Jun 7, 2023
Updated: May 9
Welcome to my latest rainbow DIY adventure! If you've been looking for a creative way to brighten up your space, you're in the right place. Today, we will explore how something as simple and inexpensive as ping pong balls can be transformed into a dazzling string of colorful lights.💡
Whether you're a seasoned craft enthusiast or a beginner looking for an engaging project, this tutorial will guide you through creating your own vibrant light garland. So grab your ping pong balls, let your creative juices flow, and let's light up your world with color!
A string of small white holiday lights is what is used to make these balls. You might have some questions...
Yes, it's generally safe to use ping pong balls on a string of lights, provided you use LED lights. LED lights produce very little heat compared to incandescent lights, making them safe to use with ping pong balls. However, it's essential to never leave the lights unattended for an extended period and always check that the ping pong balls are securely attached to prevent any potential hazards. Check out these ping pong ball tea lights by journeyintocreativity.com
Absolutely! Using colored ping pong balls can add an extra layer of vibrancy to your string lights. You can choose balls that match your decor, create a pattern with different colors, or even paint white ping pong balls in custom shades for a truly personalized touch. Just remember, if you choose to paint the balls, let them dry completely before attaching them to the light string. See the Shabby Tree tutorial on making a black and gold ping pong garland tutorial.
A string of lights (be mindful of the size)
An exacto knife
Brick of Styrofoam (optional)
The best way to make the slits in the ping-pong ball is to catch two slits in the shape of an arrow. You'll want to keep them intact after you make the slits. This makes it easier to put on the skewers for painting, as well as on the little lightbulbs.
This is a great crafting hack. Sticking a wooden skewer into the two slits makes it so much easier to paint the whole ping-pong ball. And because we only made the two slits versus cutting out a hole, the ping-pong ball will stay securely on the skewers.
Use different colors of metallic paint to paint your ping-pong balls. Depending on the quality and opacity of the paint, you might need to do two coats. I also found that painting in one direction from the middle down makes it look pretty good.
This is where the brick of Styrofoam comes in as another crafting hack. It's perfect for sticking the end of the wooden skewers in. However, if you don't have any Styrofoam, in the past, I have done something like this and used a pot of dirt to stand a skewer in.
Adding glitter Mod Podge adds a really nice touch. It makes the ping-pong balls sparkle, even when the lights aren't turned on as well as protects the paint.
The light bulbs should fit snugly into the ping-pong ball as the wooden skewers did. If they are too loose, you can also add a touch of super glue.
Look how cool they are!!
These would make a great addition to your summer porch decor.
In conclusion, creating a string of colorful lights using ping pong balls is a delightful DIY craft project that can instantly transform your space. By following the step-by-step tutorial and incorporating your own personal flair, you'll have a unique and eye-catching decor piece that not only illuminates your surroundings but also showcases your crafting prowess. So gather your ping pong balls and embark on this illuminating journey of DIY brilliance.
I have a couple of other creative lighting ideas that would be awesome for your patio parties. Check out my tutorial on how to make a string of lights using flowers made of melted plastic bottles. Or see my craft project that turns wine bottles into sparkling lanterns.
I would love to hear from you! Have you tried creating ping pong ball lights before? What color scheme or design ideas would you incorporate into your own light string? Share your thoughts, experiences, and creative suggestions in the comments below!