How to Make Sticks in Minecraft

Guide Java Bedrock

Quick answer: Craft 4 sticks with 2 planks of any wood stacked vertically in the crafting grid, or 1 stick with 2 bamboo. Sticks are the backbone of every tool, torch and weapon recipe in the game.

What you need

2 planks (any wood, mixing types works) OR 2 bamboo
Makes 4 sticks from planks

Step by step

Punch or chop a tree to get logs.
Turn logs into planks: 1 log makes 4 planks in the 2x2 inventory grid.
Place 2 planks one above the other anywhere in the grid.
Take the 4 sticks.
Alternative in jungles: 2 bamboo in a vertical line make 1 stick.

Java vs Bedrock

The stick recipe is identical in Java and Bedrock and works in the 2x2 inventory grid, no crafting table needed. Any mix of plank types crafts together, which makes leftover planks the usual stick source. Sticks also drop from dead bushes (0-2), all leaves (2% chance), witches (0-6), and fishing junk, and they are sold by fletcher villagers for emeralds, the classic first trade of every emerald economy. You will never craft just one batch: tools, torches, ladders, rails, item frames and campfires all drain sticks constantly.

Versions: javabedrock

Frequently asked questions

How do you make sticks without trees in Minecraft?

Two bamboo stacked vertically make 1 stick, dead bushes in deserts and badlands drop 0-2 sticks when broken, and leaves drop sticks 2% of the time. Witches drop up to 6 sticks on death.

What are sticks used for in Minecraft?

Nearly every tool and weapon handle (pickaxes, swords, axes...), torches, ladders, rails, levers, item frames, signs, fences, campfires and banners. It is the single most-consumed crafting material in survival.

Can you trade sticks with villagers?

Yes. Novice fletcher villagers buy 32 sticks for 1 emerald, the cheapest renewable emerald trade in the game and the backbone of most trading-hall economies.