How to Create a Baseball Pinata

Instead of purchasing a pinata for your next party, make one to fit the party’s theme. Using papier-mache, you can make a pinata into any shape. For example, you can make a simple pinata in the shape of a baseball.

Things You'll Need

• Cardboard
• Flour
• Salt
• Newspapers
• White paper
• White glue
• Tissue paper
• Rope
• Stick
• Blindfolds
• Candy

Instructions

1. Cut two cardboard pieces in circles for the sides. The size will depend on the amount of cardboard you have, but it should be at least 10 inches across. Cut long strips of cardboard at least 5 inches across, and long enough to go all the way around the diameter of the circle. Tape the strips to the circles using masking tape. Don't use too much tape.

2. Mix the papier-mache. Add about one part flour to three parts water and at least a few teaspoons of salt. Heat in a pot until it becomes slightly translucent. This will make it less lumpy. Tear a newspaper into strips. Dip the strips into the flour mixture, scrape off some liquid and put the strips of paper around the edges. Don't build it more than one deep, as you don't want it to be too strong. Don't forget to leave an opening for candy or prizes to go in.

3. Stuff the pinata with crumpled newspapers, so the wet cardboard won't warp or "implode." Allow the pinata time to dry. Turn and repeat the process on the other side.

4. Make a loop for hanging. This part has to be strong. Reinforce with extra cardboard and newspaper. Papier-mache with white paper and allow it at least a day to dry.

5. Draw a baseball onto the ball. Look for a picture online if you don't know how. Draw it freehand if you can or use the same compass or form that you used for the circle.

6. Decorate with tissue paper. A good way is the old "pencil eraser" technique, using squares of tissue paper, white glue and a pencil. Cut squares of tissue. Center it over the pencil eraser and dip it in white glue. Press onto cardboard. This process is very easy but time-consuming. If you're in a hurry, Papier-mache with colored construction paper.

7. Fill it with prizes, hang it from a rafter.

Tips & Warnings

• Once you're ready, experiment with other shapes. I've made more complicated, personalized designs, like a horse for a girl who liked horses and an F-22 for a boy who wanted to be an air force pilot.

• This piñata cost me nothing: the cardboard was from the recycling bin, the newspapers were yesterday's, the paper was used, the tissue was saved from birthday presents. (Of course, if you actually want to spend money, go ahead.)

• Other simple ideas for designs: Easter egg, birthday cake, cookie, pizza, banana, strawberry, fish, pac-man, football, flower. If you're art-challenged, make it rectangular and paste a picture on it. Or write "Happy Birthday!"

• Don't layer the newspaper too thick, especially if the kids are young. Papier-mache is surprisingly strong, and you do want it to break.

• Allow a couple of days to finish this project.

References

• Family Fun: How to Make a Pinata