Christmas is here! Well, almost… Maybe I’m getting ahead of myself, but I just couldn’t wait any longer to set up my tree and start getting my Christmas gifts together! This year, I wanted to do something extra special and fun for our family, since most of us won’t be able to gather together to celebrate in person – and what is more special or more fun than getting a handmade Christmas Pinata in the mail?? Here is what you’ll need to get started:

Materials

• Cardboard sheets (I used old storage boxes)
• Marker
• Ruler or straightedge
• Boxcutter
• Masking tape
• Clear scotch tape or bottled glue
• Scissors
• Crepe paper in various colors (you can find a link to our crepe paper -> here)
• Twine for the pull string
• Hot glue

1- Lay one cardboard sheet flat and draw or trace the outline of your Christmas shape onto the cardboard. My pinatas will be about 6-8 inches tall, but you can make yours as large or small as you want!

2- Use the box cutter to cut your shape out of the cardboard. This will be your pinata base. Use the base as a template to trace onto a second sheet of cardboard to create the other half of your pinata.

3- Using a ruler and the boxcutter, cut strips of cardboard about 2-3 inches wide. These will be used as the sides of your pinata.

4- With the masking tape, tape the cardboard strips to the sides of your pinata base at a 90-degree angle. Be generous with the tape to make sure the pinata holds its form. Once the sides are sturdy, tape the remaining cardboard shape to cover the top of your pinata.

5- Cut your crepe paper into strips about 2-3 inches thick. Take your scissors and cut a fringe into the crepe paper strips. It may be easiest to fold the strips over a few times so you can cut more than one layer at a time.

6- Starting at the bottom of the pinata, begin taping (or gluing) strips of fringe across the face of your pinata. Work upwards until the entire face is covered.

7- Cut a strip of crepe paper to the thickness of the sides of your pinata. Use this strip to cover the sides of your pinata for a smooth, finished look.

8- Cut a flap at the top of your pinata to fill with treats and surprises. Create a loop from your twine and hot glue it to the inside edge of the flap. This will allow you to easily open the flap and reach the goodies inside without having to smash your pinata to pieces!

And there you have it. Toss the pinata in a box with a Christmas card and some confetti and you’ve got an unforgettable Christmas surprise! These mini pinatas are a labor of love, for sure, but your loved ones will appreciate the time and creativity you put into giving them such a sweet treat.

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