Balloon garlands are a fun way to decorate for special occasions. This post covers how to make a balloon garland in two different ways.
Decorating for a party or celebration with balloons is nothing new. But balloon garlands and arches have become increasingly popular over the last few years. A full balloon garland looks beautiful and stylish.
Since color options for balloons are practically infinite, a balloon garland matches any color theme. Try black and white balloons for a sports-themed party. Or purple and pink for a Rapunzel birthday party. You could even make a red and green garland for a Christmas party.
Due to how large they are, balloon garlands sometimes look intimidating. But they are actually very easy to create! Many retailers, like Target and Amazon, even carry kits for beginners. The kits may vary, so this post covers the two most common types of kits a string kit and a tape kit. Both methods have pros and cons but are still very simple.
How to Make a Balloon Garland Using a String Kit
A string kit is a balloon garland kit that uses a long string, plus six or more plastic disks.
Supplies
Since the kit I linked comes with balloons, I didn’t include them in my supply list. However, you can purchase any color of balloons to match your theme.
First, blow up all of your balloons. A full garland typically uses 18+ balloons. The number depends on how large you want your garland.
The Biggest Secret to Balloon Garlands
The true secret to making easy balloon garlands is to invest in an electric balloon pump! I have the Idaodan electric balloon pump. It was less than $20 on Amazon. It makes creating balloon garlands a breeze! If you host a lot of events or enjoy decorating for parties, you need this balloon pump!
Once the balloons are blown up, attach them to the plastic disks. Simply slide the tied end of the balloon into the notches on the disk. Attach anywhere from 2 to 6 balloons to each disk.
Next, use the string from the kit and thread it through the holes on the disks. Thread the string through at least two holes so the disks stay in place.
Then, knot the string at either end of the garland. This keeps the disks from sliding off the string.
Finally, hang the balloon garland from the wall or doorway using Command hooks. The hooks typically need at least an hour to cure before they may be used for hanging. Use the string of the garland to hang it from the hooks. Or tie additional string or ribbon in a loop on the garland. Then hang it from the loop.
I made this balloon garland for an Encanto birthday party.
Ultimately, balloon garlands look better when you use different sizes of balloons or add accessories. Use glue dots to attach smaller balloons or accessories to the existing balloons. Fill it in until you’re satisfied with the end result.
Tissue paper pom poms make excellent filler pieces for a balloon garland.
Recycle Your Kit
After your party or event, remove the garland from the wall. Pop or deflate all of the balloons. Remove the deflated balloons from the disks. Finally, save the string and disks for your next event!
I keep a large stash of various colors of balloons and make a garland to celebrate most minor holidays, birthdays, or special achievements. Then I just reuse my kit over and over with new balloons.
How to Make a Balloon Garland Using a Tape Kit
A tape kit is a balloon garland kit that uses a long plastic strip with holes to hold the balloons.
Supplies
- Balloon Garland Kit
- Fishing line (this may be included in your kit)
- Glue Dots
- Command Hooks
- Electric Balloon Pump
Since the kit I linked comes with balloons, I didn’t include them in my supply list. However, you can purchase any color of balloons to match your theme.
First, blow up all of your balloons. The kit I linked comes with 45 balloons. The number of balloons needed depends on how large you want your garland. Again, use the electric balloon pump to save time blowing up the balloons. I have the Idaodan electric balloon pump.
Once the balloons are blown up, attach them to the plastic strip. Simply push the tied end of the balloon into the larger hole on the strip. Then slide the balloon up into the smaller hole to hold it in place.
Typically, I place a balloon through every other hole. I alternate the direction of the balloons as I go. Once the garland is as long as desired, I go back through placing additional balloons as needed. Alternate the directions of the balloons for a more full garland.
Next, attach the tape to the fishing line. Thread the fishing line through one of the holes at the end of the garland. Then follow the length of the tape with the fishing line. Thread the line through another hole halfway down the tape. For longer garlands, you may need to thread the line through several points along the length of the tape. Finally, thread the fishing line through the hole at the other end of the garland.
Then, knot the fishing line at either end of the garland. This keeps the fishing line in place.
Finally, hang the balloon garland from the wall or doorway using Command hooks. The hooks typically need at least an hour to cure before they may be used for hanging. Use twist ties or loops of ribbon to attach the garland to the hooks.
Use a Garment Rack
If you can’t attach your balloon garland to a wall, attach it to a garment rack. Add streamers or a backdrop to the garment rack to conceal the metal poles. Then attach the balloon garland to the rack using twist ties. It’s simple, can be moved around, and won’t damage any walls.
A garment rack is perfect if you are throwing a party outside. Or if you’re renting a space and can’t attach decor to the walls or ceiling.
Just like with the previous kit, add smaller balloons or accessories to the garland using glue dots. Balloon garlands look best full, with various balloon sizes.
I love the look of a fun balloon garland! They are the perfect decorative addition to any party or event!
