Lady glues plastic dollar store salad bowls over battery powered fairy lights. I can't believe how good this looks on the patio.

Creating a magical atmosphere on your patio doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. By using simple plastic salad bowls from the dollar store and some battery-powered fairy lights, you can craft stunning giant glowing orbs that add a whimsical touch to any outdoor space. These DIY patio orbs are not only a conversation starter but also a beautiful and affordable way to enhance your outdoor decor.

These glowing orbs can be styled in various ways on your patio. For a modern minimalist look, place them strategically along pathways or around seating areas to create ambient lighting. If you prefer a more eclectic style, mix different sizes of orbs and scatter them around plants and garden features to add depth and interest. Consider pairing these orbs with other natural elements like wooden furniture or potted plants to create a cozy and inviting outdoor space.

2 plastic salad bowls (per orb), 12 inches in diameter

Start by gathering all your materials and choosing a flat workspace where you can assemble your orbs.

Take one of the plastic salad bowls and place the battery pack of the fairy lights inside it, ensuring the switch is accessible.

Arrange the fairy lights evenly inside the bowl, using tape to secure them in place if necessary.

Apply a generous amount of clear adhesive glue around the rim of the bowl.

Carefully place the second bowl on top, aligning it perfectly to form a sphere. Press down gently to secure the two halves together.

Allow the glue to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Once dry, turn on the fairy lights and place your glowing orb on the patio.

To add a personal touch to your glowing orbs, consider using colored fairy lights or bowls in different colors or patterns. You can also experiment with different sizes by using other plastic containers, like larger or smaller bowls, to create a variety of orb sizes. For a more permanent installation, you might use solar-powered lights instead of battery-powered ones, which can save on energy and be more environmentally friendly. Additionally, you can decorate the exterior of the bowls with weather-resistant paint to add a pop of color or stenciled designs, making each orb unique.