Balloon decor has become a popular trend for parties, events, and even home decorations. The ability to create beautiful balloon displays and designs can transform any space and create a festive atmosphere. However, one of the challenges that balloon decorators face is finding the right adhesive to secure balloons together without damaging them. That’s where UGlu comes in. Whether you are a beginner in the industry or a seasoned professional, UGlu is your partner in success.

UGlu is the Better Balloon Tape! It is a type of tape that while it has a huge variety of uses, is incredible when used for adhering balloons to balloons, both latex and foils alike. This unique tape creates a strong bond between balloons, allowing you to easily create intricate designs and displays without worrying about them falling apart. UGlu is a product made by Pro Tapes^®, a trusted manufacturer known for its high-quality adhesive products.

UGlu comes in various presentations and sizes, which include dashes, strips, and rolls, making it easy to find the right size and shape for your specific balloon decor needs. The adhesive is strong and durable, ensuring that your balloon creations stay intact for hours on end. Whether you’re creating a balloon arch, centerpiece, or bouquet, UGlu is the perfect tool to help you bring your vision to life.

One of the best things about UGlu Dashes is that they are versatile and easy to use. Simply peel off the backing and press the tape onto the balloons to secure them together. The adhesive is clear and residue-free, so you won’t have to worry about it leaving any marks or ruining the look of your balloons. Plus, Dashes are easy to remove, making it a convenient option for quick setup and cleanup.

Using UGlu on latex Balloons

Using UGlu products on latex balloons is very simple. Start by removing the white cover from the UGlu. This will reveal the adhesive underneath. Place a dash, strip, or piece of UGlu wherever you want your balloons to connect. Make sure you choose the spot carefully! If you accidentally stick the balloons together in the wrong place, don’t worry! You can try gently twisting the balloons apart to detach them without them popping. But guess what, if it does pop, replace your balloon and reattach — it is that simple!

Using UGlu on Foil Balloons

There are several factors to consider when using UGlu on foil balloons. For instance, UGlu has a stronger bond when adhering silver foil balloons to another silver foil balloon. This means, that the adhesive capabilities can vary from foil to foil.

When using a gold or otherwise printed or colored foil balloon, we recommend utilizing a layer of Pro® JLAR II clear tape. Colored or gold foil balloons have been treated by paint or ink, they tend to have an oilier surface. This coating tends to prevent the UGlu from creating a very strong bond. Using the JLAR II in between the UGlu, helps the product adhere properly. This will allow the product to adhere properly and ensure that your foil balloon designs are intact upon delivery and even days after you have created it.

While UGlu is not advertised as a removable adhesive from latex or foil balloons, it is however possible to remove it. You should always understand that there may be a risk of popping the balloon when attempting this. If you are okay with that risk, you can look at the removal techniques that have worked for us. UGlu products do allow for clean and easy removal, and it is removable from certain surfaces. For example, UGlu can be removed from surfaces like wooden walls, plastic banners, and props. To remove simply grab onto a corner of the dash and slowly pull. You may also try using another dash or strip to grab onto the UGlu adhered to the given surface. Lastly, you may also try twisting on a circular motion the two connected surfaces.

Effects of Temperature

It is important to note that in our experience, working with balloon decor in New Jersey, where we get really cold winters, UGlu works best under room temperatures. When exposed to cold temperatures, the adhesive properties of UGlu can become rigid, decreasing its adhesive power. Similarly, in temperatures of 90 degrees Fahrenheit or above, they may become too tacky, causing the adhesive to be less effective. It is recommended to store and use UGlu in controlled and normal room temperatures for optimum performance.

UGlu is a Game Changer for Balloons!

Overall, UGlu products have been a game-changer in our day-to-day business, and we are certain that they will be for you as well. With their strong adhesive properties and easy application, they make it simple to create stunning balloon designs for any occasion. Whether you’re a professional decorator or just someone looking to add a festive touch to your next event, UGlu by Pro Tapes offers the perfect tool to help you achieve your balloon decor goals. Try them out today and see the difference they can make in your designs!

If you have not tried UGlu, we urge you to do so! It has revolutionized our industry and created easier processes for us to develop balloon creations in a secure, clean, and effective way.

The post UGlu by Pro Tapes, The Better Balloon Tape appeared first on Pro Tapes®.

Going out into the field to complete an installation is always nerve-wracking. Let’s be real—even when you’re making a design you’ve made multiple times in the past, there are always unforeseen challenges that can happen when you’re working on-site.

How can you be ready to handle any situation when installing balloons?

In our experience, there’s a few things that give us peace of mind when we leave our studio to complete a job. And guess what?! All of those things relate to having the right materials on hand to perform the tasks!

That’s why we compiled a list of six adhesive products that never leave our kit:

Variety is the spice of life, or so they say. We’ve found that having a variety of tapes in our kit for different applications ensures that we can take on any challenge like champs!

