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A collection of colorful swirl-patterned glowing bouncy balls arranged on a white plate.

Swirl Glowing Bounce Ball

A fun and easy DIY project to make your own glowing bounce ball using simple household ingredients. Customize your ball with bright colors and glow-in-the-dark effects for endless playtime fun!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 1 bounce ball
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup warm water for the activating solution
  • 1 tablespoon borax to create the activating solution
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch for texture
  • 2 tablespoons white school glue such as Elmer’s glue
  • glow-in-the-dark paint or powder to make the ball glow
  • food coloring optional, for colorful swirls
  • 2 small disposable cups for mixing
  • 1 popsicle stick or spoon for stirring
  • latex gloves optional, to keep hands clean

Method
 

  1. Pour ½ cup of warm water into one disposable cup. Add 1 tablespoon of borax and stir until completely dissolved to create your activating solution.
  2. In the second cup, combine 2 tablespoons of white school glue with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Add glow-in-the-dark paint or powder as desired.
  3. If you want colorful swirls, add a few drops of food coloring and gently swirl without over-mixing to create a marbled look.
  4. Slowly pour the thickened glue mixture into the borax solution. Let it sit for 10–15 seconds to absorb the solution.
  5. Roll the mixture around in the solution until it firms up slightly, then remove it with your hands.
  6. Roll the mixture between your palms to form a smooth ball.
  7. Let the ball dry for a few moments, then charge it under a light source to activate its glow.
  8. Store the bounce ball in a ziplock bag when not in use to keep it soft and bouncy.

Notes

For a brighter glow, expose the ball to light longer before playing. Try mixing different food coloring shades for fun swirl patterns. Use gloves if you prefer to avoid sticky hands. Store in a sealed bag to prevent drying out.