Before you can create anything with a balloon, you need to get air into it. As far as I know the only two ways to do this is by mouth or with a pump. Which method you use is up to you. There have been numerous discussions about which way is best and nobody seems to agree on any one method. The majority of the time, I inflate the 260’s and 350’s by mouth. I always use a pump for the 160’s.

Pump: Several pumps are available from different companies. These pumps vary in size and how fast they will inflate a balloon. If you will be walking around while twisting, you will want to consider a small hand pump that can be carried in your pocket or apron. If you are staying in one place, a pump on a stand or an electric pump may work okay. There are also battery-powered pumps available that will work in almost any situation. Before you can create anything with a balloon, you need to get air into it. As far as I know the only two ways to do this is by mouth or with a pump. Which method you use is up to you. There have been numerous discussions about which way is best and nobody seems to agree on any one method. The majority of the time, I inflate the 260’s and 350’s by mouth. I always use a pump for the 160’s.

Mouth: The most important rule here is: “If it hurts – STOP!”. The balloons used for twisting are of a heavier quality than the round party balloons; that, combined with the long, skinny shape make them more difficult to inflate. Some people will have no problem inflating by mouth while others will probably never be able to do it. I am not a doctor (and this is not being written for doctors) so my description of how to inflate a balloon by mouth is being presented strictly in laymen’s terms.

1. Stretch the balloon by holding one end in each hand and stretching it across your body. Do this several times being careful not to pull it too far. The balloon should not be stretched so far that it looks like a string.
2. Hold the balloon between your lips with one hand and put the other hand on the end of the balloon.
3. Take a deep breath and then breathe in a little more.
4. Exhale forcefully into the balloon. Let your air go straight from your lungs to the balloon. Do not puff up your cheeks. If you had enough air pressure, a small bubble should have formed in the balloon.
5. Pinch the lip of the balloon shut and take another breath.
6. Un-pinch the lip of the balloon and inflate it the rest of the way.

If at any point while inflating the balloon you feel light-headed, dizzy, or feel any pain – you should stop inflating immediately.