Nerf Pinata

My twin boys wanted a nerf party for their birthday this year, and we have a tradition of having a pinata as part of the celebration, so I got busy and made one.

I started out with a circle pattern that I traced twice on a heavy piece of cardboard and cut out.  You can used whatever design you want.

Then cut some 3 inch strips of cardboard that will be used to go around the pattern

Next, glue the cardboard strips around the outside of the pattern, leaving a 2 - 3 inch gap in the perimeter so you have a place to put in the candy!

Use part of one of the cardboard strips to make a circle, triangle, or whatever shape you want.  You are going to glue this in the middle of the inside of the cardboard shape.  This makes the pinata sturdy, so when you add the wet paper mache, the pinata will not become concave when it drys.

Now it is time to mix the paper mache paste.

This is what you will need:
Flour
Water
Cinnamon (optional)


Mix the water and flour together in a 2 to 1 ratio.  For example, mix 1 cup flour with 2 cups water.  I use warm water because I like it better.  I also add a little bit of cinnamon to the mix.  I do not like the smell of the water and flour mix  -  cinnamon makes is so much more pleasant!
I use my cheap project mixer to mix the lumps out.

Now for the fun part - goooooooey paper mache.

First take some newspaper and rip it into 2 - 3 inch strips.

Next, dip the newspaper strips in the paste and run it through your fingers to get most of the excess paste off.

Then lay the paper strips on the pinata.

I usually do 2 to 3 layers of newspaper and then add another layer of paper that is the same color you want the pinata.

Then, paint the pinata. 

Next, cut 3/4 inch slits about 1/2 inch apart on a streamer.  Then, wrap the streamer around the pinata and glue it down.

Lastly, glue on the some circles and a logo.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Be sure to stop by these fun link-up parties!
Create, Link, Inspires
Inspire Me Monday
Lou Lou Girls Fabulous Party
Show & Tell Link Party
Share Your Cup