DIY 6 ft Balloon Garland: Everything you Need to Know!

Here is everything you need to know when creating a DIY 6 ft Balloon Garland! Balloon garlands are the perfect touch for baby showers, bridal showers, birthday parties, and any other event!

Ready to elevate your next event with a stunning 6 ft balloon garland? While crafting a balloon garland might seem daunting at first, I’m here to answer all of your balloon questions! For beginners, a 6 ft balloon garland is the ideal starting point—it’s manageable without being overwhelming and still makes a significant visual impact. A beautiful balloon garland adds a vibrant pop of color to any space and serves as fantastic substitutions of flowers, perfect for various special occasions like baby showers, bridal showers, birthday parties and even corporate events. Let’s transform your event with your very own balloon garland to WOW your guests! 

This post has everything you need to know about making your own DIY 6 ft Balloon Garland!! 

Materials & Prep

What tools do I need to make a balloon garland?’

First things first, you must gather your supplies.  Here is a list of supplies you need for a beautiful balloon garland. I have all of these items linked in my storefront – click here! 

• Variety of latex balloons (they don’t have to be high quality IMO) — For a 6 ft garland, you will need about 3 18” balloons, 15-20 12″ balloons and 10-15 5″ balloons (I go deeper on this in the next section)
• Electric balloon pump
• Balloon Strip — You don’t need this if you are making balloon clusters
• 260 Balloons (aka balloon animal balloons) — optional but helpful
• Glue dots — don’t need these if you use 260 balloons
• Fishing line
• Clear command hooks
• String/twine
• Scissors
• Hand pump — if you’re double stuffing your balloons (click here for more on double stuffing)

How many balloons do I need for a 6 ft balloon garland?

For a stunning 6 ft balloon garland, you’ll need approximately:

• 3 x 18” balloons
• 15-20 x 12” balloons
• 10-15 x 5” balloons

This combination ensures a beautiful mix of sizes, adding depth and dimension to your garland. Whether you’re using a kit or you make your own diy balloon garland kits yourself, these quantities will set you up for success!

What size balloons are best for a balloon garland?

Using a variety of latex balloons is key! For a 6ft garland, I recommend:

• Large, 18-inch for focal points
• medium, 12-inch for the main structure
• small, 5-inch for filling in gaps

This mix creates a dynamic and eye-catching display, which helps create the thick-style garlands that everyone is after these days. 

Do you need a balloon strip to make a balloon garland?

No, but I suggest using one if you haven’t made a balloon garland before. Here’s a great tutorial to walk you through the balloon strip process. While balloon strips are super convenient, you can absolutely make a gorgeous garland without one! Alternatives include using fishing line, twine, or even a sturdy ribbon to attach your balloons. It’s all about finding what works best for your setup and style. If you don’t like the look that a balloon strip creates, I would suggest learning how to make your own balloon clusters using 260 balloons. 

How much does it cost to make your own balloon garland?

If you already have essential items like a balloon pump, balloons will likely cost you no more than $20. Most ready-made balloon kits are available for $15–$20. If you have the time, I suggest ordering the kits from websites like Shein, because then you can order multiple kits for the same price which will give you more balloons to work with. The balloons don’t have to be high quality in my opinion. 

Timing & Planning

How far in advance can I make balloon garlands?

You can prepare your balloon garland up to a week before your event/delivery date. If stored indoors in a cool and dry place, balloon garlands can last up to a month witout deflating, so if you need to make yours earlier than a week before your event, just expect a few balloons needing to be replaced so have a few extra on hand.  To keep the balloons intacts, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

How long does it take to make balloon garlands?

Creating a 6ft balloon garland typically takes about 1 hour, depending on your experience and the complexity of your design. Setting aside ample time ensures a stress-free crafting session! If you can, I HIGHLY reccomend making your garlands before your event if it’s your first time. 

How long do balloon garlands last?

Balloon garlands typically last for 1-2 weeks without deflating, but can last for months if indoors. For maximum longevity, keep them in a cool environment and avoid direct sunlight or sharp objects that might cause popping.

When should I make my balloon garland before the party?

Aim to assemble your garland a day or two before the event. This timing ensures everything looks fresh and vibrant when it’s time to celebrate!

Assembly Instructions

How do you attach balloons to make a balloon garland?

If you are using a balloon strip, atart by anchoring the larger balloons, then layer in the medium and smaller sizes. Secure each balloon firmly to maintain the structure.

How do you make a balloon garland step by step?

Check out this blog post for detailed instructions and how I use the chair method. – 

1. Inflate your balloons into ball-like shapes
2. Arrange balloons by size and color for your design.
3. Attach balloons to your chosen base (strip, line, etc.) starting with the largest.
4. Fill gaps with smaller balloons to add fullness.
5. Adjust spacing and overlap as needed for a balanced look.
6. Secure the ends and make any final tweaks for perfection!

How do you make a balloon garland without a strip?

If you don’t want to use a balloon strip, fishing line or twine as your base. I would suggest learning how to make your own balloon clusters using 260 balloons.  

How do you make a balloon garland fuller?

To achieve, thick-style garlands, add more balloons in varying sizes and overlap balloons closely to eliminate gaps.

What is the balloon sizing formula for garlands?

This is the ratio I prefer for every 1 to 2 feet of garland:

• 1 large balloon (18”)
• 5 medium balloons (12”)
• 3 small balloons (5”)

Adjust these numbers based on the length of your garland and the desired fullness.

Installation & Display

How do you hang a balloon garland on a wall?

Use Command hooks or adhesive strips to secure the ends of your garland. Start at one anchor point and gently drape the garland across your desired area, adjusting as needed for an even display. If you can hang it from a curtain rod, backdrop stand or door frame, use fishing line so it’s less noticeable. 

How do you stick balloon garland to wall without damaging?

Opt for removable adhesive hooks or strips that won’t leave marks. Alternatively, use a tension rod or fishing line to hold the garland in place without direct contact with the wall.

How high should I hang my balloon garland?

Position your garland eye level or slightly higher for optimal visibility. Ensure it complements the overall theme and doesn’t obstruct key areas of the space. If you hang it above a food or dessert table, you’ll want to make sure it’s hanging high enough so guests won’t bump into it when grabbing a plate. 

How do you transport a balloon garland?

Trash bags are a great way to transport your balloons. I would suggest blowing up all or most of your balloons (unless you have lots of giant balloons), and stuffing them in large trash bags to transport them in your car. Then you can assemble the garland at the event. 

Troubleshooting your Balloon Garlands Issues

Why is my balloon garland deflating?

Deflation can occur due to leaks, temperature changes, or over inflation. Be sure to not blow your balloons too much. You want the balloons to be a round/ball shape. Check for any pinholes or weak spots, and avoid placing your garland in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.

How do you fix gaps in balloon garland?

Fill gaps by adding additional balloons in similar or complementary colors. Adjust the spacing and ensure each balloon is securely attached to maintain a seamless look. You can also use glue dots to fill the gaps. 

Share your Balloon Garland

As always, thank you for following along with me in my creative journey. Be sure to tag me and use #meagannicholedotcom when sharing your DIY! Thanks for stopping by MeaganNichole.com

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