Getting started with Balloon Modelling

[milo]

I thought this post might be of some help to anyone who is just getting into balloon modelling – It worked for me so it might work for you!

The first thing I would recommend is NOT to buy any books or Balloon Modelling “kits”. Balloon kits usually come with cheap balloons that are likely to put you off when they keep popping and illustrated instructions are also really hard to follow.

The only brands I would recommend are Qualatex or Sempertex (I use sempertex because they are longer, thicker and cheaper than Qualatex) and I would strongly recommend you have a couple of hours with an experienced twister who can show you the ropes. I used a guy called Graham Lee in the UK and he was great!

Pumping Up

I bought an electric floor pump that will go all day without needing a recharge, but then I went to a balloon event and saw the fantastic FILBERT!!! So I have now ordered one of these too! I obviously carry 160 & 260 standard two way pumps for when I am walking about, but I you’re in a fixed spot then there is no better pump than the Filbert.

http://www.filbertpump.com/

They are really cheap and if anything breaks Filbert will send you the replacement part for FREE! I love the way the handle is designed to hold pre inflated balloons for you – Very handy.

Once you have found a GOOD brand of balloon you are happy to work with and have learned the basics from an instructor …….. Just have fun! Use the basics and expend on them and try easy effective things like weaving or twisting heart balloons into cartoon heads.

If you get stuck with anything then try asking my instructor for help, he will make anything you ask and post pictures so you can see how it’s done - www.balloonchat.co.uk

Hope that is of some help.

Milo.