Golf Ball Art Projects: 11 Easy DIY Ideas to Create

Stuck with a bucket of old, scuffed-up golf balls and no idea what to do with them? You’re not alone. They pile up in the garage, cluttering shelves and collecting dust, seemingly destined for the landfill. This is where you can turn that clutter into creativity with golf ball art projects.

You can transform old golf balls into a wide variety of fun and creative DIY crafts. These projects range from adorable garden decor like ladybugs and bumblebees to unique home accents, kids’ process art activities, and even personalized gifts. Repurposing golf balls is an easy, inexpensive way to upcycle and create stunning handmade items.

Based on established best practices and proven art techniques, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We’ve compiled 11 easy, step-by-step ideas to turn those unwanted spheres into treasured creations. Get ready to give those old golf balls a vibrant new life this weekend.

What Can You Do With Old Golf Balls?

Before you toss that collection of used, scuffed, or unwanted golf balls, consider their potential. Instead of contributing to clutter or waste, you can repurpose golf balls art into charming and unique creations. The common problem of “what to do with old golf balls” has a fun, sustainable, and surprisingly beautiful solution. This is about more than just golf ball craft ideas; it’s about the satisfaction of turning what seems like trash into treasure, giving old items a brand new life and purpose.

11 Easy DIY Golf Ball Art Projects to Create This Weekend

Here is a curated list of our favorite easy golf ball art ideas, perfect for crafters of all skill levels. From fun golf ball crafts for the garden to elegant DIY home decor, each project includes a full materials list, a step-by-step guide to painting golf balls, and expert tips to ensure your creations look fantastic. We’ve tested these methods to provide you with a complete blueprint for success.

1. Create Adorable Golf Ball Ladybugs for Your Garden

Pin these cute golf ball critters to your ‘Garden Crafts’ board!

Materials Needed

• Old Golf Balls: Cleaned and dried thoroughly.
• Acrylic Craft Paint: A high-quality set including vibrant red, deep black, and white. Look for paint labeled “multi-surface” or “outdoor” for better durability.
• Small Paintbrushes: One medium flat brush for the red base and a fine-tip detail brush for the spots and face.
• Black Permanent Marker: An alternative for drawing the line and head if you’re not confident with a brush.
• Clear Acrylic Sealant Spray: A waterproof, UV-resistant sealant is essential for outdoor golf ball crafts.
• Hot Glue Gun & Glue Sticks: For attaching embellishments.
• Optional: Black craft wire for antennae, small googly eyes.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare Your Base: Paint one half of a clean golf ball with red acrylic paint. To make it easier, you can rest the ball in a small bottle cap or an egg carton to hold it steady. Let it dry completely (1-2 hours).
2. Paint the Second Half: Once the first half is dry to the touch, flip the ball over and paint the other half red. Let it dry completely. A second coat may be needed for full coverage.
3. Create the Head & Line: Using black paint and a detail brush (or a permanent marker), paint a solid black section at the front for the head. Then, paint a thin black line down the center of the back.
4. Add the Spots: Dip the end of your paintbrush handle or a pencil eraser into black paint and dot it onto the red “wings” to create the ladybug spots. Let them dry.
5. Add Details: Use white paint and the tip of a toothpick to add two tiny dots for eyes on the black head.
6. Seal Your Creation: In a well-ventilated area, spray the entire ladybug with 2-3 light coats of clear acrylic sealant, letting it dry between coats. This is the key to UV resistance for outdoor golf ball art.
7. Finishing Touches (Optional): Once sealed, use a hot glue gun to attach small, bent pieces of craft wire for antennae.

Pro-Tip: For superior material adhesion on polybutadiene (the outer layer of most golf balls), lightly scuff the surface with fine-grit sandpaper and apply a thin coat of multi-surface primer before painting. This prevents the paint from chipping over time.

2. Design Buzz-Worthy Golf Ball Bumblebees

You have to repurpose golf balls into these sweet bees for your patio!

