Decorated Golf Balls: 9 Genius Christmas Ideas for 2026

Struggling to find the perfect gift for the golfer in your life? You want something unique and festive, not another generic box of balls. This season, transform a simple sports item into a memorable, handcrafted treasure with decorated golf balls christmas ideas.

Decorated golf balls make unique, personalized Christmas gifts and charming DIY ornaments, transforming a sports item into festive holiday decor. They offer a creative way to celebrate golf enthusiasts and add a personal touch to any Christmas tree or stocking stuffer. It’s a simple, yet brilliant, crafting solution.

Drawing from established best practices and proven craft methodologies, this guide will walk you through 9 genius ideas. You’ll discover step-by-step instructions to create everything from classic ornaments to personalized keepsakes. Get ready to unlock your creativity and make this holiday special.

Unwrapping the Magic: Decorated Golf Balls Christmas Ideas for 2026

The magic of Christmas lies in the personal touches, and what could be more personal for a golf lover than a gift that celebrates their passion? Transforming a simple golf ball into a piece of festive art bridges the world of sports with the warmth of the holiday season. These golf ball christmas ornaments and decorations are more than just crafts; they are golfing mementos that capture memories and show thoughtful effort. This section provides a comprehensive guide to nine distinct projects, offering detailed instructions for each idea, from a classic Golf Ball Santa Face Ornament to a striking Golf Ball Christmas Wreath. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY pro or a beginner looking for a fun holiday activity, you’ll find inspiration to create stunning holiday themed golf balls that can be gifted to friends and family or used to adorn your own home.

9 Genius Decorated Golf Balls Christmas Ideas for 2026

Turning a standard golf ball into a festive masterpiece is easier than you think. These ideas range from simple painting projects perfect for kids to more intricate designs that will impress any recipient. We’ll cover everything you need to know to create your own diy golf ball ornaments, from a cheerful Golf Ball Snowman Decoration to a personal custom sports keepsake. Each idea includes a list of necessary supplies and clear, actionable steps to ensure your creations have a professional finish. Let’s dive into these unique and creative ways to celebrate the holidays with a touch of golf.

1. Craft a Classic Golf Ball Santa Face Ornament

Pin this genius hack to your ‘Christmas DIY’ board!

A golf ball santa ornament is a timeless classic that brings a touch of whimsy to any Christmas Tree. This project is perfect for crafters of all skill levels and results in an adorable ornament that captures the jolly spirit of Santa Claus. The dimpled texture of the golf ball even adds a unique character to Santa’s cheerful face.

Supplies Needed

• Clean, white golf balls (recycled or new)
• Acrylic craft paints (red, white, black, peach/flesh tone)
• Fine-tip paint brushes for detailed work
• Clear sealant spray (gloss or matte finish)
• Small screw eye pins or adhesive ornament hangers
• Red ribbon or twine (thin)
• Optional: Mini Santa hats or cotton balls for beard texture

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Clean each golf ball thoroughly with soap and water, then let dry completely.
2. Paint the top half of the ball red for Santa’s hat, extending a small curve for the hat’s brim line. Let dry.
3. Apply peach or flesh-tone paint for Santa’s face just below the red brim. Allow to dry.
4. Create the white beard and mustache with white paint, starting from below the face and shaping it.
5. Add small black dots for eyes and a small red dot for the nose using a fine brush.
6. Detail with white paint for the brim and pom-pom of the hat, and any beard highlights.
7. Once all paint is dry, spray with a durable finish clear sealant to prevent paint peeling and protect the design.
8. Screw an eye pin into the top of the golf ball or attach an adhesive ornament hanger.
9. Thread a piece of red ribbon or twine through the eye pin to hang on the Christmas Tree.

Pro-Tip: For a professional finish, use multiple thin coats of acrylic paint rather than one thick coat to prevent streaks and ensure vibrant colors. Gesso priming can also help paint adhere better to the dimpled surface.

2. Design a Charming Golf Ball Snowman Decoration

Save this adorable snowman craft for your next holiday project!

