13 Golf Ball Crafts for Kids: Simple DIY Art & Play

Feeling stuck for screen-free fun? Looking for creative ways to entertain the kids without breaking the bank? It’s a common challenge for parents and caregivers alike.

Golf ball crafts for kids are creative, DIY art projects that repurpose old golf balls into fun, engaging toys, decorations, and learning tools, suitable for children aged 2-12. These activities promote fine motor skills, imagination, and sustainability, offering a budget-friendly solution for endless entertainment. Leveraging tested frameworks and data-driven insights, this guide will unlock a world of possibilities using a surprisingly versatile medium. You’ll discover how transforming simple golf balls can spark joy and foster developmental growth.

13 Golf Ball Crafts for Kids: Simple DIY Art & Play

1. Craft Cute Golf Ball Ladybugs

Pin this adorable golf ball ladybug craft for a fun garden-themed activity!

Creating golf ball ladybugs is an easy and cute animal-themed craft project for kids. This craft turns ordinary golf balls into charming garden bugs, perfect for imaginative play or as cheerful decorations. It utilizes simple materials like paint and googly eyes, ensuring a fun experience for children.

Supplies Needed

• Used golf balls, cleaned and dried
• Non-toxic red acrylic paint
• Non-toxic black acrylic paint
• Small paintbrushes (various sizes)
• Googly eyes (various sizes)
• Black pipe cleaners
• Craft glue (suitable for kids, quick-drying)
• Optional: Clear craft sealant spray (adult use only)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Clean golf balls thoroughly with soap and water, then dry completely.
2. Paint each golf ball entirely with red acrylic paint. Allow to dry. Apply a second coat if needed for full coverage.
3. Once dry, paint a black line down the middle of the golf ball to create the ladybug’s wings.
4. Add black dots on each “wing” section using a smaller paintbrush or the back of a paintbrush handle.
5. Glue two googly eyes onto the “head” end of the golf ball.
6. Cut a black pipe cleaner into two small pieces (about 1-2 inches each) and curl the ends slightly for antennae.
7. Glue the pipe cleaner antennae onto the top of the ladybug’s head, behind the eyes. Let all glue dry completely.
8. Optional: For outdoor display, an adult can apply a clear craft sealant spray for weather protection.

• > Pro-Tip: For younger children, pre-paint the golf balls red and let them add the black details and googly eyes. This simplifies the process and keeps it age-appropriate. Using a small sponge dauber for the black spots can create a fun, textured look!

2. Design Golf Ball Snowman Ornaments

Save this festive golf ball snowman craft to your holiday decor board!

Crafting golf ball snowman ornaments offers a charming way to create handmade holiday decorations. This project repurposes golf balls into festive snowman figures, adding a personalized touch to your holiday tree or home decor. With simple painting and a few accessories, you’ll have delightful ornaments.

Supplies Needed

• Used golf balls, cleaned and dried
• White acrylic paint (non-toxic)
• Small paintbrushes
• Orange and black fine-tip paint pens (non-toxic)
• Fabric scraps (e.g., felt, fleece, cotton) for scarves
• Miniature hats or pipe cleaners for earmuffs
• Craft glue (strong-hold, quick-drying)
• Optional: Ribbon or string for hanging, glitter

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Paint each clean golf ball completely white with acrylic paint. Let dry thoroughly between coats.
2. Once dry, draw a small orange carrot nose and two black dots for eyes using paint pens. Add a small black dotted mouth.
3. Cut a thin strip of fabric (about 1/2 inch wide and 4-6 inches long) to make a scarf. Tie it around the “neck” area of the snowman.
4. Attach miniature hats with glue, or create earmuffs by gluing two small pom-poms to each side of the head and connecting them with a piece of pipe cleaner across the top.
5. If making a hanging ornament, glue a small loop of ribbon to the top of the snowman’s head (under the hat or earmuffs) or insert a small screw eye for a more secure hanger (adult task).
6. Optional: Add a touch of glitter while the paint is still wet for extra sparkle.