Materials Needed

• Old Golf Balls: Cleaned and ready for paint.
• Acrylic Craft Paint: Bright yellow, black, and white.
• Paintbrushes: A medium flat brush and a fine-tip detail brush.
• Painter’s Tape (Optional): For creating crisp, clean lines for the stripes.
• Recycled Plastic: A piece of a clear plastic bottle or packaging to be upcycled for the wings.
• Scissors & Hot Glue Gun.
• Black Permanent Marker.
• Clear Acrylic Sealant Spray.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Base Coat: Paint the entire golf ball with two coats of bright yellow acrylic paint, allowing it to dry completely between coats.
2. Mark Your Stripes: Once fully dry, use a pencil to lightly draw where you want the black stripes to go. For super sharp lines, carefully wrap thin strips of painter’s tape to mask off the yellow areas.
3. Paint the Stripes: Using your detail brush, carefully paint the black stripes. If you used tape, paint up to the edge of the tape. Also, paint the “stinger” area at the back and the face at the front black.
4. Remove Tape & Detail: If you used tape, peel it off while the black paint is still slightly tacky for the cleanest edge. Use a detail brush or a white paint pen to add two eyes.
5. Create the Wings: Cut two small, teardrop-shaped wings from your recycled plastic. Draw a few vein lines on them with a black permanent marker for a realistic touch.
6. Attach the Wings: Place a small dab of hot glue on the base of each wing and press them firmly onto the bee’s back.
7. Seal for Outdoors: In a well-ventilated space, spray the entire bee with clear sealant to protect it from the elements.

Pro-Tip: A common issue is pigment opacity on golf ball dimples. To fix this, use a slightly thicker paint and a dabbing motion with your brush to ensure the paint gets into every dimple for a solid, even color.

3. Assemble a Wiggly Golf Ball Caterpillar

This is such a fun golf ball project to do at home with kids!

Materials Needed

• Multiple Golf Balls (5-7): Cleaned and dried.
• Assorted Acrylic Paints: A rainbow of colors for a colorful golf ball art look.
• Paintbrushes.
• Strong, Waterproof Adhesive: A heavy-duty construction adhesive like E6000 or Liquid Nails is recommended for a permanent bond. A hot glue gun is NOT strong enough for outdoor display.
• Googly Eyes & Black Craft Wire.
• Clear Acrylic Sealant Spray.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Paint the Segments: Paint each golf ball a different bright color. Apply two coats for a vibrant finish, letting them dry completely.
2. Design the Face: Choose one golf ball to be the head. Paint or draw a happy face on it.
3. Assemble the Body: On a protected surface, lay the “body” segment golf balls in the wiggly shape you desire. Apply a generous bead of construction adhesive where each ball will touch the next.
4. Attach the Head: Apply adhesive to the first body segment and press the “head” golf ball firmly into place.
5. Let it Cure: This is the most important step! Do not move the caterpillar for at least 24-48 hours to allow the adhesive to fully cure and create a rock-solid bond. Check the adhesive’s instructions for specific curing times.
6. Add Final Details: Once cured, use a hot glue gun to attach googly eyes and bent wire antennae to the head.
7. Seal the Entire Project: Thoroughly spray the finished caterpillar with a clear sealant to protect the paint and glue from the weather.

Pro-Tip: When using construction adhesive, a little goes a long way. To ensure the balls adhere to surfaces without a visible, messy glue line, apply the adhesive slightly inside the contact point. Any squeeze-out can be carefully wiped away with a damp cloth before it dries.

4. Create Kids’ Process Art with Golf Ball Painting

Looking for toddler art projects? This golf ball painting activity is a guaranteed hit!

Supplies Needed

• A Cardboard Box Lid or a Baking Tray: Something with sides to contain the rolling balls.
• Paper: Cut to fit inside the bottom of your box/tray.
• Golf Balls: One for each color of paint you plan to use.
• Washable Kids’ Paint: Non-toxic tempera or finger paint is perfect for this.
• Paper Plates or a Paint Palette: To hold the paint.

