Glue two pool noodles end-to-end, then reinforce with duct tape all around the seam. From that seam, wrap more tape diagonally outward toward each end, creating a candy-striped effect. Obviously, white duct tape on any color pool noodle will create a peppermint candy appearance, but any combination — green and red, for example — will look like a flavored candy cane lollipop.

Once the tape is wrapped around it, take the hot glue gun and very slowly apply the glue to the noodle as you roll it up onto itself, creating a circle. This is a painstaking process, so take your time with it. Rushing will only lead to the noodle slipping out of place. After you’ve coiled the entire noodle, wrap it with two large rubber bands and let it sit for 24 hours. While this is setting, prepare your stick.

Paint the plunger handle. It’s easiest to keep it screwed in here, to reach all sides. Plain white paint is perfect, but again, choose whichever color you like. Even metallic or glittery paint works, or you can spray glitter on afterward. When dry, unscrew the handle and make a hole in the bottom of your pool noodle lollipop coil, big enough to tightly wedge in the threaded end of the handle. Again, you can spray glitter on the lollipop or throw some confetti glitter on it before wrapping it in cellophane and securing it with ribbon. These adorable statement pieces can be displayed outside or inside.