• > Pro-Tip: Instead of painting a mouth, older kids can use a thin black permanent marker for cleaner lines. For a quick hanger, tie a small bow with festive ribbon and glue it directly to the top of the snowman’s head.

3. Create Colorful Golf Ball Art Rollers

Roll into fun! Pin this vibrant golf ball art activity for creative kids.

Colorful golf ball art rollers offer a unique and messy-fun painting technique for kids, focusing on the process of creation. This activity uses golf balls as tools to create abstract art, engaging children in sensory exploration and pattern making. It’s an easy way to experience process art with golf balls.

Supplies Needed

• Used golf balls, cleaned
• Washable tempera paint or finger paint in various bright colors
• Large sheet of paper or cardstock
• Shallow cardboard box or tray (with low sides)
• Small cups or plates for paint
• Newspaper or plastic sheeting for workspace protection

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare your workspace by covering it with newspaper or a plastic sheet.
2. Place a large sheet of paper at the bottom of the shallow cardboard box or tray.
3. Pour small puddles of different colored paints onto separate plates or directly onto the paper (sparingly).
4. Dip one golf ball into a color of paint, coating it lightly.
5. Place the paint-covered golf ball into the cardboard box. Gently tilt and shake the box to make the golf ball roll across the paper, creating patterns.
6. Repeat with other golf balls and different colors, or roll multiple colors at once for a marbled effect.
7. Once satisfied with the artwork, carefully remove the paper and let it dry completely.

• > Pro-Tip: For extra sensory fun, try this activity outdoors on a large tarp. For very young children, they can simply hold the golf ball and roll it by hand on a paper placed inside a larger tray. Encourage them to observe how colors mix!

4. Construct Golf Ball Garden Bees

Buzz into creativity! Pin this adorable golf ball bee craft for your garden!

Making golf ball garden bees is a charming way to create insect-themed garden decorations with a recycled element. These golf ball bugs transform into cheerful garden accents using paint, craft foam, and googly eyes. They are a delightful addition to any outdoor space.

Supplies Needed

• Used golf balls, cleaned and dried
• Yellow outdoor acrylic paint
• Black outdoor acrylic paint
• Small paintbrushes
• Googly eyes
• White or clear craft foam sheet (for wings)
• Strong, waterproof craft glue (e.g., E6000 or similar, adult supervision for use)
• Optional: Clear outdoor sealant spray (adult use only)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Paint each clean golf ball completely yellow. Let dry, then apply a second coat if needed.
2. Once completely dry, paint two or three black stripes around the golf ball, leaving a small yellow “face” area.
3. Glue googly eyes onto the yellow “face” area.
4. Cut two small bee wing shapes from the craft foam. They should be slightly opaque or translucent for a realistic look.
5. Glue the wings onto the back of the golf ball bee. Hold firmly until the glue sets.
6. Optional: An adult can spray the finished bees with an outdoor clear sealant for extra weather resistance, ensuring longevity in the garden.

• > Pro-Tip: For younger kids, use washable yellow and black paint, then once dry, an adult can apply the sealant. You can also use black permanent marker for stripes, but paint offers better coverage.

5. Create “Worry Stone” Golf Balls

Pin these soothing golf ball worry stones for mindful moments!

Creating “worry stone” golf balls offers a calming, tactile craft that can help children manage anxiety or focus. These painted golf balls provide a smooth, comforting surface for small hands. This creative golf ball project emphasizes emotional regulation and sensory engagement.

Supplies Needed

• Used golf balls, cleaned and dried
• Non-toxic acrylic paints in calming colors (blues, greens, purples, grays)
• Small paintbrushes or cotton swabs
• Fine-tip paint pens (black or white)
• Optional: Mandala dotting tools, clear non-toxic sealant

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Paint each golf ball with a base coat of your chosen calming color. Let dry completely.
2. Once the base is dry, use contrasting paint colors, paint pens, or dotting tools to create simple, repetitive patterns like dots, swirls, waves, or abstract designs. Encourage freehand drawing for a personal touch.
3. Let all designs dry fully.
4. Optional: An adult can apply a clear, non-toxic craft sealant to protect the paint and create a smooth, durable finish.