Fun Activity Steps

1. Set Up Your Station: Place a sheet of paper inside your box or tray. Squeeze dollops of different colored paint onto a paper plate.
2. Get the Balls Rolling: Drop a golf ball into one color of paint and roll it around to get it coated.
3. Start Painting: Using a spoon or tongs (or their hands if you’re brave!), have your child drop the paint-covered ball onto the paper in the box.
4. Tilt and Roll: Encourage your child to tilt the box back and forth and side to side. The golf ball will roll around, creating a unique and colorful golf ball art masterpiece with lines and tracks.
5. Add More Colors: Remove the first ball and add a new ball coated in a different color. Watch how the colors mix and create new patterns.
6. Dry Your Art: Once your little artist is happy with their creation, carefully remove the paper and lay it flat to dry.

Pro-Tip: This activity is a fantastic way to support learning. Talk about how the colors mix (e.g., “What happens when the yellow ball rolls through the blue paint?”). It’s a hands-on lesson in physics (motion) and color theory, making it a great art project for preschoolers.

5. Craft Elegant Golf Ball Vase Fillers

A stunning DIY home decor idea! Upcycle golf balls into chic vase fillers.

What You Need

• A Dozen or More Golf Balls: Cleaned and dried.
• Spray Paint: Choose a sophisticated color palette. Metallics (gold, silver, copper) or matte finish paints (charcoal, navy, white) work beautifully for this handmade golf ball decor.
• A Large Cardboard Box: To use as a spray booth to contain overspray.
• A Clear Glass Vase or Bowl.

Steps to Create

1. Prepare for Spraying: Place your golf balls inside the large cardboard box. This prevents the paint from getting everywhere.
2. Apply First Coat: In a well-ventilated area (ideally outdoors), hold the spray paint can about 8-10 inches away from the balls and apply a light, even coat. Don’t try to cover them completely on the first pass.
3. Roll and Re-coat: Let the paint get tacky (about 15-20 minutes), then gently roll the balls around in the box to expose the unpainted sides.
4. Apply Second Coat: Spray another light coat. Repeat this process of spraying and rolling until the golf balls are completely and evenly covered.
5. Let Cure: Let the golf balls dry and cure completely according to the paint can’s instructions, usually for at least 24 hours, to ensure a hard, durable finish.
6. Arrange Your Decor: Once fully cured, carefully arrange your decorated golf balls in a clear glass vase or decorative bowl.

Pro-Tip: For an even more elevated look, experiment with different finishes. Spray half your balls with a matte black chalk paint and the other half with a glossy metallic gold. The contrast in texture and sheen makes the final arrangement look like expensive, store-bought decor. This is a great golf ball art idea for adults to sell.

6. Make Spooky Golf Ball Eyeballs for Halloween

Get ready for Halloween with this creepy-cool golf ball craft!

Supplies Needed

• Golf Balls: Already being white is a huge advantage here! Just make sure they’re clean.
• Paint Pens or Permanent Markers: A blue or green one for the iris, a black one for the pupil, and a red one for the veins. Oil-based paint pens give the best result.
• Clear Sealant (Optional): If you plan to use them outdoors.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Draw the Iris: Using a blue or green marker, draw a solid circle on the golf ball. The dimples will give it a cool texture.
2. Add the Pupil: Once the iris is dry (if using paint pens), draw a smaller black circle in the center for the pupil.
3. Create the Veins: This is the fun part! Using a fine-tip red marker, draw squiggly, branching lines radiating out from the iris. Vary the length and thickness to make them look more realistic and spooky.
4. Make a Whole Batch: Repeat the process to create a whole bowl full of creepy eyeballs.
5. Seal if Needed: If your spooky eyeballs will be exposed to rain, give them a coat of clear sealant. For indoor use, this isn’t necessary.

Pro-Tip: When decorating golf balls with sharpies, sometimes the ink can bleed slightly. To prevent this, work in a cool, dry area and let each color dry for a few minutes before adding the next. If a mistake happens, a little rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab can often remove permanent marker from a golf ball surface.

7. Paint a Golf Ball Solar System

A fantastic educational golf ball craft for your little astronaut!

