I made these templates a while back hoping we would be able to have a party for 4th of July. Well, no party but I'm still decorating. I had so much fun making these 5ft tall letters. I have the free template, just email me.
Update:
I'll update with pictures of them filled with balloons. I was too excited to share so I only have pictures of the frames.
I'll probably make a video for these letters as well. Same process.
UDATE video:
I have four other video tutorials on how to make the mosaic numbers.
Open PDF file in Adobe and print as a poster. Change to 500% under tile scale.
Print in grayscale and in draft mode to save ink.
UPDATE: To use less paper - don't click CUT MARKS or LABELS when printing.
All the pages had a small white border. I didn't worry about all the pages matching up, only the edges of the letters.
Start with the pages horizontal and go across the top 4 pages. Then start the next row below it.
I always tape the center first and work my way out. This way it's easier to match up all the lines.
Cut the letter out.
It takes 3 foam boards for the back or base of each letter.
For each letter you need about 7-8 pieces for the sides. Total you will need 6 - 20x30 foam boards.
Use a box cutter or exacto knife to cut from the foam board.
I'm using these from Amazon since you can just pop the end off and have a brand new blade.
Measure 6"-6 1/2" template and trace for each side piece. I used 6 1/2
Cut each board into 3 pieces for the sides.
For rounded edges on the letter U and S, lightly score lines 1" - 1 1/2" apart on a side piece.
Don't forget to use the excess board from the back or base of the letters to cut side pieces.
I put craft paper down since it gets a little messy attaching the sides with hot glue.
The U & S are rounded at the bottom and a little taller than the A.
I used the A to measure how much to cut off the bottom of the U and S. This worked out perfect to make the bottom flat to allow it to stand up. Double check it because I think my U still looks taller than the S.
I attach sides with hot glue but you can also use tape.
I ordered all my balloons from Amazon and the foam boards from Dollar Tree.
I'm a huge fan of Qualatex balloons but couldn't find everything I needed or get it delivered in time.
Ready to fill with balloons!
Balloon placement but not attached yet. I'm trying a low temp hot glue gun this time.
UPDATE:
The low temp glue gun is so much better. The balloons do not move. It does take a bit of time to wait for each one to dry and you have to watch out for glue strings. I don't think I'll use glue dots anymore.
on Amazon.
Since they were going to be outside (and it was windy) I made a brace in the back. The letters are slightly leaning back.
I used a weight to hold them down. Worked perfectly.
UPDATE: Bonus! I won $100 for the best 4th of July decorations!! :D
The cute dog *might* have helped and I think he wants me to share.
I also have numbers available. Just email me!
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