From: Janiiamsconwin@aol.com
Date: Wed, 17 May 2000 17:07:07 EDT
Subject: 16" Gumball Hearts w Hi Float-V00#137
To: balloondeco@balloonhq.com

Hi Keva,
   I have a couple of suggestions to help with the dilemma you experienced 
with 17" clear latex hearts with 6" latex hearts inside: First you mentioned 
the "ears" of the 17" clear heart looked cloudy or not fully inflated 
although it felt tight in the body of the balloon.  A trick I've used when 
filling latex hearts is to place my hand karate chop style on top of the 
balloon as it inflates which forces the lobes or ears of the hearts to more 
fully inflate and will give you better definition and clarity in jewel 
colors.  I have even hugged the heck out of latex hearts to force the gas 
into the top & bottom to make a better heart shape.  
    And a great little trick I use for Gumballs that HAVE to have Hi Float to 
increase float time, is to insert & disperse the Hi Float first, add about a 
tablespoon of balloon confetti (soft edges, visually impressive) and then 
fill the 5" or 6" latex balloons inside.  It keeps them from sticking 
together quite so much, and even when a little confetti sometimes sticks to 
the small balloons it looks nice. This usually does the trick and also looks 
nice, especially if you make your own ribbon confetti & coordinate or 
compliment with color, although paper confettis work well too.  One of my 
favorites is iridescent confetti which lends a lovely accent for softer 
designs. 
     Of course if you have Conwin's The Insider that quickly inflates & sizes 
the small balloons, you'll be more successful & find with Hi float the job 
will be less messy. It's also important to use helium in the small balloons 
that are inside the bigger balloon instead of air.  They won't shrink since 
they are surrounded by helium and contain helium, and will be less likely to 
pop.  See, the helium passes through the surface of the small air filled 
balloons and can make them expand & pop.
     I hope these little tips will help you for the next time, they really 
work well for me.  Be sure & check out www.Conwinonline.com for more great 
little tricks like these in Crystal's Quick Tips section.  I will also have a 
new set of designs up within the week in my Designs for All Seasons & don't 
forget to Ask Ada!  Also there are two great contests for balloon artists 
right now. There's only a few days left before Conwin gives away the Dual 
Split Second Sizer and there's an Airforce 4 for a lucky artist who wins the 
wedding picture contest.  Check it out Keva, and good luck!  
Jan Iiams, CBA
Conwin, Inc.
janiiams@conwinonline.com