11 Ultimate Golf Ball Crafts Upcycling Ideas For Every Crafter

Have a bucket of old, scuffed golf balls gathering dust? You know they’re too good to just throw away.

Golf ball crafts are the creative process of transforming these discarded items into art. But the biggest frustration is watching your hard work peel or chip away because paint and glue won’t stick to the slick surface.

Golf ball crafts upcycling ideas: transform discarded balls into durable art by mastering a critical three-step surface preparation for perfect adhesion. This guide reveals that secret process and gives you 11 ultimate projects for every skill level.

Are Your Old Golf Balls Ready for a Second Life?

That bucket of surplus golf balls in your garage is more than just clutter; it’s a collection of high-quality, weighted spheres perfect for upcycling. The challenge, and the reason many beginner golf ball projects fail, lies in their design. The durable Surlyn or Urethane cover that makes them great for golf also makes them incredibly resistant to paint and glue.

This guide solves that core problem. We’ll show you how to properly repurpose golf balls, turning them into everything from functional home decor to charming garden art. By understanding the material you’re working with, you can create durable, long-lasting treasures.

CRITICAL Preparation: The Secret to Long-Lasting Golf Ball Crafts

The absolute key to successful golf ball crafts is conquering the slick, non-porous surface. Standard craft paints and glues will fail because they can’t form a strong bond with the plastic cover. This failure is the number one reason crafters get frustrated. By following a specific preparation process, you create a surface that is chemically and mechanically ready to accept paint and adhesives for a permanent finish. This is the information gain most other guides miss.

Three Non-Negotiable Steps for Perfect Adhesion

This three-step method is the difference between a craft that lasts for years and one that peels in a week. It combines a deep clean with both a mechanical bond (sanding) and a chemical bond (priming) for ultimate durability.

Materials Needed:

• Rubbing Alcohol or Acetone (for cleaning)
• Fine-Grit Sandpaper (180-220 grit)
• Plastic-Specific Primer Spray (e.g., Rust-Oleum or Krylon for plastics)
• Mild dish soap and scrub brush

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Deep Clean & Degrease: Start by washing the golf balls thoroughly with soapy water. Use a scrub brush to get any embedded dirt, grime, or mold out of the dimples. After rinsing and drying them completely, wipe each ball down with rubbing alcohol or acetone on a clean cloth. This step is crucial for removing all invisible oils and residues from the Surlyn or Urethane surface that prevent adhesion.
2. Light Mechanical Sanding: Using fine-grit sandpaper, lightly scuff the entire surface of each ball. You are not trying to sand down the dimples, but rather create a network of invisible micro-abrasions. This process, known as creating “tooth,” gives the primer a physical texture to grip onto, dramatically increasing the mechanical bond strength.
3. Apply Plastic Primer Sealant: In a well-ventilated area, apply two thin, even coats of a plastic-specific spray primer. It’s vital to use a primer engineered to bond with slick plastics. Allow it to dry completely between coats according to the manufacturer’s directions. This primer acts as a chemical sealant, creating a new, porous surface that your color paint can easily adhere to.

Pro-Tip: Never skip the priming step. A quick test: if water beads up on the cleaned ball, it’s not degreased enough. If paint beads up on the primer, it’s not a plastic-specific primer.

Safety Warning: When using spray primers and acetone, always work outdoors or in a space with cross-ventilation to avoid inhaling fumes.

11 Ultimate Golf Ball Crafts Upcycling Ideas

Now that you’ve mastered the critical preparation, you’re ready to transform those perfectly prepped spheres into stunning creations. Here are 11 of the best golf ball crafts, mixing easy seasonal projects with more advanced, durable art for every type of crafter. Each idea includes the specific materials needed for success.

1. Rustic Metal Rebar Garden Sculpture (Advanced)

Pin this genius tips to your ‘Outdoor DIY Art’ board!
This project teaches the advanced technique of securely bonding heavy metal elements to a golf ball, creating a permanent piece of rebar art for your garden. The key is using a structural adhesive like two-part epoxy.

