How to make a balloon arch – a blow-up party backdrop that's super easy to do
Ginger Ray shows you how to create a show-stopping balloon display in 5 simple steps
So simple, yet so brilliantly impactful the mighty balloon arch has become the must-have decoration for any occasion. With over 627,00 hashtags on Instagram it's clear you don’t need to be under 10 to enjoy a balloon or two hundred! With fans including Millie Mackintosh, Ferne McCann and Khloe Kardashian, it’s no wonder we’re all after the secret to how to make a balloon arch for our own parties.
Purveyors of everything party, Ginger Ray of course has the answer on how to have a go at this popular DIY and decorating trend yourself.
How to make a balloon arch
What you'll need
Balloon arches can be a statement feature wall idea or a standalone feature. But today we're going to show you a version that's the former.
- Balloon arch kit
- Balloon pump
- Scissors
1. Blow up the balloons
Blow up a variety of balloons in different colours and sizes using the balloon pump. Knot at the end as you normally would. Ginger Ray's DIY kits include all the balloons you need, balloon tape and glue dots.
Buy now: Mint balloon pump, £2.49, Ginger Ray Buy now: Pink balloon arch kit, £24.99, Ginger Ray
Leave about 30cm of balloon tape free at one end. Pull your first balloon through the tape.
Balloon tape is a clear, non-sticky tape with holes. It allows you to pull balloon necks through the holes in order to layer them up and create fun displays. You will need to buy this separately if you're not using a balloon arch kit.
Buy now: Clear balloon garland strip, £2, Hobbycraft
Continue adding balloons to the balloon tape. Try to mix up different sizes and colours for a varied look.
4. Fill in the gaps
When 90 per cent of the balloons are through the balloon tape, start filling any gaps. Apply glue dots to smaller balloons and press into any sparse areas of the arch.
Buy now: Mini glue dots 300 pack, £2, Hobbycraft
Use masking tape or ribbon to hang up your balloon arch in your chosen area. Do not use staples because these will rip the balloon tape and could burst your beautiful balloons.
Once you’re happy with your arrangement, trim the balloon tape to size.
Stand back and admire your balloon arch. Whatever the celebration, you’re now ready for your party! Why not make your garden party idea all the more special this year with a balloon feature?
Best of all, a decorative arch of balloons is super cheap to make but will totally transform your photo backdrop. Plus it should last for a few days, to prolong the fun.
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Steph Durrant is the Deputy Editor of Ideal Home’s sister magazine, Style at Home. Steph is an experienced journalist with more than 12 years under her belt working across the UK’s leading craft and interiors magazines. She first joined the team back in 2016 writing for both homes brands, specialising in all things craft, upcycling and DIY.
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