• > Pro-Tip: Encourage children to choose colors and patterns that make them feel calm. These can be held in their hand, rolled between fingers, or placed on a desk as a visual reminder to take a deep breath.

6. Assemble Golf Ball Monsters

Unleash creativity! Pin these silly golf ball monsters for monstrously good fun!

To make golf ball monsters, kids can use paint and various craft materials to create imaginative, open-ended figures. These creative golf ball projects encourage storytelling and pretend play. Each golf ball transforms into a unique character with its own personality.

Supplies Needed

• Used golf balls, cleaned and dried
• Non-toxic acrylic paints in various bright, wild colors
• Small paintbrushes
• Assorted googly eyes (different sizes and quantities)
• Pipe cleaners
• Felt scraps (various colors)
• Small pom-poms, feathers, yarn scraps (for texture)
• Craft glue (suitable for kids, quick-drying)
• Scissors (adult supervision for cutting felt/pipe cleaners)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Paint each golf ball a base color. Let dry. Apply a second coat if desired.
2. Once completely dry, glue on googly eyes. Encourage multiple eyes or unusual placements.
3. Cut felt scraps into shapes for mouths, teeth, or small arms/legs. Glue them onto the monster.
4. Bend pipe cleaners into horns, antennae, or extra limbs. Glue them securely to the golf ball.
5. Add pom-poms, feathers, or yarn scraps for unique textures and monster fur.
6. Let all glue dry completely before playing with your new monster friends.

• > Pro-Tip: Provide a “monster parts buffet” with various materials and let kids freely combine them without strict rules. This fosters immense creativity!

7. Make Patterned Golf Ball Game Markers

Level up your backyard games! Pin these DIY golf ball markers for family fun.

Making patterned golf ball game markers allows you to create personalized, durable markers for outdoor games. These golf ball crafts are perfect for outdoor play, providing easy identification during activities like cornhole or bocce. Utilizing outdoor-grade paints ensures they withstand the elements.

Supplies Needed

• Used golf balls, cleaned and dried
• Outdoor acrylic paints in various bright colors
• Small paintbrushes
• Fine-tip paint pens or permanent markers
• Optional: Clear outdoor sealant spray (adult use only)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Clean golf balls thoroughly and ensure they are completely dry.
2. Paint each golf ball with a solid base color if desired, or leave white. Let dry.
3. Choose distinct patterns for each ball: stripes, polka dots, zigzags, checkerboards, or unique abstract designs.
4. Use paintbrushes or paint pens to apply your chosen patterns onto the golf balls. Ensure each ball is easily distinguishable from the others.
5. Let all paint dry completely.
6. Optional: For increased durability and weather resistance, an adult can spray the finished game markers with a clear outdoor sealant.

• > Pro-Tip: To make painting easier, place the golf ball on a plastic cup or an empty toilet paper roll to keep it from rolling while you paint. For quick identification, use high-contrast colors and simple, bold patterns.

8. Create Marbled Golf Ball Art

Swirls of color! Pin this mesmerizing marbled golf ball art project!

Marbled golf ball art explores a visually striking and experimental technique for golf balls. By using paint and water, golf balls can be transformed with unique, swirling patterns. This creative golf ball painting idea for children yields surprisingly elegant results.

