Balloon Art for Walls
by Jan Iiams

How would you like to learn a simple technique that your customers will love, that creates a high perceived value from low cost elements and that allows you to expand your creativity?

You've seen Ian Shuey's beautiful work in Images magazine. Probably his most unique work is an impressive system of attaching balloons to wall surfaces to reproduce logos to scale. You'll see simple, easy-to-sell applications of this look that you can offer to all of your customers within every budget category.

You'll see that both foil and latex balloons can be used to create this handsome look. You can add visual interest, texture and dimension by sizing balloons, adding non-balloon elements, by layering balloons, and by shaping non-rounds to curve away from the wall surface.

Reasons You'll Love Balloon Art for Walls
Long Lasting Ð Since balloons are air or nitrogen filled, the appearance of your designs will last and last. You'll find jewel tones oxidize fairly quickly and pearl tones retain their fresh appearance longest.

Inexpensive Ð It's hard to find a balloon design that has such a big visual impact with the relatively small number of balloons required for most designs. The balloons don't require helium and much of the labor can be done ahead which decreases your costs.

Professional Results Ð Precision execution and fine detail are relatively easy to achieve with a minimum effort and the right equipment and tools. You'll look like a pro even in locations that don't allow helium.

Simple to Sell Ð This system of balloon art appeals to every budget and every occasion. Its high visual impact allows you to create work you're proud of and that customers will love for its beauty.

Here are a few guidelines to insure your sasses

Tools and Equipment
Conwin's Duplicator 2 is my personal choice to inflate balloons for this type of design. The auto sizing capabilities will guarantee uniform sizing as well as precision in graduating sizes required in some designs. Nitrogen is my gas of choice because of its economy and quiet delivery.

A projector that shows your design outline on the wall surface is a must for more complicated layouts. You'll save lots of time if you don't have to continuously walk away to view your work in progress.

A portable ladder or step stool you can bring to the site is important. Some event locations have ladders but you can't always depend on one so you should check ahead.

A box of optional ways to adhere balloons to the wall is a good idea. Walls have different textures and finishes and it's smart to have a back up plan just in case it's needed. Your box should include clear packing tape with dispenser and clear scotch tape on a heavy desk dispenser. Both are good for painted or mirrored surfaces. Velcro is very effective on fabric or carpet covered walls. Other good adhesives include carpet hooks, ceiling clips, paper clips, corsage pins, tacky tape, one coat rubber cement (which is found at better art supply stores) for situations that call for super clean yet secure adherence similar to post-a-notes. Magnets, backless tape and dispenser, sticky back foam tape on a roll, Conwin Adhesive Grip Tabs, and low-temperature glue guns (not for use on walls of course, but for attaching other elements together.) are also good alternatives.

And the usual scissors, ribbon shredder, extension cord, plastic bags for transporting inflated balloons, hand pumps, tape measure and very fine monofilament.

Accessorize!
Accent materials are important to create a finished look for occasions like weddings. Pearlized balloons with tulle ribbon, strands of baby pearls, doves, silk flowers, and Master Bow ribbon will add polish and harmony to an already strong design.

Non-round balloons work beautifully with this technique. 9-inch SDS squares create a strong and tailored appearance when placed in wall arrangements. Curling 260Q and other entertainer balloons and placing them on the wall is a delightful way to expand the dimension of your wall art. For instance, try 260Q curls for a lion's mane, jungle grass or an aquarium scene.

Fabric is beautiful incorporated into wall designs. Draped wide ribbon or fabric lengths strategically placed within designs add polish and interest and fill positive space. Fabric suspended from the ceiling against the wall and then decorated work well for two reasons: the first is that some walls are inappropriate for even the gentlest adhesives and the second great reason is to add low cost, high perceived value special effects like small lights or wall washer lights or even a small fan for animation.

Creating the illusion of movement within a stationary display is not difficult. Wide ribbon tails trailing and curling along the wall make individual balloons appear to have been released into the air. A one dimensional bouquet of balloons with ribbons caught to one side looks like a brisk breeze has blown them and creates the impression of the outdoors inside.

Finally, don't forget to bring your camera so your customers can see this wonderful decor option. If they see it, you'll sell it!