How to Make a Balloon Sword
Ever been to a kid’s party where one balloon artist stole the show with just a balloon and a few twists? It’s honestly easier than it looks. If you’ve ever wondered how to make a balloon sword, you’re in the right place.
You don’t need fancy tools or expert skills. Just one long balloon and your hands. Basically, to make a balloon sword, you have to simply inflate the balloon, make a few twists for the handle and guard, and shape the rest into a blade.
That’s all it takes. Stick around, and we’ll walk you through each step in a way that’s easy, fun, and totally beginner-friendly.
What You’ll Need to Make a Balloon Sword
You only need a few things to start, and most of them are easy to find.
- 1 balloon – Use a 260-sized balloon (this is the standard long balloon used for balloon animals and swords).
- Balloon pump – Optional, but it saves your lungs!
- Your hands – You’ll be doing a lot of twisting and shaping.
Tip: If you’re making swords for smaller kids or have small hands, you can use 160 balloons (thinner). If you want a big, bold sword, go with 360 balloons (thicker).
Steps on How to Make a Balloon Sword
Now, let’s get into the details of how to make a sword from a balloon.
Step 1: Inflate the Balloon the Right Way
First, blow up the balloon but leave about one inch at the tip uninflated. That little soft part helps the air move around when you start twisting, so your balloon doesn’t pop.
If you fill it up all the way, the pressure builds, and it can burst easily.
Quick tip: If you’re making more than one sword, using a balloon pump will save your energy and time.
Step 2: Start the Handle with a Simple Twist
Now, measure about five inches from the knotted end and twist the balloon. This will be the start of your sword handle. Hold on to that twist tightly so it doesn’t come undone.
It’s a basic twist, but it sets the foundation for the rest of the sword.
Step 3: Make the First Side of the Handguard
From the twist you just made, bend the balloon at about three inches to make a fold. Now twist that folded part right where the bend meets the first twist.
This creates one side of the handguard. The piece that looks like it protects a knight’s hand.
Step 4: Make the Other Side of the Handguard
Next, do the exact same thing again. Fold another three-inch section next to the first one and twist it into the same spot. Now you should see two little balloon loops sticking out on each side of the handle.
Together, they form the “T” shape guard of your balloon sword.
Step 5: Shape the Blade With a Big Loop
Now take the long part of the balloon (what’s left) and gently bend it back up toward the handle. You want to make a large loop, like a sword blade. Push the tip of the balloon through the space between the two folded handguard loops.
Keep pushing until the balloon tip goes through the loop and forms a blade shape.
Step 6: Add a Pinch Twist to Lock Everything
This step gives your sword more shape and keeps it strong. Look near the knot at the base. You’ll see a small bubble of air. Pinch both ends of that little bubble, then twist them around each other a few times.
That’s a pinch twist. It locks the shape in place and makes your sword look more realistic, too.
Step 7: Adjust the Air and the Shape
Take a moment now to press and pull gently on the balloon to adjust how it looks. You can keep the blade nice and straight, or give it a soft curve, whatever look you prefer.
If one part feels too soft, gently push some air toward that spot with your fingers. Just don’t press too hard or twist too tightly, or the balloon could pop.
Step 8: Final Curve and Angle Touches
Hold the sword right near the handguard and bend it slightly to add a bit of character. Some people like their balloon sword to have a battle-style curve. Others prefer a straight, shiny knight’s sword.
Either way works. You can shape it how you want.
Step 9: Do a Final Check
Look over the whole sword. Make sure everything feels secure and the twists are locked in. Give it a little shake. If nothing comes loose, then you’ve done it!
One last thing: Always keep an eye on kids playing with balloon swords. They’re fun and soft, but kids tend to swing them around a lot. Better safe than sorry!
New to working with balloons? Here’s a simple guide on how to tie a balloon without any struggle.
Common Balloon Sword Shapes You Can Try Later
Once you master the basic sword, you can level up with these fun designs:
- Twisted Blade Sword – Add some spiral twists for a cooler look.
- Double Blade Sword – Use two balloons.
- Scabbard (Sword Holder) – Make a matching balloon holder.
- Glow-in-the-Dark Sword – Put a glow stick inside before inflating.
Why Balloon Swords Are a Big Hit at Parties
Balloon swords are fast to make, cheap, and kids love them. You can make a bunch in 5 minutes and be the hero of any birthday party. Plus, you learn real balloon modelling skills, like loop twists, pinch twists, and pressure control.
Want to decorate more than just swords? Learn how to make a balloon arch and balloon dog to add a big wow factor to your event.
Want Balloon Decorations for the Whole Party? We Can Help
Planning a party can get a bit overwhelming, right? If you’d rather not do it all on your own, we’re here to help. At Make My Day, we take care of the full balloon setup from beautiful arches to fun balloon displays for kids and everything in between.
You tell us what you’re thinking, and we’ll bring it to life with colourful, high-quality balloons. We show up on time, get everything done properly, and make your space look amazing for your special day.
Just give us a call at 07587 738778 to book your balloon decoration service and let us handle the fun part!
Wrapping Up: You’ve Got This!
That’s it! You now know how to make a balloon sword like a pro. Don’t worry if your first few swords look a bit wonky. Practice makes perfect. The more you twist, the better you’ll get.
And remember, the kids don’t care if it’s perfect. They’ll love it either way!
If you’re planning a party, check out these balloon decoration ideas to make the whole place look fun and festive.
FAQs
- How long does it take to make a balloon sword?
To make a balloon sword, you just need 2–3 minutes once you get the hang of it.
- What kind of balloon should I use?
You can use a 260 balloon. It’s the standard size for balloon animals and swords.
- Can I use my mouth to inflate the balloon?
Yes, you can use your mouth to inflate the balloon, but a pump is better and safer.
- Why does my balloon keep popping?
Your balloon keeps popping because it’s probably overinflated. Leave 1 inch unfilled and don’t twist too tightly.
- What’s a pinch twist, and why is it important?
A pinch twist locks parts of the balloon in place and helps shape your design.
