Here is a simple Mexico craft for kids that will make your home or school room colorful and festive just in time for Cinco de Mayo.
This FREE printable is called the Festive Papel Picado Craft and you can download the simple instructions for making this craft by clicking here.
WHAT IS PAPEL PICADO?
Papel picado is a decorative craft made out of paper cut into intricate designs, often used in Mexican celebrations such as Dia de los Muertos and Cinco de Mayo.
Papel picado means “cut paper” in Spanish. It is made by folding tissue paper accordion-style and cutting beautiful shapes in it. It is then hung on strings high above the streets, but also in peoples’ homes. The tradition of papel picado dates back to pre-Columbian times, where it was used to decorate Aztec temples and ceremonial sites.
HOW DO YOU MAKE PAPEL PICADO?
In the FREE craft, you will choose tissue paper in the color of Mexico’s Flag (see my FREE Mexico Coat of Arms printable here) – red, green, and white.
You will stack these pieces of paper together, fold them accordion style, and then cut on the outer edges to reveal a beautifully cut design when unfolded.
You will then print out the Mexico and Cindo de Mayo templates you want to include on your papel picado, and attach them with tape or glue. Fold the top edge over a festive string and tape into place.
Now you are ready to find a prominent area in your home or school room to hang your Festive Papel Picado!
This Mexico craft for kids can be used for any Mexico-themed unit or celebration so I encourage you to download or bookmark it today!
Be sure to check out my other Mexico crafts for kids here and without a doubt, take a look at my Mexico Country Facts Board printable that so many teachers, parents, and homeschoolers are using to kickstart their Mexico unit.
Kids love creating these boards!
Thank you for taking the time to bring world culture into the lives of your children or students!
I invite you to leave a comment or question below.
