DIY Mylar Balloons Inspired by “Balloons Over Broadway”
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Bring the excitement of the Macy’s Day Parade into your home with this fun, hands-on activity! Perfectly paired with the book Balloons Over Broadway by Melissa Sweet, these DIY mylar balloons are easy to create and make for a festive celebration.
Materials Needed:
Sharpie markers (variety of colors)
Laminator and laminating sheets
Scissors
Tape
Straw or small tool for blowing air
String or yarn for balloon “strings”
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Shape and Design Your Balloon Base: Start by folding a piece of tin foil in half. This step will help create a double layer for your balloon to later be filled with air. (It doesn’t matter where the crease is because we’ll be cutting it shortly). Use Sharpie markers to draw your balloon design directly onto the top layer of tin foil. Encourage kids to think creatively, designing animals, parade floats, or holiday icons.
Cut Out Your Balloon: Carefully cut out the balloon shape you drew, making sure to cut through both layers of foil. This creates the double layers that we’ll later fill with air for a balloon shape.
Laminate Your Balloon: Place your cut-out foil design into a laminating sheet and run it through the laminator. This step gives the balloon a shiny, mylar-like finish and helps hold its shape.
Create an Inflation Opening: Use scissors to cut a small slit at the bottom of your laminated balloon, going through both the foil and lamination. This opening will be used to blow air into the balloon.
Inflate Your Balloon: Insert a straw or small tool into the slit and gently blow air into the balloon until it puffs up. Remove the straw and quickly fold and tape the opening to seal the air inside.
Add Finishing Touches: Attach a piece of string or yarn to your balloon to make it look like a parade float ready for display.
Tie-In with Balloons Over Broadway:
Reading Balloons Over Broadway as a family introduces the story of Tony Sarg, the creative mind behind the original parade balloons. This book enriches the craft by providing historical context and inspiring kids to explore their own inventive ideas.
Celebrate Your Creativity:
Once complete, display your DIY mylar balloons or organize a mini home parade. This festive activity is a wonderful way to merge storytelling, art, and celebration for a memorable Thanksgiving tradition.
Enjoy making your own parade at home and see your children’s faces light up as their creations come to life!
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