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LED floaties are the mellower version of throwies. Instead of flying through the air in an arched trajectory, they'd much rather loaf about on the ground until being kicked up by a playful child or fascinated dog.

On Thursday December 14, me and my partners from Uncoolkids inflated and released 200 floaties into Tompkins square park in Manhattan. The somewhat foggy windless night provided the perfect atmosphere for a couple hundred glowing balloons. All passerby really seemed to enjoy the effect the balloons had on the park, and the balloons create a perfect interactive environment.

Step 1: Parts

1. CR2032 3V Lithium Batteries (2 batteries per LED)
2. 10mm Non-diffused LEDs
3. Duct tape

Because the LEDs require 2 batteries each I recommend buying a throwie pack from HB Electronics, and then buying batteries for however many LEDs you buy at CheapBatteries.com.

The throwies cost about 75 cents each depending on how many you make.

Step 2: Steps

Stack two batteries on top of each other and sandwich them between the legs of the LEDs. Use a few inch long strip of duct tape to hold them on completely.

To get the lights in the balloons have one person reach inside the balloon with their fingers and hold the neck open while the other person drops in the light.

This whole process works best when set up in an assembly line with a few people making lights, a few stuffing balloons, and a few inflating the balloons.

Release the balloons.

Step 3: Cleanup

Cleanup is virtually nonexistent. The balloons eventually pop and the lights are picked up by curious strangers. The balloon latex is completely biodegradable so the scraps are safe to be left around.

Instead of cleanup this project just dissolves into the night.