Learn how to make a Pull String Pinata. A pull sting pinata is a variation of the more traditional pinata and it is a great choice for small kids or those who prefer a more gentle pinata game.
With the more traditional pinata game, the kids take it in turns to bash it with a stick until the pinata breaks and all the goodies inside come tumbling out.
With the pull string pinata, there are a selection of ribbons/strings hanging from the base of the pinata and the kids take it in turns to pull a ribbon. Only one ribbon opens the base of the pinata so that the goodies can come out.
The pull string pinata is a particularly good game idea for small kids birthday parties or indoor celebrations.
What's more is that it's a fun yet safe party game for the youngest kids who can get hurt or scared trying to break open the more traditional pinata with a buster bat.
Two x 1.2 meter lengths of string for suspending the pinata
Long strips of colored ribbon (one for each player)
Craft knife
Pin
Poster paints and brush
Sweets, trinkets
How to make a pull string pinata
NOTE: Make a pull string Pinata at least a week in advance of the party in order to allow it to dry out completely.
Tear the newspaper into strips, roughly 3 cm wide and 20 cm long
Using the bowl, make the papier maché paste or make up the glue according to the manufacturer's instructions
Blow up and tie the balloon
Dip individual strips of newspaper into the glue and then apply the strips in a roughly even layer all over the balloon, overlapping each strip slightly. The strips can be laid horizontally and vertically which adds to the strength of the Piñata. Make sure to leave the balloon knot slightly exposed.
Cover the balloon with about 3-6 layers of papier maché in total. The more layers you do, the harder the Pinata is to break so only do 3 layers for the pre-schoolers.
Leave the papier maché to dry completely. This may take from 2-5 days depending on the environment. The best place is your airing cupboard if you have one.
Once the Pinata is completely dry, burst the balloon with the pin. Then using the craft knife carefully make 4 small holes in a cross pattern at the top (the end where the balloon's knot was).
Thread a string through one hole and then pass it through the opposite hole and adjust the string so that there is an equal amount coming out of each hole. Repeat with the other string and the other 2 holes. These strings will be used for suspending your pinata.
The next bit is a bit tricky. At the other end of the pinata, cut a 3 sided flap about 3-4 inches square. In the flap punch several holes (one for each ribbon).
Thread a ribbon through one hole and knot one end so that you have the ribbon hanging down from the pinata and with the knot hidden. Repeat for all the ribbons.
Fill the Pinata with sweets and trinkets and then close the flap. Secure the flap with a couple of strips of papier maché. Leave to dry.
Now comes the fun part. Decorate your pinata however you want using paint, colored paper, streamers or whatever takes your fancy.
Suspend your pinata from a tree or whatever post you are using and then you are ready to play the Pinata game.
New! Comments
Have your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below.