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The Miniloon: Re-Visited

As recently noted in another post, 'balloons on a stick' can be great substitutes in many situations. And while most people are familiar with the balloons, not many people know how to actually use them. It's easy to assume that they are inflated with helium, but some may be surprised to know that they are aren't intended for use with helium at all! In fact, they're quite different in a few aspects.

Inflate

So how does one inflate these small balloons? Well, quite simply, with air. The means by which this is done, however, is a matter of preference. You can use one of a myriad of air inflator options, from a simple and economical hand pump to a heavy duty electric inflator. Once you determine how frequently you intend to do this and locate an suitable inflator, you'll notice that the air doesn't stay inside the balloon by itself like it does with helium foil balloons. Because they are not self-sealing, you'll also need a heat sealer.

Seal

A heat sealer is used to basically melt the foil together, creating a seal on the balloon. The heat sealer we use in-store has a 4" strip where balloons can be placed for sealing. If your only reason for using a heat sealer is for balloons, then this is more than adequate. However, if you'd like to use it for other things, such as sealing bags or packaging, then you may need a larger sealing strip.

To use, simply hold the balloon so as not to let air escape and place the neck of the balloon over the base of the sealer. Then, press the lever down and hold it in place for 4-6 seconds. When you pull the balloon off the sealer, you should notice a line where it was sealed. As an extra precaution, we like to create an additional barrier by creating another seal right above or right below the initial line.

If you notice the balloon isn't sealing, then you'll likely need to increase the temperature, which can be found in the heat control setting on the front. If the balloon necks end up being split in two by the heat sealer, then you'll need to lower the temperature.

Assemble

Once the balloon is filled and sealed, you're ready to assemble them. There are different size cups and sticks for different sizes of balloons. Balloons that range in size from 2"-4" use the same size, while balloons from 9"-14" use another size. Both sets of cups and sticks look the same, they're just different sizes to accommodate the larger (or smaller) balloons.

Try it for Yourself!

We sell the balloons, heat sealers, & cups and sticks needed to use these special balloons. Just ask one of our representatives to assist you if you have any questions.

And luckily, if this seems like a lot of work or too much of an investment for your current needs, we also sell the balloons already inflated and assembled for your convenience!



Written by: Miriam Medellin


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