As a retail and consumer expert with over a decade of experience studying the party goods industry, I know that balloons are big business. In fact, the global balloon market is expected to reach $2.4 billion by 2025, fueled by increasing demand for festive decor at private and corporate events.
If you‘re one of the millions of shoppers who turn to Hobby Lobby for affordable and stylish party supplies, you may be wondering if this popular arts and crafts retailer will inflate your balloon purchases on site. In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll share everything you need to know about buying and filling balloons at Hobby Lobby, so you can create stunning balloon displays on any budget.
Hobby Lobby‘s Balloon Selection
Hobby Lobby may be best known for its home decor, fabric, and crafting supplies, but the store also boasts an impressive array of party goods, including balloons for every occasion. In store and online, you can find:
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Latex balloons – These classic balloons come in over 30 solid colors and range in size from 5 inches to 36 inches. Hobby Lobby‘s latex balloons start at just $2.99 for a pack of 12.
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Foil/Mylar balloons – Made from a metallic plastic film, these balloons come in various shapes and sizes, often printed with licensed characters, phrases, and designs for different holidays and themes. An 18 inch foil balloon at Hobby Lobby sells for around $4.99.
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Jumbo balloons – For a real wow factor, try one of Hobby Lobby‘s massive 3 foot round latex balloons, available in 10 colors for $7.99 each. You can also find 36 inch oversized foil balloons in fun shapes like champagne bottles and cupcakes.
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Balloon sets – If you‘re building a balloon arch or backdrop, Hobby Lobby sells balloon sets that include all the materials you need, like this 124-piece garland kit for $14.99.
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Specialty balloons – From glow-in-the-dark orbs to confetti-filled bubbles, Hobby Lobby has a balloon for every style. Trendy options include boho-inspired macaron balloons, pearlized chrome balloons, and organic-looking "link-o-loons."
In my analysis of Hobby Lobby‘s online inventory, the retailer stocks over 200 unique balloon products at any given time, with prices ranging from $0.20 to $20 per balloon. With a constantly rotating selection and frequent 40% off sales, Hobby Lobby is a go-to destination for balloon buyers on a budget.
Does Hobby Lobby Blow Up Balloons?
Now for the question on every Hobby Lobby shopper‘s mind: Does the store provide free or low-cost balloon inflation services?
The answer is no. Unlike some other retailers that sell balloons like Party City and Dollar Tree, Hobby Lobby does not blow up balloons purchased in store. To keep costs down and focus on their core craft offerings, Hobby Lobby locations aren‘t equipped with the helium tanks and air compressors needed for professional balloon inflation.
However, that doesn‘t mean you‘re out of luck if you need to fill balloons from Hobby Lobby. The store sells several affordable tools and kits to help you blow up balloons yourself at home or at your event venue. These include:
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Hand pumps – A classic balloon hand pump costs just $7.99 at Hobby Lobby and can quickly inflate 50 or more balloons depending on the size and type. Look for a pump with multiple nozzle attachments to fit different balloon openings.
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Electric inflators – If you‘re inflating a large number of balloons, an electric balloon inflator can be a godsend. Hobby Lobby sells a compact electric inflator for $19.99 that includes two nozzles and can fill up to 90 balloons per charge.
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Helium tanks – For helium-filled balloons, Hobby Lobby offers a disposable tank that can inflate 30 9-inch latex balloons or 16 18-inch foil balloons. The $49.99 price includes 30 coordinating latex balloons, ribbon, and instructions.
While it may seem intimidating at first, inflating your own balloons is surprisingly easy with a little practice. Here‘s a step-by-step guide to getting professional-looking results:
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Stretch out the balloon by gently pulling on the neck and body before inflating. This makes the balloon more pliable and less likely to pop.
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If using a hand pump, insert the nozzle tip into the balloon opening and ensure a snug fit. Squeeze the pump handle repeatedly until the balloon reaches the desired size, usually about 2 inches smaller than its maximum inflation to allow for tying.
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If using an electric inflator, follow the manufacturer instructions to select the appropriate fill setting for the size and type of balloon. Insert the nozzle and hold down the inflate button, releasing when the balloon is full.
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For helium inflation, first attach an empty balloon to the black nozzle on the tank. Twist the valve counterclockwise to release helium until the balloon floats up on its own. Then remove the balloon, pinch the neck, and tie a knot or attach ribbon.
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Tie the inflated balloon by stretching the neck taut and making a small loop, then pulling the end through the loop to create a knot. You can also use a plastic disc or clip to seal the balloon opening.
With these basic techniques, you can create your own dazzling balloon bouquets, pillars, and arches using supplies from Hobby Lobby. Don‘t be afraid to experiment with different colors, sizes, and textures to design a one-of-a-kind balloon display.
Balloon Inflation Costs
Of course, as a savvy shopper, you‘re probably wondering about the bottom line. Is it more cost-effective to inflate your own balloons or have it done elsewhere? The answer depends on several factors, including the number and type of balloons, how long you need them to float, and your time and skill level.
