Abstract: A support structure is provided for an ornament and consists of a base having an elongate stem with longitudinally spaced first and second stem parts, with the first stem part having a free end, structure for hingedly interconnecting the first and second stem parts for relative movement between (a) a first position wherein the first and second stem parts are in substantially longitudinal alignment and (b) a second position wherein the first and second stem parts are folded against each other with the free end of the first stem part closely adjacent to the second stem part, a sleeve having an opening with first and second spaced ends, structure mounting the sleeve to the base for sliding movement lengthwise relative to the stem between (a) a third position wherein the free end of the first stem part is exposed at the first end of the sleeve opening with the first and second stem parts in the second position and (b) a fourth position wherein the first stem part is at least partially within the sleeve opening wi

Abstract: A method of tying a balloon having an inflatable bulb bounding a chamber, a flexible neck with a passageway in communication with the chamber, and a filling opening in the neck through which a fluid can be directed into the neck passageway and inflation chamber. The method contemplates the steps of providing a device with a housing having first and second elongate legs projecting therefrom in substantially parallel alignment, placing the neck of the balloon between the first and second legs, situating a length of flexible line across the neck in lengthwise alignment with and adjacent to one of the legs, twisting the legs about their length to thereby roll the balloon neck against itself and surround the line, and tying the line against itself so that the neck is embraced by the line. The invention is also concerned with a hand tool device for carrying out the method.