From: "Inflated Impressions" <inflatedimpressions@prodigy.net>
To: <balloondeco@balloonhq.com>
Subject: Framed
Date: Mon, 18 Dec 2000 23:34:34 -0700

Hi,


          Tim McConeghy, Lord of Latex. Framing was not really covered on
the exams. I learned it hands on volunteering for a local decorator when I
first got into decor. I think many people learn it at seminars or by trial
and error. I will offer a crash course for the artistically minded.
          Materials, 1/4 inch diameter aluminum rod or equivalent length as
needed. Duct or similar tape. Imagination.
          I recommend sketching your ideas first to help visualize the
design, this means that I do it all by the seat of my pants.
          I use two different techniques in my framing; inlining(sick
figure), and outlining.
          Inlining is best with linear shapes, the human body, columns,
letters and numbers, etc.. Bend the rod into the appropriate shape and cover
with a spiral garland or square pack.
          Outlining is best for large multidimensional shapes. Many times a
layer of mesh or birdnetting is affixed to the frame to minimize the number
of balloons( why fill the sculpture inside where noone can see?). Outlining
allows for the creation of a ball or cube where inlining allows for a circle
or square.
          Try checking out books on cartooning or wire frame models to give
you more ideas, and remember you are the best balloon artist in your socks.


Tim McConeghy CBA
The other jolly fat guy
Inflated Impressions LLC