21+ Stunning Bowling Ball Ornament Ideas for DIY Lovers
Have an old bowling ball collecting dust? Don’t toss it — turn it into something beautiful. These bowling ball ornament ideas are a fun and creative way to reuse something that would otherwise go to waste. With just a little paint or decoration, you can create eye-catching pieces for your garden, porch, or home.
Bowling balls are strong and built to last, which makes them great for DIY projects. Whether you want to make a cute garden ladybug or a shiny holiday ornament, this guide gives you 21+ easy bowling ball ornament ideas that anyone can try. No special skills needed — just your imagination.
Why Make a Bowling Ball Ornament?
Bowling ball ornaments are sturdy, weather-resistant, and full of character. They’re perfect for adding a pop of color or a fun shape to your outdoor or indoor space. You can paint them, glue on tiles or gems, or even turn them into themed characters.
It’s also a great way to recycle old bowling balls instead of throwing them away. You get to be creative, save money on store-bought decor, and enjoy a fun DIY project that adds personality to your home.
What You’ll Need to Get Started
- Old bowling ball
- Soap and water for cleaning
- Sandpaper (optional)
- Acrylic paint or spray paint
- Glue, gems, or other decorations
- Sealer for protection
Start by cleaning your bowling ball with soap and water. Let it dry, and sand it lightly if the surface is very shiny. Then, decorate it however you like!
21+ Bowling Ball Ornament Ideas for DIY Inspiration
1. Garden Gazing Ball
Paint your bowling ball with metallic or mirror-like paint for a shiny look. Place it on a stand or in your flower bed to reflect sunlight beautifully.
This is a simple and classic idea. It makes your garden look elegant without much effort.
2. Holiday Snowman Ornament
Paint your ball white and add a snowman face with a carrot nose and coal eyes. Wrap a small scarf around the bottom or paint buttons on it.
This makes a fun winter decoration for your porch or yard. You can even stack a few balls for a full snowman!
3. Christmas Ornament Replica
Paint your bowling ball red, green, or gold with fun holiday patterns. Add a loop on top using wire or a soda can tab to look like a real ornament.
It’s a great way to decorate your yard or steps for Christmas. It also works well for indoor holiday displays.
4. Mosaic Tile Design
Cover your ball in tiny mirror pieces or colored tiles. Glue them on one at a time and seal it when done.
This design shines in the sun and adds sparkle to your garden. It takes time but looks beautiful.
5. Ladybug Garden Ornament
Paint the ball red and add black dots and a face. You can also glue on wire antennas.
This playful idea is perfect for kids or a fun garden theme. It’s cheerful and easy to do.
6. Glow-in-the-Dark Orb
Use glow-in-the-dark paint so the ball lights up at night. Place it along a walkway or in flower beds.
It adds a magical touch to your outdoor space. Plus, it’s fun to see it glow after sunset.
7. Metallic Globe Ornament
Spray your ball with gold, silver, or bronze paint. You can leave it plain or add a few subtle patterns.
This makes a stylish piece for indoors or out. It works well with modern or rustic spaces.
8. Themed Character Ornament
Paint your ball to look like a favorite cartoon or movie character. Think of Minions, Mickey Mouse, or superheroes.
It’s a great gift idea or room decoration for kids. Each one can be personalized.
9. Nature-Inspired Rock Ball
Use natural shades like gray, brown, or moss green. Add texture to make it look like a real stone.
This blends in beautifully with garden landscapes. It adds a calm, earthy vibe.
10. Disco Ball Bowling Ornament
Cover the ball in mirror squares to make a DIY disco ball. It reflects light in all directions.
Perfect for parties or a fun backyard setup. Hang it up or place it on a stand for full effect.
11. Flower Pot Topper
Paint your ball in matching colors to your flower pots. Then place it on top for a polished finish.
It adds height and style to your potted plants. Great for patios or porch corners.
12. Sports Ball Replica
Make your ball look like a basketball, baseball, or tennis ball. Just paint the base color and add lines.
This is perfect for a sports-themed yard or play area. It’s fun for all ages.
13. Personalized Name Ornament
Use stencils or vinyl letters to add your name or house number. Seal it to protect the design.
Place it near your front door or mailbox. It adds a friendly, personal touch.
14. Rainbow Swirl Design
Use bright colors in a swirling pattern. Let the paints blend as you turn the ball.
This design looks cheerful and fun. Great for both kids and adults.
15. Faux Crystal Globe
Paint the ball in shimmery colors like light purple, silver, or teal. Add glitter for extra sparkle.
It creates a magical, fairy-tale look. Place it in a flower bed or on a pedestal.
16. Halloween Pumpkin Ornament
Paint your ball orange and add a spooky or silly face. You can use a marker or black paint.
Perfect for decorating in the fall. It’s a great no-carve pumpkin idea.
17. Patriotic Theme
Use red, white, and blue paint with stars or stripes. You can add glitter or stick-on stars too.
This is great for Memorial Day or Fourth of July. Display it on your porch or lawn.
18. Under-the-Sea Ball
Paint fish, seaweed, and bubbles in ocean colors like blue and green. Add shiny dots to mimic water.
Perfect for beach lovers or ocean-themed gardens. It brings a splash of sea life to your space.
19. Artistic Splatter Paint Ball
Flick or drip paint over a solid color background. Use several bright colors for a bold look.
This is easy, fun, and totally unique. Each one turns out different.
20. Marble Finish Bowling Ball Ornament
Use soft blending colors like gray, white, or blue. Sponge them together for a stone-like effect.
This elegant design works well indoors or out. It adds a touch of class to any decor.
21. Fairy Garden Crystal Ball
Add glitter and shimmery paint to make it look like a wizard’s crystal ball. You can even paint stars or moons.
Place it in a flower bed or on a small stand. It’s perfect for whimsical garden themes.
22. House Number or Welcome Sign Ball
Paint your house number or a welcome message. Use bold colors or high contrast for visibility.
This is a creative way to greet guests. Place it near your driveway or front steps.
Final Thoughts
These bowling ball ornament ideas show how easy it is to decorate your space with something unexpected. Whether you like simple designs or colorful patterns, there’s an idea here for everyone. These ornaments are strong, weather-resistant, and sure to stand out.
So grab some paint, get creative, and try one of these bowling ball ornament ideas. It’s a fun way to turn something old into something beautiful!
Ashley Ellison is a skilled writer and avid bowler. Her passion for storytelling and dedication to the sport have led her to participate in various national bowling leagues. With a unique combination of talents, Ashley approaches every challenge with creativity and a relentless drive to succeed.
