Last updated: August 18, 2026
You probably have a stash of pool noodles sitting in the garage right now, and pool noodle crafts are the easiest way to put them to use. This guide walks you through simple, budget-friendly projects that work for kids, adults, and everyone lounging by the pool this summer.
Pool Noodle Sprinkler
Cut a noodle to fit across your yard, then poke small holes along one side with a skewer. Cap one end with duct tape and attach a garden hose to the other, and you have an instant sprinkler that keeps kids entertained for hours.
This project takes under ten minutes and costs almost nothing if you already own a spare noodle. It works best on a flat patch of grass where the water can spread evenly.
Floating Drink Holder
Slice a noodle into three-inch rings, and each ring becomes a floating cup holder for the pool. Keep a few extra rings tied together with string so they don’t drift away from your lounge chair.
Drop one in the water, set your drink in the center hole, and it stays upright and cool the whole afternoon. You can color-code rings for each family member using a permanent marker.
Pool Noodle Volleyball Net
Two noodles duct-taped end to end and stretched between pool ladders make a surprisingly sturdy floating net. Add a beach ball and you have a full game ready in minutes.
Tie the noodle net loosely so it has a bit of give when the ball hits it. A tighter connection tends to snap the tape and send the whole setup drifting.
Foam Pool Noodle Horse
Kids love turning a single noodle into a hobby horse for backyard races. Cut felt or fabric scraps for ears and a mane, then hot glue a paper plate or foam ball to one end for the head.
Add googly eyes and yarn for the mane to give the horse real personality. This craft holds up surprisingly well even after repeated outdoor play.
Noodle Wreath for the Front Door
Coil a full-length noodle into a circle, secure the ends with hot glue or wire, and wrap the whole thing in ribbon or artificial flowers. It makes a lightweight wreath that won’t warp in humid summer weather.
Pool noodle wreaths work especially well for beach-themed or nautical front porch decor. Swap the ribbon color seasonally to reuse the same foam base year-round.
Pool Noodle Bath Toy Organizer
Cut a noodle in half lengthwise, thread it onto a suction-cup hook, and hang it inside the shower or tub wall. Kids can stack rubber ducks and squirt toys along the groove instead of leaving them scattered on the floor.
This trick also works well for holding sponges and washcloths near a kitchen sink. Slice the groove slightly wider than the toys you want to store so items slide in and out easily.
Pool Noodle Edging for Garden Beds
Push a noodle length onto the border of a raised garden bed to soften sharp edges and cushion accidental bumps. It’s a favorite trick for households with toddlers who tend to trip near planters.
The foam holds up outdoors for a full season before it needs replacing, and it comes off easily when you want to mow or edge the lawn. Paint it to match your outdoor color scheme if you want something less noticeable.
Why Pool Noodles Work So Well for Crafting
Pool noodles are cheap, lightweight, and easy to cut with regular kitchen scissors or a serrated knife, which makes them one of the most forgiving craft materials around. They’re waterproof by design, so projects meant for outdoor or pool use hold up far longer than cardboard or paper alternatives.
The foam is also dense enough to hold its shape once cut, but soft enough that kids can safely handle the process themselves with supervision. That combination of durability and flexibility is exactly why pool noodle crafts have stayed a summer staple for so many families.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tools do I need to cut a pool noodle cleanly?
A sharp serrated knife or kitchen shears works best for straight cuts. For rings or thin slices, wet the blade slightly first so it glides through without dragging or tearing the foam.
Can pool noodle crafts get wet without falling apart?
Yes, pool noodles are made from closed-cell foam that resists water absorption. Most crafts, including the sprinkler and drink holder, are designed to stay in the water for extended periods without breaking down.
How do I attach pieces to a pool noodle securely?
Hot glue works for most lightweight additions like felt, ribbon, or googly eyes. For heavier connections, like the volleyball net or garden edging, duct tape or wire holds up better against movement and pressure.
Are pool noodle crafts safe for young kids to help with?
Most of these projects are safe for kids to help assemble once an adult handles the initial cutting. The foam has no sharp edges, so decorating and gluing steps are typically fine for children to do on their own.
Where can I find cheap pool noodles for crafting?
Dollar stores and big-box retailers stock pool noodles heavily from late spring through summer, often for a dollar or two each. Buying in bulk at the start of the season is the easiest way to stock up for multiple projects.
Do pool noodle crafts last more than one summer?
Many do, especially decor pieces like wreaths that stay indoors or under cover. Outdoor items exposed to constant sun and chlorine, like the sprinkler or garden edging, may need replacing after a season or two.
Ready to Start Your Own Pool Noodle Crafts
Grab whatever noodles you have left over from pool days and pick one project to try this weekend. Once you see how quickly pool noodle crafts come together, you’ll want to keep a stash on hand for every summer afterward.
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