How to Repair a Mylar Balloon
Mylar balloons convey many messages. "Happy Birthday," "Get Well," and "I love You" are a few standard wishes found on the balloons. Nearly any cartoon character can be featured on a Mylar balloon, and most children are delighted to receive a floating portrait of a favored show or character.
If a Mylar balloon rips or tears, there is a way to patch it. The repair won't last forever, and the helium will likely seep out of the tear, but the balloon can be patched for keepsake purposes.
Things You Will Need
- Mylar tape
- Scissors
- Tape measure
Tip
Purchase a metalized Mylar tape in a color similar to the balloon so the patch blends in with the colors in the balloon. Sailors often use Mylar repair tape to fix Mylar sails. The tape is sturdy and can handle high temperatures.
Warning
Mylar balloons typically cannot be refilled with helium.
Metalized tape can conduct small amounts of electricity, so keep away from electrical outlets.
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Measure the length of the rip that needs to be repaired. Measure the width of the tear. Mylar tape comes in widths ranging from 1/2-inch to three inches.
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Cut the necessary amount of tape from the dispenser. Cut out two extra pieces of tape the same length as the original strips. Hang the tape strips by one small top section on a table or other surface until needed.
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Grasp the balloon with both hands. If the balloon has deflated more than 3/4 of the original size, lay it on a flat work surface. If the balloon is still mostly inflated, hold on your lap with one hand on the balloon.
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Retrieve the tape strips. Attach the first piece of tape over the tear lengthwise. Add another piece of tape to the rip width-wise. Continue until the tear is covered by tape.
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Reinforce the patch by adding two more pieces of tape; affix them to the balloon in an "X" pattern.
The Drip Cap
- Mylar balloons convey many messages.
- " The repair won't last forever, and the helium will likely seep out of the tear, but the balloon can be patched for keepsake purposes.
- Mylar tape comes in widths ranging from 1/2-inch to three inches.
- Attach the first piece of tape over the tear lengthwise.
Writer Bio
Annabeth Kaine began writing in 2010 with work appearing on various websites. She has successfully run two businesses, held chairmanship positions on two fund-raising committees and received excellence-in-service awards for both. Kaine is completing her Bachelor of Arts in psychology.
Photo Credits
- Happy Birthday Balloon image by Dawn from Fotolia.com
- Happy Birthday Balloon image by Dawn from Fotolia.com
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