These sticks are so durable and strong, not at all like your "popsicle" sticks you get from the local craft store. My child had attached one of these to a cardstock animal loaded with little rocks, beads, and embellishments, and it held that animal up as a puppet with no bending or feeling flimsy at all. I think once you try these sticks you will not go back to the other ones found at local craft stores.