I'm working on a tulip twist, where you push in the stem of the balloon, pinch it, and then twist a tulip shaped bubble. However, when I push in the stem and pinch it, I have a great deal of trouble pulling my finger back out. The suction and friction on the balloon makes it into half of a chinese handcuff! Any suggestions out there?

Thanks,
- Britt

Instead of pulling your finger out, use your other hand to roll the balloon down and off your finger.

Thanks for the assist Flip.

- Britt

No problem. I think everyone has to struggle with this at first.

Funny as it may sound, lick your finger before you insert your finger, that will help as well

Kevin

If you peel the baloon off your finger, you don't have to wet it. Which is kinda unappetizing to watch anyways.

Thanks again for the tips. The peeling works, but I may have to resort to the "licked finger" technique when my left hand isn't free.

Thanks!

- Britt

Also, when you have time check out:

http://www.balloonhq.com

For all your balloon needs and advice. Make sure to joing the list.

Kevin

Britt,
powdering your hands before you start twisting will also help - a bit of baby powder well rubbed in will stop your fingers sticking. The best tip I have for balloon twisting is always carry a nail file - it is impossible to do a decent tulip twist (or many others) with a rough fingernail. More balloons are popped this way!
Cheers
KAZ

My continued thanks to all.

- Britt

hi britt
try weting your finger first
this will help
regards
mr.t.ricks
http://www.mr-t-ricks.co.uk
:cheers:

I lick my finger, powder sounds like a good idea also (this is what thay use when making the balloons in the first place)
but don't mix the two, licking a powderd finger!!

I use aprons full of balloons and start my gig by jamming my hands into the pockets to tranfer some of the powder from the 'loons onto my hands. My problem is that my skin is so dry to begin with that I can't palm coins or balls because they slip right out. So doing table hopping in a restaurant where I do magic and balloons is tough. But that's something I need to work through. I don't have any problem with my finger sticking in a tulip twist because of the powder from the balloons.

I use KY Jelly.

(:-) just kidding by the way)