As a lifelong horse lover, my favorite thing to make is anything remotely related to horses. These painted cardboard and popsicle stick horses are a great way to gift wrap a small treat, like a handful of candies or any other tiny treasure.

They come together with a few craft supplies easily purchased at a craft store and one repurposed cardboard tube. Best of all, even after they’re unwrapped the horse can stick around!

Keep reading for the full instructions below!

• Cardboard tube
• Tissue paper
• Small candies or present
• Twine
• Glue gun
• Scissors (a pair of strong and sharp craft scissors will work fine on the wood)
• Popsicle sticks
• 1/8” thick craft balsa wood
• Pencil
• Ruler
• Folk Art Acrylic Craft Paint
• Paint brush
• Printable template for horse head and neck

Step 1
Cut four popsicle sticks to 3 1/4” length.

Step 2
Trace the horse template onto the balsa wood and cut it out.

Step 3
Glue the wooden pieces onto the cardboard tube.

Step 4
Paint the entire horse.

Step 5
While the paint is drying, fold a piece of tissue paper in half and cut into a 10 by 7” rectangle and a 10 by 2” strip.

Step 6
Fold the strip of tissue paper in half lengthwise and cut fringe. Cut 3” long fringe in one end of the rectangle of tissue paper.

Step 7
Place a few pieces of candy in the rectangle of tissue paper and roll it up. Tie closed with a piece of twine.

Step 8
Glue the mane on to the neck of the horse.

Step 9
Place the wrapped present inside the horse and loop twine around the head for a halter, knotting the loose ends together.

These DIY favors are the perfect addition to any horse-themed birthday, or even Derby Day party – guests will love galloping them around and then enjoying the treats inside! Looking for more pony party inspiration? These prize ribbon cookie treats and mini pinatas make every party guest a winner!

Happy crafting!