184 Issue 3 2015 NABAS The only independent trade association for the party & promotional balloon industry in the UK
NABAS The National Association of Balloon & Party Professionals - Helping You Take Your Business To A Higher Level
BALLOONIES
FROM YOUR COMMITTEE
BALLOONIES EDUCATE - PROMOTE - INFORM
Welcome to this year’s last issue of Balloonies, As 2014 comes to an end, it seems appropriate to take a brief look at what we’ve done this year. From the very start of 2014 our focus has been on strengthening our association. It seemed pointless trying to build on rickety foundations, so we really wanted to take a new broom approach! Your chairman at the time John Lee was insistent that we worked diligently to give all our members an association to be proud of. He believed as do I that we had to make sure NABAS had a powerful voice for all independent business owners’, and that we were in a position to give you unbiased help, training, advice and support. It was very much a case of taking NABAS back to its roots and core values, before it lost its way. The reality is that many manufacturers don’t feel comfortable if they are not in control and unable to dictate, and a strong independent body wasn’t something that could be supported due to a conflict of interest. This is exactly why we believe NABAS must thrive and survive. Individually, our voices are seldom heard, but together, we are better positioned to both support each other and make a difference. Having been rocked to its foundations, NABAS had to start with a strong committee. To give you some idea of how severe the changes have been, there is only one original member left on the committee from 2 years ago! We now have a much stronger and balanced base and I am delighted that both Mathew Lewis and Mitch Gilbert, both highly skilled and respected individuals in their own right, stepped up to help move this forward. Mitch's focus will be on training and education, as well as liaising with NABAS teachers. We all have to remember NABAS is run by the members for the members, and we still need you all to be actively involved. It’s only by doing this will we be able to create an Association that is so necessary and invaluable for us all. We had planned to hold the NABAS Knebworth Event for March, but due to John’s illness, we decided to reschedule for October. Regrettably, John lost his battle in July. There was talk about cancelling the event, but it was decided that we would dedicate NABAS Knebworth in John’s honour. It was also decided that I would act as Chairman until the end of this year. The event was very well received and with the much needed help and organisational skills of Kate, we had every reason to pat ourselves on the back. In fact the feedback was so good, we are looking at doing this again next year! We have already asked many of you where your preferred location would be, my choice is the Maldives, but unless I get another 400 votes, I don’t think I’ll get my way!
Balloonies No. 184
Issue 3 2015
© NABAS - The Balloon Association 2014 Published by: NABAS The Balloon Association Ltd Katepwa House, Ashfield Park Avenue, Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire, HR9 5AX
T: 01989 762204
Content Editor: NABAS Front cover: Image courtesy of Richard Adams, Balloontastic
NABAS Committee Jo Birch, Angie George, Mitch Gilbert, Matthew Lewis, Steve Marsh, George Oustayiannis Secretariat Gill Hinton, Kate Walker, Hilary Pulsford, Elizabeth Malcolm, Jo Maguire
For those of you that attended the event, you may recall that during my opening talk, I said I would work with one of you, FREE OF CHARGE for 4 weeks on a Mentor programme, so as to prove that the right ideas and outside help really can have a positive impact on your business. I also said that I would let all of you know how this was working out! have now completed 2 sessions with Aimee Hyatt from Celebrations Party Shop in Marlow, and this is what Aimee has said about our interaction: "I have been receiving advice and support from George across two meetings now, during both of which I have come away with multiple ideas for pushing my business in the direction I want it to go in. I have instantly implemented a lot of the ideas and despite being early days I feel that these are having a positive impact. It has been great to have an outside perspective into my business to help me to see clearly some things I should have done sooner!". This isn't included to impress you with my business acumen. It's included to highlight the importance of using the help and resources of those around you, and not trying to do everything on your own. We should never stop learning, and we should always look for ways to improve our business. If we've decided this is what we are going to do with our lives, doesn't it make sense to try and be the very best we can? Wouldn't it be amazing if the reality of our business actually matched the dreams and aspirations we had when we first decided to do it? When we chose to be entrepreneurs, weren't some of the reasons based around having choices, freedom, and financial security? And yet, in our industry, a staggering 90% of startups, don't make it to 5 years, and so many business owners work for themselves for below minimum wage! This is why I wanted you all to attend the event and network and learn from likeminded people. It's also why you need to be an active member of your association. The help and support is there, and irrespective of how big or small our businesses are, we all need that interaction. I’m also hoping by the time you get this issue of Balloonies, our new website will be live. This has been some time in coming, but we sincerely hope you will like the new format and changes made. As well as this, we are very proactive in highlighting the issues associated with non CE marked product, and the dangers and issues associated with grey imports predominately coming in from China. We are also looking at having a presence at 2016 Spring Fair at the NEC Birmingham, to again highlight and promote our Association. We will of course keep you informed as to where we will be, and hope to meet some of you there. In closing, I again remind you that this is your association, and to make things happen, you have to be the catalyst of change. You had the courage to start your own business, and the life of a business owner can be lonely and frustrating. NABAS gives you a voice and it is working with your best interests at heart. Your membership has to be more than just about insurance, you need to be both active and vocal, and network with your fellow members. Together, we can make a difference. I Wish You All A Very Merry Christmas & A Healthy, Happy & Prosperous New Year. George Oustayiannis is a director of GO International and the wholesale representative on the NABAS committee. You can contact him by email at george@gointernational.co.uk or call him on 01438 745746.
