If you want a big-impact yard decoration without spending a fortune, these giant faux firework bursts are such a fun weekend project. I love outdoor décor that looks festive from the street, and this one checks every box: inexpensive materials, simple assembly, and a finished look that feels bold and cheerful without being complicated.
As someone who’s usually squeezing creative projects in between work deadlines and figuring out dinner, I really appreciate DIYs like this that are repetitive in a good way and easy to break into stages. If you’re decorating for summer holidays, a neighborhood party, or you just want something eye-catching in your front yard, this project is beginner-friendly and surprisingly satisfying to make.
Materials
200 long wooden bamboo skewers, 12 inches long
Instructions
1. Set up your painting area outdoors or in a very well-ventilated garage by laying down the drop cloth and covering nearby surfaces with newspaper. Put on gloves and a mask before you start spraying.
2. Press the pointed ends of the bamboo skewers into a foam block or poke them through a cardboard box so they stand upright with a little space between them. Work in batches so the paint reaches all sides more evenly.
3. Shake the metallic gold spray paint thoroughly, then spray the skewers in light, even passes from about 8 to 10 inches away. Let the first side dry for 10 to 15 minutes, then rotate or reposition the skewers and paint any missed areas.
4. Continue painting the remaining skewers until all 200 are evenly coated, then leave them to dry completely according to the paint can directions. I like to give them extra drying time so they do not stick to the foam or leave fingerprints.
5. Mark four loose groups of 50 skewers each so every styrofoam ball ends up looking full and balanced. This saves time later and keeps one burst from getting noticeably denser than the others.
6. Insert one wooden dowel or stake into the bottom of each styrofoam ball, pushing it in 3 to 4 inches for support. Add a little craft glue at the entry point if the fit feels loose.
7. Start inserting the gold skewers into the first styrofoam ball, angling them outward in all directions to create a round burst shape. Space them out at first, then go back and fill gaps so the sphere looks even from every side.
8. Push each skewer about 1 to 1 1/2 inches into the foam so it stays secure without disappearing into the ball. Vary the angle slightly as you work to mimic the look of a real exploding firework burst.
9. Repeat the same process for the remaining three balls, using about 50 skewers per ball. Step back every few minutes and turn each piece as you work so the bursts stay round instead of flat on one side.
10. Place the finished bursts in the front yard by pushing the stakes into the ground far enough to keep them upright and stable. Stagger the heights and spacing slightly for a fuller display that looks intentional from the curb.
Variations & Tips
Use mixed metallics: If gold is not your style, try a mix of metallic gold, silver, and copper skewers for a more layered look. I think this works especially well if your outdoor décor already leans neutral.
Add weather protection: For longer outdoor use, spray the finished bursts with a clear outdoor sealer once the paint is fully dry. That extra coat can help the color hold up better through sun and light moisture.
Make insertion easier: If your skewers start bending, pre-poke a few guide holes in the styrofoam ball with a skewer before arranging everything. This is helpful if the foam is dense or your hands get tired near the end.
Adjust the size: Use fewer skewers for a lighter, airier burst or more skewers for a fuller statement piece. You can also swap in larger styrofoam balls and longer stakes if you want a taller display.
Display in groups: I like odd-number groupings for most yard décor, but with this project, four clustered at slightly different heights can look really polished. Try placing two closer together and two a little farther apart so the arrangement feels more natural.
Plan for cleanup: Spray painting 200 skewers is the most time-consuming part, so I recommend doing that stage first and letting them dry while you tackle something else around the house. It’s the kind of project that fits nicely into a busy day if you break it into paint, assemble, and install phases.