20 minutes before guests arrive we realize the balloon method is out the window! We put in a fair attempt but the drying time put a damper on things. We’re planning to try out the balloon method again next year. We may even get to do it sooner.

At this point, we’re scramming to get the supplies we needed for our paper bag pinata. The party was held at my in-law’s so we ran in circles locating everything. Once we put it together we realized that Tristan had sticker’s he received as a gift for Easter and added those to the pinata. We even colored on the front and back of the pinata.  What could you possibly need for a paper bag pinata? It’s really simple and easy.

Here what you need-

1. A gift bag with handle or paper bag that is a suitable size

2. Newspaper to ball up and use for filling

3. Treats that are organic, or that items that are sustainable and preferably non -toxic

4. Flour and Water, for glue

5. Hole punch for bag without a handle- will need to secure a string to pinata bag

6. If you choose to decorate outside of bag you’ll need newspaper cut into 3 inch strips- for streamer pieces. Glue streamer pieces on using flour and water mix. I didn’t have the time to decorate last year either so I just left the bag “as is”. It actually worked out the first year because the gift bag we used had a sticker on the front that read “Simply Spoiled” featuring a little baby with a crown.

7. string or yarn (only if your paper bag does not have handles that will work to hold the weight)

Directions:

First, take your paper bag and fill it with eco goodies. Fill bag with crunched up newspaper balls- leave enough room to close bag.  Do not over stuff the bag.  After you close bag glue to secure seal. Use hole punch and punch 4-5 holes across top and then run string through and create a loop for hanging later.  Once that’s done you can decorate the bag. Use your imagination and get creative with the kids. Depending on age- get the kids involved and have them decorate their own birthday pinata!

Okay, so what about all the treats!

Think natural, sustainable, organic, biodegradable…think green!

A few ideas:

* Organic fruit strips or fruit bars

* Organic candy- lollipops, Glee Gum, Panda all natural licorice strips  etc.

* box of organic raisins

* pencils- erasers

* seed packs (depending on season)

** or you could go candy-less and cut up magazine paper or newspaper into pieces of confetti and make it more of a celebration pinata!

The kids had a blast getting their chance at the homemade pinata. After the goodies fell out the newspaper and bag (took stickers off) went right into the recycling bin! It was a hit!! Pinata’s can be another added expense for a birthday party. A paper bag pinata is very economical alternative.

They’re a lot of extravagant pinata’s out there but nothing beats a little homemade love and besides kids really do appreciate simplicity. Make pinata’s a tradition at your next birthday party.  I’m looking forward to many eco-themed birthdays ahead.

What method do you think you’d like to try?

[This post was written by Leslie Quigley.]