NABAS Facebook page Like it and use it to upload your designs and see industry related information.
Follow us on Twitter @YOURNABAS
The NABAS Event from a delegates perspective Jo Birch, Special Occasion Balloons
George’s opening speech. It was really interesting to hear of George’s journey into the Balloon and Party Industry. So - we learned he is not a doctor or a lawyer as perhaps his family would have wished but nevertheless, he has made inroads into creating a business which didn’t previously exist in the UK!!!! Thank you George His journey was not an easy one but with perseverance, chuitzpah and not taking ‘no’ for an answer – he has had a significant impact in creating the industry we now have!!!! George’s talk was extremely helpful and motivational – to survive we need to be fully aware of the challenges that face us and we need to be equipped with the right tools to add value to what we are doing. Get Me To The Church – John Preston and Peggy Butland. I loved John and Peggy - What a brilliant team. This was a fun ‘hands on’ class which gave us the opportunity to use techniques which were completely new to me and have opened up a world of new ideas. Anyone can inflate a balloon but many of the tips were really useful and will now help me to create more unusual arrangements. The jumbo letters for weddings were also great - again , as with Rita’s class we learnt how we could create great (air filled) impact with a high perceived value. Perfect for my business – thank you John and Peggy!!!
Wedding Decor with a Difference – Rita Kyriacou This was one of my favourite classes and it was such a pleasure to listen to Rita who is obviously so knowledgeable. She shared new ideas which were extremely effective and had a real wow factor which seems to be a mandatory requirement for weddings at the mo!!!!!! Up until now – I haven’t included any flowers or centre pieces in my wedding balloon arrangements but now I think I would have the confidence to do so. We were shown step by step how to make a stunning centre piece. The various techniques were really useful and I am sure can be adapted to many other things – the ordinary can be made to look beautiful – you just need to know how? The use of crescent shaped foil balloons to create height were great – relatively inexpensive to create but can command a good price which is perfect.
Big Balloon Decor for Big Balloon Profits – Matt Lewis Wow – Who knew such huge balloon structures could be air-filled and be extremely stable!!!!! Matt involved us in the class and made sure that we all tried the different techniques he was showing us. The arch he made was simply stunning and this will definitely be included in our portfolio. I was drawn to this class because of it’s title – I don’t know about my fellow Nabas members but profit is important!!!!!!!! I now have a new type of arch in my portfolio which looks stunning – very low cost – great profit margin. Thank you Matt.
Balloon Drops and Exploders – Mitch Gilbert I would think that anything this man doesn’t know about Balloon Drops and Exploders can be written on the back of a postage stamp!!!!!!!!!! His enthusiasm and desire to push the boundaries in this field is amazing!!!!!!!! I can safely say that prior to attending this class – there is no way I would have considered either balloon drops or exploders!!!!!! I hate turning away business so now if I get that type of enquiry – I don’t have to. Thanks Mitch! You are an inspiration to what is possible.
Link-O-Loon - Chain Technique & Cartoon Characters – with Guido Verhoef
Without exception, everyone from newbies to seasoned decorators and instructors couldn't help but be inspired and impressed by the truly amazing Guido Verhoef. We were fortunate enough to have Guido spend two days with us at the NABAS Event in October. It was John Lee who approached Guido in 2014 and asked if he would be willing to fly over to the UK and support NABAS at the Knebworth event, and for this, we are all truly grateful. Guido's focus over the two days was to teach us about the versatility and uses of Sempertex Link-O-Loons for displays and sculptures. He showed us how to make balloon walls, heart sculptures and even characters from Angry Birds!! As a teacher, you would be very hard pressed to find anyone more capable and gifted. As one of our instructors so aptly put it "He takes our art to a completely different level". I now fully understand why Guido is recognised all over the World as one of the most innovative balloon artists and instructors. His speciality is designing largescale sculptures and organising international balloon shows for festivals and corporate events, but he is equally at home scaling it down to a more manageable level. I would strongly urge anyone interested in our industry to look at Guido's stunning creations. A good place to start would be his website www.ballonentertainer.nl. If you ever have the opportunity of meeting Guido, jump in feet first. His openness, ability and willingness to teach will leave you wanting more. I know Guido spends much of his time travelling the globe and wowing everyone with his Mega Sculptures, but I sincerely hope we at NABAS are able to tempt him back to any future event we may have. Guido, A HUGE THANK YOU on behalf of everyone that attended the NABAS Event. I sincerely hope we get to spend more time with you in the not too distant future. George Oustayiannis NABAS Chairman
MEMBER FEEDBACK We are just back from the NABAS Event and had a great time. Thank you so much for putting it on. Well worth it and looking forward to next year.
