Golf Ball Ornaments DIY: 11 Easy Steps to Perfect Gifts

Struggling to find that perfect, personal gift for the golfer in your life? You want something unique and heartfelt, not just another store-bought item. This search for thoughtful, handmade presents can feel frustrating and time-consuming.

Creating personalized golf ball ornaments DIY is an easy and rewarding craft that transforms ordinary golf balls into unique festive decorations or thoughtful gifts. This comprehensive guide provides 11 simple, step-by-step tutorials suitable for all skill levels, turning forgotten golf balls into cherished holiday keepsakes with basic craft supplies.

Drawing from comprehensive analysis and proven crafting methodologies, we’ll guide you through every step. This article is your complete roadmap to mastering golf ball ornaments diy. You’ll discover how to create everything from classic snowmen to sparkly baubles, all from upcycled golf balls.

Mastering Golf Ball Ornaments DIY: 11 Easy Steps to Perfect Gifts

Transforming a simple golf ball into a festive, handmade golf ball decoration is a fun and budget-friendly crafting project perfect for the holiday season. This step-by-step guide is designed for everyone, from beginners to experienced crafters, and even makes for a great crafting for kids activity. By following these 11 easy steps, you’ll learn how to create durable decorations and personalized gift ideas that will be treasured for years. We’ll cover everything from proper preparation and safety precautions to creative finishing touches, ensuring your upcycled golf ball ornaments have a professional finish. Get ready to turn those old golf balls into beautiful homemade Christmas ornament masterpieces for your Christmas tree decor.

1. Prepare Your Golf Balls for Crafting

Pin this essential preparation guide to your ‘DIY Crafts & Holiday Ideas’ board!

Materials Needed

• Used golf balls (clean, recycled golf ball crafts)
• Dish soap or mild degreaser
• Scrub brush or old toothbrush
• Small bucket or basin
• All-purpose primer spray or brush-on (e.g., Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch 2X Ultra Cover Primer)
• Paper towels or clean cloth

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Collect and sort your used golf balls, setting aside any with deep gouges or significant damage.
2. Fill a small bucket with warm, soapy water using dish soap or a mild degreaser.
3. Scrub each golf ball thoroughly with a brush to clean the ball and remove all dirt, grass stains, and grime, paying attention to the dimpled texture.
4. Rinse the golf balls under clean water until all soap residue is gone.
5. Dry the golf balls completely with a clean cloth or allow them to air dry on a rack.
6. In a well-ventilated area, apply the primer in a thin, even coat to each golf ball. Use a rotating motion if spraying, or a small brush for even coverage.
7. Allow the primer to dry completely according to manufacturer instructions (usually 15-30 minutes), then apply a second thin coat if needed for opaque coverage.

Pro-Tip: Proper golf ball preparation is crucial. Skipping primer often leads to paint peeling off later. For the most durable decorations, a light sanding with fine-grit sandpaper (220-grit) after cleaning can also improve paint adhesion, especially on surlyn cover painting.

2. Drill Holes and Insert Eye Hooks Safely

Save this step to your ‘DIY Christmas Decor’ board to remember how to add hangers!

Materials Needed

• Prepared golf balls (primed and dry)
• Small eye hooks (preferably 1/2-inch or 3/4-inch, screw-in type)
• Cordless drill or rotary tool with a small drill bit (1/16-inch or smaller, slightly smaller than the eye hook screw diameter)
• Small vise or clamp to secure the golf ball
• Safety goggles

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Wear safety goggles before starting.
2. Secure the prepared golf ball firmly in a small vise or clamp, ensuring it won’t roll or slip during drilling.
3. Select a drill bit slightly smaller in diameter than the threaded part of your eye hook to create a pilot hole.
4. Carefully drill a small pilot hole (about 1/4 inch deep) into the center of one end of the golf ball. Apply gentle, steady pressure.
5. Remove the golf ball from the vise.
6. Screw in the hook by hand into the pilot hole. If it’s too tight, remove the eye hook, re-drill with a slightly larger bit, or add a tiny drop of super glue to the hole before screwing the hook back in for extra hold.
7. Ensure the eye hook is firmly seated and upright.

Pro-Tip: To avoid a cracked golf ball or drill bit slipping, start with a very small pilot hole. If you don’t have a drill, you can create a small indentation with a sharp awl and use a touch of strong adhesive like E6000 before carefully screwing in the eye hook. Safety while drilling is paramount; always secure the ball and wear eye protection.

