There’s no better way to cheer up a sick friend, than with a pill piñata filled with “get well” goodies! Sometimes illness can bring people down, and a little stuffed pill is the perfect pick-me-up to brighten their day.

There may be a hall in the hospital that would benefit from a Good Samaritan dropping by with these quirky treats that are sure to make recipients smile! It might be the perfect project for kids, to get them to think of others in the community. These could also be used as favors at a graduation party for a Doctor or nurse. If you work in a hospital, these would be great little presents to share with co-workers to celebrate birthdays or just to show your appreciation!

• Twisty balloons
• Balloon pump
• Newspaper strips
• 1 cup flour, 1 cup water mixed
• Apple Barrel Acrylic Paint (dark granite, white & color of choice)
• Alphabet stamps
• Dark gray ink pad
• Washi tape / painter’s tape
• Clear tape
• Sponge brush
• Toothpick
• Box Cutter
• Cooling rack
• Scissors

Step 1
Tie a knot in a twisty balloon, about 1.5” from the opening. Continue to tie knots in the balloon, about 1.5” from each previous knot. Use a balloon pump to blow up the first section. Tie off the end, and then cut the section off just above the first knot. Blow up the next section, tie off the end, and cut just above the knot. Continue to blow up each section, until you have several pill-shaped balloons. Tape down the knots on each side of the balloons.

Step 2
Mix 1 cup flour and 1 cup water. Dip a newspaper strip in the mix, and use two fingers to “squeeze” off any excess paste. Lay the first strip across the top of the balloon. Continue to glue newspaper strips to cover the entire balloon. Glue at least two layers of newspaper to each balloon, and smooth out any lumps. Place on a cooling rack to dry overnight. Repeat with each “pill” balloon.

Step 3
Once the paper mache is completely dry, paint the pill white using a sponge brush. Allow to dry.

Step 4
Place a piece of Washi tape around the pill, so that one edge of the tape is directly in the middle. Push the tape down very well, so that paint does not seep through. Paint the side of the pill that has exactly half exposed in the color of your choice. Allow to dry, then peel off the Washi tape.

Step 5
On the right side of the white half of the pill, use your alphabet stamps and ink pad to stamp “mg” for milligrams.

Step 6
Use a toothpick and dark granite paint to write “20” right in front of the “mg”. Allow to dry.

Step 7
Use a box cutter to cut three sides of a small rectangle into the back of your pill. This will be the door that will need to open enough to place small candies and prizes inside. Pull out the remaining balloon, and shake out any glue flakes. Fill the pill with “get well” goodies, and close the small door.

Now you’re ready to share a dose of happiness with a friend! Happy crafting!