How to make a pinata

My daughter says it is not a party without a pinata. Let me how to make a pinata. It is easier than you think and kids will love to get in on the action.

Pinata Supplies

• Balloons (thin box or thin cardboard) for the foundation
• Masking tape
• Newspaper
• String (or fishing line) for hanging
• Flour
• Water
• Glue (white school glue works great)
• Crepe Paper, not tissue paper (I used the kind that is in a roll used for party supplies)
• Construction paper
• Felt
• Scissors
• Candy and small party favor toys games etc…. for the filling the pinata

How to Make a Pinata

Blow up balloons and tape together in the desired shape. We are making a snowman pinata. The sky is the limit. You can make any shape from unicorns to cupcakes. You can even make the traditional star shape pinata for a Cinco de Mayo.

The next step is ooey gooey fun for kids. Paper mache is always a hit with kids.  Mix up a thick soupy mixture of flour and water. No recipe needed. Place about a cup of flour in a bowl and add water until it is the consistency of a soupy pudding. You will want this mixture thick enough that it sticks to the paper.

Cut or tear strips of newspaper and begin covering balloons. The balloons will need 2-3 layers depending on the strength of the party attendees. Older children might need more layers. Don’t make it too strong or the kids won’t be able to break it open.

Before the final layer add a strong string for hanging the pinata. The string went all the way around the snowman to keep the head from being knocked off. Pieces of tape kept the string in place around the snowman until the final layer was put on and dry. Once the balloon is covered allow pinata to dry completely. I could take a day or so depending on the humidity. Cut a small hole somewhere on the pinata (we cut the hole in the top of the head). The hole only needs to be big enough to slip the candy and toys inside.  Fill with goodies.

Fold strips of crepe paper in half. Make slits on the folded sided 1/4″ – 1/2″ apart.

Glue uncut edges of the strips of crepe paper.  spiraling around entire pinata, cutting more strips as needed. Slightly pull crepe paper as gluing to allow the cut edges to pop out.

Allow pinata to dry and then add details. Hot glue construction paper buttons, eyes and a cone shape for the nose to the pinata. The scarf is made of felt (one piece cut in thirds lengthwise, sewn end to end, with slits cut on the outside ends to make fringe).

See the pinata in action at Bella’s breakfast with Santa birthday party. The girls had so much fun. Now you know how to make a pinata here are some fun party games to also keep the kids entertained. If you don’t have time to make a pinata you can always buy one.

• Valentines Day Games kids will LOVE these!
• Halloween Games
• Minute to Win It Games
• Family Games (many of these games are great time fillers)

I am also a huge fan of personalized favors for parties.

• personalized hair brushes
• felt crayon and paper holder

If you are celebrating a birthday here is the most adorable DIY birthday cake topper! It is the perfect way to dress up a store bought or homemade cake. In a pinch here are some free printable birthday cards.

I hope you have everything you need to celebrate!