Create a frosty friend with a golf ball snowman craft. This is one of the easiest and most beloved golf ball decorations, perfect for a family crafting session. The natural white color of most golf balls provides the perfect canvas for a cheerful Snowman that will add a playful touch to your christmas tree decor.

Supplies Needed

• Clean, white golf balls
• Acrylic craft paints (black, orange, white, optional blue for shadows)
• Fine-tip paint brushes or durable markers
• Clear sealant spray
• Small screw eye pins or adhesive hangers
• Thin fabric scraps (for scarf)
• Tiny twigs (for arms, optional)
• Hot glue gun and glue sticks

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare golf balls by cleaning and drying.
2. Paint the entire golf ball white if it’s not already, or to ensure even color.
3. Once dry, paint two black dots for eyes and a series of smaller dots for the mouth.
4. Create a small carrot-shaped nose with orange fabric paint.
5. Cut a thin strip of fabric for a scarf and hot glue ribbon around the “neck” area of the snowman.
6. If desired, hot glue tiny twigs to the sides for arms.
7. Seal the entire ornament with clear sealant spray once all paint and glue are completely dry.
8. Attach a screw eye pin or adhesive hanger to the top for display.

Pro-Tip: Using non-toxic paint and sharpie markers allows for more precise detailing of the snowman’s face, preventing smeared ink while drying.

3. Transform Golf Balls into Festive Reindeer Decorations

Make these adorable golf ball reindeer for your tree!

Guide your holiday sleigh with charming golf ball reindeer ornaments. This fun craft uses simple materials like pipe cleaners and pom-poms to bring the beloved Reindeer character to life. These diy golf ball ornaments are a fantastic way to use up old golf balls and create cute, christmas themed golf balls for your tree.

Supplies Needed

• Clean golf balls
• Brown acrylic paint
• Small paint brushes
• Googly eyes
• Small red pom-poms (for nose)
• Brown pipe cleaners (for antlers)
• Craft glue or hot glue gun
• Clear sealant spray
• Small screw eye pins or adhesive hangers

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Paint each golf ball completely brown and allow to dry. Apply a second coat if needed for vibrant colors.
2. Glue two googly eyes onto the top half of the golf ball.
3. Attach a small red pom-pom below the eyes for the reindeer nose.
4. Cut two small pieces of brown pipe cleaner and shape them into antlers.
5. Glue the antlers to the top of the golf ball, behind the eyes.
6. Once all glue is dry, spray with clear sealant for a protective coating.
7. Insert a screw eye pin or adhesive hanger at the top.

Pro-Tip: For extra character, use a sharpie marker to draw a tiny smile beneath the red nose before sealing, ensuring smudge proof longevity.

4. Personalize Golf Balls with Names and Dates

Give the unique golfer gift: personalized christmas golf balls!

Create a truly memorable unique golfer gift by personalizing golf balls with names, dates, or special messages. These personalized christmas golf balls transform from a simple sports item into a custom name and year golf ball keepsake. This idea is perfect for commemorating a special year, a tournament win, or simply as a thoughtful stocking stuffer.

Supplies Needed

• New or clean used golf balls (white or light-colored)
• Oil-based paint pens (fine or extra-fine tip, black or metallic colors)
• Stencils (optional, for neat lettering)
• Clear sealant spray (UV-resistant for longevity)
• Optional: Small gift boxes or velvet pouches for presentation

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Clean and dry golf balls thoroughly.
2. Practice writing names and dates on a scrap surface or paper until comfortable.
3. Carefully write the desired name on one side of the golf ball using the paint pen.
4. Below the name, add the year (e.g., 2026).
5. If using stencils, secure the stencil, then paint or trace the letters.
6. Allow the paint to dry completely (several hours or overnight).
7. For added durability and to prevent fading, apply a coat of clear, UV-resistant inks sealant spray.
8. Present the custom sports keepsake in a nice gift box or pouch.

Pro-Tip: For the best results and to ensure the customized name doesn’t suffer from paint peeling, use oil-based paint pens specifically designed for multi-surfaces, followed by a polyurethane coating sealant for maximum durability.

5. Create Glittering Golf Ball Christmas Baubles

Add some sparkle to your tree with these sparkly golf ball ornaments!