We really enjoyed our weekend and made lots of new contacts and learned new things which is what its all about. We are based in the North. Thanks to all the people who made it happen. I found your presentation
had a great time on the day!! I thought Graham Lee was exceptionally good and very much enjoyed his classes!
Congratulations and well done on bringing the event to the members.
Could you pass on my thanks to everyone for asking me to teach at the event, I enjoyed it and it was nice catching up with some that I had not seen for a while and also meeting many for the first time.
SAUNDERS POS - BALLOON FRAMES BY SAUNDERS
T H E P R O F F E S S I O N A L’ S C H O I C E
Utilising 45 years of experience Saunders POS are delighted to provide you with innovative products for the balloon industry. See our website for full product including shipping information & prices
www.balloonframesbysaunders.co.uk mark@saundersdisplays.co.uk
RECIPE 1 "Xmas Fun" A simple and fun design as a small gift or delivery for the holiday season. Designer: Peggy Butland and John Preston, The Great British Balloon Company Equipment used: Mini Cool Aire® Dual Pro™; Twist-N-Flate® Premium Balloon Accessories Ingredients: 1 x Bubblloon Balloon Stik-ems Additional Ingredients 1 x 6” Qualatex Red heart 1 x 5” Qualatex Onyx Black 1 x 5" Qualatex Blush 1 x 160 Qualatex White 1 x 160 Qualatex orange 2 x medium Black pompom
1 x 6” Qualatex White heart 2 x 5" Qualatex White 1 x 160 Qualatex Onyx Black 1 x 160 Qualatex Red 1 x small Blush pompom Black Sharpie pen
Step by Step Instructions: Step 1: Make a raisin twist in the top of one of the corners of the red 6" latex heart Step 2: Inflate the 6" red heart to about 5", using the Mini Cool Aire® Dual Pro™, and knot. Step 3: Repeat steps 1 and 2 using a white 6" latex heart Step 4: Take the corner of the white heart, without the raisin twist, and twist to form a small bubble, tuck the bubble under your little finger, so leaving your hands free. Step 5: Repeat the twist with the red heart. Step 6: Then take the bubble of the red heart and the bubble of the white heart and twist them around each other, a few times so they lock. Step 7: Now tie the two balloon necks together, as if to make a duplet, you should get a heart shape one side red and one white. Step 8: Take a 160 and slip it over the knot between the two balloons, fill your Bubblloon (with sweets, candies and small toys) and then feed the 160 through the Bubblloon and through the base and secure in place as normal, cut of any excess 160 and tuck away Step 9: Make a raisin twist in a 5" white latex balloon Step 10: Inflate the 5" white to about 4", to create a nice round head for the snowman. Step 11: Tie the neck of the balloon to the raisin twist on the white heart. Step 12: Repeat steps 9 to 11 with the 5" blush latex balloon and tie to the red heart, this makes Santa's head. Step 13: Inflate a 160 red, using the Twist-N-Flate®, to about 8" in length, and tie a knot Step 14: Wrap the inflated red 160 around the join between the head and body of the snowman, and twist to lock in position. Twist the excess 160 about 2 " from the lock twist and tie off, , so creating the scarf. Cut off the un-inflated 160 and the bead to finish the end. Step 15: Make a 5 bubble 'string of pearls' using a white 160. Step 16: Tie this around the knot between the blush and red heart balloons, making Santa's collar. Step 17: Make and 'apple twist' with the black 5" latex balloon. Step 18: Tie to the top of the snowman's head, using the raisin twist. Step 19: Repeat step17 using a 5" red and tie to the top of Santa's head, on this apple twist ensure you have two points to tie. Step 20: Inflate a black 160, to about 8", and wrap around the bottom of the black apple twist, and tie of, so creating the brim of the snowman's hat. Step 21: Repeat step 20 using a white 160, and tie around the red apple twist. Step 22: Inflate a 5" white to 2",and tie into the top of the red apple twist. Step 23: Take a small blush pom pom and attach with a Stik-ems to Santa's face, as the nose. Step 24: Cut the tip off the top of an orange 160, and glue to the snowman's face as the nose. Step 25: With a black Sharpie, draw the eyes and mouth of the snowman Step 26: Add a couple of black pom poms as buttons Tips and Additional Instructions Balloon shine the design to make it last through the holiday season.
