How to Make a Ladybug Pinata

Fill the piñata with small toys and candy for the kids to gather after it breaks.

Piñatas filled with candy and toys are a fun addition to kid's parties, but store-bought ones can be expensive. Making your own piñata is easy enough for kids and parents to do together. A cute ladybug piñata is perfect for a spring or summer birthday party and can be made in just a few steps.

Things You'll Need

• Balloon
• Paperclip
• String
• Masking tape
• Bowl
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup white glue
• Scissors
• Newspaper
• White paper
• Pin
• Utility knife
• Black paint
• White paint
• Red paint

Instructions

1. Blow the balloon up to the desired size and shape. This will be the base of the piñata.

   Attach a loop of string to the paperclip for the piñata's hanger and tape the paperclip to the top of the balloon.

2. Mix equal parts white glue and water in a bowl until it forms a paste.

   Cut strips of newspaper and cover them in the paste before placing them on the balloon. Cover the paperclip, but not the loop of string.

3. Cover the entire balloon with the newspaper strips. Add a few layers for strength. The last layer should be strips of white paper to make painting easier.

   Leave the balloon's tied tail uncovered.

4. Let the balloon dry. This may take a few hours or until the next day.

5. Pop the balloon through the small hole with the pin and pull the balloon out.

   Cut a flap in the bottom of the piñata to put the candy and toys through. Tape it shut after the piñata is filled.

6. Paint the piñata like a ladybug, with a black head, white eyes and a red body with black spots. Draw a black line down the middle of the ladybug's back to define the wings.

Tips & Warnings

• Tape or glue black pipecleaners to the head for the ladybug's antennae.

References

• How to Paper Mache