I'm making a pinata for a children's party in a couple of weeks?

Question

last time i did one, the papier mache set too solid, so the kids had trouble breaking it. this time i'm going to try and engineer in a weak spot across the belly - has anyone tried this before and does it work?

Answer 1

yes it works a treat

Answer 2

How are pinatas made? I'm going to guess...If you're using a giant 'chocolate mould' to make two halves, then I think you should try making it to three-quarters the final thickness, let it dry, and then use a very sharp blade to cut through all the way around the 'trunk', while it remains in mould. Add more papier mache, and continue to assemble as usual. (cover join with more papier mache when dry.) If you are using an internal shape, and building on it, then cut perforations around the trunk, rather than severing, and apply more papier mache.

Answer 3

Rather than make our own paste for paper mache, we use liquid starch that is relatively inexpensive. I bought a large jug at the supermarket that we have been using for years. Humidity really does play a factor! If you live somewhere very humid, add less water (up to 1/4 less). I live in a very dry area.Cover your project with no more than 4 layers of paper mache. Let dry COMPLETELY. Once again cover with no more than 4 layers. Continue this process until it's as solid as you want it. But NO MORE THAN 4 LAYERS!! Tie a loop of string to a paper clip. Tape the paper clip onto the frame of the pinata before you start maching. Mache over top of the paper clip. Make sure not to mache over the string loop. Tie your rope onto the loop to hang your pinata. Once everything is completely dry decorate it as you wish. If you want to make it look authentic then use small rectangles of crepe paper and put glue on one of the shorter edges and glue on to the pinata. But start from the bottom and work up other wise it'll look awefully strange!! And have FUN FUN FUN with it!!

Answer 4

I've never tried to create a weak spot, but it might work. I found that using thinner layers work... don't build it up too thick, and use your paste sparingly. You don't want to make it too easy for the kids!

Answer 5

you know what I do, i use a big punching balloon blow it up, then paper mche over it in layers allowing them to dry and layer again the next day.

then when all dry you can paint or decorate as you like, just remember to leave a space for filling near the top- that how you pop the inner balloon.


Good luck and have fun!

:-)

Answer 6

yeah, it works. I used to blow up balloons, and just use Elmer's glue and water to make the shell. Last time we used a jelly like plaster, the men had to break it open.

Answer 7

It'll work. Just use less paper in the area you want it broken at. Also use the lighter color in this spot so it won't be so obvious

Answer 8

I use a saw to make some partial cuts so it breaks up easily.