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How to Make a Pinata in 10 Sentences

Originally only found at Mexican celebrations, pinatas are now a staple at birthday parties all over the world. These papier-mache constructions are a colorful part of the decorations when they're hanging, they're a party game and--once they've been broken open--they provide take-home loot for the guests in the form of candy and small prizes. They're also completely customizable, as even a child can make a simple pinata and decorate it any way he likes.

Things You'll Need

1 14-inch balloon, inflated and knotted
Newspaper
White paper towels
2 cups flour
3 cups water
Whisk
Mixing bowl
Pin
Hole punch or awl
4 1-foot lengths of string
Poster paint and brushes
Wrapped candies and small toys

Instructions

- 1
  Tear the newspaper and paper towels into strips 1 inch wide. Whisk the flour and water together in the mixing bowl until smooth.
- 2
  Dip the newspaper strips one at a time into the papier-mache paste and place them, overlapping, on the balloon until it is covered, except for a 2-inch hole around the balloon's neck. Let strips dry and add another layer of strips and paste; let dry.
- 3
  Add a third layer of strips and paste, using the paper towels instead of the newspaper; let dry completely. Pop the balloon with the pin and remove it from the pinata, and then use the hole punch to make four holes equidistant around the pinata's opening.
- 4
  Tie the 1-foot lengths of string through the holes and then together for hanging the pinata. Decorate the pinata with the poster paint and let dry thoroughly.
- 5
  Fill the pinata by dropping the candies and small toys through the hole in the top. Hang the pinata from a tree branch or other high spot far from any breakables.

Kids Games