How to Make a Star Pinata

Forming the star shape

Draw a large star shape on cardboard. This will form the template for shaping the wire. It should be at least 30cm x 30cm/12 inch x 12 inch or even higher, to be large enough to hold contents and be hit by the piñata stick. Cereal and grocery boxes are really good for this. The look of the cardboard doesn't matter as it will be covered.

Cut out wide strips of cardboard. These should be the same width. They will form the sides of the star.

Attach the wide strips around the star shape. The wide strips should stand upright. Use tape to attach to the star base.

Continue all the way around the star until the whole star now has a three dimensional shape. Tape all joins of the strips together firmly.

Filling the star

Lay the star on a wide piece of newspaper. This will cover the star shortly.

Add goodies inside the star. These are usually small candies and toys. Candies must be wrapped, for hygiene reasons.

Cut sits in the newspaper where the star dents occur. Then bring the newspaper up around the sides of the star and tape closed over the open edge of the star. Repeat with another piece of newspaper to ensure it is strong.

Decorating the star

Cut 7.5cm/3 inch wide strips from tissue paper or foil. Use one color or vary the colors, as preferred.

Cut fringes from tissue paper or foil/metallic paper. Fold over the strips, then cut lots of slits, leaving space between the slit and the fold. Continue all the way along each strip.

Glue the paper or foil fringe to the star. Glue from outside inward. Glue the fringe all the way around the outside of the star first. Move inward, gluing each new fringe layer over the top of the last. For more interest, consider changing the color of the paper or foil for the inner layers.

Leave the center of the star free of fringe. Cut out a smaller cardboard star. Cover it with paper or foil in a matching or different color. Glue to the center. Add the name of the party person if wished. Decorate with stickers for something additional (optional).

Add fringe to the side of the star next. Move methodically around the star, gluing in place and lifting up the fringe as you glue, to ensure it looks it best. Continue adding fringe until you can no longer see the newspaper.

Hanging the star piñata

Wrap a ribbon, twine or yarn around some of the star's pointers to create a hanger. Tie in place firmly and leave a loop at the top for handing.

Hang the piñata. It is now ready for hitting. It's lightweight nature will ensure that it is easy to break open and release its goodies.