Paper Mache Crafts - Make a Pinata or a Candy Dish

Here you will find two variations of the same crafting technique, paper mache. I will help you learn how to turn simple paper mache into a fun summertime piñata or into a practical candy dish. Both of these crafts will require some homemade paper mache paste which is very simple to make.

You will simply need to mix one part all purpose flour with two parts water in a large bowl, stir this mixture until there are no lumps, you can also add two tablespoons of salt to prevent mold.

To make a piñata you will need the following supplies

A Balloon

Newspaper

Paper mache glue

Paint

Optional decorations

Tissue paper

Cardboard tubes

First you will need to inflate the balloon to whatever size piñata you want, if you would like to make it into an animal shape, simply use cardboard tubes to add legs and tape them to the balloon. You can also use additional balloons and attach them to each other with tape to create other designs.

When you are ready to begin make sure you cover your workspace with newspaper and even wax paper as this is a very messy project. Tear your newspaper into strips that are approximately one inch wide and six or seven inches long. Make sure you tear plenty because once you start dipping the strips your hands will be gooey and it will not be easy to tear more.

Dip each newspaper strip into the paper mache glue and using your index and middle finger slide your fingers down the strip to remove the excess glue. Place the strips on the balloon, to make this easier you can place the balloon on the rim of a bowl to keep it steady. Make sure you leave a hole at the top of your piñata so you can pop the balloon when you're finished and fill it with candy and other goodies. Once you have the first layer on let the piñata dry.

Repeat this process letting each layer dry before adding another. The number of layers you add is up to you, the more difficult you want the piñata to be to break the more layers you should add but you should use at least three of four layers.