Making a Pumpkin Pinata

• 1). Cover your work area with newspapers. Once you have done this, blow up your balloon until it is between 15 and 20 inches in diameter. Using a marker, draw a circle near the top of the balloon in the back for filling.
  
  
• 2). Mix flour with water until you have a pasty consistency. You want the mixture smooth enough to run paper through, but not runny. Dip strips through the mixture and begin covering your balloon with the strips running from stem (tied end) to bottom. Make four layers on the balloon, alternating directions. For example, the bottom layer runs top to bottom, and the second layer runs around the balloon horizontally. When you get to the area you will use for filling, leave it bare.
  
  
• 3). Wrap several strips around the knotted end of the balloon. This will be the pumpkin stem.
  
  
• 4). Allow the covered balloon to dry for 48 hours before proceeding with the next step.
  
  

Decorating the Pinata

• 1). Pop the balloon inside with a pin and remove it when the strips are dry. Paint white first as this will help with covering the newspaper print. Once the white paint dries, draw your desired face on it. Paint the pinata orange and paint on the face as desired according to your design. Paint the stem brown or green, whatever your preference.
  
  
• 2). Use a pin to pierce eight small holes approximately 3 inches from the top of the pinata, evenly spaced around the perimeter once your design dries. Run a 24 inch piece of wire through one hole, then back out the one immediately to its right. Bring all wires together at the top and tie them together.
  
  
• 3). Fill the pinata with candy and watch the participants have a great time.