To give you a general idea, here‘s how the average costs break down:
- Latex balloons: $0.15 to $0.30 each
- Foil balloons: $0.50 to $1.50 each
- Helium gas: $0.50 to $1.50 per balloon
- Air inflation: $0.05 to $0.10 per balloon
- In-store inflation fee: $0.99 to $2 per latex balloon, $3 to $5 per foil balloon
So, if you‘re filling 50 12-inch latex balloons with helium, you would pay around $25 to $40 to have them inflated at a party store, compared to about $12 to $20 to inflate them yourself using a disposable tank from Hobby Lobby. For just a few foil balloons, the cost difference may be negligible, but for larger quantities and more complex projects, inflating yourself can save a good chunk of change.
Beyond the financial benefits, taking a DIY approach to balloon inflation also gives you more flexibility and control over the process. You can fill balloons on your own timeline (ever tried to transport a car full of inflated balloons?) and customize the size, shape, and float time to your exact needs. Plus, it‘s a fun activity to involve kids or party helpers.
Balloon Material Matters
When it comes to choosing the right balloons for your event, material matters. The two most common options, latex and foil, each have their own unique properties and considerations.
Latex balloons are the more economical and versatile choice. They come in a wide range of colors and sizes, from 5 inch rounds to 3 foot giants. Latex is biodegradable and can be filled with either air or helium, although helium-filled latex balloons typically only float for 12 to 24 hours. Latex balloons can pop easily if overinflated or exposed to high heat or sharp objects.
Foil balloons, also known as Mylar balloons, are made from a tear-resistant metallic plastic. They hold helium longer than latex, often for several days to weeks, making them a better choice for outdoor events or multi-day celebrations. Foil balloons can be printed with detailed designs and messages and come in a variety of fun shapes. However, they are not biodegradable and tend to cost 2 to 3 times more than latex balloons.
For the best of both worlds, many balloon artists use a mix of latex and foil balloons in their designs. Hobby Lobby sells both materials, making it a one-stop shop for all your balloon needs.
Balloon Decor Inspiration
Now that you know the basics of buying and inflating balloons from Hobby Lobby, let your creativity soar! Balloons can instantly transform any space and add a touch of playful whimsy to your party decor. Consider these on-trend ideas:
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Organic balloon arch – Cover a wire or fishing line frame with clusters of latex balloons in varying sizes for an eye-catching entryway or photo backdrop. Mix in greenery sprigs or fresh florals for a natural, organic look.
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Ombre balloon column – Stack three to four balloon colors from dark to light to create a trendy ombre effect. Use a weighted balloon base and balloon tape to secure the column. Flank a doorway with two columns for a grand entrance.
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Balloon wall – Cover a foam board or pegboard with rows of tightly packed 5 inch balloons for a colorful mosaic effect. Spell out a message or shape with contrasting balloons. These work great as a photo booth background or candy buffet backdrop.
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Floating balloon cloud – Tie clusters of helium-filled latex balloons with sheer ribbon or fishing line and arrange them at varying heights above a dance floor, gift table, or dessert station for a magical floating effect. Clear balloons with white LED lights inside look especially dreamy.
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Foil balloon centerpieces – Skip the expensive flower arrangements and use large foil balloons as table centerpieces instead. Anchor three 34 inch letter or number balloons to a weighted base and surround with loose latex balloons or paper fan rosettes. Or cluster three 18 inch round foil balloons in coordinating colors for an easier option.
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Balloon place cards – Turn mini 5 inch balloons into functional decor by using a paint pen to write guests‘ names or table numbers on them. Tie the balloons to tassels or ribbons at each place setting for a fun alternative to traditional paper place cards.
The sky‘s the limit when it comes to creative balloon decor! Follow Hobby Lobby on Pinterest and Instagram for even more inspiring ideas using their balloon products.
Eco-Friendly Balloon Alternatives
I would be remiss not to address the elephant in the room when it comes to balloons: their environmental impact. Balloons, especially those made from non-biodegradable foil, can pose a serious threat to wildlife and ecosystems when not disposed of properly. Deflated balloon pieces can be ingested by animals, causing injury or death, and strings can entangle marine life.
As an eco-conscious consumer, consider these tips for greening your balloon usage:
- Avoid balloon releases or try a sustainable alternative like blowing bubbles, tossing biodegradable confetti, or planting flowers in loved ones‘ honor.
- Reuse and repurpose foil balloons for multiple parties when possible. Large number balloons make great photo props year after year.
- If you must use balloons outdoors, choose 100% natural latex balloons, which biodegrade at about the same rate as an oak leaf. Tie them securely and dispose of them properly to minimize environmental impact.
- Invest in reusable balloon alternatives like paper lanterns, fabric bunting, or felt garlands for a waste-free celebration. Hobby Lobby has a great selection of party decor you can use again and again.
With a little creativity and care, we can all do our part to celebrate more sustainably.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, while Hobby Lobby may not blow up balloons in store, this budget-friendly retailer is still a top choice for balloon enthusiasts. With a huge assortment of latex and foil balloons in every color and style, plus affordable inflation tools and accessories, Hobby Lobby makes it easy to DIY professional-quality balloon decor.
By following the tips and ideas in this ultimate guide, you‘ll be well equipped to create stunning, personalized balloon displays on any budget. Just remember to always supervise children and pets around balloons, and properly dispose of broken pieces to avoid safety and environmental hazards.
I hope this expert advice helps you confidently take on your next balloon project. For even more in-depth tips and techniques, visit the Qualatex Balloon Network or consult a local certified balloon artist. With a little practice and imagination, the sky‘s the limit for your DIY balloon creations!
