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How to Make Bamboo Straws
Cutting the Bamboo
1. Choose healthy bamboo stalks that are as thin as a pencil. Look for shoots that are as thin or thinner than a pencil so you can comfortably drink through them. Opt for bamboo stalks that have at least 6–10 inches (15–25 cm) between nodes, which are the horizontal bands on the stalks.[1]Avoid using stalks that are thicker than 3⁄4–1 inch (1.9–2.5 cm) since you may have difficulty using the straw.
Look out for spotted or rotted bamboo since it could weaken your straw or have harmful bacteria.
It’s okay if the bamboo stalks have slight bends or angles as long as they’re mostly straight.
2.Clip the bamboo stalks with pruners at a 45-degree angle. Position your cut just above one of the bamboo nodes so it’s able to regrow easily after you cut it. Position the pruners so the blades make a 45-degree angle on the stalk and squeeze the handles tightly together. Leave at least 1–2 nodes on the bamboo so they can continue growing.[2]Avoid making straight cuts since it can trap water and make the bamboo develop rot.
You can also saw the bamboo stalks at a 45-degree angle with a hacksaw if you don’t have pruners available. ‘
3. Leave the bamboo vertically in a dry area until it turns tan. Set the bottom end on a cinder block or brick so it’s off the ground to avoid water damage. Lean the bamboo vertically against a wall or rack to help guide any liquid inside down and out of the stalk. Let the bamboo completely dry out until it has a tan color, which usually takes around 2–3 weeks.[3]Avoid laying the bamboo horizontally since it may not drain properly and could develop rot.
If you plan on drying the bamboo outside, try to use a south-facing wall to ensure it receives sunlight throughout the entire day.
4. Saw the bamboo into 6–10 in (15–25 cm) segments between the nodes. Set the bamboo stalk on your work surface so it overhangs the edge by about 6–10 inches (15–25 cm). Hold the stalk firmly against your work surface with your nondominant hand and make a straight cut 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) over from the node using a hacksaw. Then remove the node on the other side of the straw, leaving a 1⁄2 in (1.3 cm) gap. Continue cutting straws from the entire length of the stalk.[4]Usually, a 4 ft (1.2 m) section of bamboo will make between 4–16 straws depending on their lengths.
Avoid making straws shorter than 6 inches (15 cm) since they may not be tall enough for most cups.
Don’t use pruners to cut dry bamboo since you could cause the stalks to crack or splinter easier.
Co-authored by wikiHow Staff
