Balloon Decorating
Balloon decorating can be done with regular screen printing
methods on latex balloons. Since latex balloons stretch so much screen
printing is preferred over other printing methods. The paint that is
applied is just as flexible as the balloons, and the design will stretch
as the balloon is filled with gas. Screen printing requires specialized
screens that have a specific design burned onto them, one for every
color that design requires but often limited to four because of the
time it takes to screen print, and the cost of the screens.
Balloon decorating is popular on Mylar balloons as well as latex ones.
Mylar balloons do not stretch like latex balloons. Because they don’t
stretch, it makes them harder to fill without bursting them, but they
stay inflated longer. If filled with helium they will float for a few
weeks instead of a day or two for latex balloons. They can be printed
with much more intricate designs because of this characteristic. Full
color, and even photographic quality prints can be printed on these
types of balloons, which as silvery in appearance.
Another type of balloon decorating is done by special balloon artists
with very long and thin balloons. Once they are filled up, they can
be twisted into many different shapes and connected with other balloons
to make very interesting objects, hats, animals and almost anything
that can be imagined. These artists are often found at fairs and amusement
parks. Their creations are very affordable, unique and fun to play with.
It is also very interesting to watch them create objects out of balloons.