NABAS members have been doing some amazing jobs - just take a look over the following pages. If you have something that you want to share then do let the NABAS office know - info@nabas.co.uk - what better way to promote your work to show future clients than an article in your industry association's magazine.
Selection of images, above & below, from NABAS Member Roslyn Gaunt, Abracadabra
We are really liking the Qualatex Quick link balloons. Here are 2 designs we have made using them: 1)To brighten up one of our shop windows we made a topiary flower made from polka dot quick links, 160q stem, green Qualatex agate latex and 5" on the ends. 2) Clients birthday, a masquarade theme, Quick link tower on a balloon base with Amscan curve 36" foils and feathers on the top. Michelle Pettit & Sue Pettit, Time 2 Celebrate Ltd
Mad Hatters Tea Party Christening by Capel Manor College Students
Balloons In The Lake - Festival No.6, Portmerion, North Wales Matthew Lewis & Mike Harris 4ft Chloroprene balloons look great but put them in a tranquil location, add a lake and a bit of TV history and let the magic happen. It was only 6 balloons but not knowing the location and considering the client wanted the balloons floating over the lake I decided it was a job for 2 people so asked Mike Harris to help. As most of you will know I have a good history of working with Mike, and I trust him, he’s always there when I need him and he has a vast experience of rigging coming from his theatre background. We stayed overnight in Portmadog, sank a few local beers, chomped on gourmet burgers and the had a few more beers. It would of been rude not to!! We arrived at the local early next morning, made contact with the client and set about our adventure.
Mike secures the balloons to the sand bags
Perfect location, no wind, no rain and the sun was out. ” Mike are you sure this is Wales”
The dance floors were floating podiums in the middle of the lake and the balloon certainly set the theme for the use of the location during the 1960’s for the making of the T.V.series “The Prisoner” The client loved the printed chloroprenes with the reflection in the water. Staying dry was not an option as the client was very precise about the positioning of each balloons
NABAS NEW MEMBERS 3839 Sophie Menchini Entwined Flowers Walsall Wood West Midlands WS9 9LR 01543 374376 3840 Gemma Naylor Make My Day Events Rugby Warwickshire CV21 3AW 07738 003496 3841 Rebecca Longley I Do Venue Styling Lowestoft Suffolk NR33 0HE 01502 518555 3842 Rhiannon Jones Rhiannon's Balloon Creations Wolverhampton West Midlands WV4 6DH 01902 827 954 3843 Trudi Lisa Bessant The Balloon Company Brighton East Sussex BN1 5JL 01273 557206 3844 Katie Pickin To The Moon and Back Wedding & Events Stevenage Hertfordshire SG1 3BQ 07939 441671 3845 Janet Rowlands Starlit Floors Middleton Manchester M24 1QP 0161 964 5819 3846 Toni Ives Ballooonz Rainham Kent ME8 8AY 07720 214472
3848 Keeley Shanks All Propped Up Party Hire Burnley Lancashire BB11 1AP 01282 456132 3849 Vikki Levick Vixie J Balloons Gainsborough Lincolnshire DN21 1FD 07972313501 3850 Robert Shaw Aflair4air Clay Cross Derbyshire S45 9AL 07749 388398 3851 Christine Holmes Flaunt-it Welshpool Powys SY21 7SB 01938 228462 3852 Tracey Russell Balloon Magic (CI) Jersey Channel Islands JE2 4NQ 07700 329402 3853 Elizabeth Williams Balloons by Lizzylou Nr Mold, Flintshire North Wales CH7 6HT 01244 811423 3854 Alison Galley Celebration Balloons of Rothwell Leeds LS26 0TN 0113282 5698 3855 Julie Clarke Balloon Boutique Lancashire WN8 9TJ 07977 579720
3856 Pamela Salinger POP-tastic "bursting with ideas" Newry Co Down BT35 7FH 028 30161555 3857 Pauline Dimmock Poppins Balloons Waltham Cross Hertfordshire EN8 7HE 01992 641952 3858 Krupa Patel NK Events Barking Essex IG11 8FN 07907 726 812 3859 Sabrina Singh Celebration Hire and Gifts Enfield Middlesex EN1 1HX 07894 650254 3860 Sonia Collins worldsapartballoons West Croydon Surrey CR0 3NW 020 86982046 3861 Sarah Walkden The Balloon Lady South Godstone Surrey RH9 8HR 01342892164 3862 Jane Booth Fun Party Ltd Barnet Hertfordshire EN4 8RD 020 8440 8788 3863 Katherine Walker The Amazing Balloon Company Cheltenham Gloucestershire GL51 7EU 01242 232 993
NABAS TRAINING As the newly appointed organiser for NABAS Teachers, I would like to thank you for the opportunity to help NABAS progress with its "Teaching Agenda" in 2016. It is my intention to introduce new NABAS Teachers to the organisation, to help maintain the NABAS Standards and to replace those Teachers who are no longer available. In 2016 we are also hoping to introduce 260 Balloon Modelling/Twisting Courses which can further develop your balloon skills and maybe start an additional string to your bow, by Balloon Entertaining . NABAS also will be introducing "Demonstration Days" & "Retail Training" to help increase balloon sales. It is our intention to represent and provide our Current and New Members to NABAS and the Balloon & Party Industry with our continued Informative, Professional & Progressive Service representing the Industry. Mitch Gilbert, Committee Member
