Supplies and tools that I use and rely on every single day in my small balloon artistry business!
Sections
4
Stands and frames
Foam backdrop supplies
What's in my Balloon Kit
Custom Props
Stands and frames
Very heavy duty. Plates are very heavy and sturdy and assembly is extremely fast (less than a minute).
Hecis 10x10ft Double Backdrop Stand Aluminum
This is very sturdy and comes apart to fit neatly in its carrying bag for super simple transportation and storage.
10x10 Heavy Duty Pipe and Drape Stand Kit
Foam backdrop supplies
These are the supplies I use to build a foam backdrop, cut into any size or shape, and make it stand up straight.
I prefer this brand over others for the texture
Kingspan Insulation R- 5 , 1-in x 4-ft x 8-ft Unfaced Foam Board Insulation
I attach this to the back of the foam board and the base is heavy enough to hold it upright.
Heavy Duty Floor Sign Holder for Foam Board
I use these to attach the poster stand to the foam board. They are adhesive and have a built in slot for a zip tie to attach.
XHF 3/4" Black Cable Zip Tie Mounts 100pcs
You can paint your foam board, but I prefer covering them with spandex covers. I usually will double up for lighter colors. This is easier, faster, and gives a more polished result!
3-Piece Stretch Spandex Arch Covers Set
I use this machine to cut out custom signs for the backdrops. I create the design in canva and then import the image to the xtool program. I absolutely love the look of the wood. It is cleaner and easier than vinyl and is also something the client ca...
xTool M1 Ultra 4-in-1 Laser Cutter & Engraver
This is the wood that I use to cut the custom signs out. It's the perfect thickness for impact but staying lightweight.
12 Pack Basswood Sheets 12x18x3mm Plywood
These are the magnets I use to attach the wood signs to the backdrop. I hot glue one magnet to the back of the sign, and the other magnet directly to the foam board, underneath the spandex cover. That way nothing is pulling down on the fabric.
MIN CI 100 Pcs Strong Round Neodymium Magnets
This is my favorite dual temp glue gun, I use it for attaching the magnets to the sign and the foam backdrop.
WORKPRO Dual Temp Hot Glue Gun Set - Pink Ribbon
This is my tutorial for building a basic organic balloon garland including a balloon formula and tips for inflating.
Balloon garland tutorial, tips, and tricks for complete beginners!
This is the tool I use to cut the foam down to the shape and size I want
8 In 1 Electric Hot Wire Foam Cutter Kit
What's in my Balloon Kit
This is everything I keep in my kit that I bring to every single install. It's full of things I need every time, and things I needed once and will never be caught without again!
This is the actual rolling toolkit I use. I absolutely love it, and have also purchased the stacking units for it.
DEWALT TSTAK Mobile Storage Wheels Set DWST17820
This is one of two stacking elements I added to the original rolling toolkit
DEWALT TSTAK III Tool Organizer Drawer DWST17803
This is one of two stacking elements I added to the rolling toolkit. It keeps me so organized.
DEWALT TSTAK Small Parts Organizer DWST17805
Always have an extra pump on site with you!
Electric Balloon Pump with 14 Arch Kits
Trust me on this one
Balloon Pump Handheld Two-Way Dual Action
There are so many uses for fishing line
Clear Fishing Line Wire 755 ft Nylon String
Never be without scissors. A few pairs really.
3 Packs 8" Heavy Duty Multipurpose Scissors
I love using 260s for connections, but it is a life saver to have backup rubber bands
Rubber Bands Size16 Light Brown 600Pcs
I've surprised myself with how often I've used this.
Hi-Spec 35-Piece Pink 3.6V USB Screwdriver Set
Outdoor installs are tricky beasts, and it's never a bad idea to be over prepared for all possibilities.
8 Pack Heavy Duty 8in Steel Tent Stakes
These are better than glue dots every time. Pro tip- warm them up in your hands before applying for even better hold.
OASIS® UGLU™ Adhesive
It's weird how often I've needed a permanent marker
Sharpie Fine Point Permanent Markers, Black (4)
In case your pumps fail you, a straw for 260s is so handy. Also doubles as a useful tool for double stuffing if needed.
IMPRESA Stainless Steel Boba Straw Set - 10 Pack
Hands down the most fun of all the balloon tools. And having two (one for each hand) is literally double the fun.
DECOPOP Balloon Popper - Party Supply Tool
I cannot ever have enough of these. I primarily use them to attach garlands and props to backdrops.
EMART 12 Pack 4.5in Heavy Duty Spring Clamps
This is my go-to tape for attaching foils and other props to garlands.
Scotch Heavy Duty Packaging Tape, 2in x 800in, Clear, 2 Count
Electrical tape is less sticky but more stretchy which comes in handy when you need something to stay tight.
Scotch Vinyl 700 Electrical Tape, Black, 3/4x66ft
Another supply that surprises me how often I use it
I don’t use it often, but I like to have it on hand in case it’s needed.
Novedades Peyma-Mega Shine 570ml Aerosol
Even if you don’t think you’re using anything requiring electricity, it is such a good look to have one of these handy when someone else inevitably needs it.
Woods SlimLine 3ft 16/3 Indoor Flat Cord
Essential for hanging garlands on walls
FrogTape Multi-Surface Painters Tape 1in
I keep a roll of black and a roll of white duct tape ready to go
3M Multi-Use Blue Duct Tape, Strong Adhesive
These are such handy hooks. So sticky! Do not attach them directly to walls though- they will peel paint. Always use painters tape underneath.
Adhesive Hooks 24 Pack Heavy Duty 24lb
I’m always adding more things, but here’s a quick video with many of my staples
What is in my balloon kit?
This is so handy for quick attachments and things you don’t want to wiggle! And since it’s cordless it’s crazy convenient to use on site.
