This project was inspired by a metal ball made by a local sculptor who specialises in steel. I decided to make something with a similar look, but with different materials. Hope you all like it.
Recycled items
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Inflatable plastic ball (e.g. a beach ball)
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Bag full of silk leaves
Also needed
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Pump to inflate ball
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Bowl (for ball to rest on)
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Petroleum jelly
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Old bowl (to pour the Powertex into)
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Powertex
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Pin to pop the ball
Method
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Inflate the ball with a pump if necessary.
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Place the ball in a bowl to give it a solid stand and cover it with petroleum jelly.
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Place the leaves in a bowl and saturate them with Powertex, using your fingers to submerge it if necessary.
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Gently paste and smooth the leaves to the ball, removing any air bubbles and excess glue with your hands.
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Leave to dry for about 48 hours. Ensure that the leaves are completely dry before you remove the ball by popping it with a pin and gently removing any plastic ball from the leaves.
Caution: When working with Powertex, ensure that there is running water nearby and that your work surface is protected.