Making shapes with popsicle sticks

I saw on Pinterest that a mom had taken popsicle sticks and stuck sticky velrco at the ends. 

I thought this was such a great idea. BUT I didn't have any velcro on hand. I did have a roll of that magnetic tape (I stuck this on the back of all the invitations we mailed out for Joy's baby shower...like 2 years ago. I thought it was time we put it to good use.)

All of the boys really liked it. I think the velcro would be easier but the boys keep asking to play with "sticky sticks" so that's good.