How to make a balloon garland
Creating a balloon garland photo backdrop is a fun and colorful way to add a festive touch to any event or photoshoot. With so many DIY guides out there, I thought this list would help you by purchasing everything all in one spot. Here's my step-by-step guide on how to make a balloon garland photo backdrop:
Materials you'll need:
- Balloons in various colors and sizes (latex or foil balloons work well- I do suggest doubled balloons
- Balloon pump (optional but highly recommended for easy inflation)- I could not live without this.
- Clear stretchy string (this is what I call it)
- Command hooks or removable adhesive hooks (if needed)
- Scissors
- Greenery or other decorations (optional)
Step-by-step process:
1. Plan your design: Decide on the color scheme and size of your balloon garland. Choose colors that match the theme of your event or photoshoot.
2. Inflate the balloons: Use a balloon pump to inflate the balloons to various sizes. This will create a visually interesting and dynamic balloon garland. You can make some balloons larger and others smaller. Fill up balloons to the appropriate size (i.e, do not over fill because they will pop and do not under inflate because it will have a different color than the rest).
3. Create balloon clusters: Tie two or more balloons of the same color together to form clusters. This will make it easier to assemble the garland and ensure the colors are evenly distributed. That is, unless you want a more mixed look.
4. Prepare the balloons by grouping the smaller clusters and add your rubber band to one of them. With your bigger balloons (18”+), use the rubber bands by attaching them to the end where you tied it off from filling it.
5. Assemble the balloon garland: Taking your clear stretch string, tie off/around your first cluster of 12” balloons (the “normal” sized ones) with a knot around the center of the cluster. Unroll your thing and add on your next cluster of balloons by looping the stretchy sting in and around where the cluster is tied. Repeat this with your other 12” clusters to the length you would like.
6. Add greenery or other decorations (optional): If you want to add extra flair to your garland, you can tuck in artificial greenery, flowers, or other decorative elements between the balloons. This can add texture and depth to your backdrop.
7. Secure the garland: Once your balloon garland is complete, use fishing line or clear string to tie and secure the ends of the garland. Make sure it's tightly secured.
8. Install the backdrop: Use Command hooks or removable adhesive hooks to hang the balloon garland backdrop. If you're setting up the backdrop outdoors, ensure it's sheltered from strong winds or adverse weather conditions.
9. Adjust and shape the garland: After hanging the garland, you can adjust the position and shape of the balloons to achieve the desired look. Fluff the balloons and spread them out evenly to create a full and cohesive backdrop. Here is where we are going to add in our small clusters of smaller balloons by taking the rubber band and looping over another balloon in the existing garland. Add in your larger balloons the same way.
10. Test it out: Take some test photos to ensure the backdrop looks as you envisioned. Make any final adjustments if needed.
Remember to have fun and be creative with your balloon garland photo backdrop. It's a versatile and eye-catching decoration that can instantly elevate the atmosphere of any event or photoshoot.
How many balloons does it take to make a garland?
This all depends on the size that you are looking to create. You can have as little as 40-50 balloons to create a garland on the smaller side and have as many as 200 or more to make a big impact. To make a 15'-16’ garland you will want around 100 balloons in varying sizes and most typical are 18", 12", 10" and 5" balloons but I like to add in the 24'“ to 30” ones too!
How many days before an event can I make a balloon garland?
In my years of making balloon garlands, I have made them one to two days before an event. To be honest, I have never been comfortable making them earlier than that. However, my garlands have lasted for up to 7 days!
How long will a balloon garland stay inflated?
I have found that balloon garlands can be trusted to stay inflated a few days. IF the balloons are doubled up (which is what I would highly recommend), mine has lasted up to seven days!
How do you hang a balloon garland without a stand?
What I recommend is to use a thick, clear, and stretchy string that you use to make the garland and stretch it to a command hook on a wall or opening.