Make a 4th of July Wand!
You'll need: a straw, pipe cleaners (red, white, and blue of course!), star stickers or self stick foamies, ribbons, tape.
First bend down the pointed ends of the pipe cleaner(s). Not much, 1/8 " will do. Now it's not sharp.
Curl pipe cleaners by wrapping it around the straw (or a pencil) and sliding it off. You can keep the curls tight or loosen them by gently pulling on the ends of the pipe cleaner.
Insert one end of pipe cleaner into the straw. Use up to three, more won't fit, (depending on how wide your straw is). You may also add ribbon. I like ribbed curling ribbon. Curl some, leave some straight. Secure with tape if necessary.
Decorate with star stickers or foamies. Voila! Happy Birthday America!