Materials Needed:

• Cleaned, primed golf ball
• Small segment of rebar or thick, galvanized steel wire (prevents rust)
• Rotary tool (Dremel) with a small drill bit
• Industrial-Strength Two-Part Epoxy Resin (critical for permanent metal bond)
• Safety glasses and ventilation

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Prepare the Rod: If you’re using rebar, lightly sand one end to ensure a clean surface for the epoxy. For galvanized wire, bend the end into a tight hook shape. This hook will provide extra mechanical grip inside the ball.
2. Drill Pilot Hole: Wearing safety glasses, use your rotary tool to slowly drill a small pilot hole into the golf ball. The hole should be slightly smaller than your rod and about 1/4 inch deep.
3. Mix and Apply Epoxy: Following the package directions, mix the two-part epoxy resin. Immediately fill the drilled hole completely and also coat the end of the metal rod that will be inserted.
4. Secure and Cure: Firmly push the coated metal rod into the epoxy-filled hole. Wipe away any excess that squeezes out. Prop the piece upright so it stays straight and allow it to cure fully for 24-72 hours, depending on the epoxy formula.

Pro-Tip: Industrial epoxy cures best in warm temperatures. To prevent rotation, you can lightly etch or score the surface of the metal rod where it will contact the epoxy.

2. DIY Golf Ball Ladybug Garden Markers (Easy)

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This is an easy, high-impact craft perfect for adding a pop of color to your garden. The key to making these outdoor golf ball crafts last is using the right paint and a weatherproof sealant.

Materials Needed:

• Prepared golf balls (cleaned, sanded, primed)
• Exterior Grade Enamel Paint (Red and Black)
• Small detail paint brushes
• UV-Resistant Clear Sealant Spray (polyurethane or marine varnish)
• Thin floral wire (optional, for antennae)

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Base Coat: Paint the entire prepared golf ball with two coats of red exterior enamel paint. For a bumblebee, use yellow. Allow it to dry completely.
2. Add Details: Using a detail brush, paint a black ‘head’ on one end of the ball. Then, paint small black spots onto the red back. The dimples on the golf ball make perfect natural guides for placing your spots.
3. Seal for Outdoors: This is the most important step for longevity. Once the paint has fully cured (at least 24 hours), apply two coats of a UV-resistant clear sealant spray. This protects the paint from fading in the sun and cracking in the rain.
4. Attach Antennae (Optional): Drill two very shallow pilot holes on the ‘head’ area. Secure short pieces of thin floral wire into the holes using a small dab of clear epoxy for a permanent hold.

Lesson Learned: Always choose exterior or enamel paint for garden projects. Standard acrylic craft paint will peel and fade within one season, even with a sealant.

3. Personalized Christmas Snowman Ornaments (Easy/Seasonal)

Pin this quick craft to your ‘DIY Christmas Decor’ board!
These golf ball snowman ornaments are a quick, festive project perfect for kids and for creating personalized gifts. The dimpled texture of the ball naturally simulates the look of packed snow.

Materials Needed:

• Prepared golf balls (primed, optional white base coat)
• Small pieces of felt or thin ribbon (for scarf/hat)
• Miniature Screw Eye Hooks (for hanging)
• Black and orange acrylic craft paint (for face)
• Quick-setting super glue or high-temp hot glue sticks

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Paint the Face: If your golf ball isn’t already white, give it a base coat. You can apply the white paint with a slightly textured finish to enhance the “snow” effect. Use a small brush to paint black dots for eyes and mouth, and a tiny orange triangle for a carrot nose.
2. Attach Hanging Hook: Apply a small dab of super glue into one of the dimples on the top of the snowman’s head. Carefully screw the miniature screw eye hook directly into the glue, making sure it stands up straight while it sets.
3. Add Accessories: Cut a thin strip of felt or ribbon and tie it around the “neck” area just below the face to create a scarf. You can secure it with a dot of hot glue. Add a tiny felt top hat or earmuffs using hot glue.
4. Seal (Optional): While not required for an indoor ornament, a quick spray of clear craft sealant will protect the paint and help it last for many holiday seasons in storage.