NABAS APPROVED TEACHERS Yvonne Baynes Lodge Cordell Balloonery Tel: 01986 894482 yvonb@tiscali.co.uk Courses Provided: NABAS Level 1& 2 Area Covered: East Anglia Jane Lee ANBA International Balloon Academy Tel: 01908 605960 / 07903 073606 www.international-balloon-academy.co.uk janelee49@me.com Courses Provided: NABAS Level 1 & 2; Basics & Beyond; Beyond the Basics; Varied range of Master Classes Area Covered: Milton Keynes & beyond
Mitch Gilbert CBA Rainbow Balloons Tel: 01625 585910 www.rainbowballoons.me.uk info@rainbowballoons.me.uk Courses Provided: NABAS Level 1& 2; Advanced level; 260’s Course; Balloon Drops Area Covered: Cheshire, NW England & N Wales Rita Kyriacou CBA Marguerite's Academy of Balloon Artistry Tel: 01279 639508 www.marguerites-academy.co.uk ritakyriacou@btinternet.com Courses Provided: NABAS Level 1& 2; Wedding Area Covered: Hertfordshire, Essex & South East
Angie George Capel Manor Tel: 08456 122 122 Angie.George@capel.ac.uk
Mary George Gretna Green Creations Tel: 01709 818636 www.gretnagreencreations.co.uk info@gretnagreencreations.co.uk
Courses Provided: NABAS Level 1 & 2 Area Covered: Hertfordshire, Essex & South East
Courses Provided: NABAS Level 1 & 2 Area Covered: Yorkshire and the North East
RECIPE 2 "Christmas Centerpiece" An elegant Christmas centerpiece, ideal as decoration or a gift delivery. Designer: Peggy Butland and John Preston, The Great British Balloon Company Equipment used: Mini Cool Aire® Dual Pro™ Premium Balloon Accessories Ingredients: 4 x Maxi stick; 8 x Maxi cups; Balloon Stik-ems Additional Ingredients 1 x 20” Qualatex Deco Bubble Stars Around 1 x 11” Qualatex Christmas print 6 x 11" Qualatex Red 3 x 160 Qualatex Green 1 x 160 Qualatex Yellow Green Tulle Red ribbon/ tulle Green ribbon/ tulle 8" base Good quality Scotch tape (wide)
-
Step by Step Instructions: Step 1 Take the 11" Qualatex Christmas Printed latex and insert a balloon stick into it, then insert the latex balloon into the 20" Qualatex Deco Bubble Stars Around Step 2 Using the Mini Cool Aire® "Dual ProTM" Inflator, inflate the 20"Deco Bubble until it looks inflated like a normal foil balloon Step 3 Then inflate the 11" latex until all the wrinkles in the Deco Bubble are gone Step 4 Tie of the Deco Bubble with a small piece of curling ribbon Step 5 Glue 4 of the Maxi Cups to a silver of clear base, in a rectangular approximately 5" by 4" Step 6 Insert a Maxi Sticks into each of the Maxi Cups Step 7 Take the inflated Deco Bubble and place between the 4 sticks, making sure that it is straight and even all round Step 8 Using good quality scotch tape, tape across one the end of the first stick to hold it in place against the balloon Step 9 Repeat step 8 on the other three sticks, do opposite corners as it make is easier. Step 10 Make 4 Bow tie bows, with the Green and Red ribbon and tulle, and then using Balloon Stik-ems, attach to the Deco bubble and stick to hide the Scotch tape Step 11 Make a larger Bow tie bows using the Green Tulle,and tie onto the neck of the Deco Bubble Step 12 Make four larger more Bow tie bows, and attach one to each of the Maxi Cups Step 13 To finish of you need to make a fantasy flower, add a bow and place on the base. Or your could add a christmas gift Tips and Additional Instructions To make the fantasy flower last longer paint with a mixture of Hi-float and water, this will give it a beautiful 'Porcelain' look and keep it looking fresh for a long
RECIPE 3 "Daisy Duck Xmas" A fun delivery or decoration for the Christmas Holiday season. Designer: Peggy Butland and John Preston, The Great British Balloon Co Equipment used: Mini Cool Aire® Dual Pro™; Twist-N-Flate® Premium Balloon Accessories Ingredients: 60 –gram Lite Heavy Weight; Balloon Stik-ems™ Additional Ingredients 12 x 11” Qualatex Christmas printed latex balloons 1 x 16" Qualatex Christmas printed latex balloon 2 x 260 Qualatex Red 4 x 260 Qualatex Golden rod 1 x Qualatex 260 Robin's Egg Blue 2 x Qualatex 260 white 2 x Qualatex 5” White Large Red Tulle bow Step by Step Instructions: Step 1: Using the Mini Cool Aire® "Dual ProTM" Inflator, inflate 2 x 11” Christmas printed latex balloons to 9", and tie into a duplet Step 2: Repeat step 1, twist both duplets together to make a cluster Step 3: Stretch the neck of an 11” Christmas balloon and push in a 60 –gram Lite Heavy Weight, (so getting the weight the same colour as your