Balloon FunBasic Balloon Model InstructionsYou don’t need to be an expert in balloon modelling to entertain the party goers, all you need is the basic facts and the know how on how to make simple balloon models. I’m not an expert and never will be but I can put together enough shapes and designs to keep any bunch of kids happy. This page is a collection of the models I can make and they are all here for you to learn. I have kept the instructions simple and added diagrams so anyone will be able to make them.But before you jump straight in here is some tips to help you. Please Note:When inflating and twisting the balloons some will POP. It can’t be avoided so be prepared.
Balloon Modelling tips. Type of balloons to use: There are a few different types of balloons available in the construction of balloon modelling, but the balloons used in the designs on this site are your basic 30cm long pencil type, when inflated it will grow to 5 times this size. These balloons can easily be picked up quite cheap at your local party store and come in party packs of a 100 or more and usually come with a pump. Having said that don’t feel you have to use just this balloon, let your imagination run wild and use different shapes and sizes for your own ideas.
Inflating with air. To inflate the balloon it is best to use a pump. Most party packs come with a balloon pump or you could use a bicycle pump to inflate them. Unlike normal round balloons, modelling balloons are quite hard to inflate just by blowing them up using your mouth. You can try if you want but you may give yourself a headache. When pumping up the balloon pump it up to the required length remove the pump and tie a knot in the end. How much air should I put in the balloon? Do not inflate the balloon fully as it will burst as soon as you twist it. It is much easier to work the balloon if it is half full. As you twist the air will be pushed through the balloon to take up the unfilled space. As a rule the more twists you have in the balloon for your model the less it needs to be inflated and vice a verse.
Twisting:
When twisting the balloons hold one end(usually the end with the knot) in your left hand and twist the other end of the balloon with your right hand. Twist the balloon about five times. The twist should hold due to the makeup and tension of the balloon 
A lock twist:
This is when two twists are twisted together to form a lock twist:  
 Bend over the small bubble and lock the two twists together.  Now that you have learnt the basics, you are ready to start modeling. Just click on the model below and the instructions will open up in a new window.
Remember these are just the basics, with a little bit of imagination and color you can create anything.     |