Materials Needed

• At least 9 Golf Balls: One for the sun and eight for the planets.
• Acrylic Paints: A variety of colors – yellow, orange, blue, green, red, brown, etc.
• Thin Cardboard: From a cereal box, for Saturn’s rings.
• Paintbrushes: Various sizes for base coats and details.
• Scissors and Craft Glue.
• Glow-in-the-Dark Paint (Optional): For a super cool effect!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Research Your Planets: Briefly look up images of the planets to see their main colors and features (e.g., Earth’s blue and green swirls, Mars’s red surface, Jupiter’s Great Red Spot).
2. Paint the Base Coats: Paint each golf ball its primary color: yellow for the Sun, gray for Mercury, rusty red for Mars, etc.
3. Add Details: Use a detail brush to add swirls, spots, and other features. Use a sponge to dab different colors on the gas giants. This doesn’t have to be perfect—the goal is representation and fun!
4. Make Saturn’s Ring: Cut a flat ring shape from your cardboard. Paint it a yellowish-brown. Once dry, cut a slit to the center and slide it onto the “Saturn” golf ball. A dab of glue can hold it in place.
5. Add a Glow: For an extra fun touch, use a detail brush to add small dots or swirls of glow-in-the-dark paint to your planets and sun.
6. Display Your System: Arrange your finished planets in order on a shelf or a piece of black poster board splattered with white paint “stars.”

Pro-Tip: To create realistic swirls for planets like Jupiter and Earth, apply the base color first. While it’s still slightly wet, add dabs of the secondary colors (e.g., white clouds for Earth) and use a clean, dry brush to gently swirl and blend them together on the surface of the ball. This wet-on-wet spherical object painting technique creates a natural, blended effect.

8. Fashion a Personalized Golf Ball Paperweight

Create a personalized golf ball craft! This makes a unique and thoughtful handmade gift.

What You Need

• A Golf Ball: Choose one in the best condition, as it will be seen up close.
• Alcohol Inks (Recommended): These create a beautiful, translucent, marbled effect. You’ll need a few colors plus blending solution.
• OR: Acrylic Paints in your chosen colors.
• Fine-Tip Metallic Paint Pen: Gold or silver for the monogram.
• Small, Felt Furniture Pad (Optional): To stick on the bottom to prevent scratching surfaces.
• Clear Gloss Sealant Spray.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Apply Color: If using alcohol inks, hold the golf ball and drop different colors on, letting them run and blend. Use a straw to gently blow the ink around for cool effects. If using acrylics, paint the ball a solid color or create an abstract design. Let it dry completely.
2. Personalize It: Using your metallic paint pen, carefully draw a monogram, a small symbol, or a significant date on the front of the golf ball. Practice on paper first!
3. Seal the Design: Once the monogram is dry, apply 2-3 light coats of a clear gloss sealant. A gloss finish looks particularly elegant for this project.
4. Add a Base (Optional): Stick a small, round felt pad to the flattest part of the golf ball’s bottom. This creates a stable base and protects your desk.

Pro-Tip: The choice between alcohol inks and acrylic paint depends on the desired look. Alcohol ink vs acrylic paint: Alcohol inks sink into the surface and create a fluid, stained-glass effect. Acrylics sit on top and provide an opaque, bold color. For a high-end, artistic look, alcohol inks are superior.

9. Upcycle Golf Balls into Festive Christmas Ornaments

Time for some recycled art projects! How to make golf ball ornaments for your tree.

Supplies Needed

• Golf Balls
• Small Screw Eye Pins: Found in the hardware or craft store.
• Pliers.
• Drill with a Small Bit (Optional but recommended).
• Acrylic Paints: White, black, orange.
• Paint Pens.
• Thin Ribbon or Twine: For hanging.
• Small Scraps of Felt: For a scarf.
• Hot Glue Gun.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Install the Hanger: This is the key step. For the most secure hold, use a drill with a bit slightly smaller than your screw eye pin to drill a small pilot hole into the top of the golf ball. Then, use pliers to grip the screw eye and twist it firmly into the hole until it’s secure.
2. Paint Your Snowman: The white golf ball is already the perfect base! Use black and orange paint pens to draw two dots for eyes, a dotted smile, and a carrot nose.
3. Add a Scarf: Cut a thin strip of colored felt, about 4 inches long. Tie it around the “neck” of the snowman, under the face. A tiny dab of hot glue can hold it in place.
4. Add Buttons: Draw three small black dots down the front for coal buttons.
5. Thread the Hanger: Cut a 6-inch piece of ribbon, thread it through the screw eye, and tie a knot to create a loop for hanging.

