May Day is almost here, and even if you won’t find maypoles on every corner, you can still celebrate with a simple, charming mini maypole cake topper. I wanted a bright, ribboned maypole but couldn’t set one up outside my apartment, so I made a tiny version perfect for mini bundt cakes. Using a striped paper straw, a few ribbons, and an optional topper, you can create a festive decoration that’s quick and cute for May 1st.
Supplies:
Ribbon
Striped paper straw
Scissors
Toothpick and a small topper (optional: jelly bean, marshmallow, bead, etc.)
Instructions:
Measurements will depend on the size of your cake. For a mini bundt cake like mine, I wanted each ribbon to hang about 10″ from the top of the pole to the cake plate, so I cut three ribbons at 20″ each. Choose the height you prefer for your pole and trim the paper straw accordingly.
Stack the ribbons, fold them in half with the wrong side facing outward if applicable, and twist them together where they meet. This creates the classic braided look of a maypole’s ribbons.
Insert the twisted ribbon ends into the straw. The ribbons usually stay secure on their own, but a small dab of glue inside the straw will hold them more firmly if you plan to handle the topper a lot.
For a decorative topper, cut a toothpick in half, press one end into a small candy or marshmallow, and push it into the straw above the ribbons. This helps keep everything in place and adds a finished look.
To secure the maypole in a bundt cake, add a little extra glaze or use a marshmallow in the center hole to steady the straw. For a standard layer cake, simply press the straw into the cake where you want the pole to stand. Make sure the base is steady so the topper stays upright while serving.
Enjoy your mini maypole topper — it won’t let you dance around it, but it will bring a festive touch to your cake and a smile when you serve it.
Looking for more DIY projects? Explore other craft ideas and printable resources to customize your celebrations.