3. Paint Your Golf Balls with Base Coats

Pin this step to ensure your painted golf balls have the perfect base!

Materials Needed

• Primed golf balls with eye hooks inserted
• Acrylic craft paints in desired base colors (e.g., white, red, green)
• Small, soft-bristle paintbrushes or foam brushes
• Painter’s tape (optional, for clean lines)
• Drying rack or skewers inserted into a foam block

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Choose your base color. For classic Santa or Snowman designs, white is a good starting point.
2. Hold the golf ball by the eye hook or impale it on a skewer for easier handling without smudging.
3. Apply the acrylic paint in thin, even coats to paint the surface. Avoid thick applications, which can lead to uneven paint layers and cracking.
4. If using multiple colors, allow each color to dry completely before applying the next, or use painter’s tape to create crisp edges between colors.
5. Let the first coat dry completely (usually 15-30 minutes, depending on paint thickness and humidity).
6. Apply a second or third thin coat as needed to achieve opaque, even coverage.
7. Allow the base coats to dry completely before proceeding to detail work.

Pro-Tip: For a super smooth finish on painted golf balls, lightly sand with 400-grit sandpaper between dry coats, then wipe clean. This helps mitigate uneven paint layers. Acrylic paint works best as it adheres well to primed surfaces and dries quickly.

4. Transform into a Classic Snowman Ornament

Pin this adorable golf ball snowman idea for a festive touch!

Materials Needed

• Prepared golf ball (primed and base-coated white)
• Black acrylic paint (for eyes, mouth, buttons)
• Orange acrylic paint or small piece of orange air-dry clay (for nose)
• Fine-tip paintbrushes
• Small piece of red or green ribbon or fabric scrap (for scarf)
• Super glue or hot glue gun (for scarf, if needed)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Ensure your white base-coated golf ball is completely dry.
2. Using a fine-tip brush and black acrylic paint, paint two small dots for the snowman’s eyes and a series of smaller dots for its mouth.
3. Paint a tiny triangle or carrot shape in orange for the nose. If using air-dry clay, form a small carrot, attach it with a tiny dab of glue, and let it dry.
4. Paint two or three small black dots down the front of the golf ball for buttons.
5. Allow all painted details to dry completely.
6. Cut a thin strip of ribbon or fabric (about 1/4-inch wide and 4-6 inches long) to create a miniature scarf.
7. Tie the scarf around the eye hook base or glue it directly to the golf ball below the face, creating a little knot or bow.

Pro-Tip: For perfectly round eyes on your golf ball snowman, use the tip of a toothpick dipped in black paint. If you’re concerned about marker smudging, allow paint to dry for several hours before adding any embellishments or handling.

5. Craft a Festive Golf Ball Santa Ornament

Pin this jolly golf ball Santa to your ‘Handmade Christmas Gift Ideas’ board!

Materials Needed

• Prepared golf ball (primed and base-coated in a light skin tone or white)
• Red acrylic paint (for hat)
• White acrylic paint (for hat trim, beard base if not using cotton)
• Fine-tip paintbrushes
• Small amount of cotton balls, white felt, or white faux fur (for beard and hat trim)
• Small black beads or black paint (for eyes)
• Tiny red bead or red paint (for nose)
• Super glue or hot glue gun

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Ensure your base-coated golf ball is dry. If your ball isn’t already skin-toned, paint a round section for Santa’s face, allowing it to dry.
2. Paint the top portion of the golf ball red for Santa’s hat, leaving a small gap for the white trim. Allow to dry.
3. Paint a white trim band around the bottom edge of the red hat.
4. Using black paint or small beads, create two eyes on the face.
5. Create a nose with a tiny red bead or red paint.
6. Take a small piece of cotton, felt, or faux fur and shape it into Santa’s beard.
7. Glue the beard onto the face, covering the lower half.
8. Add a tiny cotton ball or felt pom-pom to the tip of the red hat.
9. Allow all glued elements and paint to dry completely.

Pro-Tip: For a more expressive golf ball Santa, use a tiny dot of white paint as a highlight on the black eyes after they’ve dried. When gluing cotton, use a small amount of super glue to avoid saturating the fibers and making it appear stiff.

6. Create Sparkly Glitter Golf Ball Ornaments

Pin this brilliant glitter golf ball idea for maximum holiday sparkle!

