'Strike-ing' Yard Art
Get those old bowling balls out of the gutter and gussy 'em up!
By Lynne Hansen, Lincoln, Nebraska
My hobby is, quite literally, a ball. I'm not a seasoned bowler, but I've used more bowling balls than Walter Ray Williams Jr. That's because, with a little work, bowling balls make perfect garden decor...and hardly cost a thing.
Even if I can't get a spare ball while I'm bowling, it's easy to find them at rummage sales from people who have given up on their hopes for a perfect 300 game. And if I can't find the rocks myself, I'll buy them from the dollar store.
Give it a try...you may find this simple project is right down your alley.
Supply list
- Bowling ball
- Silicone caulk
- Tile adhesive
- Polished river rocks, glass gems or mirrored tile
- Grout (any color)
- Acrylic grout additive
- Putty knife
- Sponge
Get the ball rolling:
- Fill the finger holes with silicone caulk.
- Spread adhesive on the bowling ball with a putty knife and place rocks onto the adhesive, leaving 1/2 inch between the rocks for easy grouting. (Remember to leave an area on the bottom open if you are setting it on a stand or right in the garden.) Let dry for 24 hours.
- Mix the grout, using grout additive, to the consistency of a thick cake mix. Using grout additive instead of water will allow grout to weather better.
- Apply the grout with a sponge, wiping off any excess, and let it dry. 5. Place the ball on a gazing-ball stand or right in your garden for a strike-ing work of art.