Balloon Decorating Tips

The ongoing helium shortage, is predicted to continue through 2008 and is hitting the party industry particularly hard. With the natural resource helium used for a variety of medical and industrial activities, helium for use in party and decor applications is a lower priority and in even shorter supply.

Helium demand is increasing and so is the cost. There is no projection for an easing of the shortage, in response, we are turning to conservation measures for decorating with balloons. Here are some suggestions for reducing the need for helium when using balloons for decorating at your next event.

Air-Filling Balloons. Consider air filling your foil balloons and suspending them from the ceiling. Ideas include balloon swags instead of arches, draped canopies and suspended balloon clusters.

Mounting Methods. Air-filled foil balloons can be mounted on air filled latex balloon columns or on plastic sticks and cups available from balloon accessory suppliers.

New Inflation Tools. Conserve on helium by choosing a florist or balloon company that has the new inflation tools that mix helium with air when filling balloons.

Float-time Solutions. Make sure that the florist or balloon company you hire uses solutions that coat the insides of latex balloons and prevent helium leakage. This solution increases the float length by 10 to 25 times.

New Balloon Types. Several balloon manufactures have developed helium-conserving balloons that stay inflated three to five times longer than standard foil balloons. Ask for these balloons when purchasing foil balloons or look for balloons manufactured by Anagram International Inc.(XtraLife™), CTI Industries (Durafloat™), and Pioneer Balloon Company (Qualatex brand Suprafoils™).