Float Design

What will your float look like?  Gather your committee and brainstorm ideas of what you want your float to look like.  Try to be unique but not bizarre.  Your design concept should adhere to the theme for the Days of '47 parade.  Start with a rough idea of what you want on your float and build from there.  Make sure you plan  every detail before you start building.

Will you use a wire shape such as an airplane or globe? Or a building like a temple or house?  How will you attach these to your float?  These kinds of decisions need to be made at the beginning.
You need to mount signs posts or stansions (upright bar or post for support).  Attach these early so you don't set your float on fire from welders sparks. You will need to know where everything will be placed so you can add supports where needed.  It is hard to add stansions after the fact, and it is hard to mount foam figures to your float without supports. Although, if you get creative it can be done but won't be as sturdy.

Will your float bed be flat?  Or will it be raised or bumpy in spots.  Build this into your design.

Will you have any animation on your float?  That needs to be designed early in the process. On the float in the picture above the turtles' legs and head moved.  It was really cute.

Plan colors that will compliment or contrast.  Almost anything goes.  Bright contrasting colors are fun and vibrant, warmer colors are peaceful and soothing.  What feeling do you want your float to display?  Make sure your lettering will stand out.

You will need to display the parade theme in some form on both sides of your float. You will also need to display your  Stake or Organization name.  That is usually on the front or back of the float.
For the Youth parade children may not ride on floats but adults can.