Abstract: An inflatable article, such as a toy, is provided with an outer protective cover constructable in various selected shapes such as a softball bat, the protective cover defining an interior balloon cavity and having an entry slot for access thereto. A toy balloon in its deflated state is inserted into the balloon cavity and inflated via the nozzle extensive from the entry slot to fill the balloon cavity. The nozzle of the toy balloon is sealed and tucked into the entry slot, and the entry slot is covered by a sealing element. A second bat embodiment is constructed having its handle portion separately constructed and attached to the cover by adhesive.