DIY I Am Thankful For… Thanksgiving Balloon Craft

The rumors are true — Thanksgiving isn’t usually my favorite holiday to craft for. Its traditional colors and themes don’t always speak to me, but this year I decided to give it a Studio DIY twist. That’s why this is probably the only Thanksgiving DIY you’ll see from me that involves balloons. The concept behind these “I Am Thankful For…” balloons is simple: have each guest write what they’re grateful for right on a balloon so everyone can read the many small and big things worth celebrating. Display them proudly, enjoy the company, and dig into the food. Sound good?

DIY "I Am Thankful For" Balloon

DIY Gilded Balloons

Supplies:
36″ balloon
Liquid gilding
Paint brush
Chalk (optional, for sketching)

Instructions:
Begin by lightly sketching your phrase — “I Am Thankful For” — on the inflated balloon with chalk. If you like, pull up a font you admire on your computer and use it as a guide. Next, dip a small paint brush into the liquid gilding and carefully paint over the chalk lines. That’s all it takes to get a clean, metallic lettered look.

DIY Thanksgiving Balloons

Once your gilded phrase is dry, personalize the display. I added a frill from Geronimo Balloons, and you could easily tie on streamers or ribbon for extra flair. Place a gold paint pen nearby and invite guests to write what they’re thankful for on the balloon — it makes a lovely interactive centerpiece and gives everyone a moment to reflect.

DIY "I Am Thankful For" Balloon DIY "I Am Thankful For" Balloon

All photos by Studio DIY. Frill by Geronimo Balloons.

I’ve got a few more Turkey Day DIYs headed your way in the coming weeks — stay tuned for more simple, festive ideas.

This post is part of the 12 Months of Martha program; all content and opinions are my own.