Supplies Needed

• Used golf balls, cleaned and dried
• Small plastic container (old margarine tub, disposable food container)
• Water (room temperature)
• Non-toxic acrylic paints or old nail polish in 2-3 contrasting colors
• Wooden skewer or toothpick
• Gloves (optional, but recommended for easy cleanup)
• Newspaper or paper towels for drying

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Fill your plastic container with room-temperature water, about 2-3 inches deep.
2. Drip several drops of your first paint/nail polish color onto the surface of the water. It should spread out.
3. Add drops of your second color, then third, in a circular pattern over the first.
4. Use a wooden skewer or toothpick to gently swirl the colors together once or twice. Do not overmix.
5. Wearing gloves (optional), carefully dip a golf ball into the water, rolling it quickly across the surface to pick up the paint pattern.
6. Lift the golf ball out and place it on newspaper or paper towels to dry. Let dry completely.
7. Wipe the remaining paint film off the water surface with a paper towel before marbling the next golf ball.

• > Pro-Tip: Nail polish creates bolder, more defined patterns, but acrylic paint can work too if thinned slightly. Experiment with different water temperatures – sometimes slightly warmer water helps the paint spread better.

9. Craft Golf Ball Photo Holders

Display precious memories! Pin these DIY golf ball photo holders for a thoughtful gift!

Crafting golf ball photo holders allows you to create a personalized gift or decorative item that showcases cherished photos. These DIY golf ball decorations become thoughtful golf ball gift ideas handmade by children. The simple addition of a wire transforms a golf ball into a functional keepsake.

Supplies Needed

• Used golf balls, cleaned and dried
• Non-toxic acrylic paints (optional, for decorating the ball)
• Small paintbrushes
• Craft wire (about 18-gauge, flexible but sturdy)
• Wire cutters and round-nose pliers (adult tools)
• Small drill bit (e.g., 1/16 inch) and drill (adult tool)
• Strong craft glue
• Small photos (wallet size or trimmed)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Optional: Paint the golf balls a solid color or decorate them as desired. Let dry completely.
2. Adult Task: Using a small drill bit, carefully drill a shallow hole (about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep) into the top center of each golf ball.
3. Cut a piece of craft wire, about 6-8 inches long.
4. Using round-nose pliers, create a small spiral or loop at one end of the wire. This will hold the photo.
5. Bend the remaining wire into a shape that will stand upright, leaving about 1 inch straight at the bottom.
6. Apply strong craft glue into the drilled hole in the golf ball.
7. Insert the straight end of the wire into the glued hole. Hold in place until the glue begins to set. Let dry completely (overnight is best).
8. Once dry, insert a small photo into the wire loop.

• > Pro-Tip: For added stability, use a hot glue gun to secure the wire in the golf ball (adult task). You can also use polymer clay to create a base for the wire loop if drilling isn’t an option.

10. Transform Golf Balls into Frogs

Hoppy crafting! Pin this cute golf ball frog for a splash of fun!

To transform golf balls into frogs, you’ll create a charming animal figure for play or decoration. This project involves painting golf balls vibrant green and adding simple felt features to make golf ball frogs. It’s a great example of golf ball crafts that look like animals.

Supplies Needed

• Used golf balls, cleaned and dried
• Non-toxic bright green acrylic paint
• Small paintbrushes
• Large googly eyes
• Green felt sheet (for feet)
• Pink or red felt scrap (for tongue)
• Craft glue (suitable for kids)
• Scissors (adult supervision for cutting felt)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Paint each clean golf ball completely bright green. Let dry between coats.
2. Once dry, glue two large googly eyes prominently onto the top of the golf ball, close together, resembling frog eyes.
3. Cut four small “webbed” frog feet shapes from the green felt.
4. Glue two feet to the front sides and two to the back sides of the golf ball.
5. Cut a long, thin strip from the pink or red felt for the frog’s tongue. Make one end slightly wider or tapered.
6. Glue the wider end of the tongue just below the eyes. You can curl the tongue slightly for a playful look.
7. Let all glue dry completely.

• > Pro-Tip: Use a darker green paint or permanent marker to draw small spots or stripes on your frog for added detail and realism. These frogs look great near a small pond or in a plant pot!

11. Design Golf Ball Desk Pets

Adopt a desk pet! Pin these cute golf ball companions for imaginative play!

