosting, I’ve been exploring simple DIY ideas for summer entertaining. One project that caught my eye is a colorful DIY wooden drink stirrer set that adds a playful, modern touch to any outdoor party.
I recently contributed to Tuts+ with this project; it’s my first piece for them, and I wanted to share a few photos and tips from the finished tutorial. The craft is straightforward to recreate at home, and while it does require a drill, the result is well worth the effort.
Concept, photography, and styling by Brittni Mehlhoff
The full step-by-step tutorial is available from the original source if you’d like detailed instructions, materials lists, and measurements. The process involves cutting small wooden blocks, drilling a hole to insert a stainless-steel or wooden stick, sanding the pieces smooth, and painting them in bright, summery colors. Sealing the finished stirrers with a food-safe finish ensures durability and safety for repeated use.
These stirrers are ideal for summer gatherings because they’re lightweight, customizable, and easy to make in batches—perfect for pool parties, barbecues, or casual backyard get-togethers. You can match colors to a party theme, add initials, or experiment with different block shapes and paint finishes to create a cohesive look for your table setting.
If you’re short on time, consider preparing the wooden blocks and drilling holes in advance, then invite friends to a quick painting session as a fun pre-party activity. This turns crafting into part of the event and gives guests a personalized takeaway they’ll enjoy throughout the season.
Are you planning to host any gatherings this summer? What DIY items do you typically make for outdoor parties—decor, tableware, or party favors? Share your ideas and favorite quick projects to inspire others planning summer entertaining.