cluster). Tie the neck of the balloon covering the weight, to the neck of the balloons in the 9" cluster that you have made, as if it was a duplet. Step 4: Repeat steps 1 and 2, but size the balloons to 8" Step 5: Tie the two clusters together, using a neck from each cluster Step 6: Repeat steps 1 and 2, but size the balloons to 6" Step 7: Tie the cluster to the top of the other clusters, using a neck from each cluster Step 8: Take the 16" Christmas printed latex balloon and make a raisin twist into to the top of the balloon Step 9: Using the Mini Cool Aire® "Dual ProTM", inflate the 16" Christmas balloon to 14"( to give a nice rounded shape for the body) and tie a knot. Step 10: Using the excess 260 on the raisin twist, tie the 16" balloon into the top of the column, making sure that it is sitting tight on top of the column. Step 11: Using the Twist-N-Flate inflate a white 260, leaving about 5" at the tip. Step 12: From the knot end, make a loop twist, about 4" in length, and twist off Step 13: Repeat the loop twist twice more, so you finish up with 3 loop twists the same, tie off Step 14: Tie the loop twists on to the top of the 16" balloon Step 15: Take a red 260 and inflate, but leave about 5" from the end (creating the arm) Step 16: At the knot end make 3 pinch twists the same (wrist) Step 17: Leave about 6" and make another pinch twist (the elbow) Step 18: Inflate a 5" white latex balloon to 3", knot and then wrap the knot around the three pinch twists (hand) Step 19: Repeat steps 15 to 18 to create the other arm, and tie the two together with the excess 260's Step 20: Inflate a 260 white, leave about 5" at the end. Step 21: From the knot end measure about 6", and twist, then fold the 260 back along itself and twist the balloon around the knot. You now have a loop. Step 22: Repeat step 21, so creating two loops, pass half the loop through the first loop, making sure they sit evenly, (where they have been twisted) to form the head. tie off the 260. You should have a small amount of air left in the balloon, this will be used later to create the neck and attach the head to the body. Step 23: Inflate the Blue 260, leaving about 9",and tie off Step 24: Take the knot end of the Blue balloon, and twist it into the knot end of the white 260 loops. Step 25: Take the blue balloon up the head between two of the white loops, just before the white loops twists, twist the Blue balloon, and pass it behind one of the white loops, to come down the other side. Step 26: Take the blue balloon, down to where you started and twist into the knot. Get rid of excess air and tie off. Step 27: Manipulate the two Blue loops, so they sit well in the white loops, that is one white loop between the two blue and three white loops at the back Step 28: Inflate a 260 Golden Rod, leaving about 5" at the end, and knot Step 29: From the knot end make a small loop twist ( a loop twst is just a large pinch twist) about 3"and twist. Step 30: Make another loop twist on the other side of the knot. Step 31: Inflate another 260 Golden Rod, leaving about 5" and knot. Step 32: From the knot end, twist the knot into the knot of the two loops Step 33: Make a loop twist, approximately twice the size of the previous loops, make sure this loop is twisted well and is placed between the other two loops
Step 34: With the rest of the 260 make a smaller loop below the larger loop (creating the beak). Get rid of any excess air in the 260 and tie off. Step 35: Manipulate the top big loop to bend up slightly Step 36: Attach, the beak to the bottom of the head, by twisting it into the bottom of the head. Step 37: Now on the head, with the extra inflated white 260, make three small pinch twists so that the beak is securely placed. Step38: Leave about 1.5" of balloon, twist and tie off, this creates the neck .If you do not have enough balloon to do these two steps then add in another partially inflated 260 white. Step 39: Tie the neck into the top three loops on the 16" balloon Step 40: Take the red arms and twist them under the three loops on the body, making sure they sit correctly. Step 41: Inflate another 260 Golden Rod, leaving about 5" and knot. Step 42: From the knot end, twist three small pinch twists.( this is where the legs will be attached to the body) Step 43: Then leaving about 13" of inflated balloons, twist and make a small pinch twist Step 44: Make a loop, to make the foot. Twist into the pinch twist, then make a smaller loop within the first loop and twist into the pinch twist. Step 45: Repeat steps 41 to 44 creating the other leg and foot Step 46: Using Balloon Stik-ems™ attach the legs to the body. Put the Stik-ems onto the pinch twist so they sit flat. Step 47:Take the red tulle bow and wrap into the top of the head.
