Ever since I posted photos of the hot air balloon centerpieces I created for a wedding two years ago, people have asked me either to make it for their events. Since they were so difficult and time-consuming to make, I have respectfully declined all offers to recreate them. Recently, I decided to make a smaller version for a dear friend’s birthday, and on a smaller scale, they are definitely easier (though still time-consuming) to make. I will post a tutorial on how to make them soon (and maybe even a video), but until then, enjoy these photos. For those of you who just can’t wait, I’ll just say that it’s basically a paper lantern covered with fabric, with the seams covered by trim. It is held up with the inside of an embroidery hoop and wooden skewers. Oh, and for the base of the balloon, you know that funnel-part where the air goes up the balloon, I used Eileen Hull’s Sizzix cupcake wrapper die. It was the perfect shape. And made me want a cupcake.