Christmas Cutout Banner

crayola supplies

Gel Markers
Glue Sticks
Blunt-Tip Scissors

household supplies

ribbon
Hallmark tissue paper

Why

Whether it's sunny or snowy for Las Posadas, your kids can decorate with this colorful tissue-paper banner.

Steps

1. The Hispanic celebration of Las Posadas begins on December 15. To decorate, many families in Latin America and the southwestern United States hang banners of tissue paper (papel picado or pierced paper) around their homes.
2. Choose festive colored tissue paper and cut into rectangles. Fold down a small flap along the length of each piece where it will hang over a ribbon. With the flap on top, fold the paper crosswise and then fold it in half two more times to make a triangle.
3. With Crayola® Scissors, snip designs along folded edges. Include ovals, squares, rectangles, and diamonds. Carefully unfold once and snip more. Gently unfold all except the top hanging edge. Make several of these rectangles to create a banner.
4. Cut ribbon to fit the space you plan to decorate. With Crayola Gel Markers, decorate the cutouts and ribbon for a vibrant look. Attach cutouts to your ribbon with Crayola Glue Sticks.

When & Where

"My daughter chose a Hispanic theme for her December birthday. Piñatas are an authentic part of Las Posadas, too."
- Somini D., mom of 9-year-old.

"Hurray for a warm-weather Christmas decoration!"
- Shelley P., mom of 8- and 10- year olds.

Interesting Info

Piñatas are a truly international amusement. Originally from Italy, a piñata was a fragile clay pot with treats inside. The idea traveled to Spain and then to Mexico. Contemporary piñatas are made of papier-mâché (meaning chewed paper in French), a process that originated in China.

Safety Guidelines

Scissors—ATTENTION: The cutting edges of scissors are sharp and care should be taken whenever cutting or handling. Blunt-tip scissors should be used only by children 4 years and older. Pointed-tip scissors should be used only by children 6 years and older.

String-Like Materials—Includes string, raffia, lacing, yarn, ribbon, and other similar material. Children 3 years and younger should not be given any string-like material that is longer than 12 inches. Close adult supervision is essential whenever children use string-like material. When crafts are to be worn around the necks of children 8 years and younger, attach the ends of the “string-like material” with clear adhesive tape, which allows easy release of the bond if the craft becomes entangled or caught on equipment. For children older than 8 years, the ends of the “string-like material” may be tied and knotted.