How to Make Your Own Mexican Maracas

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Blow up two balloons to the size of a grapefruit.

   Tie the end of each.
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   Step 2: Place one of the balloons in the mouth of a jar.

   Then cut strips of newspaper about 6 inches (15.2 cm) long by ½ inch wide. (save time by cutting triple layers.) , Dip the newspaper strips in this mixture and apply the wet strips to the balloon, criss crossing them.
   
   Use about five layers, to make the maraca strong.
   
   Make sure that no part of the balloon shows through except at the very bottom. , Let both balloons dry overnight. , When the balloon has gotten small enough, pull it out by the tied end. ,, A tube from gift-wrapping paper is best, but you can use a paper towel tube instead. , Make each slit about 3 inches (7.6 cm) long.
   
   Circle the tubes with tape just below the slits to keep them from splitting farther. , Fit the maracas onto the slit pieces and tape the slit pieces firmly to the maracas. ,, Cut 1 1/2 –inch slits all along the edge of each strip, about ¼ inch apart.
   
   This will make a fringe. , Wind and glue the strip around the handle toward the bottom end.
   
   Repeat with the other handle. ,,
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   Step 3: In a foil pan

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   Step 4: mix equal amounts of white glue and water about ½ cup of each.

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   Step 5: Do the same with the second balloon.

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   Step 6: Hold each balloon in turn by the tied end and burst it with a pin.

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   Step 7: Insert 12 beans or pebbles through the hole in each maraca and tape the hole closed.

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   Step 8: To make handles

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   Step 9: use a cardboard tube for each maraca.

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    Step 10: Cut four parallel slits into the end of each tube

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    Step 11: running lengthwise.

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    Step 12: Spread the slit pieces apart.

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    Step 13: Paint the maracas and let dry overnight.

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    Step 14: To decorate the handles

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    Step 15: cut two strips of crepe paper about 3 inches (7.6 cm) wide and 14 inches (35.6 cm) long.

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    Step 16: Glue the uncut edge of one strip to the handle of one of the maracas

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    Step 17: starting just below the maraca.

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    Step 18: Cut out several crepe paper circles and glue them on the maracas.

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    Step 19: Finished.

Detailed Guide

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