Pro-Tip: If you don’t have a drill, you can try to force the screw eye in with pliers, but it’s difficult and can damage the ball. A safer, no-drill alternative is to hot glue a loop of ribbon directly and securely to the top of the finished ornament. It’s less durable but works well for lightweight ornaments.

10. Design Abstract Art with Sharpies

A perfect golf ball art project to do when bored! Grab some Sharpies and let your creativity flow.

Supplies Needed

• Golf Balls: The cleaner and whiter, the better.
• Permanent Markers: A set of multi-colored fine-tip and ultra-fine-tip Sharpies is ideal.

Design Directions

1. No Rules, Just Draw: This project is all about creative freedom. There is no right or wrong way to do it.
2. Idea 1: Geometric Patterns: Use a ruler (as best you can on a round surface) or freehand to draw triangles, squares, and lines. Color them in to create a mosaic effect.
3. Idea 2: Zentangle Doodles: Use an ultra-fine black Sharpie to fill the entire surface with repetitive, structured patterns. It’s a very relaxing and meditative process.
4. Idea 3: Mandala Dots: Start with a central dot and work your way outwards, creating rings of dots in different colors and sizes.
5. Idea 4: Floral or Vine Patterns: Draw a simple vine that wraps around the ball, adding leaves and simple flowers as you go.

Pro-Tip: The dimples on a golf ball can be used as a guide for your patterns! Use them as the center of your mandala dots or the corners of your geometric shapes. Embracing the texture, rather than fighting it, is the key to creating unique golf ball designs.

11. Create a “Hole-in-One” Golf Ball Photo Holder

A perfect creative golf ball gift for the golfer in your life!

Supplies Needed

• Golf Ball
• Acrylic Paint or Spray Paint in your desired color.
• 16 or 18 Gauge Craft Wire: This is sturdy enough to hold a photo without bending.
• Heavy-Duty Wire Cutters.
• Round-Nose Pliers (or a pencil).
• Strong Adhesive (E6000 or a hot glue gun).
• Drill (Optional): For the most secure holder.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Paint the Base: Paint your golf ball in any color or design you like and let it dry completely. A solid color often looks best.
2. Prepare the Wire: Cut a piece of craft wire about 6-8 inches long.
3. Create the Coil: Grip the very end of the wire with your pliers (or wrap it around the tip of a pencil). Tightly wrap the wire around itself two to three times to create a small, flat coil that will hold the photo. The finished coil should look like the top of a paperclip.
4. Attach the Wire:
   • Drill Method (Most Secure): Drill a small hole in the top of the golf ball. Fill the hole with E6000 adhesive and insert the straight end of the wire.
   • No-Drill Method: Bend the bottom inch of the wire to a 90-degree angle to create a flat “foot.” Apply a generous amount of hot glue or E6000 to the foot and press it firmly onto the top of the golf ball. Hold until it sets.
5. Let it Cure: Allow the adhesive to cure completely so the wire is sturdy.
6. Display: Slide a favorite photo, a business card, or a small note into the wire coil.

Pro-Tip: For a truly stable base that won’t wobble, slightly flatten the bottom of the golf ball before painting by rubbing it firmly on a piece of rough sandpaper or a concrete surface. This creates a small flat spot for it to rest on.

Key Takeaways: Your Quick Guide to Golf Ball Art Projects

• Preparation is Key: Always start by cleaning old golf balls with soap and water to remove dirt and oils. For best results, lightly sand and prime the surface before painting golf balls.
• Choose the Right Paint: Acrylic craft paint is the most versatile option. Use multi-surface or outdoor-rated paints for garden projects and consider spray paint for a fast, even finish on vase fillers.
• Sealing is Non-Negotiable for Outdoors: To protect your garden golf ball art from rain and sun, always finish with 2-3 coats of a clear, UV-resistant, waterproof acrylic sealant.
• Use the Right Adhesive: For multi-ball projects like caterpillars, a strong, waterproof construction adhesive (like E6000) is essential. A hot glue gun is only suitable for attaching lightweight embellishments.
• Embrace the Dimples: The dimpled texture is a unique feature. Use it as a guide for patterns, or use a dabbing motion with a thicker paint to ensure full, opaque coverage.
• Don’t Just Decorate—Use Them as Tools: Golf ball painting (rolling paint-covered balls in a box) is a fantastic, low-mess process art activity for toddlers and preschoolers.

