DIY Balloon Centerpiece Base

A floating balloon needs a base to keep it on the table.

DIY balloon centerpieces are versatile decorations that fit many celebrations, from fancy weddings to kids' birthday parties. Although air-filled balloons work for some designs, many DIY centerpieces take advantage of helium-filled balloons for the extra height. Using the hovering balloons for a centerpiece requires a weighted base to prevent them from floating right off the table. While any weighted base will work, you have several options for creating decorative bases that enhance your centerpiece.

Things You'll Need

• Wrapping paper
• Brick
• Scissors
• Latex balloons
• Ribbon
• Funnel
• Sand

Instructions

Brick Balloon Base

1. Cut a piece of sturdy wrapping paper twice the total size of a brick using scissors. Place wrapping paper design side down on a flat surface.

2. Place the brick in the middle of the wrapping paper. Secure helium-filled latex balloons to long lengths of ribbon. Wrap the ends of the ribbons around the middle of the brick, and tie them in knots. Securing the balloons before wrapping the brick helps give the centerpiece a crisp and clean appearance.

3. Pull the wrapping paper up around the brick as if making a crude sack. Pinch the paper together at the top of the brick, leaving the balloon-attached ribbons sticking up in the middle.

4. Cut a 12-inch piece from the leftover ribbon. Tie the ribbon piece around the pinched wrapping paper as if you’re wrapping the top of a gift sack. Tie the ribbon in a bow, and place the centerpiece on the table.

Filled Balloon Base

1. Place a funnel in the mouth of a latex balloon. Fill the balloon with at least 2/3 cup of sand for every 12 helium balloons. Stretch the balloon’s body and mouth with your hands to help force in the sand. If you’re having a hard time getting the sand in, blow up the empty balloon and release the air to help stretch it.

2. Remove the funnel slowly from the balloon. Stretch the balloon’s neck with your fingers, and tie it in a tight knot.

3. Tie helium-filled balloons to long ribbons. Wrap the end of a ribbon around each weighted balloon’s neck, and tie it in a large bow. Add other decorative materials as desired, such as glitter around the balloon base or additional ribbons around the neck.

Tips & Warnings

• If you’re looking for a shortcut, use a small gift bag as your centerpiece base. Fill the bag with something weighted, such as rocks or a brick, and stuff it with tissue paper for a decorative appearance. Tie the helium balloons to the bag handle, and place the bag in the center of the table.