Trust us when we say that this list was not made without experiencing these challenges first-hand. We struggled so that you don’t have to, so to speak!

Every time we faced a specific issue—like not having the proper structure, or an installation changing from indoor to outdoor—we learned a specific lesson. During these times, we had to think on our feet, assess our tools, and identify the best solution or alternative. These experiences helped us create the perfect list that is sure to save your lives and your work in any circumstance.

No matter what the circumstance, Pro Tapes products have you covered! Always remember to test the surface where you wish to apply the tape prior to usage.

These are the Top 6 Tapes to Always Have in your Balloon Kit:

Pro Gaff

We use Pro Gaff in White and Black the most when doing an installation. For a clean application and removal, Pro Gaff is your go to tape! It is easy to tear by hand and can be used to cover your structures or to create attachment points (see our blog on that here!) Always be mindful about texting the tape on the surface you wish to use it on.

Pro Duct 120

We recommend having the Silver, Black, and White options with you. We use Pro Duct 120 when installing outdoors, or on surfaces where there is no concern about the adhesive leaving residue behind. Creating structures with this tape is also a breeze as its adhesive power creates a very strong bond.

Pro Scenic 714 Painter’s Tape

We use this painter’s tape primarily for at-home installations, or on surfaces that need to be protected from any peeling or stripping. Pro Scenic is a 14 day painter’s tape, which means you can leave it on for up to 14 days and it still removes cleanly, without leaving residues.

Pro JLAR II

This tape is perfect for applications where a clear and clean appearance is necessary. Pro JLAR is “clear to the core.” That means when you’re holding the roll in your hand, the tape is so transparent that you can look right through it to see the tape core! We use Pro JLAR to create attachment points on our foil balloons to attach them to garlands, to adhere one foil to another, or to attach foil to latex in bouquets.

UGlu Dashes

UGlu Dashes are essential for every balloon kit! The Dashes make for the perfect balloon adhesive to add any small details or embellishments to your balloon creations. Keep in mind: UGlu Dashes must be kept out of cold temperatures to ensure that they retain their adhesive properties.

UGlu Strips

Think of the use and application of a dash, but on a larger scale! You’ll probably find the UGlu Contractor Pack the most convenient since it comes with 250 strips. But there’s also a smaller pack, the UGlu Strips Family Pack, which features a set of 3 different sized strips.

We use UGlu strips to adhere signage onto walls or balloon garlands, among so many other things. These are also very customizable since you can easily cut the strips down to the size you need.

How do I Keep my Balloon Kit Organized?

But how can you organize all of these tape products while maximizing the space in your work bag? There’s a simple solution!

We use these packing cubes that we purchased from Amazon. Check out the photos below to get an idea of how you can organize your packing cube to fit all these essentials!

Read more from Delloons:

Be sure to check out our other blog post, “How to Attach Your Balloon Garlands Using Tape,” where we discussed for you can use three of the products listed here to make secure balloon attachment points!

The post Top 6 Tapes Balloon Artists MUST Have in Their Balloon Kit appeared first on Pro Tapes®.

Her secret weapon? Pro Tapes® products! Jexsy trusts their quality and durability to keep her balloon creations looking their best, from birthday parties to grand openings. Check out our interview with Jexsy below.

Do you have a website or any social media sites you’d like to share with our audience?

My Linktree contains all of my social media and website links, but here is our main site for Jexsy Balloons.

Tell us a bit about yourself! How did you get into the balloon business?

I am Jexsy Armstrong, the CEO and Founder of Jexsy Balloons LLC. Along with my passion for balloon design, I am an accomplished accountant, a seasoned event planner, and a Certified Project Manager. My expertise and diverse skill set enables me to coach many other business owners in achieving success.

My company has grown our social media presence to a level of success that exceeds 350 million views across all of our platforms. Our content, online classes, and mentorship sessions are reaching and inspiring balloon artists and entrepreneurs worldwide. One of our inventions, the JB Telescoping Stand (a free-standing demi arch stand that’s perfect for attaching garlands without damaging walls) has become a game-changer in the industry.

During the pandemic, we offered discounted prices so that families could have celebrations at home, as well as no-contact deliveries to nursing homes. Our Love Bouquets became super popular during that time and continue to be a hit today!

At a young age, my amazing mentor, my mother Olga Ogando (a high school math teacher!), introduced me to the fascinating world of balloon art. Under her guidance, I learned to build and design frames, organic garlands, and rig balloons in unique ways. It all started at “D’Jexsy Sports & Balloons,” the balloon storefront business she owned. We’ve been creating organic designs since 1993, and I have been enchanted by the magic of balloons ever since!

What is your favorite type of balloon décor to design for parties or events?