Materials Needed

• Prepared golf balls (primed and base-coated in a matching or contrasting color, if desired)
• Mod Podge (gloss or matte finish)
• Fine glitter (various colors: gold, silver, iridescent, red, green)
• Small brush or sponge applicator
• Paper plate or tray (to catch excess glitter)
• Clear acrylic sealant spray (optional, but recommended for durable decorations)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Ensure your golf ball is completely dry. You can base coat it in a color similar to your glitter for better coverage, or leave it white.
2. Apply a generous, even coat of Mod Podge all over the golf ball using a brush or sponge applicator. Work quickly before it dries.
3. Hold the golf ball over a paper plate or tray and liberally sprinkle fine glitter over the entire surface, rotating the ball to ensure full coverage, including the dimpled texture.
4. Gently tap off any excess glitter.
5. Allow the glitter-covered golf ball to dry completely (several hours or overnight).
6. For extra durability and to prevent glitter shedding, in a well-ventilated area, apply 1-2 coats of clear acrylic sealant spray, allowing each coat to dry completely.

Pro-Tip: For maximum sparkle on your sparkly christmas balls, use a base coat that matches your glitter color. For example, red paint under red glitter. To prevent glitter not sticking in the dimples, gently push glitter into the recesses with a soft brush before tapping off excess.

7. Personalize with Sharpie Art Golf Ball Ornaments

Pin this amazing Sharpie art golf ball idea for truly personalized golf ball ornaments!

Materials Needed

• Prepared golf ball (primed and base-coated white or light color)
• Fine-tip or ultra-fine point permanent Sharpie markers (various colors)
• Pencil (for light sketching)
• Stencils (optional, for intricate designs)
• Clear acrylic sealant spray (highly recommended)
• Rubbing alcohol (for correcting mistakes)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Ensure your golf ball is completely dry.
2. (Optional) Lightly sketch the design onto the golf ball with a pencil. You can draw names, initials, small snowflakes, or simple patterns.
3. Using your Sharpie markers, trace over your pencil lines or freehand your design directly onto the golf ball.
4. For detailed work, use ultra-fine point markers. Allow each color to dry slightly before adding adjacent colors to prevent marker smudging.
5. Once your design is complete and fully dry (at least 2 hours), in a well-ventilated area, apply 1-2 thin, even coats of clear acrylic sealant spray to protect the artwork. Allow each coat to dry completely.
6. If you make a mistake, a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol can carefully remove fresh Sharpie marks.

Pro-Tip: When using Sharpie markers, hold the golf ball steady to avoid marker smudging. For complex designs, consider applying golf ball ornaments using vinyl decals as an easier alternative. The sealant is crucial to prevent the markers from fading or rubbing off over time, ensuring durable decorations.

8. Assemble a Charming Golf Ball Reindeer Ornament

Pin this adorable golf ball reindeer to your ‘Kid-Friendly Christmas Crafts’ board!

Materials Needed

• Prepared golf ball (primed and base-coated light brown)
• Brown pipe cleaners (2 per reindeer)
• Small googly eyes (2 per reindeer)
• Small red pom-pom (1 per reindeer, for nose)
• Hot glue gun and glue sticks (or strong craft glue)
• Scissors

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Ensure your brown base-coated golf ball is completely dry.
2. Take two brown pipe cleaners. For each, bend it in half, then twist the halves together for about 1 inch from the fold. Bend the ends into antler shapes.
3. Apply a small dot of hot glue to the top of the golf ball (near the eye hook).
4. Press the twisted base of one pipe cleaner antler into the glue, holding until secure. Repeat for the second antler, positioning them slightly apart.
5. Glue the two googly eyes onto the face of the golf ball.
6. Glue the red pom-pom in the center, below the eyes, for the reindeer’s nose.
7. Allow all glue to dry completely before hanging.

Pro-Tip: When using hot glue for your golf ball reindeer, work quickly as it dries fast. For crafting for kids, adult supervision is recommended for the hot glue gun. Consider pre-cutting pipe cleaners and preparing other components beforehand to make it even easier for little hands.

9. Adorn with Fabric or Decoupage Techniques

Pin this elegant decoupage golf ball idea for a unique, textured ornament!

