Maracas are a musical instrument similar to castanets. The maracas players shake them with their hands to outline a musical rhythm. The sound of maracas is used in different genres, from Latin American music to pop to classical. Maracas are sometimes called "rumba". This is a fun instrument to play at a dinner with friends or a Latin American event. The natives of South America were the first people to use this tool. In fact, they made the first maracas using pumpkins! In this article we will show you how to make maracas using materials that are readily available in your home.
Steps
Step 1. Inflate two balloons the size of a grapefruit
Tie them together at the base.
Step 2. Place one of the balloons on top of a jar
After that, cut newspaper strips about 15 cm long and about 1 cm wide (you will save time by cutting three sheets at a time).
Step 3. In an aluminum tray, mix equal parts of vinyl glue and water
Pour in about 120ml of each. Dip the newspaper strips in this mixture and apply the wet strips to the balloon in a checkered pattern. You will need to use about 5 sheets to make your maraca strong enough. Make sure no part of the balloon remains exposed, except for the base of the balloon.
Step 4. Do the same with the second balloon
Let the two balloons dry overnight.
Step 5. At this point, hold the balloon still by grabbing it by the knot and pop it with a pin
When the balloon has gotten small enough, take it out by pulling it from the knot.
Step 6. Insert 12 beans or 12 pebbles through the hole of each maraca
Close the opening using masking tape.
Step 7. To make the handles, use a cardboard tube for each maraca
The best cardboard tubes are those from wrapping paper rolls, but you can also use those from kitchen paper if you want.
Step 8. Make 4 longitudinal cuts starting at one end of each
Each incision should be approximately 8 cm long. Line the part of the pipe under the cuts with masking tape so that the incision does not stretch further.
Step 9. Open the four flaps
Insert the maracas into the hole that is created and secure everything with adhesive tape.
Step 10. Paint the maracas and let them dry overnight
Step 11. To decorate the handles, cut two paper mache strips approximately 36 cm long and 8 cm wide
Make cuts about 4 cm along each strip, about 1 cm apart. This will create a fringe.
Step 12. Glue the intact side of one of the strips to the handle of one of the maracas, starting at the bottom
Wrap the spiral strip around the handle until it is completely covered. Repeat with the other handle.