Designing golf ball desk pets allows children to create small, personalized figures for imaginative play or desk decoration. These homemade golf ball figures are creative golf ball projects for kids, transforming simple golf balls into unique companions. The emphasis is on personalization and accessibility.

Supplies Needed

• Used golf balls, cleaned and dried
• Non-toxic acrylic paints in various colors
• Small paintbrushes
• Assorted googly eyes
• Small pom-poms, felt scraps, pipe cleaners, small feathers
• Craft glue (suitable for kids, quick-drying)
• Optional: Small wooden bases or bottle caps to help them stand

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Paint each golf ball a base color of your choice. Let dry, then apply a second coat if needed.
2. Once dry, glue on googly eyes to create the pet’s face.
3. Add features like pom-pom hair, felt ears, pipe cleaner legs or antennae, or feather wings using craft glue.
4. Draw mouths, spots, or other details with fine-tip paint pens or permanent markers.
5. Let all components dry completely.
6. Optional: If your desk pet won’t stand, glue it to a small wooden disc or bottle cap.

• > Pro-Tip: Encourage kids to create a “family” of desk pets, each with its own name and personality. These are fantastic for sparking creative writing or storytelling activities!

12. Make Golf Ball Story Starters

Spark imagination! Pin these golf ball story starters for endless tales!

Making golf ball story starters creates an engaging, educational tool that encourages imaginative storytelling and language development. These creative golf ball projects for kids transform golf balls into visual prompts. This activity supports cognitive skills and fosters creativity in young storytellers.

Supplies Needed

• Used golf balls, cleaned and dried
• Non-toxic acrylic paints in various colors
• Small paintbrushes
• Fine-tip paint pens or permanent markers
• Clear non-toxic craft sealant (optional)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Paint each golf ball a solid base color, or leave them white. Let dry.
2. On each golf ball, paint or draw a clear, simple image or symbol. Examples include: a castle, a tree, an animal, a car, a cloud, a sun, a moon, a house, a person, a monster, a star, a boat.
3. Ensure the images are distinct and easily recognizable.
4. Let all paint and drawings dry completely.
5. Optional: Apply a clear non-toxic craft sealant to protect the images, especially if handled frequently.

• > Pro-Tip: To play, children roll 2-3 golf balls and then create a story that includes the images shown on the rolled balls. This is a fantastic way to develop narrative skills and imagination!

13. Craft Glow-in-the-Dark Golf Balls

Light up the night! Pin these awesome glow-in-the-dark golf balls for unique play!

Crafting glow-in-the-dark golf balls creates a fun, novel play item perfect for evening activities. These creative golf ball projects use special paint to make golf balls luminous, offering a unique sensory experience. They are fantastic for night games, adding an exciting twist to classic play.

Supplies Needed

• Used golf balls, cleaned and dried
• Non-toxic glow-in-the-dark paint (various colors if desired)
• Small paintbrushes
• Optional: Clear craft sealant (non-toxic)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Clean golf balls thoroughly and ensure they are completely dry.
2. In a well-ventilated area, paint each golf ball completely with glow-in-the-dark paint. Apply thin, even coats for best results.
3. Let each coat dry thoroughly before applying the next. Multiple coats (3-4) are usually needed to achieve a strong glow.
4. Once all coats are dry, optional: apply a clear craft sealant to protect the paint and make it more durable.
5. To “charge” the glow, expose the golf balls to a bright light source (sunlight, a lamp, or a UV blacklight) for several minutes.
6. Turn off the lights and enjoy their magical glow!

• > Pro-Tip: For the brightest glow, use a UV blacklight to charge your golf balls. These are fantastic for nighttime games like “glow-golf” or hide-and-seek in a darkened room!

FAQs About golf ball crafts for kids

What age group are golf ball crafts suitable for?

Golf ball crafts are broadly suitable for children aged 2-12 years, with projects varying in complexity. Toddlers (2-4) can enjoy simple painting and gluing with supervision, while preschoolers (4-6) can manage more detailed painting and assembly. School-aged children (7-12) can tackle intricate designs, small attachments, and more complex conceptual crafts, fostering greater independence and fine motor skills.

