
Painting a soccer ball design on an ornament is a fun and simple craft project. While the shape of the ball presents a challenge, it can be easily overcome with the right tools and techniques. This guide will take you through the steps to create a stylish soccer ball ornament, from preparing the surface and painting the base colour to adding the iconic black and white design. So, whether you're a sports enthusiast or just looking for a creative activity, grab your paintbrush and let's get started!
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Paintbrush | 3/4" Flat paintbrush, liner paintbrush |
| Paint colours | Americana White Wash, Americana Cadmium Orange, Americana Lamp (Ebony) Black, Americana Berry Red, Starlight Topcoat |
| Drawing tool | Pencil |
| String length | 12" |
| Surface preparation | MagiKote applied to Styrofoam |
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What You'll Learn

Prepare the ornament surface with primer
To prepare the ornament surface with primer, you'll first want to ensure the ornament is clean. Use a soft-bristled brush or a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris from the surface of the ornament. If the ornament has any rust or flaking paint, use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove it. Rinse the ornament if necessary, and let it dry completely before applying the primer.
Next, you'll want to select the appropriate primer for the material of your ornament. If the ornament is made of metal, use a metal primer to create a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to. If it's made of plastic, use a plastic primer. For a styrofoam ornament, you can use a product like MagiKote, which creates a sandable and paintable surface.
When applying the primer, follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results. Typically, you'll want to apply thin, even coats of primer to the ornament. If you're using a spray primer, hold the ornament by a stick and rotate it while consistently spraying. Let the primer dry for about 15 minutes before moving on to the next step.
If you're using a brush-on primer, you can use a small brush to apply the primer, ensuring you get an even and complete coat. Again, allow the primer to dry completely before proceeding with painting.
By properly preparing the ornament surface with primer, you'll ensure that your paint adheres well and that your final coat looks smooth and professional.
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Paint the ball white
To paint a soccer ball design on an ornament, the first step is to paint the ball white. This will create a blank canvas for the rest of the design and ensure that the colours you use for the details stand out.
If you are using a Styrofoam ball, you will need to apply a product like MagiKote to create a paintable surface. MagiKote is a thick white liquid that can be applied to the ball with an empty egg carton to hold the ball in place while you work. Allow the MagiKote to dry for 2-3 hours, and consider applying two coats for a smoother finish.
Once you have a white surface to work with, you can start painting the ball white. Use a 3/4" flat paintbrush and Americana White Wash paint to apply an even coat of white paint to the entire ball. Make sure to let the first coat dry before applying a second coat for full coverage and a smoother finish.
It is important to note that the drying time between coats can vary depending on the type of paint and surface you are working with. Refer to the instructions on your paint or primer product for the recommended drying time to ensure the best results.
With the ball fully painted white, you will have a perfect base for creating the iconic black and white pattern of a soccer ball. The white base coat ensures that the colours you use for the details will pop and creates a professional-looking finish for your ornament.
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Draw the pentagon and hexagon sections in pencil
To create a soccer ball design on an ornament, you will need to first lightly draw the pentagon and hexagon sections of a soccer ball in pencil. This will act as your guide for the painting step that follows. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Begin by holding the ornament in your non-dominant hand, or if you prefer, set it on a stable surface in front of you. Take a pencil in your dominant hand and start by drawing a circle at the top of the ornament, this will be the guide for the first pentagon. Then, working from the centre, carefully draw five evenly spaced lines extending outwards from the centre of the circle to create the five sides of the pentagon. You can use a ruler to ensure straight lines if needed.
Once you have your initial pentagon, you can continue drawing the remaining sections. Each pentagon will share a side with the adjacent one, so start by drawing a line from one of the corners of your initial pentagon, extending it outward to create the next section. Repeat this step until you have drawn all the pentagons and hexagons that cover the surface of the ornament. Remember, the hexagons will share two sides with their neighbouring pentagons, so make sure to space them evenly.
As you work, remember that you do not need to press too hard with your pencil. You want the lines to be visible enough to act as a guide, but light enough that they can be easily erased later on. Take your time and make adjustments as needed. If you make a mistake, simply erase the lines and start again. It may be helpful to practice on a piece of paper first to get a feel for the spacing and size of the sections.