Although I was trained on classic balloon décor, I specialize in creating fresh and stunning organic balloon designs that my clients adore!

Demi arches are one of our most popular and requested designs, and for good reason. These versatile free-standing structures are curated to seamlessly complement any theme, from chic and fresh to more elegant designs. They instantly become the center of attention in any celebration.

So, yes, it is safe to say that my favorite style is organic!

How do you come up with new and creative ideas for your balloon art, and what inspires you?

I am always brainstorming new ideas and seeking inspiration from the world around me for my designs. My mind is constantly filled with colors, patterns, and whimsical shapes. Nature is my biggest muse and I find peace and inspiration in its beauty.

Any tips for fellow artists looking to boost their social media presence?

Every social media platform has a unique audience, and each audience responds differently to different types of content. So it’s really helpful to be consistent with your posting and take the time to observe and learn the patterns of each platform – it’ll definitely help you succeed!

Do you host specialty classes or workshops focused on specific aspects of balloon art?

Yes. My personalized private classes are designed to cater to the specific needs of each student.

Additionally, I provide pre-recorded sessions on various subjects, such as cluster building, organic garland designs, pricing, and marketing.

I’m thrilled to share that I’ll be hosting my first in-person workshop in New York City on March 16th! The class participants will learn balloon design and installation, pricing and business numbers, where to buy inventory, and how to increase online sales, and more!

What’s even better is that we have Pro Tapes as one of our sponsors for this class. Pro Tapes is kindly providing product samples to our students, so they’ll get to experience the best of the best!

How did you discover Pro Tapes tape products, such as UGlu?

I was on the hunt for a more efficient technique to attach foil numbers to latex balloons than using 260Q balloons. My search led me to the UGlu 200 Strips Family Pack, which was just the beginning of my journey with Pro Tapes products. From there, I discovered the UGlu 900 Contractor Pack, and it has completely revolutionized the way I work. UGlu has become an essential tool in my kit.

Can you tell a little more about how UGlu enhances your work as a balloon artist?

With UGlu, you can attach any decorative elements to your balloons, such as ribbons, lights, flowers, and more, without leaving any residue. Trust me, you won’t find anything else like it on the market!

The best part? UGlu offers an exceptional level of strength and durability, making sure your balloons stay put for as long as you need them to. And the cherry on top? UGlu is highly portable, so you can always have some UGlu dashes in your pocket ready to tackle any decorating emergency!

What advice would you share with someone who is just getting started in the balloon business?

Starting a new business is an exciting and ambitious endeavor, but building a successful balloon company takes more than just passion. It requires hard work, dedication, and creativity. A clear business plan and an unwavering determination to succeed are also crucial. The balloon industry is highly competitive, but with a realistic approach and a willingness to learn, you can overcome any obstacles and build a thriving business.

Also, every balloon decorator needs to know about UGlu – my secret weapon for creating balloon arrangements!

The post How Jexsy Balloons Built A Thriving Balloon Business appeared first on Pro Tapes®.

When it comes to balloon decor, over the last few years we have seen many different trends. It is no mystery that balloon garlands are all the rave and they are here to stay, so we have compiled a variety or attachment techniques that you can use to secure your balloons in place.

Whether you are a DIYer or a beginner or an advanced balloon artist, this information is perfect for you!

How Do You Attach Balloons to Walls and Other Surfaces?

Technique is very important when it comes to accomplishing a specific balloon design.

Have you ever seen those beautiful balloon garlands hanging on a wall and wondered, how they are attached there? Most importantly, how is it not coming down from the wall? Last but certainly not least, how is it not peeling the paint? We have the answers to those questions here.

The quality of the products that you use is equally as important as the techniques that you employ.

Further, different products work for different scenarios. You wouldn’t use duct tape to section off an area to paint, you would use a painter’s masking tape, RIGHT?  

For this reason, we will be sharing different techniques and tapes that you can use the next time you install balloons. We are certain this information will help you with your next installation.

The H Hinge Method to Attach Balloons

The first method is commonly known as the H Method. As the name might suggest, it is just that, an H!

For this specific method, we recommend the use of the following products:

• Pro Duct 120
• Pro Gaff Tape
• 260 or 350 modeling balloons

Watch this step-by-step tutorial on the application of this technique using Pro Gaff tape. Below the video, learn more about when to use Pro Duct 120 and Pro Gaff to create your balloon attachments.

Please note: It is important that you always test your tape on the surface where you wish to apply it before the installation.

What is Pro Gaff Tape?

Pro Gaff is a matte cloth tape. With its variety of presentations, Pro Gaff is perfect for marking and labeling, holding and bundling items (like keeping wires and cables in place for events), and so much more.

Moreover, Pro Gaff is one of our most used tapes when creating balloon designs. It does not matter if it is for a wall installation or for one of our handy balloon structures, Pro Gaff always has us covered!

