As Mexican children prepare to smash up pinatas on Christmas eve, pinata-makers are working hard to give theirs the look that sells.

Pinatas are ball-shaped objects that are covered with cones, and then layered with vibrant papier mache.

Traditional pinatas must have seven spikes. Each one represents one of the seven deadly sins: greed, gluttony, sloth, pride, envy, wrath and lust.

Pinata maker Gerardo Hernandez:

(SOUNDBITE) (Spanish) PINATA MAKER, GERARDO HERNANDEZ, SAYING:

"This year there's been more production than last year. It's like everything else, what you have to invest, do you have money to invest in different varieties. People always look for something new, strong colors to attract attention, because if you see a pinata with very plain colors it doesn't attract attention. It's said that it reflects sadness."

Pinatas are broken during family get-togethers on Christmas Eve to commemorate Mary and Joseph's search for shelter before the birth