MARACAS

Materials:’

Newspaper cut into 1 inch wide strips

7” x 12” heavy paper (i.e., oak tag)

Masking tape

Rice or beans

White glue

Self-adhesive decorative contact paper

Empty toilet paper rolls

Scissors

Bowl of water

Various paints and brushes

Balloon

1. To make the handle of the maracas: cut out a 7” x 12” piece of heavy paper like oak tag. Make a fringe along the top edge by cutting 1” slits every ¼.”
2. Roll the paper into a tube shape and tape along the edge. Gather the fringe at the one end of the tube. Set aside.
3. Or skip steps #1 and #2 and use an empty toilet roll.
4. Blow up a balloon.
5. Cut the strips of newspaper into one-inch wide strips.
6. Mix the white glue and water so it is the consistency of pancake batter. Stir. Dip the strips into the glue/water mixture. Remove the excess with your fingers. Cover the entire balloon with these strips.
7. Smooth the paper on the balloon with your hands removing all excess glue/water. Let the balloon dry completely. Take a pin, poke the surface and pop the balloon.
8. Make a small opening in the balloon with a utility knife and pour a handful of rice or s into the opening. Seal with tape.
9. If you are using the fringed paper, spread the fringe on the papier mache ball and tape down. Or if you are using the toilet paper ball and tape securely against the balloon.
10. Wrap the tube with decorative contact paper or decorative tape or paint it.
11. Paint the papier mache balloon. When dry, add sequins, glitter, etc. Refer to the examples above.
12. Have making music!