Pro-Tip: If the screw eye hook won’t grip the plastic, first create a tiny pilot hole using a hand awl or a small Dremel bit before adding the super glue. This provides a much stronger structural hold.

4. Abstract Paint Pour Paperweights (Intermediate)

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The natural weight and density of a golf ball make it a perfect canvas for a functional paperweight. Using fluid acrylic paint pouring techniques, you can create a sophisticated and modern piece of abstract art for your desk.

Materials Needed:

• Prepared golf balls (cleaned, sanded, primed)
• Fluid Acrylic Pouring Paints (with pouring medium)
• Small disposable plastic cups and stir sticks
• Disposable gloves and plastic sheet (for cleanup)
• High-gloss polyurethane spray sealant

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Mix the Paints: In a single disposable cup, layer your chosen fluid acrylic colors. Pour them in one after another but do not stir them together; this layering is what creates the beautiful cellular effect.
2. Pour Over Ball: Place your prepared golf ball on a small stand (a bottle cap works well) over your plastic sheet. Quickly flip the cup of paint over the ball and lift it, allowing the paint to flow down and cover the entire sphere.
3. Cure Time: Let the paint drip and self-level. This is a patient process, as the paint requires a long cure time—up to 72 hours—before the ball can be handled without smudging the design.
4. Seal the Finish: Once the paint is completely hard and cured, spray 2-3 coats of a high-gloss polyurethane sealant. This protects the delicate paint film and gives it a professional, glass-like finish.

Lesson Learned: Use a few drops of silicone oil in your pouring medium to encourage the separation of colors and the creation of “cells,” which gives the abstract art incredible depth and dimension.

5. Minimalist Faux Succulent Planters (Intermediate)

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This project creates a piece of modern, minimalist home decor that looks surprisingly high-end. It requires precision drilling to create a secure socket for the faux succulents.

Materials Needed:

• Prepared golf balls (painted in matte neutral colors)
• Assorted Faux Succulents (very small size)
• Strong Super Glue Gel (cyanoacrylate)
• Rotary Tool (Dremel) with a 1/8 inch drill bit
• Safety glasses

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Drill a Socket: Put on your safety glasses. Use the Dremel to carefully drill a small, shallow socket—about 1/4 inch deep—into the top center of the painted golf ball. This socket is what will hold the succulent stem securely.
2. Trim the Succulent: Trim the plastic stem of the faux succulent so it’s short and flat enough to fit snugly into the socket you just drilled.
3. Apply Glue: Fill the drilled socket with a generous amount of strong super glue gel. For maximum, permanent hold, you can also use a small amount of clear two-part epoxy.
4. Insert and Cure: Firmly press the trimmed succulent stem into the glue-filled socket. Hold it in place for about 30 seconds to ensure it sets straight. Allow the glue to cure fully before displaying your new miniature planter.

Pro-Tip: For an added touch of realism, place a few tiny grains of sand or miniature craft gravel around the base of the succulent before the glue dries completely.

6. Resin-Cast LED Night Light Lamp (Advanced)

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This advanced project permanently transforms golf balls into a stunning piece of functional home lighting. By casting them in clear epoxy resin with LED lights, you create a high-value item that looks professionally made.

