Creating a Balloon Arch: A Step-by-Step Guide
Balloon arches are a popular decoration for various events, including weddings, baby showers, and birthday parties. They can highlight a focal point such as an altar, entrance, or table. This guide explains how to build an affordable balloon arch using common hardware store items.
By Drew Ward
A balloon arch made from wire is held up with helium.
A balloon arch can bring style, color, and flair to any event, whether it's a wedding, baby shower, or birthday party. The arch draws attention to a key area, such as an altar, the party entrance, or a specific table you want to highlight. You can create an inexpensive balloon arch using supplies from any hardware store.
Constructing the Base for Your Balloon Arch
Start by building a base to hold your balloon arch. There are several options:
Umbrella Stands You can repurpose the bases of two umbrella stands. Just remove the umbrella poles, and they're ready to use.
Buckets Get two large buckets with lids. Cut 3/4-inch holes in the center of each lid. Fill the buckets halfway with sand or pebbles to add weight.
Wood blocks Drill a 1/2-inch diameter hole in the center of two 4-by-4-by-10 inch wood blocks. You can place sandbags or other weights on top of the wood blocks to hold them down.
Preparing the PVC Pipe Arch
You'll need 1/2-inch diameter polyvinyl chloride pipe that's long enough to form the arch. It's available at hardware and home improvement stores in 10- and 20-foot sections. To join sections, use PVC connectors and PVC glue or cement, depending on the total arch length. Insert the ends of your arch into the bases. If you're using wooden block bases, also glue each end of the PVC pipe into the blocks with PVC glue. Allow the glue to dry before adding balloons. Set up the arch in its final location before attaching balloons, as it becomes harder to move once they're on.
Adding the Balloons
The balloon size is your choice. Larger balloons mean you'll need fewer to cover the arch. While 11-, 14-, or 16-inch balloons work best, plan for about six balloons per foot of arch. Inflate balloons using an air compressor, helium, or your lungs, making each balloon the same size. After inflating, tie the ends of two balloons together. Repeat this to make multiple pairs. Tie two pairs together to form a group of four balloons. Attach balloons to the arch by twisting two of them around the PVC pipe at one end. Keep adding clusters until the entire pipe is covered.
Helpful Tips
If it's windy, you might want to secure your arch on both sides with fishing line to prevent it from tipping. Tie fishing line around the PVC pipe and attach it to a stable structure, or drive a stake into the ground. Keep extra balloons handy in case some pop during assembly. If one pops later, replace it by twisting another pair of balloons around the pole in its spot. Use balloons of different colors to create patterns. Sketch the pattern beforehand so you know where each color goes.
