Melt the candy melts in separate, microwave-safe containers by heating one color at time in the microwave in 20-30 second increments, stirring well between each burst of heat until melted. Alternatively, they can be melted in the top of a double boiler on the stove over simmering water.

Transfer the melted chocolate into tall, narrow glasses and dip each pretzel rod about ¾ of the way. Shake off excess melted candy back into the glass, then lay the pretzels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. For the American Flag pretzels, dip the rods in the white candy melts first, then once that has set up, dip just the tip in the blue candy melts.

Once the pretzel rods have been dipped, transfer the remaining melted candy melts to piping bags or other tools for drizzling and decorating (see post for more ideas). You might need to warm them for a few seconds (usually no more than 5-10) in the microwave if the colors are starting to cool down too much.

Drizzle stripes over the dipped pretzel rods however you like. If doing the American Flag pretzels, drizzle red and white stripes with a blue tip.

Let the candy set before serving the pretzels either arranged on a platter or standing up in mason jars or other cups.