How to Make a Balloon Animal Elephant

Balloon art is as much fun to make as it is to give. You can liven up your child's next party by making animal balloons. Balloon elephants are always a popular choice. You can even use balloon elephants at the next Republican rally you attend. No one is too old to enjoy these delightful toys.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Supply of long, thin balloons
• Balloon Pump

1. Blow up a balloon. You can blow it up with a pump or you can use your own air. Leave about five to six inches not inflated for a tail.

2. Tie off the balloon. Wrap the end around your index and middle fingers. Pull the end through the loop. If you have difficulty with this, let some air out of the balloon.

3. Twist a three-inch section for the trunk of the animal. Next create the ears. Create a six-inch bubble next to the trunk. Fold it in half and twist it until it locks. Repeat with another six-inch bubble for the second ear.

4. Allow a two-inch bubble for the neck of the elephant. Twist it to lock it. Create the front legs with a three-inch bubble. Pull the last two bubbles along the remaining length of the balloon. Twist them in place to create the front legs.

5. Create the body of the elephant with a two-inch bubble. Make another three-inch bubble for the back legs. Repeat the process of Step 5 to complete the back legs of the animal. The little bit of balloon that's left is the tail of the elephant.

6. Gently bend the trunk section upward. Warm the plastic with your hands to help mold the balloon's shape. Tweak any other twists as necessary to make the elephant stand straight.

Tips & Warnings

• Blowing up the long, thin balloons can be very difficult using your own air. It is recommended that you use a balloon pump.