Creating Wedding Balloon Columns: A Step-By-Step Guide

Balloon columns are a popular choice for wedding decorations. They are also known as balloon towers or pillars and can be created at home with the right equipment. To make a balloon column, you will need a combination of 11 and 5 high-quality latex balloons in two different colours, a sturdy base, and an electrical inflator. You can also purchase balloon column kits, which include a stand and balloon rings to make the process easier. The number of balloons you will need depends on the height of the column and the size of the balloons. For a 7'3 column, you will need a stand of 6'2, 17 11 balloons, and 52 5 balloons. It is recommended to have some extra balloons in case any burst. Once you have your materials, you can follow online tutorials to assemble and inflate the balloons to create a beautiful spiral pattern.

Choosing and sourcing your balloons

The type of balloons you choose will depend on the overall look you want to achieve for your wedding balloon columns. Latex balloons are the most popular choice and are available in a variety of colours and sizes. You can opt for a single colour or a combination of two or more colours that complement your wedding theme.

If you're going for a classic, elegant look, consider choosing balloons in neutral or pastel shades such as white, cream, peach, or blush pink. For a more vibrant and festive look, you can choose brighter colours such as red, yellow, or blue. You can even match the balloons to your wedding colours or theme, such as using sunflowers for a rustic wedding.

The size of the balloons will also depend on the desired look and the height of your columns. Standard balloon sizes range from 5 inches to 16 inches or more. For a 7-foot-tall column, you'll typically need 11-inch balloons for the main structure and 5-inch balloons for the clusters or quads.

When sourcing your balloons, look for high-quality options from reputable brands, especially if you want them to last for more than a few hours. You can find balloons at party supply stores, online retailers, or even local balloon decoration specialists.

Don't forget to buy extra balloons! It's common for balloons to pop or develop leaks, so having spares will ensure you have enough to complete your columns.

Additionally, consider investing in a balloon pump to make inflating the balloons easier and to ensure uniform size. You can rent or purchase an electric balloon pump, or you can use a manual hand pump if you're on a tighter budget.

Finally, if you want to add a special touch to your columns, you can include modelling or long balloons, which are typically used for making balloon animals. These can be used to connect the balloons in the column together, adding stability and a unique twist to your design.

Preparing your stand

Before you start assembling your balloon column, it's important to prepare your stand. This will act as the base for your balloon column and ensure it stands straight and sturdy.

If you don't want to make the stand yourself, you can buy a ready-made balloon column stand kit. These are available at various retailers and usually include a metal telescopic pillar, allowing you to adjust the height to your needs. When selecting a stand, consider the height of your balloon column and choose one that is slightly shorter. For example, for a 7'3" balloon column, you'll need a stand that is 6'2".

If you'd like to make your own stand, there are a few methods you can use. One way is to use a garden hose or faucet to fill a base with water, which will serve as a weight to stabilise your balloon column. Another option is to use a sturdy balloon column base, ensuring it is strong enough to support the weight of the balloons and create a straight and stable column.

Once you have your stand ready, you can move on to the next step of assembling your balloon column.

Inflating the balloons

Before you begin, it is recommended to invest in an electric balloon pump to ensure uniform balloon sizes. Alternatively, you can use a handheld balloon pump or inflate them manually, but this may be more time-consuming and less precise. If you choose to inflate manually, it is suggested to use a balloon sizer to ensure consistent balloon sizes. You can create a DIY balloon sizer using a poster board and a compass.

Now, let's begin inflating the balloons!

For a 7'3" tall balloon column, you will need a total of 17 11" balloons and 52 5" balloons. It is a good idea to have some extra balloons on hand in case of any breakage.

Take four 11" balloons and start inflating them. Use your pump or lung power to inflate the balloons to a uniform size of 8 inches. You can use a balloon sizer or the chair method described by BalloonArtOnline to ensure they are all the same size. Once inflated, tie the balloons securely, creating balloon duplets.

Now, take the other two balloons, and tie both necks together by twisting them and creating a knot. This step can be a bit tricky, and you may need additional thread or ribbon to secure the knot.

You now have a set of four balloons, known as a balloon quad. This will be the base of your balloon column. Repeat this process to create more balloon quads, ensuring you have enough for the height of your column.

As you work, it is important to maintain a consistent colour pattern. For example, you can alternate colours or create specific patterns to match your wedding theme.

Once you have inflated and tied all the balloons, you are ready to move on to the next step of assembling your balloon column!

Attaching the balloons to the stand

Now that you have your stand and balloons ready, it's time to start assembling your wedding balloon column. Here is a step-by-step guide on attaching the balloons to the stand:

Before you begin, ensure you have a sturdy balloon column stand. This will help you create a straight and stable column. You can buy a ready-made stand or create your own using a metal telescopic pillar, which allows you to adjust the height.

For the first step, take four 11" balloons, two of each colour. Inflate them using an electric balloon pump or a handheld pump. You can also blow them up the old-fashioned way, but this will be more time-consuming. Use a balloon sizer to ensure that they are all a uniform size.

Once your balloons are inflated, it's time to tie them together. There are a few methods you can use:

• Tie both inflated balloons together with a single knot. Hold one balloon in each hand, lay one neck over the other, pull the necks long, wrap them to the other side, and then create the knot.
• Knot each balloon individually and then tie them together.
• Tie the balloons around the neck, ensuring they are tight enough.

Now, take the pair of tied balloons and twist them at a 90-degree angle to each other. Cross them and make them tight. You will notice that the balloons with similar colours will be on opposite sides. This set of four balloons is called a balloon quad.

Position the quad at the base of your balloon stand. Place the pole or stand between two of the balloons and push the cluster onto it until it's snug and secure. Repeat this process to create more balloon quads, placing them one above the other on the stand to form a column.

To add variation, you can also create balloon quads with underinflated balloons. Inflate the 11" balloons to 8" instead of their maximum size. Arrange four of these underinflated balloon quads at a 90-degree angle to each other to create an interesting pattern.

Finally, to create the top of the balloon column, tie a fully inflated 11" balloon to the centre of your last cluster. This will resemble a crown. You can also use a foil balloon as a topper to match your wedding theme.

Your wedding balloon column is now ready! Feel free to add your own creative touches to make it unique.

Topping off your column

Now for the finishing touches! You've created a beautiful balloon column, and now it's time to crown it with a topper. Here are some ideas and instructions to help you finish off your masterpiece:

For a simple and classic look, you can tie a fully inflated 11-inch balloon to the centre of your last balloon cluster. This will create a "crown" effect at the top of your column. Make sure the balloon is securely tied and sits snugly in place. You can also use a 24-inch latex balloon or a large foil balloon for a more dramatic effect. If you're using a kit, the plastic cup included will hold the large balloon upright, so you won't need helium. Just feed the end of the balloon through the cup before attaching it to the top of your column.

If you want to get a little more creative, try using a foil balloon that matches your party theme. For example, if you're creating this column for a wedding, you might choose a foil balloon in the shape of a heart or the couple's initials. You can also match the colours of the round balloons in your column to the colours of the foil balloon for a cohesive look.

Another idea is to create a balloon spiral at the top of your column. To do this, inflate a few more balloons and create additional balloon quads, following the same technique as before. Attach these quads diagonally to the previous ones to create a spiral pattern. This will make your column more stable and visually appealing.

Remember to always use high-quality balloons, especially if you want your column to last for more than a few hours. And don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different colours, sizes, and configurations. With a little time and effort, you can create stunning balloon columns that will wow your guests!

Frequently asked questions