Decorative Jute Balls

I've seen these decorative balls everywhere. In potpourri, on awesome blogs I read, like Thrifty Decor Chick, etc. I've even seen a tutorial on them, but I tried to find it again and couldn't. So, again, this is not a Two Girls Being Crafty original idea. But I hope that some of you will be inspired by it. I know I was. And I couldn't resist making some for myself.  :)

These would look great in a glass apothecary jar, cloche, or any bowl you may have. Below is a picture of my inspiration found on one of my favorite blogs, Thrifty Decor Chick. Want to learn how to make them? Let's get started!

Here's what you'll need:

  

Balloons

Jute (hemp would work too)

Newspaper

Saran Wrap

Fabric Stiffener or Glue

Here's What You Do:

Blow your balloons up to the size you want your balls to be. I did some small ones and some larger ones. Mix your glue with equal parts water. (Of course, if you're using fabric stiffener, you don't have to do this part. Just pour it into a container.) Lay your newspaper down covering your workspace - it's gonna get messy, people!

 

Cut a fairly long piece of Jute and soak it in the glue or fabric stiffener. Let it sit in there for a couple of seconds, and then pull it out squeezing the excess glue/stiffener with your fingertips. Wrap it around your balloon in alternating patterns. Repeat this until your balloon is well covered but make sure there are still plenty of holes. 

Let them dry on the saran wrap for a couple of hours. When the tops feel dry and stiff to the touch, turn them so that the bottoms are able to dry too. I left mine to dry overnight. Finally, pop the balloon and remove it through one of the holes.

And you're done! This project is so simple and satisfying.You should definitely try it! You could do it with different colored yarn (maybe some bright Spring colors) or spray paint them to match your decor. What do you think? What kind of decorative ball would you make?