Did we mention? This product comes in a huge array of colors too (i.e. blue, pink, green, orange, black, white), and it is available in various sizes and widths as well.

When to use Pro Gaff:

• When you need tape that removes cleanly
• When working on interior walls
• When working on glass surfaces

What is Pro Duct 120 Tape?

Pro Duct 120 is a cloth tape made for industrial use. It’s amazing bonding power, and waterproof coating, makes it the perfect option for outdoor balloon installations and structures.

This tape comes in 13 colors! That’s right, you read correctly! If you are concerned about the tape showing behind your balloon display, the color options allow you to cover your mechanics seamlessly.

Plus, with its easy unwind and tear, Pro Duct 120 is extremely gentle on the hands.

When to use Pro Duct 120:

• When clean removal is not a necessity
• When working on porous surfaces such as concrete or brick
• Exterior applications

The Hashtag Method to Attach Balloons

The second method we commonly use is what we like to call the Hashtag Method. And YES! You guessed it! It is exactly what the name suggests, a hashtag sign ( # ).

For this specific technique, we recommend the use of the following products:

• Pro 714 Painter’s Tape
• 260 or 350 modeling balloons

Here is a step-by-step tutorial on the application of this technique with Pro 714 Painter’s Tape:

Please note: It is important that you always test your tape on the surface where you wish to apply it before the installation.

When to use Pro 714 Painter’s Tape:

• When you need 100% clean removal every time
• When working on interior walls
• When working on glass surfaces

Before we go, here’s a few more tips to keep in mind:

• Always test your tapes out on the surface where you wish to apply it before installation to ensure the tape works as intended. Some paint finishes have different effects on the adhering capabilities of tape, so it is always imperative that you test your tape before final use.
• Ensure that you inform your client of your process with tape; understand that there might be risks of damage when using any kind of tape.

The post How to Attach Your Balloon Garlands Using TAPE! appeared first on Pro Tapes®.

Website & Social Links:

Listen to The Bright Balloon Podcast at thebrightballoon.com and keep up on the latest via @thebrightballoon on Instagram.

Find Sara’s balloon décor business, Wisconsin Balloon Decor, wisconsinballoondecor.com or @wisconsinballoondecor on Instagram.

Tell us a bit about yourself! How did you get into the balloon business?

My first career was working as an art teacher. I had weekends and summers totally free – which wasn’t actually that fun as a 22 year old. I was bored out of my mind! So I started a side hustle as a face painter.

One day, I went to a face painting convention and discovered there were also beginner balloon classes there. I had no idea that was a thing!

The second I saw the instructor tie two balloons together into a duplet to make a quad, I was hooked. From there I quickly stopped taking face painting clients and started going after corporate balloon events instead. 

What inspired you to start The Bright Balloon podcast?

The podcast launched during the pandemic, a little bit out of boredom. I was in my car waiting at a stop sign and I just had a moment of clarity. I said, “I’m going to start a podcast and it’s going to be called The Bright Balloon”. It was weird- like a lighting bolt idea.

But from the beginning it’s been a really good fit for me. It feels easy and fun and I’ve learned so much from it! It really is a labor of love. I think I produced the podcast for more than a year without ever making a dollar from it.

Now I’m so happy it’s grown into a mini brand and has helped out a lot of balloon professionals. We all – balloon professionals- are out on the road so much, and I like to think I keep people company as they deliver and listen  

What is your favorite aspect of working in the world of balloons?

I think it’s the most sharing and fun industry I’ve ever worked in. Going back to that very first convention I attended, I didn’t know anything and wanted to just sit in the back of the class and watch. But the balloon twisters wouldn’t let me! They literally gave me their own supplies and made me twist along.

It’s a group of people who want to see their friends succeed and can’t help but share breakthroughs and ideas that they have discovered.

I also love the conventions. Some of my best friends are balloon artists all around the world. Getting to see them in person and learn together or work on huge creative projects is always a highlight.

How did you discover Pro Tapes products, like UGlu?

I sound like a broken record, but at my very first balloon class, the instructor was showing a twisted embellishment. She said, “You could make it more complicated than it needs to be, or you could just stick it on with a UGlu dash.”

So from the very beginning, UGlu was something I’ve always had in my kit. I started with the best and whenever I tried cheap substitutes, I realized nothing was as reliable.

How does UGlu enhance your work as a balloon artist?

I like that it’s a reliable shortcut. The easiest way to put a balloon exactly where you want it to go in an arrangement is to add a UGlu dash and stick it exactly where you want it to go.

I am also constantly lending them out. Florists and party planners are always asking if I have any of those “sticky squares” (the famous “dashes”) because they inevitably have a sign that won’t stay up or tape that won’t stick.

Since launching the UGlu Hotline, what has been your favorite tip or question?

