STEPS

1. Stretch the first balloon to size by inflating it halfway, holding it for about 30 seconds, then deflating it.

2. Insert the funnel into the balloon and pour in a third of the lentils. As you fill, press the funnel's spout down and up to force the lentils inside. Once the balloon is filled, set it down on a work surface, neck side up.

3. Cut off the balloon's thick rubber lip, leaving the neck attached. Cut off the entire neck of a second balloon. Insert three fingers from each hand into the hole, gently stretch the opening, then carefully work the second balloon over the first, guiding it forward with your thumb tips. When you're done, the two neck openings should be at opposite sides of the sphere. If an air bubble appears, try kneading it out.

4. Cut off the entire neck of a third balloon, stretch the opening, and work it over the other two.

5. Repeat to make two other balls.