For the final touches, review your work and make any necessary adjustments. Check that the sections are evenly spaced and that the lines are straight and consistent. Once you are satisfied with the layout, you can move on to the next step, confident that your pencil lines provide an accurate guide for the painting process. Remember, the pencil marks can be easily erased later, so don't worry if they are still visible at this stage.
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Paint the black sections
Once you've painted your ornament white and drawn the soccer ball sections with a pencil, it's time to start painting the black sections. Using a liner paintbrush, carefully paint the lines of the soccer ball with black paint. Take your time and try to stay within the pencil lines as much as possible. After you've outlined the black sections, use a flat paintbrush to fill them in. Make sure the paint is evenly applied and there are no streaks or gaps. If needed, apply a second coat of black paint to ensure full coverage.
Before moving on to the next step, let the black paint dry completely. You can use a hairdryer to speed up the drying process, but be careful not to hold it too close to the ornament or use a high heat setting to avoid damaging the paint job. Once the black paint is dry, you can erase any visible pencil marks with a soft eraser. Be gentle during this step to avoid smudging the paint.
To ensure the black lines and sections are well-defined and have a glossy finish, consider using a black paint pen or a thin brush with high-gloss black paint to go over the lines. This step is optional but can add a nice touch to your ornament. Additionally, you can use a clear sealant specifically designed for ornaments or crafts to protect the paint and ensure its longevity.
If you're painting on a delicate surface or one that requires a specific type of paint, make sure to choose an appropriate black paint that adheres to the ornament's material. For example, if you're painting on glass or a glossy surface, you may need to use a glass paint or a multi-surface paint that adheres well. Always read the paint labels and follow any specific instructions or precautions provided by the manufacturer.
Remember to work in a well-ventilated area and protect your workspace with newspaper or a drop cloth to avoid any accidental spills or stains. It's also a good idea to wear protective clothing, such as an apron, and disposable gloves to keep your hands clean. With these detailed instructions, you'll be well on your way to creating a beautiful soccer ball design on your ornament, with crisp and defined black sections.
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Add a topcoat and string for hanging
Once you've finished painting your soccer ball design, it's time to add a topcoat and string for hanging so your ornament can shine! Here's a detailed guide to walk you through these final steps:
Adding the Topcoat:
Start by allowing your painted soccer ball design to dry completely. This step is crucial as you don't want to smudge or spoil your artwork. Once it's dry, you're ready to apply the topcoat. Using a 3/4" flat paintbrush, carefully apply the first layer of the topcoat. You can use a product like Americana's "Starlight Topcoat" for this purpose. Allow this first coat to dry, and then apply a second coat for added protection and shine.
Attaching the String:
Now it's time to add the string so you can proudly display your ornament. Cut a sturdy piece of string to your desired length. A 12" length is a good standard, but you can adjust it according to your preference or where you plan to hang it. Take the two open ends of the string and tie them together with a secure knot. If you'd like a more decorative finish, you can insert the head end of a tick pin into the knot before tightening it.
Hanging Options:
There are several ways to hang your ornament, depending on your preference and the design of your ornament:
- Drill a small hole near the top of your ornament and thread your string through it. You can use shiny, coloured elastic string or ribbon for this.
- Attach a small hook to the back of your ornament near the top, and then thread your string or ribbon through the hook.
- Use an eye screw or a small fishing hook (with the barb cut off) and push it into the top of your ornament. Then, simply hang your string from the hook.
- If your ornament has a dense edge, you can simply loop a piece of string or embroidery floss around it.
Now you're all set to display your handmade soccer ball ornament!
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Frequently asked questions
Use a 3/4" flat paintbrush to paint the entire ball Americana White Wash. Then, use a pencil to lightly draw the lines of the soccer ball sections. After the paint has dried, use a liner paintbrush to paint over the lines using Americana Lamp (Ebony) Black.
Paint the entire ball with Americana White Wash. After the paint has dried, use Americana Lamp (Ebony) Black to paint the lines of the soccer ball. Finally, add two coats of Starlight Topcoat.
First, paint the entire ball white and let it dry. Then, use a pencil to lightly draw the lines of the soccer ball sections. Once you're happy with the pencil lines, paint over them with black paint.











