I love answering advice and giving tips, but I really love when people call in with their own advice; because for me it’s always those tiny hacks that totally change how I do things and save me time.

Just like UGlu is such a simple solution, I love any time people share simple, obvious suggestions that I would have never thought of. For example:

• keeping UGlu dashes in your pocket to warm them up in the Winter
• putting a piece of tape on a tape measure so you can write your measurements directly on it
• or using a floral tape to cover the cap of your hi-float container

What is a key business strategy or tips that you have uncovered during your podcast interviews?

I think it’s the idea that customer service and the business side of balloons is the most important thing. We have hundreds of hours of podcast content, and none of it is about how to do balloons. Skill is important, but there are a lot of very talented, but broke, artists out there.

On the other hand, there are a lot of profitable businesses that rely on the same foundational work over and over again.

I have yet to interview an artist who is making money purely based on skill. It’s all about the networking, great communication, interesting partnerships, growing a team, and continuing to pivot and try new things.

What advice would you share with someone who is just getting started in the balloon business?

I mentioned that I stumbled on UGlu early, only to learn later that it was the best and that cheap substitutes weren’t an option.

I would say the same was true in many areas of my business. Because I learned at a convention, I started with good quality balloons. I purchased a high end inflator. I learned how to make sturdy and long lasting frameworks. I spent money to attend expensive workshops and learned from artists making tons of money. And after my first year, I was where a lot of people are after five years. Yes, you can learn on YouTube or use dollar store balloons with a $15 pump- but it will take so much longer to get to the place you want to be.

My advice is don’t cut corners and learn the right way to do things from the beginning and upgrade your tools as soon as you are able.

The post Meet The Bright Balloon Podcast host, Sara Meyer appeared first on Pro Tapes®.

Today we’ll take a closer look at what they do and see how Pro Tapes® UGlu® products help them with their amazing balloon work!

Do you have a website or social media you would like to share with our audience?

www.globosmanas.com

Instagram: @globosmanas

Pinterest: @globosmanasca

Facebook: @globosmanas

Tell us about you two! What sparked your interest in balloon art?

We are two sisters who started working together in the balloon industry back in May 2008. We started out as distributors of Anagram and Kaleidoscope foil balloons nationwide in Venezuela.

As we visited our clients who used these balloons in their amazing work, our interest in working with balloons ourselves quickly grew.

In 2009, we began to work with latex balloons. In the following years, we attended many balloon workshops and classes offered all around this wonderful world, where we met incredible people with impressive talent.

Little by little, we began to specialize in our own techniques, which led us to venture into hosting workshops ourselves during the pandemic. We continue to offer classes now, while balancing the needs of our clients who request daily balloon arrangements and decorations.

What do you like most about being balloon artists?

There’s a lot of things we like about being balloon artists! The main thing is seeing the final result of our work and the emotions that we inspire in our clients. Each arrangement and decoration is unique and personalized to them.

Each workshop we carry out is a unique experience, too! We don’t just teach; we also learn from our class participants. 1000% effort goes into each workshop. We thank God for each experience and the great friendships that we have made.

It’s a wonderful world, where day by day we continue to learn and work hard so we can offer the best. Our slogan is why we like what we do: We are LAS MANAS (the sisters, in Spanish.) We’re in it together!

How did you discover UGlu® products?

We discovered UGlu® through Planet Balloons Venezuela.

How does UGlu® improve your work as a balloon artist? What do you like about it?

UGlu® helps us so much in our work! We are known for our impeccable compositions. We pay attention to every fine detail of our work. UGlu® makes it so easy to create this highly-detailed level of work.

UGlu® is easy to use, it’s practical, it’s portable, and it comes in many different shapes and sizes to match any type of project.

Tell us more about the Floral Mural you created this year! It has gained a lot of attention.

We were preparing for an online master class back in April 2022 (one of the many online courses that we offer worldwide.) To help market the class, we did several live shows, showing some techniques to demonstrate our knowledge and ability to train future entrepreneurs in the world of balloons.

During one of these live shows, we just happened to create something different! Something really artistic that shows more than just balloons. This mural is really tall, too! It’s about 7-8 feet tall.

What inspired you to create this mural?

We were inspired by the natural beauty of women and what their hair represents. A woman’s hair speaks for itself, it indicates personality and moods.

How did UGlu® help you create this mural?

It was actually our first experience using UGlu®! We needed a glue that would provide us with a super strong and long-lasting hold that would not be noticeable in the final balloon arrangement.

We found that the UGlu® Dashes fit all of our requirements: it performed impeccably. UGlu® did not leave residues or damage the walls, and it was easy to remove.

We used exactly five hundred and fifty UGlu® Dashes to hold together all 270 flowers and 20 leaves that you see in this balloon mural.

It lasted a long time, too! We kept the artwork up for 8 days and we think it could’ve held even longer than that, but we had to clean the wall off for new projects.