Materials Needed:

• Clean golf balls (no need for primer, but must be clean)
• Crystal Clear Casting Epoxy Resin Kit (two-part formula)
• Resin dye (optional, light blue or green)
• Silicone mold (cube or cylinder shape)
• Small strand of battery-powered LED fairy lights
• Stir sticks, mixing cups, heat gun/lighter (for bubbles)

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Prep the Base Pour: Mix a small batch of the two-part resin according to the instructions. If you’re using dye, add a few drops now. Pour a thin base layer into your silicone mold and let it partially cure for 1-2 hours until it’s tacky to the touch.
2. Position Balls and Lights: Carefully place the clean golf balls onto the tacky resin base, arranging them as desired. Weave the string of LED fairy lights around and between the balls, making sure the battery pack remains outside the mold.
3. Second Pour: Mix the rest of your resin. To prevent air bubbles from getting trapped in the dimples, pour the resin slowly down the inside wall of the mold, not directly onto the golf balls. Let it fill up and cover the balls completely.
4. Cure and Finish: Immediately after pouring, use a heat gun or pass a lighter flame quickly over the surface to pop any rising air bubbles. Cover the mold to protect it from dust and let the resin cure completely, which typically takes 48-72 hours. Once hardened, demold your lamp.

Expert Tip: Air bubbles are the enemy of clear resin. Use a heat gun or long lighter flame passed quickly over the surface immediately after pouring to encourage bubbles to rise and pop.

7. Custom Golf Ball Drawer Pulls & Knobs (Functional)

Pin this functional upcycling idea to your ‘Furniture Refinishing’ board!
Create custom, durable hardware for cabinets and dressers. This functional golf ball craft requires precise drilling and a strong epoxy bond to ensure the knobs can withstand daily pulling force.

Materials Needed:

• Prepared golf balls (cleaned, primed, and painted to match decor)
• Rotary Tool (Dremel) with drill bit the size of the screw shaft
• Cabinet Knob Mounting Screws (pre-cut to desired length)
• Strong two-part epoxy or construction adhesive
• Safety glasses

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Drill the Hole: Wearing safety glasses, carefully drill a hole into the back of the golf ball, about 3/4 of an inch deep. The hole needs to be slightly wider than the screw’s shaft but narrower than its head.
2. Secure the Screw: Fill the drilled hole with a generous amount of two-part epoxy. Insert the cabinet knob screw, head first, into the hole. As you push it in, the threads of the screw will bite into the plastic and epoxy, creating a superior hold.
3. Cure Time: Wipe away any excess glue. Make sure the screw head remains flush or slightly recessed inside the ball. Secure the ball so the screw stays straight and allow the epoxy to cure for at least 24 hours to achieve maximum strength.
4. Install: Once fully cured, your custom golf ball knob is ready. Install it onto your furniture by screwing it in from the inside of the drawer or cabinet door.

Pro-Tip: If using a standard drawer pull screw, ensure you use a screw that is designed to be fully embedded, rather than a screw/nut combination, for a cleaner, permanent installation.

8. Textured Snake or Caterpillar Figures (Easy/Intermediate)

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This project teaches you how to join multiple golf balls together to create flexible, articulated figures like a snake or caterpillar. The key is drilling through the center and using a strong internal wire.

Materials Needed:

• Prepared golf balls (5-7 total)
• Vibrant Acrylic Paints
• Drill/Dremel with bit size slightly larger than the wire
• Flexible Galvanized Wire (14-gauge recommended) or small wood dowels
• Strong super glue or two-part epoxy

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Drill Connecting Holes: Carefully drill a clean hole all the way through the center of each golf ball, from one side to the other. Make sure the wire or dowel you plan to use can pass through easily.
2. Paint and Dry: Paint the balls in your desired pattern (e.g., green for a caterpillar, blue and yellow for a snake). Let them dry completely before assembling.
3. Thread and Glue: Thread the galvanized wire through the sequence of golf balls. Between each ball, apply a dab of strong super glue or epoxy at the point where the balls meet the wire to lock them in place.
4. Secure Ends: Once all the balls are threaded, bend the ends of the wire into a small loop to prevent the balls from slipping off. You can also add small wooden beads to the ends, securing them with glue for a finished look.

