Hot Air Balloon Set

[SarahL]

I was excited about the idea of a doll-sized hot air balloon as soon as I heard they were in her books. I give this set an A+.

Hot Air Balloon Set $150 Includes balloon, basket, pair of binoculars, map, log book, camera, and bag.




The item is small/light enough to come in a nice box and not a pre-packaged shipping box.







My only disappointment was that the log book came a bit curled. But that can be flattened. The binoculars are movable and the grey grip is rubbery.







Saige showing off the basket. The hook on the door can be used to hang her bag, which has a small handle on it. The light ropes at the top and bottom are real rope. Everything else is molded plastic.

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This gives you a decent look at the underside of the balloon, The nylon is attached to this plastic base which snaps into the poles of the basket. It is solid with some detailing to look like a burner.





I wish I had an air compressor. I'm 5'5"; you can start to see how big this thing is.



The valve is connected to the piece that holds the air. It's the same material is a beach ball.



Covers up nicely.



Side one of four.









The whole item is light enough that I'd be able to hold it in one hand if I could balance it just right, doll included. I have no plans to hang it. Fortunately the cats aren't very interested in it.

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[American Girl Rescue]

Saige's Hot Air Balloon Set
Item# F2261
$150

Saige loves to soar high above the mountains with her dad! This high-flying set includes:

A beautiful, colorful inflatable nylon hot air balloon with a basket that's big enough for a doll to stand inside and a door that swings open
Faux binoculars that can hang around her neck
A mini map of Albuquerque to track where they're floating
A pilot's log book for her notes about balloon flights
A faux camera, for capturing beautiful memories
A messenger bag that's roomy enough to store everything inside

H: 49.5" x D: 24" (US) H: 125.7 cm x D: 61 cm (metric)

Yes, the basket is made out of plastic, but I wouldn't want a rattan or woven basket around my dolls' hair and clothing for fear of snagging. Also, I think the plastic basket is much more sturdy.

The envelope of the balloon is nylon with a thick light-bulb shaped, inflatable bladder inside. The AG stores suggest that you inflate it with an automatic air pump. That would be a good idea, but it can be inflated manually. It just takes a LOT of air!

There is no way to insert any type of light inside the balloon's envelope as it is completely filled with the bladder. Also there is a solid base where the burner would be located. It does filter through great light when it's sitting on a table in front of a window!

[Dragonslovedolls]

I didn't let myself really consider the balloon, until I saw and read SarahL's brilliant review and realized it should be shippable without mortgaging major appendages.

I think it's beautifully executed! I don't mind the moulded plastic basket either. The whole thing is sturdy without being overly heavy. I agree, it takes a lot of air to blow it up. A compressor would be easier but I'm a bit paranoid and I'd be worried about over inflating it. Also about 5'5" and I think next time I blow it up, I'll do so before attaching the balloon to the frame and basket.

Honestly, if you're on the fence about getting Saige's hot air balloon, GRAB it! This thing is brilliant.

A++++ I just wish our kitty were as cooperative as AGR's.

[stellabella]

We used a bike pump and it looks just as good 4 months later, hasn't lost any air.

The first outdoor voyage!

[keeperofthepast]

I've seen this and it is just an incredible piece. I can't believe how big it is. The neatest thing is it can be used in the Civil War era also.