If you’re like me and always looking for fun, low-cost craft ideas, you’re going to love this one. This patriotic Jenga block craft is perfect for summer, especially around Memorial Day or the 4th of July. But honestly? It looks good all year round as a rustic piece of home décor.
I found myself staring at a pile of Jenga blocks one day, wondering what to do with them and then it hit me. Why not turn them into an American flag? It’s simple, relaxing to make, and the end result is so satisfying. Even if you’re not super crafty, I promise this is totally doable.
Materials You’ll Need for This Jenga Block Craft
This jenga block craft is great for anyone who loves easy DIY projects, budget-friendly decorations, and showing off a little patriotic pride. It’s especially perfect for moms, crafters, and Dollar Tree lovers who want to create something meaningful without spending a fortune. Whether you’re making this for Memorial Day, the 4th of July, or just because you love red, white, and blue. This project checks all the boxes.
Here’s what you’ll need to bring your American flag to life:
- Ruler and pencil (for measuring and layout)
- 91 Jenga blocks (or similar size tumbling tower blocks – can be found at Dollar Tree)
You can check on dollar tree for tumbling tower blocks
- Acrylic paints – navy blue, red, and optional clear varnish
- 50 mini white stars – foam or wood star stickers (also available at Dollar Tree)
- Small paintbrushes or sponge brushes (Dollar Tree usually carries these in the craft aisle)
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks (or Dollar Tree craft glue)
- A wooden board or thick cardboard (as a base to glue blocks on)
- Sandpaper (optional – to smooth out rough block edges)
I made this craft from blocks consisting of 5 columns and 13 rows. I had this much material on hand. You can adjust the size according to the material you have.
Step-by-Step: How to Make a Jenga Block American Flag
Step 1: Plan Your Layout
Start by laying out all your Jenga blocks on a flat surface—like a table or the floor. You’ll need to create 13 horizontal rows, each made up of 7 blocks. For the top-left corner (known as the union), use the first 6 rows and place 3 blocks in each. This area will later be painted navy blue.
👉 This step helps you visualize how the final flag will look. Take a minute to adjust any uneven gaps between blocks.
Step 2: Paint Your Blocks
- Now it’s time to add some color!
- Paint the 18 blocks in the union area (6 rows × 3 blocks) navy blue.
- Choose 49 blocks to paint red for the flag’s stripes. These will go in the 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th, 9th, 11th, and 13th rows.
- Leave 42 blocks unpainted to keep that beautiful natural wood tone for the white stripes.
- Let the painted pieces dry completely before moving on. You can use a hairdryer to speed things up if you’re short on time.
Step 3: Let Everything Dry
Wait until all blocks are completely dry before moving on. This step is super important to avoid smudges.
Step 4: Glue the Blocks to a Base
Wait until all blocks are completely dry before moving on. This step is super important to avoid smudges.Once your blocks are dry, carefully begin gluing them row by row onto a sturdy backing board. Start from the bottom and work your way up. Make sure the blue section is in the top-left corner. A ruler can help keep your rows nice and straight.
Don’t rush this part—lining up the rows neatly makes a big difference in the final look.
Step 5: Add the Stars
Now for the finishing touch!
Grab your 50 white stars and start gluing them onto the blue section. For a realistic flag look, alternate rows of 6 stars and 5 stars:
- First row: 6 stars
- Second row: 5 stars
- Repeat until you have 9 rows total
Try to keep the spacing even. A pencil and ruler can help you mark light guidelines.
Step 6: Seal the Craft (Optional)
If you’d like to protect your project and give it a soft shine, you can apply a layer of clear varnish or sealant. Let it dry overnight. Then, display your beautiful handmade flag on a shelf, fireplace mantel, or hang it on the wall!
And there you have it your very own handmade Jenga block American flag! Whether you’re decorating for the Fourth of July, Memorial Day, or just love rustic, patriotic pieces, this craft adds a warm, personal touch to any room.
And you can check this article and see more jenga block crafts
If you’d like to hang it on the wall, you can attach a simple sawtooth or triangle hanger on the back—just like those small metal hooks used for picture frames. It’s a small addition that makes a big difference. Now go ahead and show off your awesome new flag with pride!