For a touch of glamour on your Christmas Tree, transform ordinary golf balls into glittering baubles. This project is incredibly simple but delivers a stunning, high gloss effect. By coating glitter golf balls in rich, festive colors, you can create sparkly, eye-catching golf themed ornaments that shimmer beautifully among the tree lights.

Supplies Needed

• Clean golf balls
• Craft glue (e.g., Mod Podge)
• Fine glitter in desired festive colors (red, green, gold, silver)
• Small foam brush or paint brush
• Clear sealant spray
• Small screw eye pins or adhesive hangers
• Ribbon or ornament hooks
• Newspaper or drop cloth for workspace

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare your workspace by laying down newspaper or a drop cloth.
2. Apply a thin, even layer of craft glue all over a golf ball using a foam brush.
3. While the glue is still wet, sprinkle fine glitter generously over the entire ball, rotating it to ensure full coverage.
4. Tap off any excess glitter onto the newspaper.
5. Allow the glittered ball to dry completely (this may take several hours).
6. Once dry, apply a coat of clear sealant spray to protect the glitter and prevent shedding.
7. Insert a screw eye pin or attach an adhesive hanger to the top of the sparkly ornament.
8. Thread a ribbon or attach an ornament hook for hanging.

Pro-Tip: For a durable finish and to keep glitter from shedding everywhere, use a spray-on clear sealant spray specifically designed for crafts after the glitter has fully dried. This also enhances the high gloss effect.

6. Paint Miniature Winter Wonderland Scenes on Golf Balls

Capture the beauty of winter on a golf ball!

For the more artistically inclined, a golf ball can become a tiny canvas for a beautiful miniature painting. These hand painted golf balls featuring serene winter wonderland scenes are truly special decorated sports balls. This project allows for immense creativity, turning a simple ball into a one-of-a-kind piece of art and a cherished golfing mementos.

Supplies Needed

• Clean, white golf balls
• Acrylic craft paints (shades of blue, white, gray, green, brown)
• Very fine detail paint brushes
• Pencil (for light sketching)
• Clear sealant spray
• Optional: Gesso priming for better paint adherence

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare golf balls by cleaning and drying. Apply a coat of gesso if using.
2. Lightly sketch your desired winter scene onto the golf ball with a pencil. Start with simple elements like a distant horizon, trees, or a small house.
3. Paint the background first using lighter colors like light blue or white for the sky and snow.
4. Add larger elements like trees or snowdrifts. Build up layers for depth.
5. Using the finest brushes, add intricate details such as windows on a house, branches on trees, or tiny figures.
6. Allow each color layer to dry before adding the next to prevent smeared ink.
7. Once the entire scene is dry, seal with a clear protective spray for a durable finish.
8. Attach an ornament hanger if desired for christmas tree decor.

Pro-Tip: When painting miniature winter wonderland scenes on a curved surface, constantly rotate the golf ball to visualize how the scene wraps around. Use a magnifying glass for intricate detail work, ensuring a truly professional finish.

7. Assemble a Striking Golf Ball Christmas Wreath

Welcome guests with a unique golf ball Christmas wreath!

Make a bold statement with a golf ball wreath, a perfect piece of festive home decor for any golf lover’s front door. This project is a fantastic way to use a large number of recycled golf ball christmas tree decorations. While it requires more materials, the result is a stunning and durable wreath that showcases a unique passion for golf.

Supplies Needed

• Approx. 30-50 clean used golf balls (white, or pre-painted red/green)
• Sturdy foam wreath form (10-12 inch diameter)
• Hot glue gun with plenty of industrial strength adhesive glue sticks
• Assorted decorative elements: small pinecones, faux berries, Christmas greenery picks, wide festive ribbon
• Wire or jute twine for hanging

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare golf balls by cleaning. If desired, paint some golf balls red and green and allow them to dry completely.
2. Starting from the inside edge of the wreath form, begin gluing golf balls onto the form. Use generous amounts of hot glue for each ball.
3. Continue gluing golf balls in concentric circles, working your way outwards, covering the entire front and sides of the wreath form. Vary colors if you have painted some.
4. Once all golf balls are attached to the form and the glue is dry, fill any visible gaps with decorative elements like pinecones and berries, gluing them securely.
5. Create a large bow from festive ribbon and hot glue it to the bottom or top of the wreath.
6. Attach a loop of wire or jute twine to the back of the wreath for hanging. Ensure it is very secure, as this will be a heavy ornament.

