Balloon Numbers

Hi there! Would you please advise how I would be able to make Numbers 2 & 1 from 5inch balloons, I would like the numbers to stand at least 5foot tall. I have tried using various florist wire but this is to flimsy, I guess I would need Aluminium tubing of sorts.

I would most appreciate your help.

Kind regards,

Donna Parsons

ANSWER: How to Make Large Balloon Numbers on a Frame

Hi Donna,

You are right with your guess that you would need aluminum rod as frame for your numbers. I recommend using 1/4" aluminum rod for smaller and hanging designs.

For bigger, self-supporting sculptures like a walk through arch or the kind of large numbers you have in mind, you should consider using 1/2" aluminum rod.

Just be aware that the thicker the rod, the more difficult it is to bend. You might want to use a pipe bender to help you shape the frame.

I found this video with an excellent tutorial for creating the number 2 with 1/4 inch aluminum rod and 5 inch balloons.

The instructor also shows how to create the base part of the structure which you would then slide into a 1/2 inch PVC conduit. If you put the numbers up on a lawn, you can simply pound the conduit into the ground with a hammer.

If you're decorating on solid ground or indoors, use either an IKEA NOT Lamp stand as your base or follow my DIY balloon column stand instructions.

And here's another video, explaining how to create the number 1. Tanya uses a regular balloon column stand, and no frame for the diagonal part at the top of the number.



Hope that helps!

Best,

Margit