Pro-Tip: If you need a more permanent, rigid structure (e.g., a snowman), substitute the wire for a small, rigid wood dowel secured with strong epoxy.

9. Personalized Golf Ball Keychains/Bag Tags (Easy/Gift)

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Create a small, functional, and highly personalized gift that’s perfect for any golfer. This easy project is all about using durable hardware and a clean personalization technique like a vinyl decal.

Materials Needed:

• Clean, white or painted golf balls
• Heavy-Duty Key Ring Hardware (split rings or chains)
• Miniature Screw Eye Hooks (durable, galvanized for strength)
• Vinyl decals, stencils, or permanent marker pens
• Strong super glue or two-part epoxy

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Drill and Insert Hook: Drill a shallow pilot hole into one end of the golf ball. Fill the hole with a generous amount of strong super glue or epoxy, then twist the screw eye hook into place. Ensure it sets straight.
2. Personalize: Once the glue is completely cured, it’s time to personalize. For a professional finish, use a vinyl cutting machine to create crisp initials or a simple logo. You can also use permanent markers for handwritten names or messages.
3. Seal: Spray the personalized area with a thin coat of clear sealant. This is essential to protect the vinyl decal or permanent marker from abrasion and rubbing off with daily use.
4. Attach Ring: Once the sealant is dry, connect the screw eye hook to your key ring or golf bag tag hardware.

Pro-Tip: If creating a Father’s Day gift, use a black permanent marker to list the birthdates of his children or grandchildren on the ball, sealing them afterward for permanence.

10. Mosaic Stepping Stone Accents (Advanced/Outdoor)

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Integrate golf balls into a permanent piece of outdoor hardscaping. This advanced cement craft requires knowledge of how to embed objects into concrete for a strong, lasting bond that can withstand foot traffic and weather.

Materials Needed:

• Clean, primed golf balls (whole or halved using a saw/Dremel)
• Pre-made or DIY Stepping Stone Cement Mix
• Stepping stone mold (silicone or plastic)
• Mosaic tiles or small glass pieces (optional)
• Trowel and industrial-strength gloves

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Mix Cement: Following the manufacturer’s directions, mix the stepping stone cement until you have a thick, workable consistency similar to brownie batter.
2. Pour and Position: Pour the cement into your mold, filling it about halfway. Begin pressing the prepared golf balls into the wet cement. If you’ve cut them in half, place them flat side down. It’s crucial to push them down far enough to be level or slightly recessed to prevent them from becoming a trip hazard.
3. Fill and Cure: Pour the remaining cement around the balls. Use a trowel to carefully level the surface, ensuring the cement completely surrounds the edges of each ball for a strong, permanent fixture.
4. Demold and Seal: Let the stone cure for the recommended 48-72 hours, keeping it moist as directed. Once it’s fully hardened, remove it from the mold. You can optionally apply a cement sealant for maximum weather protection.

Lesson Learned: If using whole golf balls, you must ensure they are pressed deep enough into the cement, otherwise the smooth curvature will create a weak bond and they may pop out over time.

11. Festive Golf Ball Holiday Wreath (Intermediate/Seasonal)

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This impressive holiday decoration uses a high volume of golf balls to create a dense, heavy wreath. The success of this project depends on using a very strong adhesive that can support the weight.

Materials Needed:

• 75-100 Prepared golf balls (primed, painted in desired colors)
• Wire Wreath Frame (or dense foam ring)
• Heavy-duty Outdoor/All-Weather Hot Glue Sticks (required for density)
• Embellishments (pine cones, ribbon, small ornaments)
• Clear protective sealant (optional, but recommended)

