Simple DIY Balloon Garland: Step-by-Step Video Guide

Planning a party? Balloons are a total game-changer when it comes to decorations! They add so much fun and excitement, and making your own balloon garland is an amazing way to create a standout piece for your event. Plus, it looks super professional—even if you’re just starting out!

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to make an easy balloon garland (or balloon arch) that’ll totally wow your guests.

What’s the difference between a balloon arch and a balloon garland?

It’s all about how you hang them! A balloon arch typically forms an upside-down “U” over tables, doorways, or paths. A garland, on the other hand, is often draped in an asymmetrical “J” shape or hung horizontally, like down a banister or along a table.

What size balloons do you need for a balloon garland?

You can use standard-size balloons and inflate them to different sizes, or mix in some 5” balloons with your 11” or 12” ones. For a dramatic effect, consider adding a few extra-large 17” or 24” balloons.

Do you need helium for a balloon garland?

Nope! You don’t need helium if you’re attaching the garland to a structure like a wall or doorway. However, if you want a freestanding arch, you might use helium so the balloons float without additional support.

How long will a balloon garland last?

An air-filled balloon garland can last 1-2 weeks indoors. For outdoor displays, they’ll typically last a day or two, depending on the weather.

Can you make a balloon garland ahead of time?

Absolutely! Because they can last up to two weeks indoors, you can make them a few days ahead. For outdoor events, make and store the garland indoors until the day of your event.

Is it easier to use a balloon garland kit?

Using a kit can definitely save time and hassle. Kits often include all the different balloon sizes and colors you need, making it straightforward to recreate the look you want.

Check out Elsie’s Frozen-Themed Birthday Party here

What do I need to make a balloon garland?

• Balloon Decorating Strip: A strip with pre-punched holes to attach your balloons.
• 12″ latex and 5″ latex balloons: Pick these in your party colors.
• Balloon tying tool (optional): This will save your fingers!
• Glue Dots (or low-temp glue gun): Ideal for filling in gaps.
• Command hooks for hanging: Easily removable hooks.
• Electric balloon pump (optional but helpful!): Speeds up the process.

How to Make an Easy Balloon Garland

Step One: Blow up your balloons in your desired colors and sizes

The number will depend on how long and full you want your garland to be.

Step Two: Measure out your garland strip and start attaching your balloons

Start with the larger balloons and space them evenly.

Step Three: Fill out the garland with medium and smaller balloons until it looks nice and full

Step Four: Use glue dots to attach smaller balloons in any gaps

Step Five: Hang your garland using Command hooks or by tying to existing structures with twine or fishing line

Don’t want to gather supplies? Check out these balloon garland kits

• Pastel Rainbow Daisy Balloon Garland Kit: Comes with 159 pieces for a fun, colorful setup.
• Shades of Blue Garland Kit: Beautiful blue ombre effect.
• Champagne Balloon Celebration Garland Kit: Perfect for a classy look.
• Rainbow Clouds Balloon Garland: Great for kid’s parties.
• Dusty Rose Pink Balloon Garland Kit: Lovely for a romantic or elegant event.
• Big Sur Balloon Sage Garland Kit: Beautiful earthy tones.

Planning a party? Check out our archives for more DIY garland ideas and other party tips!

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Create an Easy Balloon Garland for Your Next Party

Cost: $30 Yield: 1 garland Prep Time: 1 hour Total Time: 2 hours

Materials

• Balloon Decorating Strip
• 12″ latex and 5″ latex balloons in your chosen colors
• Glue Dots (or low-temp glue gun)
• Command hooks for hanging

Equipment

• Electric balloon pump (optional but helpful!)

Instructions

1. Blow up your balloons: Inflate the balloons to different sizes.
2. Measure and cut the garland strip: Add some extra length for hanging.
3. Attach the balloons: Start with larger balloons and fill in with smaller ones.
4. Fill in the gaps: Use glue dots to attach smaller balloons in any open spaces.
5. Hang the garland: Use Command hooks or twine/fishing line to secure in place.

Notes

• The number of balloons you need depends on the garland length and thickness.
• For a 6’ garland, you’ll typically need around 10 small 5” balloons, 20 standard 12” balloons, and a few 17” larger balloons for accents.
• Alternate adding balloons through the front and back of the strip for a more balanced look.

Keywords: balloon garland

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