How to decorate polystyrene balls?

The essentials to get started

Before you get started, gather the necessary materials:

• Polystyrene balls of different sizes and shapes.
• Acrylic paint in the colors of your choice (red, green, white, gold, silver...).
• Brushes of different sizes.
• Strong glue (glue gun type).
• Decorative elements: sequins, rhinestones, ribbons, string, buttons, beads, pieces of fabric, etc.
• A cutter to cut out certain elements.

Decoration techniques

The painting:

• Solid paint: Apply one or more coats of paint to create a colorful background.
• Gradient: Mix several colors to achieve an ombré effect.
• Pointillism: Create patterns by applying small touches of colored paint.
• Chalk paint: For a matte, vintage effect.

The collage:

• Glitter: Glue glitter all over the surface of the ball or create patterns.
• Rhinestones: Apply rhinestones for a sparkling effect.
• Fabric: Wrap the ball in fabric, then secure it with glue.
• Buttons and beads: Create geometric patterns or shapes by gluing buttons and beads.

The mix of techniques:

• Paint and glue: Paint the ball, then add glued elements to personalize it.
• Painting and relief: Create relief with modeling clay or plaster before painting.

Decoration ideas

• Classic Christmas baubles: Paint the baubles in traditional colors (red, green, gold) and add ribbons.
• Patterned Balls: Create geometric patterns, stripes or polka dots with paint or tape.
• Snow globes: Fill a transparent ball with glitter and add a small figurine.
• Personalized balls: Print photos and stick them on the balls.
• Natural balls: Wrap the balls with twine, raffia or moss for a natural look.

Where to place your Christmas baubles?

Once your balls are decorated, all that remains is to highlight them. Here are some ideas:

• On the Christmas tree: Personalized Christmas baubles will add a unique touch to your tree.
• In a garland: String the balls on a string to create a festive garland.
• In a centerpiece: Arrange the balls in a glass vase or basket to create an original centerpiece.
• In a window: Hang the balls in your window to create a magical atmosphere.

Additional Tips:

• Use a white paint base to bring out the bright colors.
• Protect your work surface with newspaper or a tablecloth.
• Let the paint dry completely before adding other items.
• Don't hesitate to experiment and mix techniques to create unique decorations.

A tutorial video to explain to you in pictures how to decorate your polystyrene balls for Christmas with pompoms or glitter!