How To Make A Metal Mesh Sphere

Often used as decoration or to hold plants in a garden, spheres made of metal mesh add a unique look to your household. Metal mesh, sometimes called hardware cloth, is a pliable material that is shaped at your discretion. Although it may seem complicated, making a sphere out of metal mesh is accomplished by using an inflatable ball.

Step 1

Inflate a beach ball or exercise ball. Use a heavy-duty ball made of thick material.

Step 2

Apply release agent to the entire surface of the ball per the manufacturer's instructions. The release agent will prevent the metal mesh and glue from sticking to the ball.

Step 3

Cut sheets of metal mesh into strips with scissors. Depending on the size of the ball, the strips will be cut to a different width. The strips should be about one-third the width of the ball.

Step 4

Wrap the ball in the metal mesh strips. Start with the first strip in the middle of the ball, running vertically. Place a second strip so it overlaps the first strip. Repeat this process until the entire ball is covered with metal mesh strips, with the exception of the top. Leave a hole big enough for the deflated ball to fit through on the top of the ball.

Step 5

Apply metal glue or epoxy to the top of the overlapping edges of the metal mesh sheets with a brush. Apply to each sheet as you lay it on the ball.

Step 6

Dry the glue for one hour.

Step 7

Deflate the ball by uncapping the air vent or by piercing it with the tip of the scissors. Pull the deflated ball through the opening in the metal mesh.

Step 8

Lay a metal mesh strip across the opening and adhere it to the rest of the ball with metal glue or epoxy. Let the glue dry.