We always tell our students to work with quality and responsibility, to take good care of the infrastructures to be decorated (thus guaranteeing a new contract in the future.) UGlu® Dashes are essential to meet these goals.

Tell us about the special feature this floral mural got from Qualatex!

It is an honor that our work has been recognized and appreciated by Qualatex, being that they are currently the #1 balloon company in the world! Their recognition meant that the photos of this mural got shared all around the world, and we are thankful for that.

Do you have any other favorite projects you’d like to talk about?

We’ll show you a whole gallery of balloon art that was created with the help of UGlu®! The red hearts, the wearable wings, the different holiday decorations – ALL of them are held together using UGlu®! That is why, in our workshops and classes, UGlu® is the first tool we put on everyone’s tables.

If someone has never used UGlu® for their balloon arrangements before, what advice would you give them?

Again, we would emphasize the importance of working with top quality materials, like UGlu®.

In our workshops, we talk about all the materials we work with, and we show every presentation of UGlu® that we have available. Our workshop participants always want to work with UGlu® after they’ve seen how easy and practical it is!

Planet Balloons Venezuela has also talked to us about Pro Gaff® and how we could incorporate this product in our decorations. They mentioned that Pro Gaff® can be used to cover tubes and bases. We haven’t had the opportunity to try this tape yet, however… Hey Pro Tapes®, can we get a sample kit?

The post Balloon Artists and Sisters?! See how Globos Manas use UGlu®! appeared first on Pro Tapes®.

Do you have a website or other social network that you would like to share with our audience?

At the moment, we handle everything via our Instagram: @pinadoradapanama

Tell us a bit about yourself and your balloon décor company!

We are Darys & Monica Torrero, a mother and daughter team and owners of Piña Dorada, a 100% Panamanian balloon décor company! (Fun fact: Piña Dorada means “Golden Pineapple” in English!)

Monica is an Interior Architect by profession and Darys is a Graphic Designer. After practicing balloon art privately for three years, Monica quit her job in 2019 to fulfill this great dream of having a balloon decoration company.

Like anything worth achieving, it was very difficult at first. But over time we managed to find our own style and types of decorations and events that we like to create for.

More recently, we attended various trainings and events for balloon artists locally and internationally. In January 2022, we managed to be exhibitors at the renowned international convention called “FLOAT the Convention.” It was a great and enriching experience!

With a lot of effort and dedication, we have fulfilled several dreams. We have met very good balloon artists and decorators, great people that we constantly admire. The sky is the limit of our dreams.

What do you like about being a balloon artist?

We love to push our creativity and always try to achieve more with each balloon arrangement or decoration. We also love to make our clients happy, of course! To know that our effort and dedication brings them joy makes it worth it.

How did you discover UGlu® products?

We discovered the products a few years ago at a convention. If I’m not mistaken, it was at GLOBOCOM 2019.

How does UGlu® improve your work as a balloon artist? What do you like about it?

UGlu® is the absolute best for making our balloon arrangements. Particularly in Panama, due to the hot and humid climate, it is not easy to use any type of glue, since the humidity causes it to detach in minutes.

We love UGlu® products because they do not come off, and we can trust that the customer’s delivery will last a long time.

We use UGlu® in balloon bouquets to stick on foils, balloon twists and details. Our favorite type to use are the longer, rectangular pieces, because we can easily add a larger piece of décor or balloon shape whenever or wherever we need to.

If someone has never used UGlu® for their balloon décor before, what advice would you give them?

We recommend UGlu® tapes 10000%!!! In particular, we recommend getting the box of large tapes (the UGlu® Contractor Pack) because we feel that it allows us balloon artists to be very dynamic. It’s a wonderful product.

The post Meet Piña Dorada, The Mother & Daughter Balloon Artist Team appeared first on Pro Tapes®.

Do you have a website or any social media sites you’d like to share with our audience?

Website: www.BalloonsOfPureAwesomeness.com

Facebook: Balloons of Pure Awesomeness by Anthony the Balloon Kid

Instagram: @AnthonyTheBalloonKid

Tell us a little about yourself! How did you get started making balloon art?

Hey there! I live in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee, and I am the owner of Balloons of Pure Awesomeness.

What first sparked my interest in balloon art was when I received a balloon animal kit for Christmas from my mom and dad when I was 10 years old. Then, I had my first job with balloons when I was 13 years old, with my stage name: “Anthony the Balloon Kid.”

To this day many people know me as “The Balloon Kid,” and that’s ok because I’ll always be a kid at heart!

What is your favorite thing about being a Balloon Artist?

I absolutely love being a part of peoples’ most special days of their life! When you see someone’s face light up when they receive a balloon delivery, people take pictures with your balloon décor, or when you bring joy to someone’s day by making them a special balloon sculpture… that is what it’s all about.

