Giddy up! Make your own horse drink stirrers for the ultimate cocktail experience.
Are you tired of serving the same old cocktails to your guests? Want to add a touch of whimsy to your drinks that will leave a lasting impression? Look no further than DIY horse drink stirrers! These charming and easy-to-make additions to any drink are sure to delight guests at your next party or Kentucky derby celebration.
In case you didn’t know, the Kentucky Derby is an annual horse race (that lasts about 2 minutes) at Churchill Downs. This event has birthed lots of traditions, including bright and colorful outfits, outlandish hats, and the mint julep. (You need to check out my recipe for Sweet Tea Mint Juleps. They are SO GOOD!)
I had the opportunity to attend the Kentucky Derby several years ago and it was an amazing experience. That trip is what prompted me to make these diy horse drink stirrers!
While the mint julep is probably the most well-known derby drink, there are several other libations to help celebrate the event. I thought it’d be fun and fitting to create coordinating cocktail couture to embellish your derby drink of your choice. (If you’re looking for a delicious cocktail recipe, I have dozens. I pride myself on making unique, delicious, and easy cocktails. There’s something for everyone!)
I spotted some horse drink stirrers for sale online. Instead of buying a set, I decided to make my own version. Say hello to my DIY Horse Drink Stirrers.
Side note: If you like these drink stirrers, I made another type for Christmas using mini bottle brush trees. They are adorable!
Why You’ll Love This Project
- They are so versatile! These stirrers can be used for any type of cocktail, from delicious margaritas to fruity sangrias.
- They are easy to customize to fit any occasion, from a casual get-together to a sophisticated soiree.
- It’s a great way to get creative and unleash your inner DIY warrior. Whether you’re an experienced crafter or a novice, this project is accessible to anyone with a little patience and a willingness to learn.
Other than a fresh sprig of mint, there’s nothing else I’d rather have in my glass while watching the race and cheering on the horses.
And as you might have guessed, they are simple to make. Let me show you.
Project Supplies
To get started on creating your own horse drink stirrers, you’ll need to gather your supplies. Luckily, this project requires only a few key items.
Project Instructions
I’ll walk you through the steps for making these horse drink stirrers below. I’ve also provided a full ingredient list and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card below.
- Begin by drilling a hole in the bottom of your plastic horse. It’s best to use a grip or vise to hold the horse while drilling instead of just holding the horse in your hand. Safety first.
- You only need to drill about 1/4 of the way into the horse. That will be deep enough to secure the drink stirrer.
- With the horses drilled, coat them evenly with gold spray paint. (If you anticipate that the horse will come in contact with your drink, use a food safe spray paint.) I used this gold spray paint which is my favorite gold.
- When the horses are dry, add a bit of E6000 glue to the top of your plastic drink stirrers and insert one into each of the pre-drilled holes.
- Allow the glue to dry completely, and your Horse Drink Stirrers are ready to go.
Naturally, you can use any combination of colors to create your stirrers. However, when I have the chance to paint something gold, you know I’m going to take it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reuse the stirrers?
Yes, you can! After using them in your cocktails, simply wash them with warm water and soap and let them dry before using them again.
Can I used a different animal other than horses?
Of course! Make them however you’d like. I think a pig would be so cute!
How do I store the stirrers?
Store them in a dry and cool place to prevent them from warping or cracking. A mason jar or airtight container works well for storage.
Even if you aren’t watching or celebrating the derby , these DIY drink stirrers can make any party a bit more fun. Get creative and use different animals like dinosaurs, unicorns, or cats.
Remember when I used mini plastic cats to decorate my cake-in-a-jar? That was SO MUCH FUN!
More Creative Craft Projects You Will Enjoy
I hope you give these diy drink stirrers try! If you do, be sure to pop back in and let me know what you think in the comment section below.
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Begin by drilling a hole in the bottom of your plastic horse. It’s best to use a grip or vise to hold the horse while drilling instead of just holding the horse in your hand. Safety first.
You only need to drill about 1/4 of the way into the horse. That will be deep enough to secure the drink stirrer.
With the horses drilled, coat them evenly with gold spray paint. (If you anticipate that the horse will come in contact with your drink, use a food safe spray paint.)
- When the horses are dry, add a bit of E6000 glue to the top of your plastic drink stirrers and insert one into each of the pre-drilled holes.
Allow the glue to dry completely, and your Horse Drink Stirrers are ready to go.