Description
Making a Piñata is an exciting craft from start to finish. What's the finish? Cracking it open and seeing what's hidden inside, of course! This one is shaped like a carrot for an Easter celebration, but the possibilities are only limited by your imagination. Making a Piñata seems like a big project, but it's really a lot of fun to see come to life. Kids love getting their hands dirty and will be able to do the entire project on their own . (They will need supervision to cut holes into the dried paper mache.) It can be broken into smaller pieces and completed over the course of a few days. In fact, if you have enough time, let the first layer of paper mache dry completely before you add another layer.
We chose to cover ours with crepe paper, but you can paint it instead or use tissue paper. Hang your Piñata on your favorite tree or on a pole. Take turns swinging a bat until it cracks open. Be fast, and grab as much candy as you can. So much fun!
Supplies
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons Dixie Crystals Extra Fine Granulated Sugar
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 cup boiling water
- balloon
- cone shaped floral form
- masking tape
- newsprint
- utility knife
- candy for stuffing
- strong cord
- orange crepe paper streamer
- green crepe paper streamer
Directions
- Begin by making the paper mache glue. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar and cup of cold water. Add boiling water. Stir to combine and let come to room temperature.
- Blow up a balloon to be the top of the carrot. Use masking tape the attach the cone shape to the balloon. If there are any gaps or holes, fill in with newsprint. Generously wrap masking tape over the form to secure the shape.
- Cut newsprint into strips. Dip into paper mache glue, removing any excess. Cover the shape completely, making sure to overlap the strips. Repeat with another layer. Place on a wire cooling rack to dry completely, preferably overnight.
- When dry, cut a 2-inch flap into the back of the Piñata. The balloon will pop and fill the cavity with candy. Tape shut.
- Cut two slits into the top of the carrot and thread the cord through. Tie into a knot, this will allow you to hang the Piñata.
- Use orange crepe paper strips to cover the Piñata. Secure with masking tape, being careful to not let it show. Make loops with green crepe paper to create the carrot tops.