I am passionate about spreading joy! When someone expresses happiness because of our balloons, that is what makes me happy!

How did you discover UGlu®?

I was at a balloon convention called “Twist & Shout” when a fellow Balloon Artist told me I had to try UGlu®, and that it was a game changer!

I ordered the boxed roll of UGlu® dashes and I couldn’t believe how great they were. They held the balloons together so well! Needless to say, it instantly became a staple in my balloon artist tool bag.

How does UGlu® enhance your work as a Balloon Artist?

UGlu® really helps me enhance my work as a Balloon Artist by allowing me to add details very quickly and precisely. I don’t have to worry about the detail work falling off with UGlu® because its adhesion is strong.

The UGlu® dashes are small enough to not be seen, and if I need to, I can cut the dashes in half easily for those really fine details. Whether it is latex to latex, latex to foil, or foil to foil – UGlu® has helped me in all of these situations.

We attended FLOAT 2022 this year, and were delighted to see you win Designer of the Year at the Awards Gala! What was that experience like for you?

Thank you very much! It is hard to put the amazing experience of winning Designer of the Year into words. It was truly an honor and a blessing to be able to compete along side so many incredible Balloon Artists. I really enjoyed the fellowship within the balloon community, and receiving affirmation from my fellow artists and friends meant so much to me.

I love competing because it gives me the chance to create something I want to create, and maybe something that a client would not normally order. Also, it helped me work on my time management skills, which will definitely help me in my day-to-day business at home.

After the competitions were done, I really enjoyed looking at all of the amazing and original competition pieces! I knew any one of us could have taken the title of Designer of The Year. When my name was announced, I couldn’t help but think of my Grandma Lena and Grandma Sherman who passed away in 2020 and 2021. Before I boarded the plane to Chicago, I told my family I’m dedicating my competitions to them. My entire family have always been my biggest support system, and to be honest, I wouldn’t be the artist and businessman I am today without them.

Tell us about the balloon sculpture that helped you win Designer of the Year at FLOAT 2022! What was your inspiration?

The sculpture that really put me over the top was my piece, “The Garden of Mystery” which won 1^st place in the Organic Design competition as well. It was given high marks by the judges, and helped me win the title of Designer of the Year!

I’ve had that design in my head for a while, and I was just waiting for the right moment to make it. It turned out FLOAT the Convention 2022 in Chicago was the perfect opportunity! A child’s imagination is so amazing, and I wanted to make a piece that drew the viewer in and helped the viewer rekindle their childlike imagination.

In this piece, there is a little girl holding a giant key behind her back as she stands before a door with a giant keyhole hidden in a garden. The girl is able to hold the giant key thanks to two UGlu® dashes! No pun intended, but UGlu® was a KEY part to the success of my pieces.

This piece makes one wonder things like, “Where did that little girl get that giant key?” “How did this little girl find this place?” “What is behind that door?” I hope my piece takes anyone who views it to a place of wonder and imagination!

That’s awesome! Do you have any other favorite projects you’d like to share with us?

There are so many that are my favorite! Most recently, I really enjoyed my competition pieces from FLOAT. I made a Claw Machine for the Foil Design Competition, which won 2^nd place! You really can’t twist foil balloons together like latex, so I used lots of UGlu® dashes to make sure everything was sitting perfectly.

Also, I used UGlu® dashes to adhere the facial features of my monster in my 3^rd place winning piece, “Lost Dog,” in the Sculpture Competition. The monster lost his dog, but the dog is about to find his master. Soon, they will be reunited and happy once again!

I have also used UGlu® in many of my delivery pieces and in décor. One décor piece stands out in particular! I must say, I could not have pulled off making the “Emblem of Dentistry” for a graduation party if it were not for UGlu®! It is one of the pieces I am most proud of.

If someone has never used UGlu® for their balloon art before, what advice would you have for them?

I have very simple advice for anyone who has not used UGlu® in their life as a Balloon Artist: USE IT!! UGlu® allows you to work smarter, not harder.

The post The Secret Behind Balloon Artist Anthony Lena’s Awesomeness appeared first on Pro Tapes®.

Supplies You Will Need:

• UGlu^® Dashes
• Balloons
• Foam Board
• Construction paper or scrap paper
• Ruler
• X-Acto Knife or Scissors
• Battery-operated LED lights

Step #1: Prepare Your Number Bases

Draw and cut out your numbers to your desired size from the foam board.

To make this process easier, you can first draw out your numbers on construction paper or other scrap paper, then use it as a template to draw on the foam.

Step #2: Create the Foam Border for your Numbers

Cut 12” long strips (about 1” wide, but you can adjust it as needed). These strips will line the edges of your numbers to create the 3D, shadowbox effect.

