We’re another day closer to Anna’s birthday party, which means we are testing out yet another Cinco de Mayo themed craft. And this one is a definite winner (thank god).
This project involves minimal supplies and (hopefully) ones that you have in your house already. We had a stockpile of plastic eggs in our house from Potty Training prizes, so that was a definite bonus. It’s also a really great project to have in your back pocket post-Easter since plastic eggs are seriously on sale (saw them for 70% off in Target last week).
Speaking of sales, I found colorful masking tape at one of the local office supply stores and made sure to stock up on those. They come in handy and add a fun pop of color without having to do any work. If you’d prefer to stick with what you have on hand, Sharpies or other permanent markers go a long way in adding fun colors and patterns to your maracas. (Example of what I mean here.)
We also tested out three different kinds of “fillings” for our maracas: dried lentils, dried chickpeas or garbanzo beans, and popcorn kernels. My favorite were the popcorn kernels because of the sound they made. Anna’s favorite were the dried lentils because she said they were “softer” when she shook them. The truth is, any dried bean or seed would work so I’d suggest using what you have on hand first.
Can’t wait to see what kind of designs and color combinations the kids come up with at the birthday party. I have a feeling they are going to be pretty spectacular. (And noisy. Really, really noisy.)
Inspiration for this project came from Made Everyday.
How To Make Plastic Egg Maracas
Supplies:
- Plastic Eggs*
- Plastic spoons*
- Masking Tape*
- Permanent markers* or stickers to decorate with if not using colored tape
- Dried beans or lentils, popcorn kernels, rice, seeds, etc. for the filling
*This is an affiliate link. I make a small commission at no cost to you if you purchase it through the link.
Instructions:
- Take a plastic egg and fill it halfway (about 1 tbs) with dried beans, lentils, or popcorn kernels. Close egg and wrap a piece of masking tape around it to close.
- Take 2 plastic spoons and place on either side of the egg. Wrap masking tape around a few times to secure in place. Then take another small piece of masking tape and wrap it around the bottom of the spoons to hold them together.
- Give them a shake to make sure everything is secure.
- Decorate with any additional stickers or markings if you feel a need or simply step back and admire your handy work.
- Shake, shake, shake your maracas and make music together.
Note: If you’re concerned about the eggs opening up, you can always put a dab of hot glue or craft glue like E6000 to secure it tightly.
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