Hints From Heloise

Dear Heloise: Save those helium balloons! Once the enjoyment has passed, I cut a small hole and let out the helium. The balloons can be cut to wrap small packages or used as gift bags with ribbon around the top. They fold up and store nicely in a drawer until ready to use for special packages or gifts. Sandy Vasile, Geneva, N.Y.

You are right; they do make nice decorative giftwrap or bags, and they are free!

Simply cut the little neck off and tape close, then cut across the top of the balloon, following the seam, or just cut a straight line. Slip the gift inside and tape shut or wrap as you would if using regular paper.

If you are making a gift bag, tucking pretty tissue paper inside is a nice added touch. - Heloise