DIY Piñata Holiday Trees

I set up a little station at my local taqueria for an afternoon of crafting for all ages. I decided on a simple, yet detailed project that I thought would be great for grown ups and for kids. In my museum education experience, I learned how to develop an art project that's suitable for drop-in occasions. This means that participants need to be able to take their projects home without worrying about it getting paint on their car seats, and it can't fall apart. Good tools for make-and-takes are glue sticks, markers, paint sticks, tape... those sorts of supplies. And, to give guests a head start, I would typically do some prep work so that they get to do the best part of the project- the finishing touches.

These tree piñatas were perfect because:

• they were made out of cardboard, a commodity that is readily available in a recycling bin near you during the month of December

• they're festive, colorful, and decorative

• they can be made to look modern or vintage

• you can put stuff inside and give as a gift (mini booze bottles and candy fit nicely)

• they can be winter trees if Christmas isn't your thing

I spent a few days cutting down some cardboard pieces and hot gluing them together. Since decorating is the best part, and since hot glue is a no-go with kids, I spent the time assembling them before the event.