Get more details about this project
What you need
Water for soaking
Clear, white or lightly coloured balloons
One additional balloon in a contrasting colour, optional
Clean disposable plastic water bottle
Funnel, optional
Scissors
Large bowl
Towel or tray to contain spills
Instructions
These colorful DIY squishy water bead stress balls are wonderfully soft, satisfyingly bumpy and surprisingly simple to make. Each balloon is filled with plump water beads that move and squeeze beneath the surface, creating a tactile stress-relief toy that feels different from an ordinary flour-filled stress ball.
They are fun for adults and older children to squeeze during quiet time, study breaks or moments when busy hands need something soothing to do. Clear or pale balloons allow the bright water beads to show through, while an additional balloon layer can create the spotted, bubble-like finish shown in the photos.
This project only takes a few basic supplies, but the water beads must be prepared in advance so they have time to absorb plenty of water.
Important Water Bead Safety Warning
Water beads can be extremely dangerous if swallowed. They may continue expanding inside the body and can cause choking, intestinal blockages, internal injuries or death. Keep loose beads and finished stress balls completely away from babies, toddlers, pets and anyone who may place objects in their mouth.
This is not a suitable craft for preschoolers or young children. Older children should only make and use these stress balls under close adult supervision. Immediately discard the stress ball if the balloon becomes damaged or any beads begin to escape. Carefully collect every loose bead after crafting and dispose of the beads according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Place about 1 cup of the water beads into a disposable water bottle.
Stretch out a balloon by filling it with air and then release the air from the balloon.
Drag the open end of the balloon over the opening of the water bottle. Invert the bottle so the water beads go into the balloon. Squeeze the bottle to force the remaining water beads into the balloon.
Release the balloon from the water bottle.
Squeeze excess air from the balloon and tie closed.
Love this – we watch kids to make sure they dont swallow water beads. Disposal of balloons can be done safely and I think this craft is an awesome idea – will do it with my preschool kids
Glad to have found this! I plan to do this little craft with middle school students at camp this year and I wasn’t sure how much of the beads to stick in the balloon!
Hi, I think this craft isnt very good for the environment – water beads and balloons are a bad combination for our waterways and wildlife. Beads can also be dangerous for small children. I would be grateful if you could retract this craft in light of the environmental consequences it poses. I hope you understand my point. Thankyou