How to Build a Hot Air Balloon

Building a hot air balloon is a lengthy but a rewarding process. There are specific steps that need to be followed to get a great working product in the end. To build something from the ground up not only shows talent but also provides a sense of achievement.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Envelope
• Burner
• Leather or rattan basket
• Lighter for ignition
• Adhesive
• Liquid and gas propane tanks
• Thermometer and aerometer
• Sealant

1. Purchase an envelope, burner and basket from a balloon manufacturing store. Buy a nylon polyester mix fabric and then shape, cut and stitch it in the desired shape (keep the center longer than the edges). Coat the inside with a mixture of polyurethane, synthetic rubber or silicone.

2. Use steel wires to support the basket against the envelope. Insert the burner in between the basket and the envelope. Attach propane tanks on both sides of the burner. Use a gas tank for high speed and liquid tank for low speed.

3. Install wind and speed monitoring devices in the structure of the hot air balloon. Use adhesive where required. Include vents on the sides for proper inclusion and exclusion of the hot air.

4. Test the hot air balloon. Inflate the envelope with the help of a ground crew. Turn on the burner to give the balloon a boost. Let the balloon fill up until it hovers above the ground.

Tips & Warnings

• Seek expert advice when assembling a hot air balloon.
• Use top of the line products in balloon production.
• Assemble the hot air balloon in a vast vacant area.
• Do not forget to wear hand gloves and eye goggles for added protection.
• Avoid building a hot air balloon in the presence of minors.