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How to Make a Styrofoam Basketball

The game of basketball was invented for the court, but it can also be found on video game consoles or even at the pool. In many instances, the only thing required is a hoop and a ball. If your makeshift basketball hoop is missing a ball, create a replacement out of Styrofoam. Since Styrofoam is made from a combination of durable materials, you don't have to worry that your new ball will deflate. The material is also lightweight enough to complement even the smallest hoop scenes, such as a diorama basketball court or an imaginary game amongst your favorite action figures.

Things You'll Need

Styrofoam sphere
Wooden cooking skewers
Stiff paint brush
Orange acrylic paint
Black permanent marker
Empty soda can

Instructions

- 1
  Pick out a Styrofoam sphere that's large enough for your purposes. You can find them at craft supply stores or hobby shops.
- 2
  Stick a wooden cooking skewer through the center of the Styrofoam sphere so that there is at least 3 inches of wood sticking out from each side. If you're using a sphere that's smaller than the palm of your hand, stick two toothpicks into the sphere at opposite ends. You'll hold on to the skewer or toothpicks while you paint so that the color doesn't smear.
- 3
  Dip a stiff paint brush into orange acrylic paint. Using a scrubbing motion, cover the sphere in the orange paint. Rotate the sphere as you paint by turning the skewer or toothpick. It may take several coats until you achieve the desired depth of color.
- 4
  Rinse out an empty soda can and stick one end of the skewered Styrofoam ball into its opening. This will allow it to dry without getting stuck to anything. Give it at least 24 hours drying time.
- 5
  Draw the lines onto the orange ball to mimic the grooves of a basketball. Using a black permanent marker rather than black paint will give you a smooth, even line.

Kids Games