Materials Needed

• Prepared golf ball (primed and base-coated, preferably white)
• Small fabric scraps or decorative paper (e.g., tissue paper, scrapbook paper with small patterns)
• Mod Podge (gloss or matte finish)
• Small soft-bristle paintbrush or foam applicator
• Scissors
• Small bowl of water (for diluting Mod Podge, if needed)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Ensure your golf ball is completely dry.
2. Cut your fabric or paper into small, irregular shapes or strips. Smaller pieces are easier to work with on the curved golf ball surface.
3. Apply a thin layer of Mod Podge to a small section of the golf ball.
4. Carefully place a piece of fabric or paper onto the Mod Podge, gently smoothing it down with your fingers or a brush to remove any bubbles or wrinkles.
5. Apply another thin layer of Mod Podge over the top of the fabric/paper, sealing it in place.
6. Continue this process, overlapping pieces slightly, until the entire golf ball is covered. Work in small sections.
7. Allow the first layer to dry completely (at least 1-2 hours).
8. Apply 1-2 more coats of Mod Podge over the entire golf ball, allowing each coat to dry completely between applications, to ensure a durable, sealed finish.

Pro-Tip: When applying fabric or paper to the dimpled texture of the golf ball, use the tip of your brush to gently push the material into the dimples for a smoother, more integrated look. If you experience glue not sticking or bubbles, ensure your Mod Podge is not too thick; a slightly diluted consistency can help with adhesion and smoothing.

10. Design Sports-Themed Golf Ball Ornaments

Pin these creative sports-themed golf ball ornaments to your ‘Gifts for Sports Fans’ board!

Materials Needed

• Prepared golf ball (primed and base-coated in appropriate sports ball color, e.g., orange for basketball, white for baseball)
• Acrylic paints in contrasting colors (e.g., black for basketball lines, red for baseball seams)
• Fine-tip paintbrushes or paint pens
• Ruler or straight edge (optional, for straight lines)
• Clear acrylic sealant spray

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Ensure your base-coated golf ball is completely dry.
2. Basketball: Using black paint or a paint pen, paint the characteristic lines of a basketball onto the orange golf ball. Use a ruler for straighter lines if desired.
3. Baseball: On a white golf ball, paint two red curved “stitch” lines (shaped like parentheses) on opposite sides, then add small perpendicular dashes along the curves to simulate stitching.
4. Soccer Ball: On a white golf ball, paint a pattern of black pentagons and hexagons connected by lines. Or, simply paint a few black pentagons scattered across the surface.
5. Allow all painted details to dry completely.
6. In a well-ventilated area, apply 1-2 thin, even coats of clear acrylic sealant spray to protect the artwork and provide durable results. Allow each coat to dry completely.

Pro-Tip: For precision when painting lines on golf balls, use a paint pen or a very fine-tipped brush. For a truly unique touch, consider etched designs onto the surface of the ball before painting for a more tactile effect. This allows for more intricate and permanent detailing.

11. Hang and Display Your Handmade Golf Ball Ornaments

Pin this gorgeous display idea for your finished golf ball ornaments!

Materials Needed

• Completed golf ball ornaments (fully dry and sealed)
• Ribbon (satin, grosgrain, velvet, or themed; 1/4-inch to 1/2-inch wide)
• Twine or decorative cord
• Scissors
• Optional: Ornament hooks or S-hooks

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Ensure all your golf ball ornaments are completely dry and any sealants have fully cured.
2. Cut a piece of ribbon or twine, approximately 6-8 inches long, for each ornament. This length can be adjusted based on how low you want the ornament to hang.
3. Thread one end of the ribbon/twine through the eye hook at the top of your golf ball ornament.
4. Bring both ends of the ribbon/twine together and tie the ribbon in a secure knot, creating a loop. You can also tie a decorative bow if using ribbon.
5. Alternatively, if you prefer a more traditional look, you can attach the hanger using an ornament hook or S-hook directly to the eye hook of the golf ball ornament.
6. Hang your handmade golf ball decorations on your christmas tree, garland, or wreath, distributing them evenly for a balanced aesthetic.

Pro-Tip: When selecting ribbon for your golf ball ornaments, consider the weight of the ornament. For durable decorations that will be stored, sturdy grosgrain or velvet ribbon can withstand more handling. For an elegant look, tie the ribbon in a simple loop and add a small, festive bow to the base of the eye hook.

Key Takeaways

• Preparation is paramount for durable golf ball ornaments. Properly cleaning old golf balls for crafting and applying a primer ensures paint adheres well and prevents paint peeling off.
• Safety first when drilling holes for eye hooks. Secure the golf ball and use the correct drill bit size to safely drill a hole in a golf ball and screw in the hook.
• Acrylic paint offers the best results for vibrant, lasting designs. Thin, even coats are key to avoid uneven paint layers and achieve a professional finish on your painted golf balls.
• Personalization transforms golf ball ornaments into perfect gifts. Utilize Sharpie markers or various decorative themes like a golf ball snowman or golf ball Santa for unique, handmade golf ball decorations.
• Sealing your creations ensures longevity. A clear acrylic sealant spray or Mod Podge protects your artwork and glitter, making your upcycled golf balls into durable decorations.

