I’ve been exploring the party stores in downtown LA a lot lately since the studio is nearby. They’re full of inspiration—there’s even a whole street that’s practically lined with piñatas. While browsing, I spotted some curved and tapered gold foil balloons that immediately reminded me of candle flames. I decided then and there to make giant birthday candle balloons. These were a last-minute project—painted after a meeting, inflated in the car, and photographed on the street—so there aren’t step-by-step photos. Still, they were simple to put together and turned out great, so here’s how to recreate them.
Supplies:
Cardboard wrapping paper tubes
Gold 28″ curved foil balloons (or 27″ tapered foil balloons for a different flame shape)
Paint and a paintbrush
Ribbon or string
Shipping tape
Steps:
1. Paint the cardboard tube. Use any existing ridges or lines on the tube as a guide—alternating white with another color creates a classic candle look. Let the paint dry completely.
2. Inflate the balloons. Helium works, but these don’t float once attached to the tube because of the weight. An air pump is fine if you prefer.
3. Attach the balloon. Tie the balloon with a length of string longer than the tube, then thread the string through the tube. Pull the balloon snug against the top edge of the tube and secure the string inside the bottom with shipping tape, pulling it taut so the balloon stays in place. Having a helper hold the balloon while you tape makes this easier.
4. Finish and stabilize. Trim any excess string. To keep the candle balloons upright indoors, place a balloon weight on the floor and set the tube over it. For outdoor grass settings, slide the tube over a stake driven into the ground. If necessary, tape can be used to secure the base—just choose a tape that won’t damage surfaces.
I usually discard blurry shots, but I liked this one where the flame is in focus and everything else fades into the background—me walking with giant candles, as one does.
All photos by Studio DIY.
Now I just need a cake big enough to fit these candles. Jeff is making my birthday cake this year, so maybe he’ll rise to the challenge—how fun would that be? I still have that giant cake slice prop lying around, so inspiration is already nearby.
If you’re planning more birthday DIYs or balloon projects, this is a fun and simple idea to adapt to any celebration.