Make sure that the straws aren’t bendy. If you can only find bendy straws, cut of the bendy portion of the straw and make a smaller bridge. If you want a longer bridge, purchase 34 straws.
If you want a longer bridge, squeeze another straw and push it into one of the openings of the existing bridge base. Repeat this for each of the straws on the bridge base.
If you have added a third straw to the length of the bridge, you will need to tape the second connection point as well. [4] X Research source
Use 2 extra straws if you are building a longer bridge.
Repeat this process for each supporting straw. Use 2 pieces of tape per cut straw to increase the strength of the bridge.
If you want a longer bridge, add more straws to the base. You will need to use extra tape to support the extra length. Try using piles of books to balance the bridge on. The bridge is designed to hold small items. Avoid putting heavy items on the bridge as this will cause the bridge to break. Slowly increase the weight you put on the bridge to test how much it can hold.
This will stop the straws from coming apart when weight is put on the bridge.
Make sure each straw is cut to the same length: otherwise, they won’t reach the sides of the bridge. These straws will be used to form the base of the bridge.
Make sure to assemble the straws on a flat surface. The zig-zag pattern needs to extend the entire length of the bridge. If the straws don’t reach to the end of the bridge, reduce the width of the bridge, and adjust the angles of the cut straws so the angles between the triangles are wider.
You can use pins to secure the straws in place instead of tape. Make sure you are careful not to prick yourself if you use pins. [14] X Research source
If you feel like a challenge, add more straws to your bridge to extend its length. You may need to use extra tape and cut straws to support the extra lengths. Try using piles of books to balance the bridge on.
Have a competition with your friends and see whose bridge can hold the most weight.
