Materials

• a large balloon
• newspaper, torn into strips measuring about 1 inch by 6 inches
• White paper, torn into strips measured about 1 inch by 6 inches
• Flour and water mixture
• Salt
• Vegetable oil or no-stick spray (aerosol can works best)
• Paint
• String or yarn for hanging

Directions

1. Make the paper mache mixture: Mix 1 part flour with 2 parts water until you have a thick glue-like mixture. Squeeze out all the lumps and add a tablespoon or two of salt to keep your pinata from molding.
2. Blow up your balloon. If you're an accomplished balloon artist, you can try to twist balloons into an animal shape for a more interesting final product.
3. Spray a light coating of oil. This will keep the balloon from sticking to the newspaper when you pop it at the end.
4. Dipping the newspaper strips into the flour mixture to coat, apply them to the balloon overlapping the edges until the entire balloon is covered. Leave a small hole at the top to pop and removie the balloon and fill the piñata. Let the first layer dry completely.
5. Wait at least 24 hours for the layer to dry, then repeat twice more, waiting 24 hours between each layer. Cover your leftover flour mixture and put it in the refrigerator overnight.
6. Use the white computer paper for the third layer. This allows for easier painting.
7. When your project is completely dry, pop the balloon and remove it through the opening at the top.
8. Time to decorate! Paint (or gently color in using markers) and be creative! You can tie streamers on the bottom for an authentic look.
9. Fill with candy and get whacking!