People Also Ask About Golf Ball Art Projects

What paint is best to use on golf balls?

The best and most versatile paint for golf ball art projects is acrylic craft paint. For projects that will live outdoors, choose a brand labeled “multi-surface” or “outdoor” as it has better adhesion and weather resistance. For a quick, smooth finish on multiple balls, acrylic spray paint is an excellent alternative.

Can you paint on golf balls permanently?

Yes, you can paint on golf balls permanently by properly preparing the surface and sealing your work. To ensure a permanent bond, you must start with a clean, dry golf ball. For maximum durability, lightly sand the surface, apply a coat of primer, use acrylic paint, and finish with several coats of a clear, waterproof acrylic sealant.

How do you seal painted golf balls for outdoor use?

To seal painted golf balls for outdoors, you must use a waterproof, UV-resistant clear acrylic sealant spray. After your paint is completely dry (wait at least 24 hours), place the golf balls in a well-ventilated area. Apply 2-3 light, even coats of the sealant, allowing about an hour of drying time between each coat.

How do you clean golf balls for crafts?

The best way to clean golf balls for crafts is to soak them in a bucket of warm water with a squirt of dish soap or a scoop of OxiClean. Let them soak for an hour, then use a scrub brush to remove any remaining dirt, grass stains, or logos. Rinse them thoroughly with clean water and let them air dry completely before painting.

What glue works best for golf ball crafts?

The best glue depends on the project; for bonding golf balls to each other for outdoor use, a strong, waterproof construction adhesive like E6000 or Liquid Nails is required. For attaching small, lightweight embellishments like googly eyes or felt, a standard hot glue gun is sufficient and works quickly.

Are golf ball crafts easy for kids?

Yes, many golf ball crafts are incredibly easy and fun for kids. Projects like “process art” where kids roll paint-covered balls in a box are perfect for toddlers. Simple painting projects like ladybugs or abstract designs are great for preschoolers and older kids with some adult supervision.

How do you paint both sides of a golf ball?

The easiest way to paint both sides is to use a simple stand. You can use a bottle cap, an egg carton, or even three toothpicks stuck into a piece of styrofoam to create a cradle. Paint the top half, let it dry completely, then flip the ball over and paint the bottom half.

Can you use Sharpies on golf balls?

Yes, Sharpie permanent markers work very well on golf balls and are great for detailed designs. For the most vibrant and lasting results, use oil-based Sharpie paint pens. To prevent the design from wearing off over time, you can spray it with a light coat of clear acrylic sealant.

What can I make with a lot of old golf balls?

With a lot of old golf balls, you can create larger-scale projects like a colorful garden caterpillar, a large bowl of decorative vase fillers, or a mosaic-style art piece. You could also make enough festive ornaments for an entire Christmas tree or supply a whole classroom with a fun art activity.

How do you attach a hanger to a golf ball?

The most secure way to attach a hanger is to use a small screw eye pin. First, drill a small pilot hole in the top of the golf ball. Then, using pliers to get a good grip, twist the screw eye pin into the hole until it is tight. You can then thread a ribbon or hook through the eye.

Final Thoughts on Your Golf Ball Art Adventure

That pile of old golf balls is no longer clutter; it’s a canvas. From a simple ladybug that makes a child smile to elegant vase fillers that elevate your home decor, golf ball art projects are a testament to how creativity can transform the mundane into the magnificent. These projects prove that you don’t need expensive supplies to create something beautiful—just a little paint, some glue, and the willingness to see potential in unexpected places. So, grab a ball, pick a project, and start making something wonderful.

Last update on 2026-04-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API