Tips and Additional Instructions Fun design for any occasion, just by changing the print of the balloon. Ideal as decoration or as a delivery.
SAFETY FIRST LETTER TO NABAS MEMBERS Some 25 years ago, when setting up Balloon Supply Company as then a division of M&D Flexible Packaging based in California, one of the first tasks was to submit Inks and materials to the UK Government Agency for extensive tests to be carried out for acceptance of the foil balloons under the legislation at the time governing Children’s Toys. Without this acceptance it would be illegal to sell in the UK. The British Standard BS EN71 explains how manufacturers should meet these standards and the safety warnings that toys should carry, in order to sell their product in Europe. Since this time, regulations have strengthened and all toys, which include foil balloons, sold in the EU must comply under BS EN 71 with the European Toy Safety directive 2009/48/EC. In the balloon industry, all foil balloons, like other toys, must carry the CE Mark and relevant warnings laid down under this legislation. EU legislation also covers Product Liability Insurance for all manufacturers based in the EU or import agents representing manufacturers outside of the EU, as a legal requirement. If the product does not comply, they can be removed from sale and these manufacturers will face prosecution and possible imprisonment. Keeping children safe when they play cannot be overstated. When we first introduced foil balloons into the UK, we wondered how long it would last. We soon realised that as children grow older, the next generation replace them and we now know over the years that ‘All Children Love Balloons’. It is beholding on us all to ensure that our children are not exposed to imports manufactured outside or inside the EU that do not comply and are a very possible danger. WE have to be alert, as unfortunately, this danger currently exists within the UK as well as in Europe. Roger Stevens, Balloon Supply & Distribution Ltd Roger & Brent have produced a document on the CE Marking of Mylar Balloons - this is available to download from the members area of the NABAS website and can be found under “EMagazines”
Please note that inclusions of any inserts/adverts within Balloonies are paid-for advertisements and therefore members should not consider this action as an endorsement by NABAS of the products or services.
Helium Canister Hire Delights Direct is pleased to announce the launch of their new Helium Gas partnership with BOC available to all approved Trade Customers. Contact BOC directly, quoting your DD account number and the reference ‘Delights Direct’ and you can obtain great prices on a range of gas, rental and accessory products. You can contact your personal BOC account manager Natalie Holmes on 0161 930 6190 or email on natalie.holmes@boc.com If you have any questions relating to these offers, or need assistance in locating your DD Account number, please feel free to contact us on 0333 900 9000 or email trade@delightsdirect.co.uk
Retirement Sale The Balloon Works, one of London’s oldest balloon shops, is up for sale due to a well deserved retirement by its owners of over 20 years. Located in the affluent area of Richmond Surrey it serves the whole of London/Surrey/Middlesex. A retail balloon & party shop with a thriving party table & chair hire business and client base it is ideally suited to an enthusiastic new owner and young team who can expand it further.
Details call Ray Warner on 07774198705.