Pro-Tip: When gluing multiple golf balls for a wreath, use a heavy duty hot glue gun and allow each section to cool and set before moving on to avoid the balls shifting. Consider drilling small holes into the back of the golf balls for stronger wire attachments if the wreath will be exposed to elements.

8. Make Sporty Team-Themed Golf Ball Ornaments

Show team spirit with custom sports keepsake golf ball ornaments!

Combine holiday cheer with team pride by creating golf ball ornaments for youth golf teams or for fans of any sport. These custom sports keepsake ornaments are fantastic gifts for coaches, teammates, or any sports fanatic. Use your team’s colors and logos to create a piece of athletic holiday decor that truly stands out.

Supplies Needed

• Clean golf balls (white is best for vibrant team colors)
• Acrylic craft paints in desired team colors
• Fine-tip paint brushes
• Clear sealant spray
• Small screw eye pins or adhesive hangers
• Thin ribbon in team colors
• Optional: Small stencils for logos, stencil masking tape

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Clean and dry golf balls thoroughly.
2. Paint the golf ball with the primary team color as a base coat. Allow to dry completely.
3. Add stripes, secondary colors, or simple logo designs. If using a stencil, position it securely and paint over it carefully. Use stencil masking tape for sharp edges.
4. Once all paint is dry, apply a clear sealant spray to protect the design and make it smudge proof.
5. Insert a screw eye pin or adhesive hanger into the top.
6. Tie a coordinating ribbon through the hanger.

Pro-Tip: For the best representation of team colors, choose vibrant colors of acrylic paint. If painting complex logos, simplify them to bold shapes that are easier to execute on a small, curved surface. Sublimation printing is an option for professional logos if outsourcing.

9. Develop Unique Golf Ball Gift Tags or Place Holders

Elevate your holiday gifts and table settings with golf ball creativity!

Go beyond ornaments and use decorated golf balls in other creative ways. Personalized with names, they make charming and reusable gift tags that elevate your gift wrapping. They can also be used as unique place holders for your Christmas dinner table, adding a sporty and personal touch to your festive home decor.

Supplies Needed

• Clean golf balls (white or light-colored for best contrast)
• Permanent markers (fine or extra-fine tip, black, gold, or silver)
• Clear sealant spray (optional, for added durability)
• For gift tags: thin ribbon, small drill bit and drill (optional, for creating holes)
• For place holders: small display stands or mini easels (optional)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Clean and dry golf balls thoroughly.
2. Using a permanent marker, carefully write the recipient’s name or a short festive message onto the golf ball. For place holders, write each guest’s name.
3. Add small decorative flourishes like a tiny star, snowflake, or sprig of holly if desired.
4. Allow the ink to dry completely to prevent smeared ink.
5. Optionally, spray with clear sealant for protection, ensuring a protective coating that is smudge proof.
6. To use as a gift tag: If you want to hang it, carefully drill a small hole through the top of the golf ball and thread a ribbon through. Alternatively, hot glue a ribbon loop to the top.
7. To use as a place holder: Simply place the decorated golf ball at each guest’s setting, perhaps on a mini stand for visibility.

Pro-Tip: For consistent, neat lettering when creating golf ball gift tags, choose durable markers with an extra-fine tip and sketching the letters lightly in pencil first before tracing with the marker. This ensures clarity and prevents errors.

FAQs About decorated golf balls christmas

How to make golf ball ornaments?

To make golf ball ornaments, first clean your golf balls thoroughly, then apply acrylic paints or permanent markers to create your desired festive designs. Once dry, seal the design with a clear sealant spray for durability. Finally, attach a small screw eye pin or adhesive hanger with strong adhesive to the top for easy hanging on your Christmas Tree.

What paint to use on golf balls?