To figure out how many strips you will need to cut, you can measure out the width of the strips along the edges of your numbers and make tick marks, then count it up.

When you’re ready, use UGlu^® Dashes to attach the strips along the edges of your numbers.

UGlu^® Dashes are very easy to use:

• Just peel a dash off the paper liner
• Stick the dash down on your first surface (the edge of the number)
• Peel the small paper liner off the back of the dash
• Attach the strip to the side of the number, and press on it for a few seconds

By the way, if you made a mistake and didn’t cut enough strips to cover the whole number edge the first time, don’t worry! You can always cut more foam strips to the exact size you need.

Step #3: Add in your LED Lights with UGlu^®

Time to add the GLOW! I used a battery-operated LED light kit for this project. Make sure to test out your lights before and after you add them to your numbers to make sure they work.

Use UGlu^® Dashes to attach the battery case and lights to the back of your numbers. Your balloons will go on top of this.

Keep in mind that you want to place the battery case somewhere that will be easy to reach later, so you can switch the lights on or off. I like to put it in the bottom corner of my numbers, and plan to put a balloon combination there that will be easy to reach behind.

Step #4: Fill your Numbers with Balloons

Finally, you can start filling your numbers in with your balloons!

UGlu^® Dashes are perfect for sticking the balloons to your foam and to other balloons. With UGlu^®, the balloons should sit nice and securely inside your numbers!

I used a mix of balloon sizes to create a cool “mosaic” look. I placed bigger balloons inside the numbers the fill them up (plus, the LED lights show through very nicely.) Then I used smaller balloons along the edges to make a sort of “border.”

Enjoy your finished Light-Up Balloon Numbers!

That’s it- how easy was that? You can make so many awesome color combinations, too. Try different colors of LED lights, color matched to your balloons. You could even take an extra step and paint or spray paint your foam pieces to blend in, too!

When it comes time to display your balloon numbers, remember that UGlu^® can help too! Use UGlu^® to secure your numbers to a floor, wall, table and more.

To learn more about Rosaura and check out her beautiful balloon arrangements, visit her Instagram: @rdecoart

Questions about our products? We’re here to help! Reach out to our Customer Success team at sales@protapes.com.

The post DIY Balloon Numbers with UGlu® by Rosaura Villafaña appeared first on Pro Tapes®.

Check out the amazing balloon arrangement Christie made for us, using UGlu®:

Do you have a website or any social media sites you’d like to share with our audience?

Yes of course…

WEBSITE: www.everyexcuseforaparty.com

INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/every_excuse_for_a_party

FACEBOOK: @everyexcuseforaparty

TIKTOK: Everyexcuseforaparty

How long have you been in the party planning & balloon décor business?

I worked with balloons here and there for years (along with other party décor) just for family and friends… but it was just last February (2020) that I decided to officially start my own company and do this for real!

What is your favorite type of balloon décor to design for parties?  

My favorite type of balloon arrangements to setup are definitely balloon backdrops. I get a theme from the client and they usually let me decide what the design will look like.

I love these because I can let my creativity run wild. Balloon backdrops also tend to become a focal point for the occasion, and creating that drives me.  I love helping others make great memories!

How did you discover Pro Tapes® products?

I was actually a former employee of Pro Tapes® for 16 years! That came in quite handy when it came time to start my balloon business, since I already knew which tapes would be the best for the job!

Knowing the right type of tape to use is key in creating elaborate balloon displays. The conditions of the materials being used, weather conditions for outdoor applications, indoor applications, and structure, are all key in knowing what tape is going to work best and also adhere safely and cleanly to the surface without leaving any damage behind for the client.

Which Pro Tapes® products do you use, and how do you use them?

UGlu® is my number one!! UGlu® sticks to so many different surfaces and materials. It performs well indoors as well as outdoors in a variety temperature ranges. It even holds up to wet weather, like rain!!! It’s incredible useful!

UGlu® is also non-toxic, and that is super handy when doing events for children.

I also use Pro Gaff® & different Pro® Duct tapes to cover the bases of my balloon stands, to better match the colors of different themes. These tapes are durable and easy to use, and applying them is a quick process in place of painting.

Do you use UGlu® for other types of décor, besides balloons?

I use UGlu® for EVERYTHING, LOL!! Besides balloons, my decor can contain an array of different materials… fabrics, lighting elements, wood, metal… and guess what? UGlu® sticks to them all!

UGlu® is a party planner’s dream product. Especially since it creates an amazing bond yet still removes cleanly and leaves items undamaged, to be used over and over again!

THE PRO TAPES^® TEAM IS HERE FOR YOU!

Questions about UGlu®? You can reach out to Steve, our Graphic Arts Market Manager, at sespinal@protapes.com.

The post UGlu®: Party Planner Christie Hart-Krupski’s Dream Product! appeared first on Pro Tapes®.