How to Make a Balloon Topiary

Making an eye-catching and beautiful centerpiece for your party, wedding or other function requires a little creativity, and making a balloon topiary is a traditional way to express your creative sentiments. Balloon topiary centerpieces can be created in a few simple steps, and your guests will love the handmade conversation starters.

Things You'll Need

• Balloons (assorted colors and sizes, three dozen)
• Nine thick plastic straws (12 inches long by one-quarter-inch thick)
• Silk ribbon (three yards, assorted colors)
• Scotch tape (clear)
• Two dozen roses
• Three decorative glass vases
• Marbles (assorted sizes/colors, five pounds)
• Tissue paper (three yards, assorted colors)
• Battery-operated air pump (for bicycle tires)
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Inflate all of the balloons with the air pump, making sure not to overinflate them.

2. Tie off each balloon, snugly, to prevent the air from leaking out.

3. Cut the silk ribbon into equal lengths of 12 inches.

4. Tie a long, wispy bow around the knot of each tied, inflated balloon.

5. Affix three balloons in a petal-like formation to the top of each plastic straw, using the the Scotch tape to secure them into place.

6. Tape a small balloon to the very top of each straw, which will make a three-dimensional balloon flower with each piece you create.

7. Stuff a precut 12-by-12-inch square of tissue paper into each vase, and fill each vase about a quarter full with the marbles.

8. Add about a fourth of a cup of water to each vase.

9. Arrange a dozen roses in each vase, making sure to trim any excess leaves or dead petals from the arrangement.

10. Insert three balloon wands into each vase, directly in the center of the flower arrangements.

11. Tie a bow around each vase, using two lengths of ribbon each.

12. Display your beautiful centerpiece balloon topiary for your guests to adore.

Tips & Warnings

• Experiment with a variety of different craft items like silver charms, mesh and other flower types.