How to Make a Poncho for Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo (5 of May) marks the 1862 victory of the Mexican army over the French at the Batalla de Puebla. That battle not only serves as a symbol of Mexican patriotism and unity, but for Mexican-Americans it's also an opportunity to celebrate Latino culture. Show your spirit by wearing your own Cinco de Mayo poncho.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Acrylic Paints
• Ironing Boards
• Irons
• Needles
• Old Blankets
• Paper-backed Fusible Webbing
• Threads
• Scissors
• Gel Markers
• Markers
• Yardsticks

1. Cut a 3 1/2- to 4-foot square from a light-colored blanket or heavy fabric.
2. Fold the fabric diagonally.
3. Use acrylic paint or markers to decorate the poncho with Mexican art and geometric shapes.
4. Cut a fringe around the bottom.
5. Make a V-shape cut in the center of the fold. It should be big enough to poke your head through.
6. Sew the seams of the head opening or tack them down with fusible web.

Tips & Warnings

• Have an adult help you with the fusible web since it needs to be applied with a hot iron.