FAQs About golf ball ornaments diy

How do you make golf ball ornaments?

To make golf ball ornaments, you first clean and prime used golf balls to ensure paint adhesion. Then, you safely drill a pilot hole and screw in a small eye hook for hanging. Decorate the golf balls with acrylic paints, Sharpie markers, or decoupage techniques to create various designs like a snowman or Santa. Finally, apply a clear sealant to protect the design and attach a ribbon for hanging.

What kind of paint works best on golf balls?

Acrylic craft paints are generally the best choice for decorating golf balls due to their versatility, quick drying time, and good adhesion to primed surfaces. For a professional finish, ensure the golf ball is properly cleaned and primed first. You can also use oil-based paint pens or permanent markers like Sharpies for detailing, but they should also be sealed for durable results.

How do you drill a hole in a golf ball without it cracking?

To drill a hole in a golf ball without cracking it, secure the golf ball firmly in a vise or clamp and wear safety goggles. Use a small drill bit, slightly smaller than your eye hook, to create a pilot hole with gentle, steady pressure. Starting with a tiny pilot hole prevents the drill bit from slipping and reduces the risk of the golf ball cracking.

How do you hang golf ball ornaments on a Christmas tree?

To hang golf ball ornaments, thread a 6-8 inch piece of ribbon or twine through the eye hook at the top of your finished ornament. Bring both ends together and tie them in a secure knot, creating a loop for hanging. Alternatively, you can use traditional ornament hooks or S-hooks directly attached to the eye hook for a quick display on your Christmas tree.

Can you use hot glue on golf balls for crafts?

Yes, hot glue can be used on golf balls for attaching embellishments like fabric scraps, pom-poms, pipe cleaner antlers, or ribbons. While it provides a quick bond, for critical structural elements or long-term durability, a stronger craft adhesive like E6000 or super glue might be preferred. Always ensure the surface of the golf ball is clean and dry for optimal adhesion.

How long does it take to make a golf ball ornament?

A simple golf ball ornament can take 30-60 minutes of active crafting, plus several hours for paint and sealant to dry completely. More intricate designs with multiple layers or embellishments will naturally take longer. The total time depends on the complexity of the design and the drying times between each step.

Do golf ball ornaments need a primer before painting?

Yes, using a primer is highly recommended for golf ball ornaments. Golf balls have a smooth, non-porous surface that makes it hard for paint to stick. A thin coat of all-purpose primer creates a better surface for paint adhesion, preventing peeling and ensuring your durable decorations have a professional finish.

Where can I find cheap golf balls for crafts?

You can find cheap golf balls for crafts at thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces. Many golf courses sell used “shag balls” or practice balls in bulk for a low price. Don’t forget to ask friends or family who golf if they have any old, scuffed balls they no longer use.

How do you seal paint on a golf ball for durability?

To seal paint on a golf ball, apply one or two thin, even coats of a clear acrylic sealant spray or a brush-on topcoat like Mod Podge. Make sure all paint and embellishments are completely dry before sealing to avoid smudging. This protective layer guards against scratches and fading, ensuring your ornament lasts for years.

What are some unique personalized golf ball ornament ideas?

Beyond snowmen and Santas, you can create sports-themed ornaments like miniature basketballs or baseballs. Use Sharpie markers to add a golfer’s name, a significant date, or a funny quote. You can also decoupage the ball with fabric in their favorite team’s colors for a truly unique and personalized gift.

Final Thoughts on Golf Ball Ornaments DIY

You now have all the tools and techniques to transform simple, upcycled golf balls into stunning, handmade golf ball decorations. This rewarding DIY craft project is more than just about creating ornaments; it’s about crafting memories and personal expressions. The easy golf ball crafts we’ve explored prove that you don’t need expensive materials to make something beautiful and meaningful.

The real joy comes from the creative process and the ability to give perfect gifts for golfers that are truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you stick to a classic golf ball snowman or experiment with your own designs, the effort you put in will shine through. So gather your supplies, get creative, and enjoy making these festive trinkets.

Which golf ball ornament idea are you most excited to try first? Share your creations and experiences in the comments below

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