WHOLESALERS, MANUFACTURERS & PRINTERS B-LOONY LTD Buck House Sunnyside Road Chesham, Bucks HP5 2AR T:01494 774 376 F:01494 791268 balloons@b-loony.co.uk www.b-loony.co.uk
FOLKDEAN LTD Unit 2 Lydney Harbour Estate, Lydney Gloucestershire GL15 4EJ T:01594 841545 F:01594 844 577 sales@folkdean.co.uk www.folkdean.co.uk
BALLOON MARKET Unit 4, Lulworth Business Centre Nutwood Way, Totton, Southampton, Hampshire SO40 3WW T:033 33 704 777 info@balloonmarket.co.uk www.balloonmarket.co.uk
GO INTERNATIONAL (UK) LTD Unit 15, The IO Centre, Arlington Business Park, Whittle Way, Stevenage SG1 2BD T:01438 745746 F:01438 745747 george@gointernational.co.uk www.gointernational.co.uk
BALLOON SUPPLY & DISTRIBUTION Unit1B. Woodside House, Woodside Park, Catteshall Lane, Godalming, Surrey GU7 1LG T:01483 808121 F:01483 808 141 sales@balloonsupply.co.uk www.balloonsupply.co.uk
HOUSE PARTI 20 Mandervell Road, Oadby Industrial Estate, Oadby, Leicestershire LE2 5LQ T:0116 271 0100 F:0116 271 0300 sales@houseparti.com www.houseparti.com
BALLOON WORLD Unit E Parkside Business Park, Kirkstead Way Golborne, Cheshire WA3 3PY T:01942 719888 F:01942 719 988 sales@balloonworld.co.uk www.balloonworld.co.uk BALLOONS AROUND SCOTLAND 100 Carnegie Road, Hillington Ind Est Glasgow G52 4JZ T:0141 882 8107 F:0141 882 9925 sales@balloonsaroundscotland.com www.balloonsaroundscotland.com BALLOONZ 12 Coltsfoot Close, Wildern Gate, Hedge End, Southampton SO30 4UN T: 01489790893 sales@balloonz.co.uk www.balloonz.co.uk BELBAL UK Broadgate House, Church Street , Deeping St James, Peterborough, Lincolnshire PE6 8HD T:01778 343 445 F:01778 347 230 info@belbaluk.co.uk www.belbaluk.co.uk BOC LTD The Priestly Centre, 10 Priestly Road The Surrey Research Park, Guilford Surrey GU2 7XY T:01483 244035 www.bocballoongas.co.uk CTI BALLOONS LTD 6 Consul Road, Rugby, Warwickshire CV21 1PB T:01788 546299 ctiballoon@aol.com www.ctiballoons.co.uk DELIGHTS DIRECT Unit 4 Tallow Way, Fairhills Road Irlam, Manchester M44 6RJ T: 0333 900 9000 F:0161 776 1144 stuartw@delightsdirect.co.uk www.delightsdirect.co.uk
NORTHSTAR BALLOONS Saundhurst, Micklea Lane, Longsdon, Nr. Leek, Staffordshire, ST9 9QA T: 07469 890714 nthompson@northstarballoons.com www.northstarballoons.eu OAKTREE UK LTD 66 James Carter Road Industrial Estate Mildenhall, Suffolk IP28 7DE T:01638 716655 F:01638 711211 sales@oaktreeuk.com www.oaktreeuk.com PREMIUM BALLOON ACCESSORIES PO Box 352 Sharon Centre, Ohio 44274 USA T: 00 1 330 239 4547 info@coolaire.com www.premiumballoon.com SOUTH WEST LONDON BALLOONS The Old Coppermill, Coppermill Lane London SW17 0BN T:0208 971 7022 balloonstogo@hotmail.co.uk www.swballoons.co.uk TALKING BALLOONS McGregor’s Way, Turnoaks Business Park Chesterfield, Derbyshire S40 2WB T:01246 270555 F:01246 270566 sales@talkingballoons.com www.talkingballoons.com VIBORG BALLON A/S Gortlervej 7 DK8800 Viborg DENMARK T:00 45 866 21200 bini@viborg-ballon.dk www.viborg-ballon.dk ZIBI GmbH Kalkdarren 15 D-79713 Bad Sackingen GERMANY T:00 49 776 192 4010 info@zibi.de www.zibi.de = Indicates
print service offered
Double Digit Discounts For All NABAS Members! With 2015 reaching its Festive Climax, we just wanted to remind you of some of the amazing goodies we have available for you this year. As our Christmas Present to you, we are offering a 10% discount to all NABAS members until the end of 2015! We have the very best range of Fancy Dress Costumes including "Second Skin Santa� for Under £18! A stunning range of Foil and Latex Balloons from the World's Leading Manufacturers, Christmas Essentials from around the Globe, Gifts and Candles, Crunchy Snow Balls, Poppers and Cannons, Santa Hats and Novelties, Plus 1000's of other lines delivered straight to your door! That's double our usual discount for the rest of this year!! Call us on: 01438 745746 or visit www.gointernational.co.uk to place your order, and remember, for the rest of this year we are offering Double Digit Discounts to all NABAS members. Enter NABAS1015 in the coupon box at checkout and quote your NABAS number to receive your discount. As always, if there is something you are looking for that you can't find, or products you would like us to carry, please let us know.
GO International Big Enough To Make A Difference, Small Enough To Care.
GO International. Unit 15, The io Centre, Arlington Business Park, Stevenage, Hertfordshire. SG1 2BD www.gointernational.co.uk Tel: 01438 745746 Fax: 01438 745747 sales@gointernational.co.uk