How to Make a Balloon Arch Cluster

Multi-colored balloon arch cluster

Balloon arch clusters serve many purposes. You see them at wedding receptions as the bride and groom enter the room. They are used as a backdrop for the once-in-a-lifetime prom photo your child will forever remember. They can be made for a child's party to add color and fun, or may be seen at the all-important 50th anniversary party of a couple who is celebrating a milestone in their marriage.
Whatever the reason, it is not necessary to hire someone to make your celebratory arch. You can make it yourself. Although time consuming, it is fairly easy and inexpensive.

Things You'll Need

• Balloons Helium air tank Cardboard template PVC pipe Aluminum rod Electrical tape Wire or string Sandbags or bricks

Instructions

1. Choose your balloon. You can either go with helium- or air-filled balloons to decorate your arch. Helium balloons do require less support, however their lifespan is only between 10 and 12 hours. After this, they begin to weigh down the frame of the arch. Air-filled balloons require a more stable frame but are less expensive and have a longer life span.

2. Determine the size of the arch. Before you can purchase the right number of balloons, you need to know what size your arch will be. On average, six balloons will cover 1 foot of frame length. There are three formulas you can use to determine your arch's length.
   First, if it will be taller than wider, multiply 2 by the height and add the width. This is your length. If the arch is wider than it is tall, simply add the width and height together. This will give you your length. Finally, if the arch is as tall as it is wide, multiply .5 by the height and add the width. This is your length.

3. 

   Make your frame. This is done simply by using PVC pipe for the sides and an aluminum pipe on top to give it the arch. Once connected, use electrical tape to secure it around the joints of these materials to secure them in place.

4. Inflate your balloons. To ensure that all balloons are the same size, use a cardboard template and inflate them to the size you have drawn. Once inflated, tie two balloons together, and then twist them with two more balloons to make a cluster of four. It is during this process you can use the same color or different colors which will create a pattern.

5. 

   Attach the clusters. Start at one end of the arch and attach the clusters of four by twisting one of the balloons around the frame. This will secure the cluster. Continue this until you have reached the opposite end of the frame.

6. 

   Secure the arch. Once the clusters have been added, move the arch to its desired location, and secure the bottom with either sandbags or bricks. You will want to cover the weights will balloon clusters that are tied to the bottom of the frame. You may also want to secure the arch to the wall or ceiling if inside, by connecting it with a wire. If outside, you can secure it to a table or chair. If the arch is placed in a doorway, using a string with pushpins hooked to the door frame will suffice.

Resources

• Learn how to properly inflate helium balloons.