Can kids paint golf balls?

Yes, kids can absolutely paint golf balls, and it’s one of the most popular and versatile golf ball craft activities. Using non-toxic acrylic or washable tempera paints is recommended for safety and easy cleanup. Painting golf balls enhances fine motor skills and creativity, allowing children to create colorful designs, characters, or abstract art.

What materials are needed for golf ball crafts?

Basic materials for golf ball crafts include used golf balls, non-toxic acrylic paints, paintbrushes, and craft glue. Depending on the specific project, you might also need googly eyes, pipe cleaners, felt scraps, pom-poms, craft wire, or clear sealants. Ensure all materials are child-safe and age-appropriate for hands-on activities.

How to make golf ball ladybugs?

To make golf ball ladybugs, first paint cleaned golf balls red, allowing them to dry completely. Then, paint a black line down the center and add black dots for spots. Glue googly eyes and small black pipe cleaner antennae onto the “head” end. This simple craft transforms plain golf balls into adorable garden bugs.

Are golf ball crafts safe for kids?

Golf ball crafts are generally safe for kids when appropriate materials are used and adult supervision is provided, especially for younger children. Always use non-toxic paints and glues. Supervise when using scissors or small embellishments, and ensure hot glue guns are handled only by adults. Focus on age-appropriate craft guidelines.

What is process art with golf balls?

Process art with golf balls involves using golf balls as tools to create abstract art, focusing on the creative journey rather than a perfect final product. Children dip golf balls in paint and then roll them across paper inside a contained area, observing the patterns and color mixing. This activity encourages sensory exploration and boosts imaginative play.

How to clean golf balls for crafting?

To clean golf balls for crafting, simply wash them with warm soapy water and a scrub brush to remove any dirt or residue. Rinse thoroughly and then allow them to air dry completely. Ensuring the golf balls are clean and dry helps paint and glue adhere better, resulting in a more durable and attractive craft.

Best golf ball crafts for Father’s Day?

Excellent golf ball crafts for Father’s Day include personalized golf ball photo holders, custom-painted game markers, or “worry stone” golf balls. Kids can decorate golf balls with special messages, draw pictures, or create unique patterns that reflect Dad’s personality or favorite colors. These handmade gifts are thoughtful and cherished.

How to decorate golf balls for kids?

To decorate golf balls for kids, you can paint them with acrylic or tempera paints, use paint pens for details, or add embellishments like googly eyes, felt, and pipe cleaners. The key is to encourage creativity and provide a variety of child-safe materials. Simple patterns, animal designs, or abstract art are all great starting points.

What to do with old golf balls?

Old golf balls can be repurposed into a myriad of creative crafts for kids, transforming them from discarded items into fun art and play objects. Beyond crafting, they can also be used as garden markers, decorative accents, or even as sensory play items, offering an eco-friendly and imaginative solution for what to do with them.

Final Thoughts on Golf Ball Crafts for Kids

Golf ball crafts offer a uniquely creative and sustainable way to engage children of all ages, transforming overlooked items into sources of endless fun and learning. As we’ve explored through these 13 diverse projects, from adorable ladybugs to glowing game markers, the humble golf ball provides a versatile canvas for imagination, fine motor skill development, and artistic expression. These easy DIY activities are not only budget-friendly but also instill a sense of accomplishment and provide a wonderful alternative to screen time.

Remember, the most successful craft isn’t necessarily the most perfect, but the one that sparks joy and creativity in your child. By prioritizing safety, using non-toxic materials, and offering age-appropriate guidance, you can create a positive and enriching crafting experience. So gather those stray golf balls, unleash your inner artist, and embark on a crafting adventure that promises smiles, learning, and beautiful handmade creations.

Which of these golf ball crafts are you most excited to try with your kids first? Share your ideas in the comments below!

Last update on 2025-12-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API