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Prep the Frame: If you’re using a foam frame, paint it a color that matches your base golf balls to hide any gaps. For a wire frame, you can wrap it in matching ribbon or burlap.
2. Establish the Outer Ring: Using your high-temp glue gun, begin gluing golf balls to the outer edge of the frame. Pack them tightly together for a uniform look. Apply a generous amount of glue to the flattest side of the ball for maximum surface contact.
3. Build the Inner Rings: Continue gluing rows of golf balls, working your way inward. Stagger the positions of the balls to hide gaps and create a dense, textured appearance. Use plenty of high-temp, all-weather hot glue for a rapid set and a strong hold that can support the weight.
4. Embellish and Finish: Once the wreath form is completely covered in golf balls, fill any small remaining gaps with decorative items like pine cones, ribbon, or small ornaments. If the wreath will be hung outdoors, apply a final clear sealant to protect the paint.

Lesson Learned: Regular hot glue will soften and fail if exposed to heat (like hanging on a sunny door). Always use a high-temp, specialized outdoor-formula hot glue for permanent wreaths.

Key Takeaways: Your Quick Guide to Ultimate Golf Ball Crafts

To ensure your projects are successful and durable, always remember the three most important pillars: proper surface preparation, choosing the right adhesive for the job, and selecting materials appropriate for the environment (indoor vs. outdoor).

Top 5 Action Items for Golf Ball Crafting Success

1. Prep is Paramount: Never paint directly onto the slick Surlyn surface. Always clean (alcohol), sand (light abrasion), and prime (plastic-specific primer) first. This is the single most important step for durability.
2. Match Glue to Material: Use basic hot glue only for light, indoor embellishments like felt or paper. Use Industrial Two-Part Epoxy for all structural projects, metal attachments, or any craft that needs to survive outdoors.
3. Choose Exterior Paints: For any project that will be placed outside, such as garden markers or hardscaping, you must use specialized Enamel or exterior-grade paint and finish with a UV-resistant sealant.
4. Utilize the Dimples: The dimple texture can be a creative asset. Use it to simulate texture for things like animal scales or snow. Alternatively, for a completely smooth canvas, the dimples can be filled with automotive putty before priming.
5. Drill for Durability: When attaching structural components like wire, screws, or dowels, always drill a small pilot hole first. Securing the element with epoxy inside the hole will prevent the heavy ball from pulling the component out over time.

People Also Ask About Golf Ball Craft Durability

What is the best type of glue to use on golf balls?

The best type of glue depends on the material you are attaching and where the craft will be displayed. For permanent, structural bonds—especially involving metal, wood, or outdoor use—a strong, industrial two-part epoxy is mandatory. For quick, lightweight indoor embellishments, a high-temp hot glue gun is sufficient.

Should I seal my golf ball crafts, and with what material?

Yes, sealing is crucial, especially for outdoor projects. Use a clear, UV-resistant polyurethane or marine varnish spray for projects exposed to sun and rain to prevent fading and cracking. For indoor items, a simple clear acrylic sealant will protect against dust and handling damage.

How do I prevent the paint from chipping off the smooth golf ball cover?

Preventing chipping requires three steps before painting. First, thoroughly clean the surface with alcohol to remove oils. Second, lightly scuff the entire ball with fine-grit sandpaper to create a mechanical grip. Finally, apply a dedicated plastic primer/sealant designed to bond to the Surlyn or Urethane cover material.

What is the safest way to drill a hole into a golf ball?

The safest method is to use a rotary tool (like a Dremel) with a sharp, small drill bit and always wear protective eyewear. Drill slowly and apply consistent, gentle pressure. The core of a golf ball is very dense, so applying excessive speed can melt the plastic cover rather than cutting through it cleanly.

Final Thoughts

The ultimate success of your golf ball crafts in 2026 hinges on moving beyond simple ideas and embracing the science of surface preparation. By cleaning, priming, and matching your adhesive to the task, you can transform a cheap, found object into a high-end piece of functional art or durable decor. You now possess the expert methodology to conquer the challenge of the slick Surlyn cover.

Which of the 11 ultimate upcycling ideas will you tackle first?

Last update on 2026-01-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API