Acrylic craft paints are generally best for painting golf balls due to their versatility, quick drying time, and wide range of vibrant colors. For detailed work, oil-based paint pens offer precision and smudge proof application. Always choose non-toxic paint and follow up with a clear, durable finish sealant for protection against paint peeling.

How to hang a golf ball ornament?

To hang a golf ball ornament, the most secure method is to carefully drill a small pilot hole into the top of the golf ball, then twist in a small screw eye pin. Alternatively, hot glue an adhesive ornament hanger onto the top surface using industrial strength adhesive. Thread a piece of ribbon or twine through the eye pin or hanger for christmas tree decor.

What are the best golf ball gift ideas for Christmas?

The best golf ball gift ideas for Christmas include personalized christmas golf balls with names and dates, hand painted Santa Face or Snowman ornaments, or team-themed golf ball ornaments. These custom sports keepsake items offer a thoughtful and unique present for any golf enthusiast, combining their love for the sport with festive cheer.

Where to buy decorated golf balls?

You can buy decorated golf balls from specialty online craft marketplaces like Etsy for unique, handmade with care designs, or from golf pro shops that offer free personalization services. Larger retailers may also offer holiday imprints 12-pack options. For custom orders, search for services offering UV printed or precision engraving on new golf balls.

Can you play with decorated golf balls?

While you can technically play with decorated golf balls, it is generally not recommended for serious play as the added paint or decorations can alter the ball balance and aerodynamic properties. The extra coating may affect spin and distance, and paint can chip or peel during play, making them better suited as golfing mementos or ornaments rather than functional equipment.

How to seal painted golf balls?

To seal painted golf balls, apply a clear sealant spray specifically designed for crafts, such as an acrylic or polyurethane clear coat, once all paint is completely dry. This protective coating ensures a durable finish, prevents paint peeling, makes the design smudge proof, and helps achieve a high gloss or matte look, preserving your golf ball christmas ornaments.

How to clean golf balls for crafting?

To clean golf balls for crafting, wash them thoroughly with warm water and dish soap, scrubbing gently with a brush to remove any dirt, grass stains, or residues. Rinse well and allow them to air dry completely. For particularly stubborn marks or scuffed surfaces on recycled balls, you might use a mild abrasive cleaner or fine-grit sandpaper for a smoother canvas.

What glue works on golf balls?

For most golf ball crafts, a strong craft glue like E6000 or a hot glue gun with industrial strength adhesive glue sticks works best for attaching embellishments. These types of glue provide a secure bond to the dimpled texture of the golf ball. Ensure the surface is clean and dry for optimal adhesion, preventing glue not sticking issues.

Are golf ball ornaments heavy?

Yes, golf ball ornaments are relatively heavy compared to typical lightweight plastic or glass Christmas baubles. Due to the solid core of a golf ball, it’s crucial to use strong adhesive and secure hanging loops or sturdy ornament hooks to prevent the ball falling off tree. This is especially important for golf ball wreath construction to ensure stability.

Final Thoughts on Decorated Golf Balls Christmas

This holiday season, step away from generic gifts and embrace the personal touch of a handmade item. The versatility of a simple golf ball as a crafting medium is truly remarkable. From a classic Santa Claus face painted with care to a dazzling, sparkly bauble, each of these decorated golf balls christmas ideas offers a unique way to celebrate a passion for golf.

Here are the key takeaways:
– Preparation is crucial: Always start by cleaning your golf balls thoroughly to ensure paint and glue adhere properly for a long lasting creation.
– Choose the right materials: Acrylic craft paints are excellent for vibrant color, while oil-based paint pens provide precision for names and details. Always finish with a clear sealant for a protective coating.
– Personalization is powerful: A customized name, date, or team logo transforms a simple craft into a cherished custom sports keepsake and a truly unique golfer gift.
– Safety and stability matter: Because they are heavy ornaments, use industrial strength adhesive and secure hanging methods to ensure your creations are displayed safely.

By following these proven methods, you can confidently create beautiful, durable golf ball christmas ornaments that will be treasured for years to come. Which of these festive ideas will you try first?

Last update on 2026-01-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API